Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Public Speaking

Tired of the monotony in your 9-5 job? Yearning to make a leap into the thrilling world of public speaking? Join us as we embark on a riveting journey with Grant Baldwin, the brains behind The Speaker Lab. This episode is a mix of humor, inspiration and knowledge as we exchange tales of how we transitioned from unfulfilling careers to become successful public keynote speakers. You’ll learn about finding and booking gigs from the expert himself and also discover the wealth of resources available at The Speaker Lab.

Ever found your palms sweating and heart racing at the thought of speaking in public? You’re not alone. This episode delves into strategies to combat this common fear and offers actionable tips to improve your speaking skills, no matter whether you’re a newbie booking your first gig or a seasoned speaker. We dissect the varied spectrum of speakers, from beginners to those with thriving businesses, and provide insightful strategies to help you level up.

Moreover, there’s more than just facing fears and improving skills. We journey into the corporate speaking industry with Grant, where he shares nuggets of wisdom on maximizing opportunities and striking the right balance between in-person and virtual speaking. We also explore the concept of a fun bucket list, dream gigs, and even dive into a game of ‘Rock Paper Anything’. This light-hearted yet informative episode will surely inspire you to take your public speaking career to new heights. So, prepare to learn, laugh and leap into the world of public speaking with us!

(0:00:18) – Getting Paid to Speak (10 Minutes)

We talk about how to go from a boring job to becoming a full-time speaker and getting paid to do public keynote speaking. We share jokes and stories about our own journeys and experiences. Grant shares the process of finding and booking speaking gigs, as well as the training and resources available through The Speaker Lab. We explore the rewards of speaking and the importance of connecting with your audience.

(0:10:19) – Public Speaking Fear (4 Minutes)

We discuss the different types of speakers, from those who are just beginning to those who have established a successful business. We also look at how to navigate the fear of public speaking and the importance of practice. Whether you are looking to book five gigs or 50, I’ll provide the strategies and insights to help you along the way.

(0:13:53) – Nerves & Preparation in Public Speaking (7 Minutes)

We explore the difference between nerves and excitement, and how to best prepare for important moments in life. The best speakers and performers on the planet still feel those same feelings of adrenaline and butterflies but have spent years of their life preparing for these moments. This same feeling can be beneficial, as it serves as a reminder to stay alert and to focus on the present moment. Self-awareness and preparation can help to minimize any negative feelings associated with performance or presentations.

(0:20:38) – Career Opportunities in Public Speaking (4 Minutes)

Grant chats about pursuing a career as a corporate speaker. He offers advice on making the most of opportunities, finding the right balance between in-person and virtual speaking, and finding a niche, and developing a specialty. He also shares his fun bucket list and dream gig.

(0:24:42) – Bucket Lists, Dream Gigs, Fun Games (4 Minutes)

We explore the idea of having a fun bucket list and the possibilities of manifesting that dream gig. From flying to all 48 lower states to landing a plane in Alaska, to achieving a high-profile gig, we discuss the many ways to fulfill ambitions. Finally, we examine the difference between nerves and excitement and how to best prepare for important moments in life.

(0:28:17) – Rock Paper Anything (1 Minutes)

Grant shares a fun game called ‘Rock Paper Anything’ which is a great way to get to know people quickly. He also promotes his book, ‘The Successful Speaker: Five Steps for Booking Gigs, Getting Paid, and Building Your Platform,’ and his website thespeakerlab.com.