Speaker Dynamics | Leadership, Communication & Public Speaking

Most teams do not fall apart because people lack talent. They fall apart because the wrong voices shape the conversation and nobody notices until the damage is done.   This episode on leadership communication shows why talented teams still make weak decisions and what leaders can do to change that. Drawing from the book Team Players: The Five Critical Roles You Need to Build a Winning Team, Karin Reed talks with author Mark Murphy about the five roles every strong team needs. They also explore how strong leadership communication helps bring out the right voices, reduces groupthink, and leads to better decisions. For anyone focused on executive communication, meeting facilitation skills, or virtual communication skills, this conversation offers a practical framework with real workplace value.   You will hear why the loudest person is often not the most useful voice, how speaking order can shift outcomes, and what it takes to communicate with influence in higher-stakes conversations. The ideas are especially useful for leaders who are leading virtual teams, running hybrid meetings, or trying to strengthen leadership communication across different personalities and working styles.   If you want sharper leadership communication, better buy-in, and meetings that lead to stronger decisions, this episode will give you a clear way to think about team dynamics and lead with more intention.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why High-Performing Teams Still Fail 03:35 The Teamwork Mistake That Hurts Business Results 08:12 The Five Critical Roles of a Winning Team 14:01 Leadership Communication and the Wrong Voices in the Room 17:44 How Speaking Order Shapes Team Decisions 20:32 How Leaders Prevent Groupthink in Meetings 22:42 Meeting Facilitation Skills for Virtual and Hybrid Teams 26:19 How to Identify What Your Team Is Missing Connect with Mark Murphy: Visit the Leadership IQ website Get your copy of TEAM PLAYERS: The Five Critical Roles You Need to Build a Winning Team   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Speaking with confidence in virtual meetings often begins with a simple decision: do you turn your camera on when no one else does? In this Speaker Tip Spotlight, Karin Reed discusses how speaking with confidence shows up in virtual communication. If you want stronger on-camera communication and a more intentional virtual presence, this episode explains how being seen influences how others receive your ideas.   Many professionals focus only on what they say. Yet speaking on camera changes how a message lands. Karin explains that speaking with confidence also depends on visual signals. Facial expression, posture, and eye contact on Zoom help reinforce clarity and trust in ways audio alone cannot.   The episode also outlines three factors that guide camera decisions in virtual meetings. Meeting size, familiarity among participants, and the complexity of the topic all influence whether video strengthens communication. In smaller meetings and leadership discussions, executive presence on video often helps messages land with greater clarity.   If you want to improve speaking with confidence in virtual meetings, this Speaker Tip Spotlight shows how thoughtful camera choices strengthen credibility, engagement, and influence in professional conversations.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Should Your Camera Be On in Virtual Meetings 00:46 Why Being Seen Builds Virtual Presence and Credibility 02:05 Factor #1 Meeting Size and When Camera Off Makes Sense 03:14 Factor #2 Team Relationships and Virtual Communication Dynamics 04:36 Factor #3 Complex or Emotional Topics Require Video Communication 06:04 Speaking on Camera When You Lead or Present in Meetings 07:01 Research on Camera Use and Leadership Perception in Virtual Meetings Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Speaking with confidence can become harder after a well-intentioned pep talk. What feels encouraging in the moment often turns into pressure that undermines trust and performance. In this episode, Karin Reed sits down with Amy McCready, founder of Positive Parenting Solutions, to examine why common praise patterns make speaking with confidence more difficult over time, both for children and for employees.   Their conversation bridges parenting and leadership communication in a powerful way. Amy explains how generic praise such as “You’re so smart” or “You’re amazing” creates dependence on external validation. Over time, that dependence shows up as anxiety, people-pleasing, and professionals who constantly seek reassurance before speaking up. The result is less ownership, less resilience, and less confidence in high-stakes moments.   Instead of hype, Amy offers specific language that strengthens internal motivation. By highlighting preparation, effort, improvement, and repeatable behaviors, leaders can reinforce what actually leads to success. This shift builds trust, improves executive presence, and makes speaking with confidence a consistent outcome rather than a temporary boost.   