The Professional Speaking Show: Master the Stage, Book More Gigs, and Grow Your Impact with Integrity

Most leaders avoid conflict. Not because they are weak, but because they want to be liked, respected and seen as reasonable.In this episode of The Professional Speaking Show, John Ball and leadership expert Julie Holunga unpack how conflict aversion quietly erodes authority, credibility and influence — especially for leaders and professional speakers who rely on trust and presence to lead.Julie introduces the idea of “lazy leadership” and explains why avoiding hard conversations feels easier in the moment, but costs leaders status, clarity and effectiveness over time. The conversation explores how language, tone and timing shape authority, and how leaders can address tension without becoming aggressive, performative or fake.This episode is for leaders and professional speakers who want to lead with clarity, credibility and confidence — not just keep the peace.Find out more about Julie's work at JulieHolunga.com or connect with her on LinkedInCHAPTERS00:00 Lazy Leadership: A New Perspective02:24 Empowering Women in Conflict Resolution05:28 The Importance of Language and Tone08:02 Navigating Male-Dominated Environments10:48 Constructive Conflict: A Path Forward13:43 The Spectrum of Conflict Engagement16:19 Authenticity in Communication19:07 The Three C's of Conflict Competence21:54 Building Trust Through Effective Communication24:48 Practical Applications in Everyday Life42:11 Closing ThoughtsKey TakeawaysCredibility in leadership is crucial for effective communication.Lazy leadership occurs when leaders avoid difficult conversations.Effort and preparation are necessary for addressing conflict.Language and tone significantly impact conflict resolution.Women often face challenges in asserting themselves in male-dominated environments.Constructive conflict can lead to better outcomes and relationships.Clarity, choice, and communication are key components of conflict competence.The Titanium Rule emphasises speaking to others as they need to be spoken to.Authenticity in communication fosters trust and collaboration.Being deliberate in our interactions can lead to more positive outcomes.Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Stand Out on LinkedIn: Strategies for Speakers and CoachesSUMMARYIn this episode of the Professional Speaking Show, host John Ball engages with LinkedIn expert Michelle J Raymond to discuss the evolving landscape of LinkedIn and how speakers and coaches can navigate its complexities. They explore the challenges posed by AI-generated content, engagement pods, and the pressure to conform to viral trends, emphasising the importance of authenticity and genuine engagement. Michelle shares her insights on how to stand out in a crowded space by building real relationships and creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences. The conversation also touches on the necessity of maintaining an updated LinkedIn profile and the strategic use of various content formats to enhance visibility and engagement.Connect with Michelle and sign up for her LinkedIn Newsletter here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejraymond/ and check out Michelle's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-media-for-b2b-growth-linkedin-strategy-for-b2b/id1603908569TAKEAWAYSLinkedIn is becoming noisier and harder to trust, but authenticity can help you stand out.Building real relationships is more valuable than chasing viral trends.Your LinkedIn profile should be treated like your homepage; keep it updated and engaging.Engagement pods may provide short-term visibility but can undermine long-term credibility.Consistency in posting and genuine interaction are key to leveraging LinkedIn effectively.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Expertise02:16 Current State of LinkedIn05:29 Authenticity vs. Automation09:40 The Impact of AI on Content11:40 Standing Out in a Homogenised Space15:37 The Importance of Building Relationships19:04 The Temptation of Quick Fixes24:25 Integrity in Online Presence26:24 Building a Community on LinkedIn27:29 The Challenge of Engagement Pods29:39 Navigating LinkedIn's Algorithm Changes31:12 The Importance of Reciprocity on LinkedIn34:31 Strategic Commenting for Engagement36:54 Creating Effective Content on LinkedIn44:46 Maximising Your LinkedIn Profile52:30 Final thoughtsVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Secrets of Personal BrandingSUMMARY In this episode of Present Influence, John is joined by branding expert and bestselling author Mark Schaefer to explore what it truly means to become known in a noisy, copy-and-paste marketing world.They explore why most personal brands fail, how guru-led thinking is killing originality, and why authority is built through relevance, consistency, and usefulness rather than visibility or hype.Mark shares practical insights from his books Known and Audacious, including how speakers and experts can clarify what they want to