Ideas on Stage Podcast

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Ravinol Chambers. Ravinol is a filmmaker, storyteller and founder of Be Inspired Films, a B Corp creative agency helping purpose-driven organisations communicate with clarity and confidence.A former monk turned moviemaker, he’s spent more than a decade guiding leaders to show up on camera in a way that feels natural, human and compelling.His work spans TEDxLondon, the NHS, Oxford University and the Cabinet Office, with multiple international awards and six consecutive Drum Recommends wins for Best Video Production Company in the UK.Ravinol also hosts the Storytelling for Social Impact podcast and leads the Storytelling Clarity Sprint, helping teams cut through noise and tell the story that truly moves their audience.In this episode we talked about video storytelling for speakers, speaking with confidence on camera, and how organisations can share stories that truly connect.What You'll Learn:- How to make sure your stage talks are filmed well- What setup you need to record professional videos at home- How to combine sound and visuals to build strong video stories- How to tell stories that focus on people, not your company - How to shape your message so your audience truly caresIn This Episode:00:00 - Introduction09:18 - How to Prepare Video Teams Before Your Talk10:54 - Why Speakers Shouldn’t Look at the Camera13:33 - What TED Gets Right About Filming Talks20:20 - The Minimum Setup to Film at Home24:09 - How to Overcome Nerves on Camera25:36 - Why Shorter Videos Take More Work29:45 - Why Extra Energy Works on Camera33:28 - How to Tell Stories Without Making Yourself the Hero40:59 - How to Use B-Roll to Bring Stories AliveWe hope you enjoy it! ———————Ravinol Chambers: - Website: https://www.beinspiredfilms.co.uk/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravchambers/ - Instagram: @beinspiredrav- Storytelling for Social Impact podcast: https://www.beinspiredfilms.co.uk/podcast - Jack’s Story (Neurodiversity & Police project): https://www.beinspiredfilms.co.uk/#jacksstory ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ – free copy (https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-free) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score  - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events/   - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course  #IdeasOnStagePodcast #VideoStorytelling #StorytellingForBusiness #PublicSpeaking #PresentationSkills

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage Podcast, we share a conversation with Ciaran O’Donnell – originally recorded as part of the Ideas on Stage Academy. We decided to repurpose it as a podcast episode so more people can learn from his inspiring communication journey and practical insights.Ciaran is a Virtual Finance Director. He launched Virtual FD in 2010 to help growing businesses access Finance Director–level advice before they’re ready for a full-time hire. A qualified accountant since 1998, he spent 12 years at Hutchison Whampoa, Three, and Carphone Warehouse – all with entrepreneurial beginnings. Since then, he has advised more than 100 startups and fast-growth companies, helping them grow, prepare to sell and stay on track. Ciaran was named CFO of the Year at the British Accountancy Awards 2019 and is a Finance Director of the Year finalist in the Accounting Excellence Awards 2023 and 2024.In this episode, we talked about how Ciaran became a better communicatorWhat You'll Learn:- Why improving your communication can transform your career- How to rehearse and internalise your message to sound natural- How to use stories that make people care - How pauses, breathing and feedback strengthen your delivery- How better communication can attract clients and grow your businessIn This Episode:00:00 - Introduction04:15 - Why a CFO Decided to Speak Better07:57 - How One Imperfect Video Sparked Growth10:00 - How to Know You’re Improving as a Speaker17:22 - How Internalising Transforms Your Delivery21:25 - The “So What” Framework 38:50 - The Birthday Speech He’ll Never Forget43:58 - How a Slow Breath Changes Everything47:55 - The Three Levels of Useful Feedback52:12 - A Masterclass in Sharing Your Origin Story55:07 - How Storytelling Drove 90% of His RevenueWe hope you enjoy it! ———————Ciaran O’Donnell:- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaranodonnell/ - Website: https://virtualfd.co/- Ciaran’s first video: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6648942434724179968/ - A story about “It’s all about trust”: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ciaranodonnell_itsallabouttrust-storybridges-ownyournumbers-activity-7344251933672566787-KeWd Mentions: - Bernadette Jiwa - Jimmy Cannon - The Moth Recommended books: - Story Driven by Bernadette Jiwa ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score  - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events/   - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course  