You will also hear how these principles apply in the workplace when inspiring teams, delivering feedback, and getting buy-in on ideas. Specific, repeatable feedback sharpens virtual communication skills and strengthens leadership communication because people understand exactly what behaviors to continue.   If you want speaking with confidence to be rooted in ownership instead of applause, this episode provides a practical framework for feedback that builds real trust, deeper accountability, and lasting influence.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Pep Talks Can Backfire in Parenting and Leadership Communication 03:26 The Hidden Cost of Overpraise and External Validation 07:46 What to Say Instead: Link Effort to Outcomes to Build Real Confidence 10:50 From Praise-Dependent Kids to High-Maintenance Employees 12:15 Specific and Repeatable Feedback That Strengthens Executive Presence 18:17 The Takeaway: Recognize Effort and Progress to Inspire Lasting Motivation Connect with Amy McCready: Visit the Positive Parenting Solutions website Amy’s All-In-One Parenting Success System   Books: The “Me, Me, Me” Epidemic: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capable, Grateful Kids in an Over-Entitled World  If I Have to Tell You One More Time...The Revolutionary Program That Gets Your Kids To Listen Without Nagging, Reminding, or Yelling   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Presenting slides filled with dense data and rigid corporate templates can feel like you are fighting your own materials. You know the slide is too busy. You know it could be cleaner. Yet you are required to show every number. So how do you keep the room with you instead of losing them to a wall of figures?   In this Speaker Tip Spotlight episode of Speaker Dynamics, Karin Reed offers practical, real-world guidance for presenting slides that do not follow best practices. She walks through how to guide executive attention to the numbers that actually matter, how to use clear verbal direction so people know exactly where to look, and how to manage data-heavy visuals without shrinking your presence. These are strategies you can use the very next time you present financials, dashboards, or standardized templates.   If you have ever felt overshadowed by a crowded deck or boxed in by a template you cannot change, this episode will feel both validating and useful. You may not control the slide design. You absolutely control how you show up and how your message lands.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Real Challenge of Presenting Busy Slides 01:20 Why Slide Design Best Practices Clash With Company Templates 02:15 Presenting Data-Heavy Slides Without Losing Executive Attention 03:00 Using Call-Outs to Improve Clarity When Presenting Slides 05:10 Visual and Verbal Cues for Presenting Slides Clearly 06:00 Why Laser Pointers Can Hurt Your PowerPoint Presentation 08:18 When to Remove a Slide and Strengthen Executive Presence 09:35 Three Proven Strategies for Presenting Slides With Confidence 10:34 Slide Design Best Practices and PowerPoint Tips Resource Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

What if ChatGPT could help you think more clearly before you speak instead of just helping you sound polished? Karin Reed sits down with Michael Shehane, founder of InStride Leadership, to explore how leaders are using ai tools for speakers like ChatGPT or Claude to sharpen clarity, strengthen judgment, and communicate with more intention under pressure. Drawing from his work with AI leaders in Silicon Valley, Michael explains why traditional preparation habits no longer match the pace of modern leadership and what actually helps now. This episode explains that when we use AI tools for speakers, we should consider them a thinking partner rather than a replacement for human judgment. It shows how AI tools for speakers like ChatGPT or Claude can support better decisions, more confident communication, and more honest self-reflection without stripping away presence or authenticity. For leaders who want to communicate authentically at work, this conversation offers a practical and timely perspective on modern communication skills for leaders.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Leadership Communication and GenAI Explained 04:20 Why Traditional Presentation Preparation Is Failing Leaders 06:40 Using ChatGPT to Prepare and Clarify Your Message 16:05 Using ChatGPT During Meetings to Improve Communication 20:00 How Leaders Use AI to Review and Improve Communication 26:45 What AI Cannot Replace in Leadership Communication 29:20 Key Takeaway for Leaders Using ChatGPT   Connect with Michael Shehane: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  Visit the InStride Leadership website  Follow InStride Leadership on Instagram    Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn   Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

