The Speaking Club: Mastering the Art of Public Speaking

Quick tips to build your speaking confidence, skills, impact, business or engaging talk content. These tips originate from issues that come up for students, and questions from my audience. If you want to get your question answered DM me on Instagram or LinkedIN @Saraharcher15.  I come across many speakers who are struggling to connect with their audience, and as a consequence their talks fail to get them the results that they want. One of the biggest reasons they struggle is because they are doing what I call … talking about the plane vs. talking about the pain.  That’s why in this episode I’m sharing: What it means to talk about the plane Why your audience doesn’t care about the plane What you need to focus on instead. Why ‘avatar’ exercises are pointless How to find the burning platform that will get your audience into action The opportunity if you can connect deeply A special tool I created to help you get this right  Enjoy! FREE RESOURCE - The 5 Levels of Pain (If you want to hear Lavanyaa talk about her experience you can do that here) Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Other Resources: FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:                                                   ·      leave a comment below. ·      Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.   To help the show out: ·      Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. ·      Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music or Your App   

How often, when it comes to writing in your business, has the blank page beaten you? I’ve seen so many people get stopped, or never share what they have written because they don’t think it’s good enough, or they are worried about being judged.  Just like when you speak, in your business writing too, you get an amazing confidence boost from knowing that your message is good, that your content will make you stand out and connect with your target audience.  When that happens you’re excited to put yourself out there.  So how do you shift from stuck to successful? How do you go from getting underwhelming results with your business writing, to your audience saying … “this person gets me and my problem, I think I need to work with them”? That’s where this show comes in. My guest today is Kyla Skinner, copywriter and business writing mentor.    She helps business owners harness the power of personality to better connect with their audience, stand out in today’s increasingly noisy market and attract new clients – so they can grow their business, not hold it back. As a fully accredited introvert, Kyla had herself felt shy, nervous and reluctant about showing her own personality. But that changed when she discovered the huge impact it made on growing her fledgling freelance business. Now, she’s an experienced (and award-winning) strategic copywriter, who’s built her copywriting and brand language business, The Jarrah Consultancy, primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Over the past 20 years, Kyla has helped to position and promote hundreds of brands, including many big name, global market leaders. Today, she also encourages coaches, consultants and small business owners to tap into all this insight and expertise via her dedicated membership community, Copy Café. Enjoy!   What you’ll discover: How Kyla became a copywriter and why personality matters to her. The problem with generic writing and using tools like chat GPT. What it means to ‘show’ your personality in your writing and the difference it makes to your message. Why small business owners struggle to connect with their audience in their copy. The three words that Kyla wrote for a Subaru ad that tells a big story.  How to approach ‘daring to be different’ if you are more introverted.  The difference between bland business writing versus writing with personality. The gap that Kyla found small business owners falling into, and how she filled it.  Examples of results business owners have got by stepping out of their comfort zone. Three tips for how to get more personality into your writing in a way that feels natural and not forced. The surprising differences Kyla experienced as a copywriter creating her own signature talk. How speaking has been working for Kyla and her business   All things Kyla: https://copycafe.co.uk/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylaskinner/  Books & Resources*: Maverick! By Ricardo Semler  The Blue Place by Nicola Griffith https://www.facebook.com/copycafe/   Resources: Grab Your From Blank Page to Stage Guide and Nail the Topic for a Client Winning Talk Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)  

It’s often said that the real experts are the ones that can make the complex easy to understand, and Ros Atkins is an expert on making things easy to understand … so I guess that would make him the expert’s expert!  As a journalist, and BBC News' Analysis Editor, Ros Atkins has presented and reported on the biggest stories around the world for twenty years . He's also the creator of the critically acclaimed 'Ros Atkins on...' video series, which has become a phenomenon, garnering millions of views. His ability to explain complex stories in a clear, concise and consumable way has led to him being dubbed the nation's 'Explainer-in-Chief'. On this show he is sharing his stories from the front lines of news reporting, the mistakes he made, and how he discovered the secret to the art of explanation. You’ll also get some fantastic tips that will improve your communication generally, and will power up your content and delivery. Enjoy!   What you’ll discover: The mission Ros is trying to accomplish with his book ‘The Art of Explanation’ Why we shouldn’t give up when something seems complicated to explain and what to do instead. What music can teach us about communication.  The huge lesson that Ros learned from another reporter that uplevelled his communication. Tips for using visuals with your talks so that they are adding rather than taking away from the message.  Some techniques for improving clarity and conciseness in your message.  A journalist’s view on how to use stories in the best way. What ‘back annos’ are and why they are a valuable tool for speakers.    All things Ros: https://geni.us/TAOEBOOK  https://twitter.com/bbcrosatkins  https://twitter.com/bbcrosatkins  Books & Resources*: What is history by E.H. Carr Resources: Turn Your Book into a Profitable Talk - PDF Breakthrough Guide   Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)  