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Kay Korsh.For over 20 years, Style Strategist Kay Korsh has been behind the scenes – dressing celebrities, consulting for luxury brands, and helping professional speakers dress in a way that aligns with their message. And that leads to more bookings, higher fees, and a whole lot more confidence on stage. In this episode we talked about how your style shapes your presence – from common mistakes and myths to practical tips that help you look more like YOU on stage and on camera.What You'll Learn:- How to dress in a way that supports your message- What to avoid when preparing your look for a talk or video- Why looking like yourself helps you connect with your audience- How style influences the way people see and remember you- A small change that can improve how you show up immediatelyIn This Episode:00:00 - Introduction08:49 - Align Your Look With the Venue15:28 - Stop Dressing Like the Audience41:36 - How to Instantly Improve Your LookWe hope you enjoy it! ———————Kay Korsh: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-korsh/ - Website: https://www.mindoverfashion.com/ - Colour Quiz for Speakers: https://kkorsh.outgrow.us/speakers-colourtest- How to Work with a Photographer: https://outfit.mindoverfashion.com/get-the-best-results-from-brand-photoshoot ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ (ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- The Confident Presenter Scorecard: ideasonstage.com/score  - Free Web Class: ideasonstage.com/uk/events/   - Free Mini-Course: bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course  

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Amanda Baker.   Amanda Baker is a story strategist and coach who knows the future belongs to those brave enough to share their stories. Creator of the 5 Stories method, she shows creators and founders how to make a difference in the world and stay true to themselves through the stories only they can tell.   In this episode we talked about how to tell your story and why it matters.   What You'll Learn:- Why your personal story matters- Common mistakes when telling your story- The 5 Stories framework to guide your message- Shaping stories that connect with your audience- Applying your stories across pitches, talks and websites   We hope you enjoy it! ———————   Amanda Baker: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandatells5stories/ - Website: https://www.5stories.com/    Recommended books: - How to Break Up With Your Phone by Catherine Price- Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport - The Artist's Way by Julian Cameron - Immortal Diamond by Richard Rohr - The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle - Connect by Carole Robin Ph.D. - The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. Singer   Mentions: - Iris Murdoch: 'Unselfing' - Polaroid’s campaign: Real stories. Not stories & reels- Elizabeth Gilbert ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events/ - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course      #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Storytelling #LeadershipCommunication #PersonalBranding

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Graham Allcott. Graham Allcott is an author, speaker and entrepreneur. He is the author of multiple books, including the global bestseller How to Be a Productivity Ninja, How to Have the Energy, and How to Fix Meetings. His latest book, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work, focuses on why organisations with kinder, more human-centred cultures are more successful. In this episode we talked about the power of kindness at work – from personal stories and Italian coffee traditions to leadership myths, culture change, and how silence can speak volumes. What You'll Learn:- Why kindness leads to better performance and stronger teams- The difference between being kind and being nice- How to lead with empathy without losing focus or urgency- Practical ways to build a culture of kindness at work- One small step you can take to lead more kindly today     We hope you enjoy it! ———————   Graham Allcott: - KIND: The quiet power of kindness at work: https://www.amazon.co.uk/KIND-quiet-power-kindness-work/dp/1399417401 - KIND Free Resources: https://www.grahamallcott.com/kindful - Graham's mailing list: https://www.grahamallcott.com/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamallcott/ - Instagram: @grahamallcott - Other resources: https://www.grahamallcott.com/links    Recommended books: - Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman- Humankind by Rutger Bregman - Utopia for Realists by Rutger Bregman   ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events/ - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course    #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #KindnessAtWork #PeopleFirst