If you are serious about eliminating filler words, you have to notice them before your audience does. When listeners start counting your “um’s” and “like’s” instead of tracking your ideas, your executive presence and leadership communication both suffer. This solo episode launches Speaker Tip Spotlight, a short-form series focused on practical strategies for speaking with confidence and communicating with influence. The first topic tackles eliminating filler words and why they show up so often in high-stakes moments, especially in public speaking for leaders. Karin Reed explains what filler words actually signal, when they become a distraction, and how eliminating filler words at key transitions can instantly strengthen your delivery. Polished presentation skills and effective presentations are not about talking more. They are about control. You will learn how eliminating filler words improves business storytelling, sharpens memorable messaging, and supports stronger communication for leaders. With simple tools like self-recording and visual cues, eliminating filler words becomes less about self-criticism and more about awareness and intention. When you focus on eliminating filler words, you create space for clarity, authority, and confident communication to lead the way.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Eliminating Filler Words Strengthens Your Impact 02:15 Why Short, Focused Speaking Tips Work 04:05 What Filler Words Really Are And Why We Use Them 06:10 When Filler Words Pull Focus From Your Message 07:45 Why Eliminating Filler Words In Their Entirety Is The Wrong Goal 09:10 How To Replace Filler Words With Intentional Pauses 11:05 Using Awareness To Reduce Filler Words Naturally 13:20 Learning Communication Skills Through Speaker Dynamics University   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Do you really have to choose between being liked and being influential, or has that belief been quietly shaping how you speak and lead? In this conversation on effective communication for women, Karin Reed examines the hidden tradeoffs women are taught to make and how those habits affect executive presence. Karin talks with Dr. Kate Mason, author of Powerfully Likeable, about the tension at the center of leadership communication for women: the pressure to soften authority to stay well liked. Challenging the myth that warmth and power sit on opposite ends, Dr. Mason explains how women and executive presence can coexist without compromise. This is effective communication for women that strengthens influence when speaking while preserving authenticity. The episode unpacks why women often minimize expertise, overexplain decisions, or hesitate to ask for time and resources. Dr. Mason introduces “imposing syndrome” and offers practical shifts that build confident communication and stronger communication for leaders. What changes when you state your recommendation first? How does being influential and well liked become less of a balancing act and more of a strategic choice? At its core, this is a conversation about effective communication for women who want to lead with clarity, conviction, and real influence when speaking.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Being Liked vs Being Influential in Women Communication 02:08 Why Power and Likeability Are Not Opposites for Women Leaders 05:06 How Women Minimize Expertise in Professional Communication 08:49 How to Lead With the Recommendation in Women Communication 12:29 Imposing Syndrome and Asking for What You Need at Work 16:13 Rethinking Confidence in Women Communication 18:12 Why Visibility Matters in Virtual Communication 24:00 Authority Without Changing Your Voice or Identity 32:21 One Practice to Strengthen Women Communication and Influence Connect with Dr. Kate Mason: Connect with Dr. Kate on LinkedIn Subscribe to Dr. Kate’s Substack Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Being remarkable is not a title you claim but the result of choosing to make a difference every single day. In this episode, Karin Reed revisits a favorite conversation with Guy Kawasaki to explore what actually makes someone remarkable. Drawing from his book Think Remarkable and decades of experience in technology and leadership, Guy challenges the idea that remarkableness comes from visibility, personal branding, or self-promotion. Instead, it grows out of meaningful work, service, and a commitment to improving something beyond yourself.   The conversation touches on communication, decision-making, and action. Guy shares why clarity and concision matter, why waiting for the perfect plan often stalls progress, and how his “turn and burn” philosophy encourages people to act and adjust rather than overthink. He also reframes common concerns around authenticity and modern tools like AI, pointing out that intent matters more than the tools themselves.   