be known for, choose the right content strategy, and avoid the trap of chasing platforms instead of building trust.This conversation is essential listening for speakers, coaches, and consultants who want to build real credibility, stand out without selling out, and turn visibility into lasting influence.Find out more about Mark and his books at https://businessesgrow.com/CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Mark Schaefer02:44 Contrarian Views in Marketing06:02 The Importance of Personal Branding08:51 The Role of Speaking in Business11:49 Advice for Aspiring Speakers15:00 Finding Your Unique Voice17:59 Leveraging Social Media for Branding20:51 Creating Content that Resonates23:53 Opportunities in the Speaking Industry26:39 Navigating AI in Marketing29:59 The Need vs. Nice to Have in Speaking33:01 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned35:52 Conclusion and ResourcesVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Welcome to The Professional Speaking Show, the definitive podcast for keynote speakers, subject matter experts, and coaches who are ready to stop being "well-kept secrets" and start building a scalable, high-impact career.Most speaking advice is either too "soft" (focusing only on stage presence) or too "sleazy" (focusing on aggressive, outdated sales tactics). We believe there is a third way: The Path of Professional Influence.Each week, we dive deep into the three pillars of a sustainable speaking career:Master the Stage: Advanced communication, storytelling, and delivery techniques that ensure you leave a lasting legacy.Book More Gigs: Strategic marketing, high-ticket sales frameworks, and the business systems required to fill your calendar without losing your soul.Grow Your Impact with Integrity: How to increase your reach and revenue while staying true to your values and ethical standards.Whether you are looking to pivot from breakout sessions to the mainstage, increase your keynote fees, or build a business that scales beyond your time on the lectern, this show provides the tactical roadmap to get you there.Stop "giving talks" and start building a brand that commands attention.Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

SUMMARYMany speakers, coaches, and consultants say they hate sales. In reality, what they hate is manipulative, impersonal, high-pressure selling that feels out of alignment with who they are.In this episode of Present Influence, sales expert Katie Nelson dismantles the myth that selling high-ticket offers has to feel sleazy. We explore why sales is fundamentally human, not transactional, and why relationship, curiosity, and courage matter far more than funnels, scripts, or AI shortcuts.We cover how speakers and coaches can sell premium services ethically, why relying solely on referrals is risky, how fear and rejection really work in sales, and why the founder must stay involved in selling longer than they think. Katie also challenges the overuse of “sales mindset” rhetoric and explains why action, not affirmation, is what actually builds confidence and cash flow.If you sell your expertise, your voice, or your presence and want a sales process that feels honest, effective, and sustainable, this episode will change how you think about selling.Find Katie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesalescatalyst/ or go to SalesUprising.comHere's the link for Katie's video series Feed The Fire: https://youtu.be/WfYrsNgSRoA?si=PaL5n0tRByqnJiOYTakeawaysSales is not a personality flaw; it's a human process.Embracing sales leads to quicker business success.Referrals should be seen as gifts, not strategies.Sales is about people before it's about systems.Mindset is important, but action is crucial in sales.You can't outsource your courage as a business owner.Sales is a service in both directions.Understanding your target audience is key to sales success.Fear and rejection are part of the sales journey; learn to overcome them.Building relationships is essential for effective sales. CHAPTERS00:00 The Human Element in Sales06:57 Reframing Sales: From Fear to Service10:47 Sales as a Reflection of Humanity17:27 Building Resilience in Sales21:20 The Evolution of Sales Models26:48 Simplifying Sales Funnels for Success32:25 Sales Strategies for Speakers35:17 The Power of Referrals in Business40:04 Mindset vs. Action in Sales43:54 Embracing Sales as a Business Owner44:45 The Importance of Referrals and Stability in SalesVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

SUMMARYIn this conversation, John Ball discusses the importance of treating speaking as a business rather than just a performance. He emphasises that many speakers struggle not due to a lack of skill but because they fail to position themselves effectively in the market. The discussion highlights the need for speakers to shift from hoping for opportunities to actively creating strategies that lead to sustainable careers. By focusing on serving specific audiences and building trust, speakers can enhance their impact and success in the industry.You can connect with me using the links below.CHAPTERS00:00 The Business of Speaking02:05 Shifting Mindsets for Success04:05 Building Trust Over Attention06:39 CloseVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