Waking up paralysed in 2014 completely turned Jamie McAnsh’s life upside down.  He lost his job, and his independence, but he was determined to forge a new path and purpose for his life.  That included becoming a top disabled athlete, and fulfilling his dream of climbing Mount Everest in 2022. What he realised was that he had a great support network around him, helping him to achieve his goals, and he wanted to create something so that other people could experience that support too. That was when he created his company ‘See No Bounds’ with his wife Charlott.  Today, Jamie divides his time between speaking all over the world on various topics, and building the See No Bounds global business community. In this show you are going to get some brilliant insights into what it takes to keep going even when your life and world comes crashing down again and again! You are also going to get some great tips from Jamie around how he built his speaking career. Enjoy!   (TRIGGER WARNING: PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THIS SHOW CONTAINS REFERENCE TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS)   What you’ll discover: How Jamie woke up paralysed one morning in 2014. Why he had a funeral for his ‘able body’ in 2015, despite beginning to make a recovery. How Jamie’s life was thrown into more turmoil and how he came through it. The lessons he has learned so far from the adversity he has faced. Why Jamie created, ‘See No Bounds’ and how COVID nearly took his business.  How he got started speaking and why. What he has learned about himself from speaking to audiences about his journey. What Jamie got from his TEDx experience and the lessons he learned. How Jamie prepares for his talks and where storytelling and humour fit in.    All things Jamie: www,jamiemcansh.com www.seenobounds.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-mcansh-see-no-bounds/ https://www.facebook.com/SeeNoBounds/ https://www.facebook.com/Jamiemcanshmotivationalspeak   Books & Resources*: Made it Thru the Rain: to light the journey ahead by Beverly Jones   Resources: The Hookology Workshop - Making Sure Your Talk is Captivating From the Start Grab Your From Blank Page to Stage Guide and Nail the Topic for a Client Winning Talk Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.   To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

One of the most important parts of your talk is the opening, because you have to grab the attention of your audience and show why the talk is relevant for them. What I’ve noticed recently with some of my clients, is that their ‘hook’, (or ‘lightning bolt’ as I call it), is good, but they aren’t fully committing to it, and that is weakening the opening and the connection with the audience and the topic they’re speaking about. So … I thought I’d share the coaching and feedback I gave them with you, so that you avoid this issue, and make the start of your talk rock! In this show I’m covering: The triggers for attention recap. Three potential ‘lightning bolt’ options to hook your audience. The problem and an illustration. What to do instead.  Why it works Tips for building this skill Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: The Shocking Truth About How to Open and Close Your Presentations - Ep. 065 FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.   To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.  

Still one of the most prolific tools around, Powerpoint can literally make or break your presentation, depending on how you use it. That’s why I wanted to get Philippa Leguen de Lacroix on the show.  She started life employed as a graphic designer, and was increasingly tasked with creating powerpoint slides for the different organisations she worked for. But … Philippa had a yearning to become her own boss, and after a hockey match with another designer pal they decided to start their own agency. That company has gone from strength to strength, pushing the boundaries of powerpoint to deliver jaw dropping presentations that continue to delight audiences and win new clients. In this show you are going to get some great tips to help you avoid the pitfalls of powerpoint and other types of software, and create slides that support you creating a talk that shines. Enjoy! What you’ll discover: What made Philippa focus on powerpoint. How you and your slides can build the connection with your audience or trash it. Why the bar for good slides is so low and the bad practice Philippa has seen that you can avoid.  The psychological and physiological things that we need to take into account with our slide creation. What design linked with value means and why it matters. What is more important, the talk content and delivery, or the slides. Why Philippa believes we should still consider powerpoint over other slide software options.  Three great tips for good slide design and creation.   All things Philippa: https://presented.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/presenteduk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippaleguendelacroix/ Grab Your From Blank Page to Stage Guide and Nail the Topic for a Client Winning Talk   Books & Resources*: The Long Win by Cath Bishop   Resources: Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

This quick talk tip is in response to a situation one of my client’s found herself in, that could be an obstacle for you too.  In this show I’m covering: Why you need to be able to flex your talk.  Why it works How I used it and you can see it in action Tips for building this skill Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.  