Guy shares stories and advice, especially for younger professionals, about showing up, doing the work others avoid, and letting impact speak louder than image. Being remarkable comes from growth, grit, grace, and the choices you make to genuinely make a difference.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 What It Really Means To Be Remarkable 05:57 Using AI And LLMs Without Losing Authenticity 09:46 The Philosophy Behind Think Remarkable 14:27 Growth, Grit, And Grace As A Framework For Impact 18:13 Why Making A Difference Comes Before Recognition 26:28 “Turn And Burn” Decision Making And Taking Action 33:41 The True Measure Of Success: Making A Difference 34:33 Career Advice: How To Become Indispensable Connect with Guy Kawasaki: Get Guy’s book, Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference Learn more about Guy’s book, Think Remarkable Tune in to Guy’s Remarkable People Podcast Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Business storytelling is the difference between a pitch that gets polite nods and one that gets funded. In this episode, we break down how business storytelling transforms a standard startup presentation into a compelling narrative that investors actually respond to. If you care about leadership communication, speaking with confidence, and learning how to communicate with influence, this conversation will change how you think about pitching. Karen sits down with venture capitalist and author Ben Wiener to discuss his novel Fever Pitch, a story that doubles as a masterclass in business storytelling. Instead of relying on slides crammed with data, Ben argues that founders need structure, stakes, and emotional clarity. His HEART framework reframes how leaders approach presentation skills, structuring a presentation, and even overcoming the fear of public speaking. You’ll hear: Why most pitch decks fail before the second slide How to use business storytelling to create executive presence in high-stakes rooms The five psychological pressure points investors subconsciously look for Why radical differentiation matters more than incremental improvement How founders can develop confident communication without feeling salesy This episode goes beyond startup tactics. It’s about communication for leaders who want to own the room, whether they’re pitching investors, leading a team, or delivering effective presentations. If you want sharper meeting facilitation skills, stronger memorable messaging, and more persuasive leadership communication, this conversation delivers practical insight you can apply immediately.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introducing “Fever Pitch” and Startup Storytelling 00:58 Ben Wiener’s Journey from VC to Author 03:02 Why Fiction Can Teach Startup Strategy 06:27 Storytelling as the Foundation of a Strong Pitch 07:34 Guy Kawasaki’s 10-20-30 Rule and Pitch Lessons 12:01 Why Most Startup Pitch Decks Fail 14:03 The HEART Framework Explained 19:51 What Investors Really Want to Hear First 26:18 Reframing Pitching as Partnership, Not Persuasion 32:07 The Business Power of Paying It Forward 33:38 Closing and Bonus Content Invitation   Connect with Ben Wiener: Learn more about Ben Wiener’s book: Fever Pitch Visit Ben Wiener’s website   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Discover how to articulate your professional value with clarity and confidence so your next career move feels intentional and fully aligned with your strengths.   Karin Reed and Briefcase Coach founder Sarah Johnston discuss why even the most accomplished professionals struggle to explain what they bring to the table. If you’ve ever stared at your résumé and wondered why it doesn’t feel like “you,” or questioned how to tell your story without sounding inflated or vague, this episode gives you a clearer path forward. Sarah offers a grounded look at what hiring teams actually pay attention to, why so many leaders lose sight of their own impact, and how a shift in perspective can change the way you show up on paper and in interviews. What would happen if you paused before updating your résumé and asked who you want to reach and what they need to see? How might your story change if you focused on real outcomes rather than a list of responsibilities?   Karin and Sarah also explore how LinkedIn shapes first impressions and why keywords, updated visuals, and a thoughtful About section matter more than most people realize. They close with a simple but meaningful challenge: set aside quiet time to build a value proposition statement that reflects your strengths and the direction you want to go. If you want a clearer sense of how to communicate your worth and make your next career move with intention, this episode will help you rethink how you present your work, your impact, and your voice.