How to Beat Digital Distraction and Do Deep Work From HomeSummaryIn this conversation, John Ball and Steven Puri explore the challenges of remote work, emphasising the importance of focus, intention, and managing distractions. They discuss how digital distractions are engineered to capture attention and the significance of establishing rituals and habits to enhance productivity. Puri shares insights on achieving a flow state for peak performance and the role of luck in success. The discussion also highlights practical strategies for overcoming procrastination and the power of prioritisation in achieving meaningful work.TakeawaysFocus is about intention, not discipline.Most of us are overwhelmed, not lazy.Distraction is engineered to steal your attention.You can do meaningful work without burning out.Don't die with the great thing inside you.You need to jealously guard your brain energy.The difference is I hit play in your app?Intention is key to moving your life forward.You can achieve more by doing less.Don't let distractions dictate your day.Sound bites"Most of us are overwhelmed, not lazy.""Don't let distractions dictate your day.""You can achieve more by doing less."FREE TrialTry The Suhka free for three days: https://www.thesukha.co/Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Remote Work07:17 The Role of Luck in Career Paths13:16 Distractions in the Digital Age18:35 Active Procrastination and Focus Strategies24:37 Weekly Planning and Daily Tasks32:35 Personal Development and Productivity Mindset39:36 Understanding Flow State for Enhanced Productivity48:42 The Challenge of Focus in a Distracted World49:11 The Importance of Intention and Environment49:37 Finding Clarity and Direction in WorkVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Why Great Speakers Stay Broke SUMMARYIn this episode, John addresses the challenges faced by speakers and coaches in gaining visibility and securing bookings. He emphasises the importance of marketing and the need for professionals in these fields to shift their identity from being just a performer to becoming a business owner. By focusing on marketing, networking, and consistent visibility, speakers and coaches can improve their chances of success. John also discusses the significance of setting clear goals and taking actionable steps to achieve them, urging listeners to treat their speaking or coaching endeavours as a business.The LinkedIn Article: READ HEREKey TakeawaysMany talented speakers and coaches struggle to get bookings.Skill alone is not enough; marketing is crucial.Successful individuals take action before they feel ready.Recognition comes to those who actively seek it.Being known is more important than being the best.The best speakers often excel at running a business.Identity shift is foundational for success.Spend at least half your time on marketing activities.Set clear revenue goals and reverse engineer them.Treat your speaking or coaching as a business.Sound bites"Your identity shift is not optional.""Prospecting should be a daily activity.""Now's the time to start taking action."CHAPTERS00:00 The Pain Point of Speakers and Coaches02:28 The Importance of Marketing in Speaking05:05 Identity Shift: From Speaker to Business Owner07:44 Setting Goals and Taking Action10:13 Call to Action and Future Insights11:41 CloseVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Unlocking the Power of Stagecraft with Merit Khan: From Keynotes to ComedySUMMARYIn this episode of Present Influence, join John as he converses with Merit Khan, a dynamic speaker and performer, about the art of landing paid speaking engagements and refining your stagecraft. Merit shares insights from her journey, emphasising the importance of mastering sales skills to sell your talks before perfecting your stories. She discusses her diverse career, including keynoting for serious audiences, coaching sales professionals, and her one-woman show, 'Optimistic Personality Disorder.' Discover how improv, comedy, and understanding your audience can enhance your presentations and contribute to a thriving speaker ecosystem. Whether you are just starting out or looking to expand your existing speaking business, this episode offers practical strategies and inspirational stories to help you succeed.Find out more about Merit at meritkahn.com or her one-woman show at opdshow.comHere's the link to that article on why so many great speakers are broke: CLICK HERE TO READ ITCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:40 Meet Merit Khan: Sales and Comedy Expert01:36 Contrarian Viewpoint: Sales Skills First03:30 Building a Business Ecosystem06:19 Adapting to Market Needs09:44 Balancing Multiple Business Ventures17:55 The Importance of Sales Experience22:35 Creating