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Mary Mackenzie.   Mary Mackenzie is an author, trained mediator, and CNVC Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication. She holds a master's degree in human relations from Northern Arizona University and is the CEO of the NVC Academy, the only online school for learning Nonviolent Communication.   Mary teaches Nonviolent Communication to individuals, couples, families and organisations through a wide variety of workshops and retreats. Her book Peaceful Living: Daily Meditations for Living with Love, Healing and Compassion offers inspiring practical methods for creating peace in our everyday lives. In this episode we talked about using Nonviolent Communication to better understand needs, give feedback with care, build strong relationships and lead with empathy.   What You'll Learn:- How to hear the real needs behind what people say- How to give feedback without causing defensiveness- How to build strong relationships to get better results- How to lead difficult conversations with care and clarity- How to align your actions with your core values   We hope you enjoy it! ———————Mary Mackenzie:https://www.nvcacademy.com/ https://marymackenzie.net/ mary@nvcacademy.com Book: Peaceful Living by Mary Mackenzie   Recommended books: Nonviolent Communication by Marshall RosenbergRespectful Parents, Respectful Kids by Sura Hart and Victoria Kindle Hodson ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES   Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/  and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Beth Sherman.   In today’s fast-moving business world, attention is short, trust is fragile, and most presentations fall flat. Comedian and Emmy Award-winning comedy writer Beth Sherman teaches professionals how to use humour – not simply for laughs, but for connection, persuasion, and impact.   In this episode we talked about using humour to connect, engage and communicate with confidence.   What You'll Learn:- Use humour as a tool to connect and communicate clearly- Find the funny in truth, detail and self-awareness- Know when humour helps – and when it doesn’t- Avoid common humour mistakes in professional settings- Start using humour, even if you don’t think you’re funny   We hope you enjoy it! ———————Beth Sherman:- Website: https://www.bethsherman.com/one-to-one-services - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-sherman/ - Newsletter: https://www.bethsherman.com/newsletter-sign-up    Recommended comedians: - Jim Gaffigan (hilarious and clean)- Mike Birbiglia (funny and story-based)- Wanda Sykes (on the spicier side) ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/events/ - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course    #IdeasOnStagePodcast #HumourInBusiness #BusinessCommunication #PublicSpeaking #StorytellingTips

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Mark Denton.   Mark Denton is an award-winning keynote speaker and expert in leadership, teamwork and resilience. In 2024, he was named Booker’s Choice at the Speaker Awards, a recognition of his ability to deliver high-impact talks that event organisers love to book.   In this episode, Mark shares what makes a speaker irresistible – not just on stage, but in the eyes of those hiring them. We talked about how he turns his talks into a powerful marketing engine, a smart technique he uses to collect glowing testimonials, and what speakers can do to get booked more often and increase their value.   If you want to elevate your speaking career and make it easier for organisers to say “yes” to you, this conversation is packed with practical insights. What You'll Learn:- What makes a speaker irresistible to event organisers and speaker bureaus- How to turn your on-stage performance into your best marketing tool- A clever way to collect testimonials that boosts your credibility and bookings- Why being easy to understand, book and sell matters as much as your talk- How to increase your value as a speaker and get hired more often   We hope you enjoy it! ———————Mark Denton: - Website: https://www.markdenton.co.uk/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markdentonspeaker/ - Email: mark@markdenton.co.uk   Mentions: - Customer reviews tool: https://www.reviews.io/ ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/  and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/  - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course     #IdeasOnStagePodcast #PublicSpeaking #ProfessionalSpeaking #SpeakerTips #SpeakingBusiness