It wasn’t until I embarked on my marketing, influencing and sales odyssey, that I discovered the concept of ‘audience sophistication’ as I call it.  It’s something I’ve often shared with marketing clients, but although I used it myself in my talks, I’ve not taught it to speakers until recently.  And the feedback when I have has been so positive, that I thought I’d better share it with you too!  In this episode, I’m going to break it down for you, so that you can level up your talks and get better results.  What you’ll discover: The origin story of audience sophistication. Why it matters for speakers.  How it affects your content. A practical example of how you might use it. How you can discover the sophistication of your audience. Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

As a speaker you need to be like the director of a movie, using your talk content and delivery to captivate the audience. Your talk should contain moments that challenge them, make them ponder, create desire and yearning and move them towards your intended destination. All in a way that feels natural and aligned. In this episode, I’m going to share the levers you can use to achieve those things.  If you want to increase the impact of your speaking then you will definitely want to grab a listen. What you’ll discover: The ‘approach and avoid’ programming and how it affects us. What impact it can have on your effectiveness as a speaker. When to use ‘push’ and when to use ‘pull on our audience’.  What you need to understand to use this successfully. The other big lever you can pull to influence thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Why you need to think like a Hollywood director when you’re creating your content.  Why you need to channel emotion in your delivery.  Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Resource Links:  ‘The Influential Mind’ by Tali Sharot   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.

As you may know in addition to teaching people how to become awesome speakers, I am a writer, and that’s how I first discovered Jo Gatford. I was writing my second play, and needed some concentrated time to focus on getting it written, queue Writers HQ. Jo Gatford is an award-winning writer of short and long fiction and the co-founder of Writers' HQ. It’s an organisation dedicated to providing low-cost writing courses and resources to arse-kicking writers with no time or money.  In the past five years Writers' HQ has given away over £10,000 of writing courses and retreats to under-represented and systemically excluded writers, and seen hundreds of students go on to be published and win prestigious literary prizes! Jo has worked as an editor and copywriter for over 15 years and has been teaching creative writing workshops for almost a decade.  You’ll probably be aware that the best talks are full of stories, and in this show Jo is sharing her thoughts on storytelling, what can get in the way of creation, as well as a few tips and hacks to get your stories moving. Enjoy! What you’ll discover: How Jo became a writer.  What inspired Jo to write her first novel, "White Lies" and what challenges she had to overcome whilst writing it.  How the process of writing a short story differs from writing a longer piece. Some of the common pitfalls or challenges that storytellers often face. Tips for making your story work.  How to ensure maximum productivity and focus whilst doing creative work. What Writers HQ is and how it could help you realise your writing dreams!   All things Jo: https://writershq.co.uk https://www.jogatford.com   WRITERS' HQ: Twitter: @writers_hq Facebook /writershq Instagram @writershq   Jo Gatford: Twitter: @jmgatford   Books & Resources*: The dog of The Marriage by Amy Hempel   Resources: Grab Your From Blank Page to Stage Guide and Nail the Topic for a Client Winning Talk Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)  

With technology now able to doctor images, people and chatbots pretending to be who they’re not and the advent of fake news, it might feel like it’s going to be harder than ever before to get people to believe new ideas.  That doubt can hold us back from sharing our message for fear that we might not be able to get it across in the right way, causing damage to our reputation and confidence.  But I want to let you know that it is absolutely possible to overcome skepticism and get your audience bought in and wanting to work with you. In this episode, I’ll be sharing tools that you can use as a speaker in talks, webinars and workshops to establish credibility and overcome skepticism, so that you get the buy-in to your message.  What you’ll discover: What makes us believe things? The most obvious sources of credibility Are you an anti-authority? How to establish your authority How to make statistics meaningful The most powerful authority that you can leverage The Sinatra Test – can you pass it? The incongruence gap and how to use it.   Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: FREE NEW GUIDE - From Blank Page to Stage  Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Take the Snackable Story Challenge https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Resource Links: Case of Poisoning - National Library of Medicine https://www.ted.com/talks/hans_rosling_the_best_stats_you_ve_ever_seen https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/changing-someones-mind-powerful-new-approach/   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