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introducing Sarah Johnston And The Importance Of Articulating Your Value 02:38 Identifying Your Target Role And Understanding What Employers Really Want 06:02 Why It’s Hard To See Your Own Strengths: “Inside The Jar” Insight 09:59 The RAS Formula: How To Lead With Impact On Your Resume 14:01 LinkedIn Strategy: Keywords, Storytelling, And Controlling Your Online Narrative 22:20 Quick LinkedIn Wins: Headline, Headshot, And Strategic Networking 25:56 Owning Your Achievements Without Feeling Like You’re Bragging 28:40 Your One Next Step: Creating A Powerful Value Proposition Statement Connect with Sarah Johnston: Visit Briefcase Coach Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most of what we say isn’t planned, and communication expert Matt Abrahams wants us to stop fearing those moments and enjoy confident communication. Karin Reed talks with Matt, a Stanford lecturer and author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter, about how to stay grounded when you’re put on the spot. Why do we freeze when asked an unexpected question or stumble through small talk? What if the key to confident communication isn’t perfection, but presence?   Matt shares how letting go of the pressure to sound brilliant (what he calls “maximizing mediocrity”) creates space for real connection. He also offers his “next play” mindset for moving past mistakes and explains why confident communication starts with active listening and clear focus. His mother’s advice sums it up perfectly: “Tell the time, don’t build the clock.”   By the end, you’ll see that spontaneous speaking is a skill you can practice. With a little preparation and curiosity, those unscripted moments can become chances for being influential and well liked, speaking with confidence, and eliminating your fear of public speaking and networking.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Spontaneous Speaking 02:31 Understanding Spontaneous Speaking 05:02 Overcoming Anxiety in Speaking 08:03 Maximizing Mediocrity for Confident Communication 10:25 The Importance of Listening 12:57 The Role of Body Language When Presenting 15:21 The F Word: Focus in Spontaneous Speaking 17:49 Mastering Small Talk 21:05 Key Takeaways and Conclusion Connect with Matt Abrahams: Subscribe to Think Fast, Talk Smart on YouTube Follow Think Fast, Talk Smart on X Follow Think Fast, Talk Smart on Instagram Connect with Matt on LinkedIn   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Bill Harper, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of BrandBossHQ, talks about what really happens when you stop hiding behind perfection and start showing up as yourself on camera. How do you get past the fear of putting your face out there? What shifts when you stop worrying about being polished and start focusing on being real?   Joining Karin Reed in this episode, Bill shares how one reluctant step onto TikTok reshaped his business and sparked a whole new connection with his audience. He explains how a single comment from a viewer erased his hesitation, how authenticity can outshine production value, and why people crave genuine presence more than scripted marketing.   Together, Karin and Bill dig into what makes video such a powerful bridge for trust and why today’s leaders can’t afford to separate their personal voice from their brand. The episode leaves you thinking less about how to perform on camera and more about how to show up in a way that actually connects.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 From Camera Shyness to TikTok Success 02:09 How BrandBoss HQ Was Born During COVID 03:48 The Surprising Power of TikTok for Business Growth 06:58 Overcoming the Fear of Speaking on Camera 10:16 Shifting Your Mindset to Connect Authentically on Video 14:04 TikTok as a Platform for Learning and Mentorship 19:05 The Blending of Personal and Business Branding 20:03 Building Trust Through Authentic Content 26:01 One Positive Comment That Changed Everything 29:05 Bonus: Free Brand Audit Offer   Connect with Bill Harper: Visit the BrandBossHQ website 60-day Brand Transformation Course   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Curious about using GenAI for presentations but not sure where to start? In this episode of Speaker Dynamics, Karin Reed sits down with communication coach and tech specialist Maggie Miller to explore how using GenAI for presentations can make you a stronger, more confident speaker rather than a robotic one.   Maggie shares how she moved from skepticism to strategy. She first experimented with AI for travel planning before recognizing the real opportunity for presenters. When it comes to using GenAI for presentations, the biggest advantages are speed, sharper idea generation, and better practice tools. That means faster outlines, stronger opening hooks, tighter storytelling, and platforms that provide delivery feedback and help eliminate filler words.   