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Patricia Ryan Madson. Patricia Ryan Madson is a world authority on improvising in everyday life. She is the author of IMPROV WISDOM: Don’t Prepare, Just Show Up. Her book has been translated into nine languages. Patricia is a professor Emerita from Stanford University where she taught since 1977. In their Drama Department she served as the head of the undergraduate acting program and developed the improvisation program. In 1998 she was the winner of the Lloyd W. Dinkelspiel Award for Outstanding Innovation in Undergraduate Education at Stanford. She is a frequent speaker for business and educational groups. Her corporate clients have included: IDEO, Google, Gap Inc.’s Executive Leadership Team, The Lucille and David Packard Foundation, the Banff Centre for Leadership, Sun Microsystems Japan Division, Apple Computers, Adobe Systems, and Price Waterhouse.  In this episode, we talked about how the principles of improvisation can help you become a more engaging presenter, and communicate with greater authenticity and impact. What You'll Learn:- How to balance preparation with being fully present- How improvisation can make you a better speaker – even if you fear public speaking- Why performance anxiety is really about self-focus – and how shifting your attention can help- How to handle mistakes during a presentation - A simple way to start using improv today to improve your communication skills instantlyWe hope you enjoy it! ———————Patricia Ryan Madson:Book: Improv Wisdom: Don't Prepare, Just Show Up Website: www.improvwisdom.com  Blog: www.improvwisdom.blogspot.com  Email: improvwisdom@gmail.com  Recommended books: Constructive Living by David K. ReynoldsImpro: Improvisation and the Theatre by Keith Johnstone ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES  Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score   Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass   Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course    

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Terry Szuplat.   Terry Szuplat is a sought-after speaker and trainer and the author of the national bestseller Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience in which he shares the public speaking lessons he learned as one of President Barack Obama's longest-serving White House speechwriters.   From 2009 to 2017, Terry served as a special assistant to the president and as a member of the National Security Council staff, and from 2013 to 2017 he was the deputy director of the White House Speechwriting Office.   Today, Terry runs his own speechwriting firm, Global Voices Communications, and he teaches speechwriting at his alma mater, American University's School of Public Affairs. He lives outside Washington, D.C. with his wife and two children.   In this episode, we talked about the lessons Terry Szuplat learned as Obama’s speechwriter.   What You'll Learn:- Obama’s approach to speaking - How to make your message stick - How to balance facts with storytelling- How to engage your audience from the start- How to leave your audience with hope and a clear takeaway   We hope you enjoy it! ———————Terry Szuplat: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-szuplat-456914137/ - Website: https://globalvoicescommunications.com/    Mentions: - Book: On Speaking Well by Peggy Noonan - Greetings from the President: Hola, Alo, Namaste! https://youtu.be/z6q5nWJkxz0?si=0IP-m0xzmTFcTbwQ - Patagonia – Don’t Buy This Jacket: https://eu.patagonia.com/gb/en/stories/dont-buy-this-jacket-black-friday-and-the-new-york-times/story-18615.html  ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES   - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/  and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course    #IdeasOnStagePodcast #PublicSpeaking #Speechwriting #Obama

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Dr. Jill Stoddard.   Dr. Stoddard is passionate about sharing her expertise in psychology to help people flourish in their work and health. She is an international and TEDx speaker, award-winning former professor, three-time book author, licensed psychologist, coach, and co-host of the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast.   Her books have been translated into twelve languages and include: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors; Be Mighty; and Imposter No More.   Her thoughts have also appeared in the Washington Post, New York Times, Psychology Today, The Boston Globe, and more. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog.   In this episode we talked about the imposter phenomenon.   What You'll Learn:- Why “imposter syndrome” is the wrong term – and what to call it instead- Why success often increases self-doubt instead of erasing it- How great leaders create a culture of vulnerability and self-compassion- The power of holding outcomes lightly to reduce stress and fear- Practical strategies to manage imposter feelings and take action anyway     We hope you enjoy it!   ———————Jill Stoddard:- Website: https://jillstoddard.com/ - Speaking: https://www.thewellbeingspeakers.com/ - TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/jill_stoddard_how_to_succeed_in_every_moment_even_when_you_re_failing - The 5 types of imposter: https://jillstoddard.com/quizzes  Recommended book: Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve by Alison Fragale   ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course      