Adding the label of speaker to your bio is becoming more common, but calling yourself a speaker and actually being able to deliver your message in a way that educates, inspires and motivates are two very different things.  There are lots of people boring the pants off audiences, when they don’t need to, and this is a belief that my guest Tina Bakehouse and I share in common.  Tina is a communications coach and soon to be author of a new book called ‘Discover Our Magnetic Speaker Within’. She asked me and other speaking coaches to input into the book and I am chuffed to have her come on the show to share more about it and for us to discuss some great tips for helping you become that magnetic speaker.  Tina spent many years teaching communications in education, and then in the corporate world, before striking out to set up her own business in 2020.  Like me, she is on a mission to protect audiences from boring speakers and speeches, and today she works with heart-centered leaders and organizations to provide speaking and storytelling consulting and coaching.  A former Disney Cast Member and TEDx speaker and coach, Tina is passionate about educating others to become more self-aware and enhance their speaker style.   There are lots of gold nuggets here so enjoy! What you’ll discover: How Tina went from Iowan farm girl to Disney cast member. The biggest takeaway from her time at Disney.  How she shifted gears to what she does today.  What happened when she lost her voice in 2007, and what she learned from it. How Tina used storytelling to build community.  The different types of speaker style and how you can discern yours.  Three big speaking mistakes people should avoid. What it means to be a magnetic speaker. Three tips for becoming so you can move closer to becoming a magnetic speaker.   All things Tina: https://www.tinabakehouse.com/   Websites:  Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinabakehouse/  Facebook, personal: https://www.facebook.com/TinaBakehouse  Facebook, business: https://www.facebook.com/TinaB.LLC/     Books & Resources*:Please Understand Me II by David KeirseyDeep & Simple: A Spiritual Path for Modern Times by Bo LozoffPresence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy   Resources: Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk Human Design Information   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.   To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

Ross O’Lochlainn is a former engineer-turned-copywriter who has blended his talent for problem solving and building systems with his ability to engage an audience with his storytelling flair.  The result of this combination is a new way of looking at marketing that is getting incredible results. Ross was so confident in his model that he built his entire business by getting paid on results rather than charging up-front fees – which is something that is very unusual.  Today, his company Conversion Engineering is like an oasis in the desert of burnt out business owners, who are looking for a way to get off the feast and famine sales roller coaster. In this episode we’ll be dismantling some myths about sales that might be sabotaging your business, looking at how Ross uses stories to engage his audience, and showing you how you can stand out in a crowded marketplace. If you want to build a sustainable business that gets you sales every day, without using pressure tactics or burning yourself out then you will be interested in what Ross has to share. Enjoy!   What you’ll discover: How Ross went from engineer to copywriter How a story about the UFC turned into a huge launchpad for Ross, and why it went viral.  How to craft a brilliant USP. The difference between customer logic and company logic. Why tuning to the ‘dialogue’ of your customers is critical for landing your message and growing your business, and how to do it.  Why Ross created the open every day system and why it’s the best model for building a sustainable business. Where storytelling and the open every day system intersect. What an open every day business looks like from the perspective of the owner and the client. How Ross uses speaking in his business.   All things Ross: Open Every Day by Ross O’Lochlainn (Free Book)   Books & Resources*: The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss The Lean Startup by Eric Ries   Resources: Get a Powerful Talk Structure - Join the Masterclass Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

It’s hard enough to cope with the grief that follows the loss of a friend or family member, but add in the pressure of being responsible for the eulogy for the person you cared for and maybe some anxiety around public speaking, and you have a recipe for huge overwhelm. If you find yourself in this situation, my hope is that this show relieves a little of the pressure. I’ll be sharing some ideas and tips for putting the eulogy together and delivering so that you can honour their memory, keep your audience engaged and get through it without breaking down.   Enjoy! What you’ll discover: The purpose of a eulogy Eulogy writing tips How long a eulogy should be A eulogy example How to find and use stories How to add humour to a eulogy How to deal with emotions when giving a eulogy Writing a eulogy for someone you didn’t know well Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: Episode 19 - Humour 101 Episode 28 - How to be Funny Without Forcing the Gag Episode 33 - How to Find Stories to Share in Your Talks, Teaching and Marketing Content Episode 53 - Four Tools to Help You Avoid Being a Dull Speaker Episode 239 - How to Share an Emotional Story Without Losing Control Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Nail Your Signature Talk Programme Take the Snackable Story Challenge The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership https://www.saraharcher.co.uk Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