a One-Woman Show24:44 Unexpected Connections and Personal Growth26:09 Diving into Standup Comedy29:35 The Power of Humour in Speaking32:13 The Art of Storytelling and Performance36:39 Personal and Professional Growth in Speaking42:24 Lessons from Standup and Knowing Your Audience46:25 Podcasting and Future Projects49:33 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Strategic Podcast Guesting: Boost Your Professional ImpactSUMMARYIn this episode, John delves into the nuanced value of podcast guesting for professional speakers and coaches. The discussion explores whether incorporating podcast guesting into your promotional strategies is worth it and emphasises the importance of strategic planning over mere volume. Key insights include the potential benefits of both audio and video formats, how podcast guesting can enhance authority and create long-term opportunities, and the importance of being well-prepared for interviews. The episode also highlights the pros and cons of using booking agencies, the significance of a clear call to action (CTA), and how to pitch and promote podcast appearances effectively. Finally, tips are shared on maintaining professional integrity and ensuring guest appearances align with your goals for maximum impact.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction: Is Podcast Guesting Worth It?00:41 The Potential of Podcasting: Audio vs. Video03:13 Strategic Podcast Guesting: Quality Over Quantity05:40 Preparation and Performance Tips for Podcast Guests12:36 The Role of Booking Agencies15:29 Starting Out: Tips for New Podcast Guests18:45 Maximising Your Podcast Guesting Experience26:01 Conclusion: The Future of Podcast GuestingVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Rejecting Overachievement: Embrace the Low-Pressure Success MethodSUMMARYIn this episode, John reflects on the pervasive culture of overachievement and hustle culture, discussing its detrimental effects on personal well-being and productivity. He shares his experiences and insights from coaching individuals who have faced burnout and highlights how this toxic mindset can lead to long-term damage. John advocates for a sustainable approach to success through the 'low-pressure success method,' emphasising consistency, patience, and maintaining one's health and relationships. He also encourages listeners to redefine success by focusing on presence over performance and taking deliberate, manageable steps toward their goals.CHAPTERS00:00 The Overachiever Myth00:32 The Evolution of Hustle Culture01:25 The Hidden Costs of Burnout02:42 Redefining Success05:21 The Low-Pressure Success Method07:27 Final Thoughts and ResourcesVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Finding Clarity: Narrowing Focus for Greater SuccessSUMMARYIn this episode, the host talks about the importance of clarity and shares personal insights on overcoming mental fog and distractions. The host discusses the challenges of juggling multiple goals and projects, emphasising the need to focus on what truly matters. The episode highlights the decision to narrow focus on speaking engagements and corporate comedy, leaving other pursuits on hold. A more intimate, heart-to-heart discussion is presented, aiming to provide listeners with valuable takeaways on simplifying their professional endeavours. The host also invites listeners to reach out for support and clarity, sharing details about future podcast plans and upcoming interviews.Want to chat? Check the info below.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:32 Struggles with Mental Fog and Clarity00:53 The Challenge of Chasing Too Many Goals02:13 The Importance of Simplifying and Focusing04:48 Decisions About the Podcast and Future Plans06:02 Realisations from Performance and Speaking09:35 The Need for Focus and Letting Go11:50 Commitment to Stage Domination19:29 Support and Encouragement21:39 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Authenticity and Connection: Transforming Public Speaking with Marianne HickmanSUMMARYIn this episode of Present Influence, host John welcomes Marianne Hickman to discuss the importance of authenticity, connection, and ethical speaking in public presentations. They explore issues such as trauma dumping, the power of telling stories from scars, and why confidence without competence can be detrimental. Marianne emphasises the sacredness of the microphone and shares insights on the 'Utah bro' archetype and the Dunning-Kruger effect. The conversation also delves into how humour, open mics, and even onstage mishaps can enhance teaching and engagement. They advocate for continuous learning and maintaining a 'white belt' mentality as they navigate public speaking and personal growth.CHAPTERS00:00 Cutting Through Stage Fakery: Real Influence You Can Trust00:55 Welcome to Present Influence: Live with Marianne Hickman02:13 The Sacredness of the Microphone: Stories from Scars, Not Wounds04:46 The Utah Bro Archetype and the Dangers of Manipulation10:20 The Power of Humour and Authenticity in Public Speaking11:45 Embracing Comedy: Lessons from Mr Rogers and Robin Williams20:39 The Yes, And Principle: Turning Mishaps into Moments28:32 Taking the Pressure Off: Embracing Imperfection29:55 Facing High-Stakes Situations with Confidence32:48 Finding Your People: The Importance of Authenticity38:26 The Role of Confidence in Influence41:46 The Lifelong Student: Embracing Humility49:14 The Power of Confidence: A Personal Story52:16 Final Thoughts and How to ConnectVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

The Importance of Humour and My Journey into Stand-Up ComedySUMMARYIn this bonus episode, the host shares updates about the show and discusses the vital role of humour in professional speaking. He talks about his personal journey into stand-up comedy, highlighting the challenges and rewards of performing at open-mic nights. The episode includes a recording of one of his recent comedy sets, where he reminisces about school experiences, the challenges of PE, and the humour he found in those moments. Additionally, the host emphasises the need for mental resilience in the face of criticism and encourages the audience to pursue their comedic endeavours.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Bonus Episode00:28 The Importance of Humour in Public Speaking01:25 Overcoming the Fear of Open Mic Nights02:32 My Experience with Open Mic Comedy03:32 The Joy and Challenges of Making People Laugh07:06 Dealing with Online Criticism09:36 Transition to the Comedy Set10:11 Stand-Up Comedy PerformanceVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Addressing the Trust Deficit in the Personal and Professional Development IndustrySUMMARYIn this episode, the host discusses the growing trust deficit within the speaking, coaching, and personal development industries. Highlighting issues such as overpromised transformation, shallow certifications, and unethical practices, the host shares thoughts on how to identify and avoid contributing to the problem. They offer practical steps for rebuilding trust, emphasising the importance of ethics, integrity, and realistic promises. The episode also serves as a precursor to an interview with Marianne Hickman, a fellow expert in communication skills, set to release later in the week.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:14 The Trust Deficit in Personal Development02:01 Personal Scepticism and Industry Critique04:05 The Problem with the Coaching Industry06:16 Rebuilding Credibility and Ethical Practices10:12 Guidelines for Ethical Coaching12:03 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Present Influence: A New Direction for Deeper, More Valuable ConversationsSUMMARYIn this pivotal episode, the host addresses long-time listeners and newcomers with a sincere update about the future of 'Present Influence.' Recognising that previous episodes had sometimes lacked depth and value, the host announces a shift towards higher-quality content. Moving forward, there will be fewer, but more substantial interviews, with a focus on deep, practical conversations. Additionally, the host aims to infuse solo episodes with valuable insights, coaching sessions, and even some comedy. This episode sets the stage for a leaner, more impactful 'Present Influence,' designed to enhance listeners' growth as communicators and people of influence.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Gratitude00:22 Realisation and Reset01:33 Challenges and Reflections04:32 Decisions for Improvement07:18 Future Plans and Engagement08:50 Conclusion and Call to ActionVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Navigating Fear and Anxiety: Practical Steps for Growth and ResilienceSUMMARYThere are many fears that can hold people back in their journey to becoming amazing speakers and communicators. In this episode, John and coaching colleague James discuss how fear can be used as useful feedback rather than a stop sign. They explore lingering pandemic-related anxieties, physical manifestations of stress, and common fears such as failure or societal pressures. Together, they offer practical techniques for reframing fear into usable energy and taking small, safe steps towards a supportive environment. Additionally, they emphasise the importance of action, even small ones, to overcome fear and progress in personal growth and self-actualisation. They also touch on the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and environments. Both coaches share their personal experiences and offer support for listeners dealing with similar fears, providing valuable insights into how to transform fear into a force for personal development and success.You can reach out to John from the info below, and if you would like to connect with James, you can email him at jameskilgarriff@gmail.comCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction: Embracing Fear as Feedback00:07 Navigating Pandemic-Induced Fears01:53 Personal Experiences with Fear and Anxiety05:46 The Evolutionary Perspective