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Vanessa Bohns. Vanessa Bohns is a social psychologist and professor and chair of organizational behavior at Cornell University. She holds a PhD in Psychology from Columbia University and an AB from Brown University. She is author of the book You Have More Influence Than You Think (2021, Norton). Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review, and her research has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Economist, and on NPR's Hidden Brain, among other outlets. She studies social influence, compliance, consent, why it’s so hard to ask for things, and why it’s so hard to say no. In this episode we talked about the power of persuasion. What You'll Learn:- Why you have more influence than you realise- Why people’s perception of you differs from what you imagine- How to make requests without creating pressure or discomfort- Why people’s default response is often “yes.”- Why asking for what you need feels difficult – and how to make it easier We hope you enjoy it!——————— Vanessa Bohns:- Website: https://www.vanessabohns.com/- X: @profbohns- Instagram: @profbohns- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-bohns-33219710/ Recommended books:- How To Win Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie- Influence by Robert Cialdini- To Sell Is Human by Daniel Pink: https://youtu.be/8eJBKu8GmW8?si=5rlCed3Tht0pbr3e- The Power of Saying No by Vanessa Patrick: https://youtu.be/SCpllRISS00?si=VbGqCnZZnoxVJt83- Reinforcements by Heidi Grant Halvorson- Give and Take by Adam Grant——————— IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score- Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass- Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course #IdeasOnStagePodcast #influence #persuasion

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Pedram Parasmand.   Pedram brings 24 years of learning design and facilitation experience in the public, private, charity and education sectors. He has designed and delivered programmes ranging from culture change initiatives in Governmental bodies; Exec team development in companies like Kimberly-Clarke and Netflix; soft-skills and creativity workshops for managers in companies like Google and Siemens; to bootcamps for new starters in the digital start-up sector.   As an ex-theoretical Physicist who loves systems and frameworks, he developed tools and templates to create a repeatable process to design, develop and facilitate transformational experiences. He now supports consultant coaches, trainers and facilitators to create more sales opportunities and scale their impact.   In this episode we talked about the art and science of facilitating workshops.   What You'll Learn:- The essential first step to designing workshops that engage and inspire- Common mistakes in facilitation- Why creating key moments in workshops can transform participant experiences- Six activity formats that boost engagement and participation- Tips for guiding activities, managing disruptions and sparking meaningful insights   We hope you enjoy it! ———————Pedram Parasmand: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedramparasmand/ - Website: https://www.theskillslab.com/ Recommended books: - Performance-Focused Smile Sheets by Will Thalheimer - The Workshop Survival Guide by Rob Fitzpatrick and Devin Hunt- The Secrets of Facilitation by Michael Wilkinson ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES - Books: ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- The Confident Presenter Scorecard: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Free Web Class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass - Free Mini-Course: https://bit.ly/confident-presenter-mini-course   #IdeasOnStagePodcast#WorkshopFacilitation#EngagingWorkshops#FacilitationSkills#WorkshopDesign

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Susan Payton.Susan is a story strategist, copywriter, messaging geek, coach, consultant and author of The Business of Stories.Released in March 2022, Susan’s book quickly became a UK and US #1 bestseller on Amazon in several business categories, including Marketing and Sales – knocking Dragon’s Den & Diary of a CEO star Stephen Bartlett off the top spot! It also got to #1 on Amazon again when the audiobook version was released and was a finalist in the Business Book Awards 2023.In this episode we talked about all things business storytelling.What You'll Learn:- The power of storytelling and why it's essential for business success- Why your personal story is more inspiring than you might think- The importance of clear language over fancy words- How to overcome the fear of sharing your voice and telling your story- Why every story you tell needs a clear call to action to be effectiveWe hope you enjoy it!———————Links:- Susan’s website: https://thebusinessofstories.com/- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUKRecommended books:- The Business of Stories by Susan Payton- Building a SoryBrand by Donald Miller- Soundtracks by Jon Acuff- Superfans by Pat Flynn———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCESWant to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact?- Read ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score- Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Storytelling #StorytellingForBusiness #TheBusinessOfStories