When you have a big idea and message to share, and you want to get it out to more people you have so many more channels available today for achieving that.  Regardless of the number of platforms at your fingertips, your choice really comes down to two options - do you communicate one to many using speaking or writing? For business, two of the best options available are creating a talk or writing a business book.  Over recent times, with the advent of the internet and self-publishing, both of these have become more accessible. There is also a symbiosis between a book and a talk, with one being a vehicle to promote the other. The reality is, to have the biggest impact and reach the most people you probably should have both.  That’s why I’ve invited Alison Jones, founder of Practical Inspiration Publishing, advocate of business books, Judge of the Business Book Awards and host of The Extraordinary Business Book Club, podcast onto the show. She is a veteran of the publishing industry, having worked at big names like Chambers, Oxford University Press and Macmillan (as Publisher and then Director of Innovation Strategy at Palgrave Macmillan).  She regularly speaks and blogs on the publishing industry, and is also an author in her own right.  She is going to be taking us behind the scenes in the publishing industry and answering lots of questions you may have about business book writing and speaking. Enjoy! What you’ll discover: Why Alison is such a champion of business books. Whether the proliferation of business books has cheapened the value of becoming an author. How business book authors should use stories.  The biggest mistakes authors make when writing a business book. Whether business authors need a talk. What should come first, the ‘talk’ or the ‘book’ What ‘exploratory’ writing is and how it can help you. How to do it. What made Alison decide to write a book about it. What part speaking plays in getting Alison’s own message out there.   All things Alison: 10 Day Book Proposal Challenge  Websites: https://alisonjones.com https://practicalinspiration.com Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-jones-9b09893/  Alison’s Podcast: http://extraordinarybusinessbooks.com/podcast-episodes/    Books & Resources*: Exploratory Writing: Everyday magic for life and work by Alison JonesThe Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level by Gay Hendricks   Resources: Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

This quick talk tip will help you if you know that you have a big message and want to have more impact, but find yourself playing small! In this show I’m covering: The truth about thought leadership How to differentiate yourself in your niche The three obstacles to becoming a thought leader Questions to help you step up  Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!) LinkedIN - Here  Facebook - Here   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Nail Your Signature Talk Programme Take the Snackable Story Challenge The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening! To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes. *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)  

The ‘path of most resistance’ - that is essentially what Catherine Weetman faces as a specialist in the area of regeneration and the circular economy.  She talks to organisations about the need to ditch outdated business models and go beyond current thinking. She also challenges current practices around product life cycles and materials, and shares practical and meaningful strategies and plans for becoming more sustainable in a world with dwindling natural resources.  All of this is so that they are able to survive and prosper in the changing environmental and consumer landscape, and they also contribute to averting the wider peril affecting all of us. Catherine is an Award-winning author, keynote speaker and circular economy strategic advisor, and she is fascinated by the 'sweet spot' where strategy, stakeholder value and sustainability come together. Her award-winning A Circular Economy Handbook, published by Kogan Page, is now in its 2nd edition, and she hosts the popular Circular Economy Podcast, with listeners in over 150 countries. Catherine has been speaking about this topic for over 10 years and has evolved her content and delivery over that time to better connect with her audience where they are, in order to start them on the journey to where they need to be.  If you are looking for a great example of someone who makes the complex and abstract simple, engaging and relatable then you will love this episode. Not only will you broaden your knowledge in the area of the circular economy, but you will pick up some great speaking tips to boot! Enjoy! What you’ll discover: What started Catherine on her circular economy journey. What made her go all in and what happened as a result. What a ‘super wicked problem’ is and why that definition matters. How Catherine communicates the one idea that businesses need to understand in order to shift perspective and start taking action. Why companies should look to lead in the area of sustainability, rather than following the crowd. What the ‘circular economy’ actually means. Identifying and tackling the myths around sustainability. The challenges Catherine has encountered getting people and companies on board. How Catherine has switched up her content and delivery style as a result of facing these challenges. The part that speaking has played in getting her message out there and building her authority and consultancy practice All things Catherine:   Website:  https://www.rethinkglobal.info/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-weetman-9419107/ The Circular Economy Podcast - https://www.rethinkglobal.info/circular-economy-podcast/   Books & Resources*: Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts (2008) by Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson The Scout Mindset by Julia Galef  Rype Office https://www.rypeoffice.com/ Comedian Mark Steel – on BBC Radio 4 with Mark Steel’s In Town https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00rtbk8/episodes/guide   Resources: Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