They also address a concern many leaders have. Will AI strip away authenticity? Maggie’s perspective is clear. AI should support your thinking, not replace it. When you are using GenAI for presentations, it works like a behind the scenes assistant. It helps with structuring a presentation, brainstorming stories, and refining language, while you bring the voice, judgment, and emotional intelligence.   You will also hear practical guidance on writing better prompts, protecting data privacy, fact checking AI outputs, and choosing the right tools for speakers. For leaders focused on presentation skills and authentic leadership communication, this conversation offers a realistic and grounded path forward.   If you have been hesitant, this episode will show you how to start small and build confidence quickly.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Using GenAI for Presentations 04:23 Three Benefits of AI Tools for Speakers 07:52 Protecting Authentic Leadership Communication When Using AI 10:40 Data Privacy and Fact Checking When Using GenAI 13:11 Best AI Tools for Speakers Including ChatGPT and Grammarly 19:13 How to Write Better Prompts for Structuring a Presentation 20:41 Where to Start Using GenAI for Presentations   Connect with Karin Reed: Visit Speaker Dynamics Explore Speaker Dynamics University Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Authentic leadership online means showing up as yourself rather than hiding behind corporate polish.   Karin Reed sits down with Jess Jensen, the founder of Co-Pilot Communications, to talk about what it really takes for executives to build a digital presence that feels genuine and earns trust. After two decades leading digital strategy for global brands like Microsoft, Nestlé, Qualcomm, and Adidas, Jess has seen firsthand how the landscape has shifted. People no longer want polished brand statements - they want to hear from leaders directly. So how do you decide who you’re really speaking to? What values do you want to be known for? And how can you use your story to spark connection in a way that feels true to you?   Jess shares a framework that helps leaders find clarity on their audience, their voice, and the platforms where they can make the most impact. She also explains why the comments section is where relationships are actually built and why leaning into your own experiences is the key to lasting influence. This conversation is an invitation to think differently about your presence online and to step into it with honesty, confidence, and purpose.   For Speaker Dynamics podcast listeners, Jess is offering a free 25-minute LinkedIn audit. Quick, practical reviews for business owners and senior executives who think their profile might be holding them back. Go to copilotcommunications.com and under contact, book time with me. Mention this podcast and you’ll get a real-time audit, and a handful of actionable next steps.   No cost. No catch. Just clarity. And a thank you for listening to the show.   Book here: https://calendly.com/jessjensen-copilotcommunications/25min    Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Authenticity Over Perfection in Leadership 01:39 The Mission Behind Co-Pilot Communications 05:52 From Corporate Brands to Human Voices on Social Media 10:06 Five Steps to Building an Authentic Digital Brand 21:27 Why Relationships Are Built in the Comments 27:38 Your Story as the Most Powerful Differentiator   Connect with Jess Jensen: Subscribe to Jess’ Newsletter Connect with Jess on LinkedIn   Connect with Karin Reed: Speaker Dynamics Speaker Dynamics University Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Leading Virtual Teams requires more than replicating office habits on a digital platform. What looks aligned on the surface can quickly fracture when distance, culture, and trust are not intentionally addressed. For leaders focused on Speaking Like a Leader in a global environment, communication choices carry even greater weight.   In this episode, Karin Reed sits down with global virtual team expert and author Theresa Hollema to examine what truly drives success when leading virtual teams across borders. Theresa explains why team configuration matters, how physical proximity can unintentionally create cliques, and why some organizations found fully remote collaboration more effective than hybrid models during the pandemic.   The conversation highlights the subtle signals that shape global collaboration. How meetings are structured. What messages are sent when cameras are turned on or off. How a follow-up call may feel like micromanagement in one culture but genuine care in another. These nuances demand modern communication skills for leaders who want to strengthen trust rather than weaken it. Theresa also introduces a framework from her book Virtual Teams Across Cultures that explores how culture influences teams within the group, between locations, and through outside local factors. For leaders committed to Speaking Like a Leader across time zones and languages, this framework offers practical insight into strengthening virtual communication skills and getting buy-in on ideas from diverse teams.   