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Julian Treasure.  Julian Treasure is a top-rated international speaker and award-winning author on the power of sound and the skills of speaking and listening for both individuals and organisations. Julian’s five TED talks have been viewed more than 150 million times; one of them is the sixth most-viewed of all time. He is founder of international audio branding consultancy The Sound Agency, pioneering the use of innovative biophilic soundscapes in retail and hospitality spaces.  In this episode we talked about how to speak and be heard.  What You'll Learn:- The critical skills we’re not teaching our kids and why they matter for their future success.- How to use vocal variety, warm-ups, and breathing techniques to improve your public speaking.- How to speak effectively by knowing the listening you’re speaking into.- The unexpected advantage of feeling nervous and how to calm those nerves.- Avoid common mistakes like monotony or ending sentences as questions to keep your audience fully engaged.   We hope you enjoy it!   ——————— Links: - Website: - LinkedIn: - Substack: - TED Talk ‘How to speak so that people want to listen’: - Upcoming book, Sound Affects (25 March 2025):     Recommended books: - The Mysticism of Sound and Music by Hazrat Inayat Khan- The Great Animal Orchestra by Bernie Krause - Nada Brahma - the World is Sound by Joachim E. Berendt - In Pursuit of Silence by George Prochnik - A Book Of Silence by Sara Maitland - TED Talks by Chris Anderson ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES   Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact?   - Read ‘Confident Presenter’   and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ - To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class:         #IdeasOnStagePodcast #PublicSpeaking #CommunicationSkills #LeadershipCommunication #VocalImpact

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Carole Robin.   Carole Robin, Ph.D. taught the legendary Interpersonal Dynamics (affectionately known by students as “Touchy Feely”) course at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. She held a bunch of fancy titles and won a bunch of awards, including the Distinguished Teaching Award, before co-founding Leaders in Tech.   She is the co-author of the highly acclaimed and award-winning book, Connect, which contains the lessons of "Touchy Feely" that thousands of students have consistently described for decades as life changing and worth the price of their MBA.   She lives in San Francisco, California, with her husband of 37 years.   In this episode we talked about how to build exceptional relationships.   What You'll Learn:- Why exceptional relationships can transform your personal and professional life.- The 15% rule and how it can drive personal growth outside your comfort zone.- The six pillars essential for building and maintaining exceptional relationships.- The art of giving clean, constructive feedback that strengthens connections.- How conflict, when managed well, can actually enhance relationships.   We hope you enjoy it! ———————   Guest Links: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-robin/ - Email: carolerobinllc@gmail.com - Book website: https://connectandrelate.com/    Recommended books: - Power Up by David L. Bradford - Influence Without Authority by David L. Bradford ——————— IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact? - Read ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass    #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Leadership #Relationships #PersonalGrowth #Communication

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Dr. Vanessa Patrick.   Vanessa Patrick, PhD. is an award winning researcher and teacher at the Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston. She is a regular speaker at both academic and practitioner conferences and her research investigates strategies to achieve personal mastery and inspire everyday excellence in oneself and others. Her new book is The Power of Saying No: The New Science of How to Say No that Puts You in Charge of Your Life.   In this episode we talked about the art and science of saying no.   What You'll Learn:- Common challenges that make it hard to refuse requests- How to use the concept of “empowered refusal” to say no assertively- Why using phrases like "I don't" is more powerful than "I can't" - Insights into deciding when to say yes or no- How syncing your words with body language can maximise the impact of your no   We hope you enjoy it! ———————   Links: - Vanessa Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessapatrick23/ - Vanessa’s website: https://www.vanessapatrick.net/    Recommended books: - Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes - You Have More Influence Than You Think by Vanessa Bohns - The Power of a Positive No by William Ury ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact? - Read ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/ and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass        #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Leadership #Communication #PersonalDevelopment #ThePowerOfNo

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with the legendary Guy Kawasaki.   Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist of Canva and the creator of Guy Kawasaki’s Remarkable People podcast. He is an executive fellow of the Haas School of Business (UC Berkeley), and adjunct professor of the University of New South Wales. He was the chief evangelist of Apple and a trustee of the Wikimedia Foundation. He has written Wise Guy, The Art of the Start 2.0, The Art of Social Media, Enchantment, and eleven other books. Kawasaki has a BA from Stanford University, an MBA from UCLA, and an honorary doctorate from Babson College.   In this episode we talked about his latest book, Think Remarkable.   What You'll Learn:- The key traits of remarkable people- Strategic career advice- How to redefine success- Guy’s unique approach to decision making- The importance of both developing a growth mindset and surrounding yourself with a growth-oriented environment   And much more.     We hope you enjoy it!   ———————   Links: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guykawasaki/ - Website: https://guykawasaki.com/ - Remarkable People Podcast: https://guykawasaki.com/remarkable-people/ - Newsletter https://substack.com/@guykawasaki - Think Remarkable book: https://guykawasaki.com/books/think-remarkable/  ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact?   - Read ‘Confident Presenter’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/  and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass        #IdeasOnStagePodcast #ThinkRemarkable #GuyKawasaki

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with JD Schramm.   A passionate coach and gifted communicator in his own right, JD Schramm treasures the opportunity to bring out the best in those he teaches, advises, or inspires through his speaking, coaching, and educating. Thousands of students at Stanford, Columbia, NYU, and USC have benefited from his hallmark style of teaching and rigorous feedback to help them speak with conviction and write for impact.   JD is also an accomplished author; his book Communicate with Mastery gives readers a rich treasure trove of frameworks and tools for leadership communication. In this episode we talked about how to communicate with mastery.   What You'll Learn:- Most common communication mistakes- Top tips to improve your communication- The best communication advice JD Schramm has ever received- Whether or not anyone can become a great communicator - Who are the best teachers of communication skills? Not who you think!     We hope you enjoy it! ———————   Links: - JD Schramm’s website: https://jdschramm.com/ - JD’s newsletter: https://jdschramm.substack.com/ - JD’s book, Communicate with Mastery: https://jdschramm.com/books/ - JD on LinkedIn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdschramm/ - The AIM Framework: https://open.substack.com/pub/jdschramm/p/expanding-aim?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web    Recommended books: - Guide to Presentations by Mary Munter and Lynn Russell- Think Faster Talk Smarter by Matt Abrahams - Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg ———————   IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES   Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact? - Read Confident Presenter - https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book/  and Business Presentation Revolution https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/ - To make the most of the book, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass      #IdeasOnStagePodcast #CommunicationSkills #LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #EffectiveCommunication #PersonalDevelopment

In this episode of the Ideas on Stage podcast we spoke with Jeremy Connell-Waite.   Jeremy Connell-Waite is passionate about helping others to tell better stories, especially executives and future business leaders in the tech industry. He works as a Communications Designer at IBM where he builds narratives for clients around emerging technologies, write speeches for senior executives and lead a performance coaching program for consultants called Impact Storytelling.   In this episode we talked about how to tell better business stories.   What You'll Learn:- The return on investment storytelling can offer- How readability scores can improve your message - The essentials of a great story from JFK's speechwriter- The core elements that make stories memorable, including key lessons from ballet- Insights into the future of storytelling with AI and one transformative trick to transform your storytelling skills     We hope you enjoy it! ———————Links: - Jeremy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremypaulwaite/ - BetterStories.org: https://www.betterstories.org/    Mentions: - Ted Sorensen, John F. Kennedy's speechwriter - David M. Axelrod, chief strategist for Barack Obama's presidential campaigns- Yo-Yo Ma, cellist- Neil deGrasse Tyson’s MasterClass (science communication) - Jerry Seinfeld commencement address at Duke - Bryan Stevenson’s TED Talk: We need to talk about an injustice- Erica Chenoweth at TEDxBoulder (3.5% rule) - Gunning Fog Index- Darío Gil, Senior Vice President and Director of IBM research | Speaker - Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence- Ikigai: “a reason to live”   Recommended books: - The One Thing- The Trusted Advisor- Narrative and Numbers- Climate of Hope   ———————IDEAS ON STAGE RESOURCES Want to inspire your audience, increase your influence, and make a bigger impact? - Read ‘Confident Presenter’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/resources/confident-presenter-book) and ‘Business Presentation Revolution’ (https://www.ideasonstage.com/business-presentation-revolution/book/)- To make the most of the books, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass    #IdeasOnStagePodcast #Storytelling #BusinessStorytelling #Communication