This quick talk tip is in response to an issue that really winds me up, but that needed to be presented in a way that was engaging and entertaining. In this show I’m covering: The ‘Rant and Reverse’ comedy technique  Why it works How I used it and you can see it in action Tips for building this skill Enjoy!   Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Link to See my Rant and Reverse in Action LinkedIn - Here  Facebook - Here   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Nail Your Signature Talk Programme Take the Snackable Story Challenge The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.  

As speakers we are using stories to affect our audience. At the bare minimum a story will entertain. When you begin to infuse the story with emotions, fears and desires that your audience shares then it becomes engaging at the next level.  But if we truly want our audience to shift into action then our stories must show transformation, and this is the type of story that I teach speakers to use in their talks.  When I heard about Manda Scott’s new take on transformational storytelling for writers, I wanted to get her on the show to find out more.  Manda has had an interesting journey from veterinary surgeon, to best-selling novelist, to founder of the ‘Accidental Gods’ movement and podcast, and the Thrutopian genre of writing.  Her own story is fascinating and she shares some experiences she has had that you might find challenging, because they feel so far removed from ‘convention’.  There is so much value and importance in what she shares, and if you want to effect real change as a speaker, then this show is for you.  Enjoy!   What you’ll discover: Why we are not fixed to one path or purpose and how Manda discovered each new chapter of her life.  The concept of ‘accidental gods’ and what this means for each of us What the new ‘Thrutopian’ writing genre is and its power to make change a reality. How speakers can use the ‘Thrutopian’ approach to bring new possibilities into being. The importance of intuition and ways that we can get more in touch with our true self. Why fear is our biggest enemy. How we can connect better with each other and the world around us Manda’s view of the essential elements of a story that gets people into action The secret to writing a best selling book.   All things Manda: Website: https://mandascott.co.uk https://accidentalgods.life https://thrutopia.life https://narrativeark.net   https://mastodon.scot/@Eceni https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandascottauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/manda.scott.756 https://twitter.com/MandaScott   Books*: The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff The Kingdoms by Natasha Pulley   Resources: Want to get better at finding and sharing your stories then check out our FREE Five Day Snackable Story Challenge Practice your speaking & test your content in a safe space in The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership Want to create a signature talk that sells, then check out our Nail Your Signature Talk in 60 Days programme.  Want to find out about working with me 121 then book a call here. https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.   To help the show out:   Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one.    Subscribe on iTunes.   *(please note if you use my link I get a small commission, but this does not affect your payment)

This quick talk tip is in response to the question:  Can you teach me comic timing? In this show I’m covering: My definition of comic timing. The ingredients for great comic timing  Re-framing ‘the punchline’ Tips for building this skill Enjoy! Leave a rating or review for The Speaking Club (Take a photo of your review, email it to me at sarah@saraharcher.co.uk and get a free e-copy of my book Cracking Speech Mate - How to Use Humour to Make You an Amazing Speaker!)   Books: Grab your copy of Straight to the Top - How to Create and Deliver a Killer Elevator Pitch Grab your copy of Cracking Speech Mate - How to Add Humour to Make You An Amazing Speaker   Resources: Live Masterclass - 6 Step Blueprint to Creating Talks that Engage and Sell (without selling) Nail Your Signature Talk Programme Take the Snackable Story Challenge The Speaking Club ‘Live’ Membership https://www.saraharcher.co.uk   Thanks for listening!   To share your thoughts:                                                   Share this show on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. To help the show out: Leave an honest review at https://www.ratethispodcast.com/tsc. Your ratings and reviews really help get the word out and I read each one. Subscribe on iTunes.