on Fear11:57 Reframing Fear: From Nerves to Excitement16:07 The Importance of Embracing Change21:36 Overcoming the Fear of Failure22:21 Overcoming Failure and Self-Doubt23:50 The Importance of Feedback26:18 Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People30:52 Managing Fear and Stress32:01 Taking Action to Overcome Fear36:24 Final Thoughts and EncouragementVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Mastering Negotiation: From Hostage Tactics to Everyday Deals with Susan IbitzSUMMARYIn this episode of Present Influence, host John Ball interviews Susan Ibitz, an expert in international hostage negotiation, interrogation, and behavioural analysis, about applying real hostage negotiation strategies to everyday situations. Susan shares practical tactics for establishing instant rapport, navigating irrational behaviour, and negotiating without scripts. She discusses the balance of warmth and assertiveness in communication and the importance of understanding both your own and others' irrational behaviours. The episode also highlights the value of strategic negotiation in various contexts, from personal relationships to high-stakes business deals, and encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves to find their true tribe.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Hostage Negotiation Techniques01:51 Meet Susan Ibitz: Hostage Negotiator and Behavioural Analyst02:24 The Importance of Authenticity and Finding Your Tribe03:25 Susan's Journey: From Personal Struggles to Professional Success08:53 Communication Techniques for Building Rapport13:21 Understanding and Managing Irrational Behaviour32:46 Reflecting on Fashion Choices34:01 The Challenges of Public Speaking35:07 Introverts vs. Extroverts in Public Speaking40:57 Finding Your Happy Place42:46 The Importance of Negotiation52:48 Overcoming Obstacles for Personal Growth01:01:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Building Genuine Credibility: Avoiding the Pitfalls of Manufactured StatusSUMMARYIn this episode of 'Present Influence,' host John Ball discusses the difference between genuine credibility and manufactured status for speakers, coaches, and expert business owners. He warns against the allure of fake status symbols like rented Lamborghinis and pay-to-play magazine features, emphasising the importance of authenticity and ethical authority. John shares a three-point credibility test to help listeners audit their own credibility signals, ensuring they are earned, relevant, and verifiable. He also highlights the role of passion, honesty, and real-life testimonials in building sustainable influence. The episode ends with a challenge to audit and share a credibility marker you're proud of.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction: The Real Threat to Your Credibility01:10 Understanding Credibility: Ethos and Authority02:08 The Pitfalls of Manufactured Status03:00 Ethics and Manipulation in Influence06:19 The Power of Authentic Stories08:26 The Three-Point Credibility Test11:59 Building Genuine Credibility17:56 Conclusion: Your Challenge for the WeekVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Mastering Technical Talks: Joel Benge's Guide to Message TherapySUMMARYIn this episode of Present Influence, host John Ball speaks with Joel Benge, author of 'Be A Nerd that Talks Good,' and creator of the Message Therapy framework. Joel shares his technique for transforming technical presentations into memorable and impactful stories. Drawing from experiences at Nickelodeon, NASA, and the Department of Homeland Security, Joel discusses how to connect with any audience by striking a balance between logic, emotion, and credibility. Listeners will learn how to strip out jargon, build trust, and convey powerful messages, making even the most complex ideas stick. Joel also outlines his unique framework and tools like the Message Deck, which help speakers develop and structure their messages effectively. Tune in to discover how to make your technical talks unforgettable.For Joel's prompt cards, book or more information, visit nerdthattalksgood.comCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction: Making Technical Talks Memorable00:14 Meet Joel Benge: From Nickelodeon to NASA01:45 Joel's Journey: From IT Geek to Communication Expert03:55 The Power of Simplifying Technical Communication05:47 Joel's Message Therapy: Helping Nerds Talk Good15:58 The Framework: Head, Heart, and Gut24:07 Building Connections: The Importance of Vulnerability28:28 Crafting Effective Presentations: Objectives and Outcomes35:35 Tools and Resources: Cards, Books, and More41:16 Conclusion: The Impact of Clear MessagingThis episode was created in partnership with Podmatch, the best podcast guest-matching service, helping expert guests find the ideal podcasts to guest on. Head there now to book your next guest appearance: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/presentinfluence #podmatchVisit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.