If you are responsible for leading virtual teams and want stronger collaboration, deeper trust, and more consistent results across borders, this episode provides a clear path forward. Speaking Like a Leader in a global setting is not about speaking louder. It is about communicating with cultural awareness, clarity, and intention.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Global Virtual Teams 01:18 Why Virtual Leadership Differs From Office Work 06:45 Hybrid Pitfalls: Proximity Bias and Cliques 08:22 Psychological Distance Across Locations 10:04 Turning Cultural Diversity Into Innovation 12:14 Practical Ways to Build Cultural Competence 17:32 Leader Readiness for Cross-Cultural Dilemmas 19:04 One-on-Ones That Build Trust 21:40 Camera Use and Signals of Trust 23:21 Post-Meeting Follow-Up: Care vs Micromanagement   Connect with Theresa Hollema: Virtual Across Cultures Theresa’s Book: Virtual Teams Across Cultures Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn   Connect with Karin Reed: Speaker Dynamics Speaker Dynamics University Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Silence can feel uncomfortable, yet it has the power to make every word count. How do pauses change the way others hear you? When does stopping at the right moment strengthen your message instead of weaken it?   Speaker Dynamics – Own The Room is back, and in this episode, Karin Reed explores silence as one of the most underused but transformative skills in communication. She shares how pausing before you speak can command attention and project confidence, why ending once your point is made keeps your message clear and credible, and how intentional quiet creates space for real listening. Karin reflects on lessons from her work with global leaders, her experiences moderating conversations, and even her personal relationships, showing how silence can shift both professional dynamics and personal connections.   These insights aren’t just theory. They come with a challenge. Can you choose one conversation where you practice full presence, resist the urge to fill every gap, and let silence do the heavy lifting? The results might surprise you.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Power of Silence 01:47 Pause to Ponder: Using Silence to Form Your Thoughts 05:21 Silence Commands Attention and Builds Confidence 07:07 Stop Talking Once You’ve Made Your Point 12:05 Using Silence to Actively Listen 20:58 Key Takeaways on the Power of Silence   Connect with Karin Reed: Speaker Dynamics Speaker Dynamics University Speaker Dynamics on Instagram Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most business presentations are packed with data no one remembers. Stories are what actually stick.   Karin Reed is joined by senior communication coach Andrea Brody for a conversation that redefines what storytelling looks like in a business setting. What makes someone pause, lean in, and actually remember what you said? Well, it’s probably not your bullet points.   Andrea shares insights from her Inspiring Through Storytelling workshop, including the science behind why our brains respond so strongly to stories, and why even simple, everyday moments can leave a lasting impression. She breaks down common misconceptions about what counts as a “real” story and explains how value stories, founder stories, and customer stories can all be used strategically, depending on your audience.   For anyone who’s tired of being forgettable in meetings, pitches, or presentations, Karin and Andrea’s conversation offers a smarter way to connect, and a clearer reason to start sharing stories that actually mean something.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Business Storytelling and Why It Matters 02:51 Inside the “Inspiring Through Storytelling” Workshop 05:04 The Science Behind Why Stories Stick 07:59 What Makes a Story Effective 10:54 “I’m Not a Storyteller” and Other Common Myths 11:18 How to Find Meaningful Stories in Everyday Life 13:35 Participant Breakthroughs and Story Wins 19:40 NFL Combine Example: Quiet Leadership Through Story 22:07 Leading Through Storytelling in Tough Times   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Becoming a go-to media expert doesn’t happen by chance. There are multiple factors that make you the guest who is on speed dial. But what are those factors?    Karin Reed talks with Paula Rizzo, an Emmy-winning producer, author and media trainer, about what it really takes to get booked by the media and asked back. Why do some experts become regulars while others never hear a word? What makes a producer stop scrolling and actually open your pitch?   Paula shares what she looked for when booking guests during her years in TV news and how she used those same strategies to build her own media presence. She explains the importance of showing up online, pitching with a clear hook and takeaway, and creating content that reflects your expertise. She also unpacks what it means to be “good on camera” and why clarity always matters more than charisma.   This episode offers guidance for authors, entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts who want to raise their visibility and be taken seriously by the media. If you’re ready to be seen as the expert, this is where to begin.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Becoming a Media Expert 01:13 Paula Rizzo’s Media Journey 03:20 How to Start: Blogging, Pitching, and Visibility 05:00 What Makes a Great Media Guest 06:10 Why Availability Matters 08:19 How to Pitch the Media Effectively 10:54 Follow-Up and Relationship Building 13:11 Understanding What Producers Actually Need 14:55 Being Good on Camera 19:11 Speaking in Soundbites 21:23 Where to Begin as an Aspiring Expert 23:57 Common Misconceptions About Media 26:04 When to Start Media Training 27:50 Be Visible to Be Found   Links Connect with Paula Rizzo: For listeners – anyone who is interested in applying for a free strategy session with me can go to SpeakWithPaula.com to apply. There are limited spots available. For anyone interested in lists and productivity, here’s a list-making starter kit at paularizzo.com/lists To connect via LinkedIn please go here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paularizzo1/   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Controlling a room full of senior leaders starts with knowing your mission and refusing to let interruptions derail it. So what happens when you walk into a meeting ready to present and the executives start cutting you off before you even reach slide two? Karin Reed knows the feeling, and she offers a smarter way to handle it without losing control or losing your nerve.   In this episode, Karin breaks down five practical strategies for staying in charge when senior leaders steer the conversation off course. She shares why setting expectations early can help you hold the room, how trimming your content down to what matters most can work in your favor, and why you should never make a busy executive wait for the point you’re trying to make. Would your presentation land differently if you led with the ‘ask’ instead of saving it for the end? Karin explains why it would and how it changes the way people listen. You’ll also hear smart ways to handle interruptions without giving away control and how to design your slides to flex with the conversation instead of boxing you in.   Karin drives home a simple truth: your voice matters, no matter where you sit on the org chart. When you stay intentional, respectful, and focused, you help leaders make better decisions. And that is exactly why you are in the room.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 01:04 Mission and Importance of Presentation 02:32 Understanding Senior Leaders’ Intent 04:51 Five Strategies Overview 05:03 Strategy 1: Setting Expectations 07:10 Strategy 2: Be Realistic with Content 10:18 Strategy 3: Don’t Bury the Lead 14:00 Strategy 4: Handling Questions 18:46 Strategy 5: Be Flexible   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people think polish makes a speaker great. Authenticity is what makes an audience listen.   In this episode, Karin Reed talks with international keynote speaker and bestselling author Ryan Vet about what it really takes to build a professional speaking business. From a non-linear journey shaped by entrepreneurship and early Twitter fame to a moment of clarity sparked by unexpected feedback, Ryan shares how authenticity, not polish, is the quality that sets great speakers apart.   Ryan and Karin discuss common misconceptions about the speaking world, including the myth that success happens quickly or that all impactful talks happen on massive stages. Ryan offers practical insight into building a sustainable speaking business, from understanding who’s in the room to customizing talks without compromising your voice. He also explains why things like AV etiquette, recording your talks, and building multiple revenue streams are part of the job, not just extras.   Whether you’re aiming for the main stage or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this conversation pulls back the curtain on professional speaking with honesty, humor, and a healthy dose of real talk.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Ryan’s Path to Professional Speaking 04:30 Lessons from Writing Speak Goodr 06:00 Handling On-Stage Mishaps 09:24 Respecting the AV Team 10:04 Building a Speaking Business 12:43 Setting and Explaining Your Fee 16:37 Creating Multiple Revenue Streams 17:05 Preparing for Your Audience 20:14 Why Recording Your Talks Matters 22:19 How the Speaking Industry is Changing 23:32 Impacting Audiences of Any Size 25:55 Stick With It   Links Connect with Ryan Vet: www.RyanVet.com  www.SpeakGoodr.com   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm