Shows
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 309 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 6 You’ve worked hard on your presentation and it’s time to rehearse for readiness. In this episode in the series on their book DELIVER UNFORGETTABBLE PRESENTATIONS, Mark & Darren share tips for adding the final touches before taking the stage. This episode covers Step #7: OWN YOUR STAGE. SNIPPETS: • Use your script to indicate emotions, stage movement, pauses, and more • Create a stage plan • How you use your stage will enhance your audience’s experience • Don’t memorize your talk; internalize it • Y...2025-07-2427 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 308 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 5 Impactful presentations are memorable, and today Darren and Mark share techniques for adding this final touch to your presentation before taking it to the platform. This episode covers Step #6: MAKE IT UNFORGETTABLE. SNIPPETS: • The more complex your topic, the more you need a simple structure • Make your points digestible • Use a proven story structure • The ‘THEN/NOW’ model is a powerful option • Show a day in the life of the main character • Introduce a chal...2025-07-1722 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 307 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 4 A weak presentation closing can dilute your message and at worst, nullify your impact. In Part 4 of this series, Mark and Darren explore both principles for a solid closing, and mistakes that inexperienced presenters tend to make. This episode covers Step #5: CREATE YOUR COMPELLING CLOSE. SNIPPETS: • Your close should reinforce your premise • There are several closing options • Select the most appropriate closing for your specific presentation • The DIALOG CLOSE is a flexible and easy option • A compelling clo...2025-07-1021 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 306 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 3 “Open STRONG!” This is Darren’s advice in Part 3 of this series as he and Mark explain the ‘WHY’ and the ‘HOW’ behind an unforgettable presentation’s opening. This episode covers Step #4: CREATE YOUR STRONG OPENING SNIPPETS: • Set the stage with your introduction • Your opening sets up your premise • The opening sets the trajectory of the listeners’ experience • Open strong • Explore various opening options • Use effective opening words • Be concise and precise 2025-07-0325 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 305 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 2 In Part 2 of this series, Darren and Mark discuss the importance…and the benefits…of having a world-class presentation structure. This episode covers Step #3: STRUCTURE THIS! SNIPPETS: • The ‘Tell them, tell them, tell them’ structure is rudimentary and limited • The ‘Tell a story make a point’ structure lacks cohesiveness • Good structure gives your audience clarity and gives you confidence • The Fripp Speech Model provides the perfect structure • Solid structure makes your content digestible • An effective structur...2025-06-2619 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 304 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 1 An unforgettable presentation requires an unforgettable process. Today Mark and Darren begin breaking down their 7-Step speech process, laid out in their book DELIVER UNFORGETTABLE PRESENTATIONS. This episode covers STEP #1: FINDING YOUR CONTENT, and STEP #2: CLARITY, CLARITY, CLARITY! SNIPPETS: • You need an unforgettable process • It’s your responsibility to give your audience next steps • FIND CONTENT from your own life and experience • Don’t undervalue your expertise • Start with what you know • Build your story...2025-06-1929 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 303 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 2 In Part 2 of their conversation about the Top Ten Mistakes, Darren and Mark talk with Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis about mistakes #5 through #1 in the countdown. SNIPPETS: • Identify the guide/guru/compass, which may not be a human • The hero should not solve their own problem • It isn’t just about what changed, but about how the character grew • Give your audience time and room to reflect on the character’s development • Give the hero a time limit...2025-06-1222 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 302 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 1 Over the years Darren and Mark have made…and seen…several mistakes. Today they’re joined by Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis as they discuss the mistakes they see most often…even after 30+ years of coaching. This episode feature mistakes #10 through #6 in the countdown. Avoiding these will help you to be unforgettable on the platform. SNIPPETS: • Avoid ending on Q & A or with a ‘THANK YOU’ slide • Circle back to your opening and end with impact • Can your audience see themselves in your story ...2025-06-0518 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 301 PREPPING FOR THE ROAD At some point in your speaking career, you will have to travel…sometimes overseas…and it’s important to be prepared. Proper preparation includes getting ready for your presentation, and more. Darren and Mark break down their preparation process and provide tools to help any speaker prepare for their unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Prepare tech tools for your presentation • Prepare to be present • Create a TRAVEL CHECKLIST • Bring travel adapters/chargers • Pack for at least one extra day ...2025-05-2927 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 300 YOUR VIDEO INTRO? Perhaps you’ve seen a poor introduction, or a well-written one poorly delivered. In this episode, Mark and Darren give insight into the power of a video introduction and share two examples to show how a good video introduction can help you to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • A good video intro connects your audience to you • It connects your audience to your subject • Keep the content simple • Include still photos • It tells a story in itself • It’s a tea...2025-05-2221 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 299 ACCELERATE YOUR BOOKINGS WITH LINKEDIN – RICHARD BLISS LinkedIn has become the business ‘go-to’ platform, but many users haven’t been using it properly. Today, Mark and Darren talk with LinkedIn expert Richard Bliss about the mistakes and best practices for maximizing LinkedIn to accelerate your business. SNIPPETS: • LinkedIn is a business platform • Don’t use LinkedIn like social media platforms • Social media activities are counterproductive on LinkedIn • Emojis can interfere with the intent of your content • Emojis have different meanings to different demographics 2025-05-1530 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 298 THE 11TH HOUR Webster’s Dictionary defines The 11th Hour as “the latest possible time before it’s too late.” Today Darren and Mark give examples of 11th hour speaking situations and offer advice on how to be unforgettable by performing professionally at the 11th hour. SNIPPETS: • We are paid to make 11th hour decisions • True professionals perform at the 11th hour • Be aware that meeting planners often face 11th hour challenges • Build relationships by serving others in their 11th hour • Be awa...2025-05-0824 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 297 WHAT LANDED? When reviewing their speech recordings, speakers often look for what DIDN’T go well. Today, Mark and Darren invite you to focus on the positive, and to look first for what LANDED. This will help you to identify your strengths, and approach areas for improvement with a positive mindset. SNIPPETS: • Find the magic moments • Determine what worked • Identify the times you connected • Gauge audience reaction • We can’t see our best while we are on the stage 2025-05-0113 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 296 THE POWER OF THE RE-WRITE Have you considered re-writing one of your previous stories? In today’s episode, Darren and Mark encourage you to examine your previous presentations with the goal of improving, enhancing, and re-writing. A re-write can elevate your content, enhance your performance, and most importantly amplify your impact. SNIPPETS: • Great speeches aren’t written; they’re re-written • Revisit previous presentations • Watch videos of your speeches • Review with a critical eye • Identify what you did well, and areas for improvement 2025-04-2418 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 295 “NARRA-LOG?” How do you find a balance between narration and dialog? NARRA-LOG! Like one of Mark and Darren’s clients, you may think, “That sounds like a NARROW LOG!” Today our co-hosts talk about bridging the gap between too much narration/not enough dialog…and vice versa…using that ‘narrow log.’ They give guidance on using both techniques effectively to build your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Find the right balance between narration and dialog • Look for key emotional shifts in your story • You may need to reel in the dialog2025-04-1720 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 294 “BETTER” MINDSET Darren and Mark encourage their clients to review their scripts and ask, “How can I say this better with fewer words?” Today they discuss how having a better mindset can transform your presentation, improve your business, and make you unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Ask: What can I make, say, or do better? • Re-evaluate your presentations, programs, and processes • Revisit your digital footprint • Cut superfluous content • Consider the audience’s mindset • Do a debrief • Random com...2025-04-1026 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 293 NEED A BREAKTHROUGH? At some point, you may feel stuck in your business, doing the same thing over and over, without any measurable progress. Today Mark and Darren have an off-the-cuff discussion about ways to get breakthroughs on your path to becoming unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Reach your ‘enough is enough’ point • Revisit your habits • Adopt a new perspective • Seek qualified help • Find a mentor • Be humble and sincere • Be a sponge • Join a mast...2025-04-0320 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 292 WHAT KEEPS YOU FROM GETTING BOOKED WITH JENNIFER LIER We all want to get booked but we often lack the skills and knowledge to land the gig…on the best terms. Speaker bureau executive Jennifer Lier sits down with Darren and Mark to reveal the obstacles that keep you from getting booked, and the ‘must haves’ that will get you gigs and make you unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • YOU are your company, brand, and product • It’s hard for you to negotiate your own gigs • Let your bureau be your advocate • Bureaus will no...2025-03-2740 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 291 GET FOUND GET SEEN GET BUSINESS WITH FORD SAEKS To get more business, your prospects need to know you exist. Today, Mark and Darren talk with Hall-Of-Fame speaker and million-dollar business growth innovator Ford Saeks Ford offers practical, business building wisdom to help you get found, get seen, and get business. SNIPPETS: • Be great on stage • Master your craft • Google yourself to see what your prospects see • Have a solid digital footprint • Use LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok • Content is a commodity 2025-03-2028 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 290 YOUR UNFORGETTABLE IMAGE WITH JERRY METELLUS Your headshot is a critical component in your marketing material. So how do you look your best, and BE your best on camera? Darren and Mark get answers from Las Vegas-based celebrity photographer Jerry Metellus as they talk about the how and why of an unforgettable profile photo. SNIPPETS: • Amplify what already is • Don’t be trapped in an image of what you think you should be • Remember who you are • Don’t become fake in front of the lens • M...2025-03-1332 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 289 BE UNFORGETTABLE IN THE MEDIA WITH PILAR ORTIZ A media interview is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your expertise and serve a broader audience. How can you get the opportunity, and what should you do to maximize that opportunity? In today’s episode, Mark and Darren talk with speaker, author and coach Pilar Ortiz, former TV reporter, news anchor, producer and director. Pilar gives sage advice for handling media interviews, staying top of mind with the media. SNIPPETS: • Say ‘yes’ to the opportunity • Prepare bullet points and practice out loud • Be succinct and give...2025-03-0645 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 288 YOUR VOICE WITH MILLIAN QUINTEROS Your voice is your instrument, so how do you keep it in top shape? Today, Darren and Mark sit down with Millian Quinteros, a voiceover artist, audio producer, podcast consultant, and voice care/maintenance coach. Using his own story of struggling with vocal issues, Millian explains some common voice-care mistakes, and offers practical advice to help you keep your instrument well-tuned. SNIPPETS: • The voice is the symphony of the heart • Your voice tells people who you are • Treat your voice like a professional ...2025-02-2741 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 287 ARE YOU TOO CLOSE? Mark says, “One man’s mundane is another man’s magnificent.” We sometimes fail to see the magnificence in our stories because we’re too close to them. Today Darren and Mark explain why we may be too close, and suggest ways to broaden our perspective SNIPPETS: • Start with a big block of clay • We can be so close that we can’t identify the magnificent in our story • Video-record yourself telling your story • Present to a test audience • Look at your story...2025-02-2019 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 286 PREPARATION MOTIVATION! What can be the motivation to go ‘all in’ as you prepare to deliver your next presentation? Mark and Darren look at the motivation for preparation and explain the value of a presentation walkthrough…with a live audience. SNIPPETS: • When hour ego is at stake, you put in more work • Put your rehearsal on the calendar, preferably 2 weeks out • Work with a coach • Walkthrough with your peer group as your audience • Rehearse as if it’s game day •...2025-02-1319 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 285 YOUR BACK POCKET SPEECH? What is a ‘back pocket speech?’ When do you need it? How do you use it? All good questions! Darren and Mark provide answers…and ideas for making your ‘back pocket speech’ unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • It’s not if…but when you have to fill in for another speaker • Be prepared • Make the meeting planner look good, and build your reputation • Make it a habit at a conference to offer to speak if a speaker doesn’t show up • Ask yourself, “What more...2025-02-0617 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 284 WOULD YOU SAY THAT? Sometimes speeches sound…well…speechy! Darren and Mark challenge you to examine your content and offer advice for ensuring that your authenticity shines through in every presentation. SNIPPETS: • Be conversational • Create a transcription • Use tools like Microsoft Word’s DICTATE feature • You can’t edit what you don’t write down • Write for the eye, not for the eye • Bullet-point your ideas • Use keywords • Avoid ‘cop-speak’ • Don’t...2025-01-3018 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 283 CAN YOU SMELL THAT? Our senses can play a significant part in giving our audience an unforgettable experience. Today, Mark and Darren talk about the power of the sense of smell and share how you can use it effectively in your stories. SNIPPETS: • Use V.A.K.S. • Use smell as you relive your experiences • Smell can create a visceral audience response • Use smell to transport yourself to the scene first • Then use smell to transport your audience to the scene 2025-01-2316 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 282 COMMUNICATE UNFORGETTABLY WITH LEE COATE Delivering presentations every week is challenging…no doubt about it. Delivering to the same audience every week magnifies that challenge. How can you be unforgettable in those circumstances? Today Lee Coate provides Mark and Darren with the techniques that help him to consistently communicate unforgettably. SNIPPETS: • Communication is more than structure and what’s on the page • Develop your own voice and style • Communication is a by-product of an individual’s character • Don’t be an actor • Don’t perform…INSPIRE2025-01-1641 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 281 CONNECT THROUGH THEIR CHALLENGES? Your audience wants to know that you ‘get’ them. Today Mark and Darren examine ways to connect with your audience, identify their challenges, and help solve their problems. SNIPPETS: • Audiences appreciate your genuine interest in them • Ask different individuals in your client’s organization • Look for challenges, frustrations, and pet peeves • Identify common concerns • Bridge the gap between your content and their world • If possible, attend events a day early and be observant • Befor...2025-01-0921 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 280 YOUR BEST YEAR YET? Can you ‘up your game’ in 2025 make it your best year yet? Darren and Mark offer solid suggestions for upgrading your program, your presentation, and your presence in the marketplace. Applying these principles and practices will put you firmly on the path to being unforgettable...and making this YOUR BEST YEAR YET! SNIPPETS: • It’s YOUR RESPONSIBILITY • Assess your presentation and your business with the goal to improve • Consider upgrading your speech title • Revisit your content (open/close, structure, humor, delivery, s...2025-01-0126 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 279 DELIVERING YOUR SENSITIVE STORY WITH SMOKE WALLIN What does it take to deliver an extremely sensitive and emotional story, and why would you do it in the first place? Darren and Mark get answers from ‘serial entrepreneur’ CEO Smoke Wallin as he explains why he shared his sensitive story to 2,000 CEOs. His answers will provide guidance and wisdom for anyone who is ready to tell their unforgettable sensitive story. SNIPPETS: • Share your story to help others • Think it through and compose your talk with sensitivity to your audience • Don’t shock your audie...2024-12-2648 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 278 CONFIDENCE? Confidence. Every presenter needs it, especially when facing an unresponsive audience or dealing with the unexpected. In today’s episode, Mark and Darren provide strategies for building your confidence and delivering your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Confidence is critical • Not every audience responds emotionally and supportively • Confidence doesn’t come by accident • Prepare well • Internalize your content • Test your material in a low-risk environment like Toastmasters • Ego is a confidence-killer...2024-12-1920 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 277 CAN THEY SEE YOUR STORY? Your audience can hear your story, but can they SEE it? Today Mark and Darren explore ways that you can prompt your audience to go beyond just hearing your story, to experiencing it...right at the beginning. These simple techniques will help your audience to see your unforgettable story. SNIPPETS: • Telling your story is like creating a painting • Share 2 or 3 details about the setting • Let the audience paint the picture • Let the audience see one visual and one emotional character detail ...2024-12-1219 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 276 NOT ENOUGH CONTENT? Maybe you’re an emerging speaker, and you don’t think you have enough content. Perhaps you’re experienced and have been delivering the same material for a long time. Where do you find more content? Darren and Mark provide strategies for finding new content, ‘upping’ your game, and being unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Ask: Is there better content available • Perform deeper research on your subject • Dive deeply into client concerns • Interview clients for content and connection • Tap into your expertise network2024-12-0537 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 275 AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH BRIAN BIRO Illustrations can be powerful; they give your audience a memorable experience. How do you create and execute an experience that has 4,000 people on their feet, actively participating, and leaving transformed? Brian Biro, America’s Breakthrough Speaker, sits down with Mark and Darren to provide insight into how has been able to deliver unforgettable experiences for more than 30 years. SNIPPETS: • Help audiences to experience breakthroughs • Become a master storyteller • Shift from ego to ‘we go’ • Do more for other than you do for yourself 2024-11-2845 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 274 TOO MUCH CONTENT? In our zeal to share our knowledge with our audience, we sometimes offer too much content. Mark and Darren discuss this phenomenon and offer both perspective and practices for giving your audience your most appropriate content. SNIPPETS: • Vast content is a blessing • You can’t share everything you know in one presentation • To share everything, write a book • Give the highlights • What’s the intent of the event • What does the audience need to know 2024-11-2117 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 273 BORING PRESENTATIONS? 3 REASONS WHY Presentations can often be boring. Why? In this episode, Darren and Mark examine three reasons and provide solutions to help any presenter move from boring to unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • You need a proven world-class structure • Structure gives you confidence and gives your audience clarity • Invest time to properly structure your presentation • Solid structure prevents you from taking a labyrinthine journey • Stories are the heartbeat of presentations • Bullet-point your life • Stories elicit emotion to del...2024-11-1439 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 272 UNFORGETTABLE MINDSET WITH RYAN PINEDA Growth and success in speaking requires a steadfast mindset. Today, millionaire investor, event planner and professional speaker Ryan Pineda sits down with Mark and Darren to divulge how the right mindset and the right actions can put any presenter on the path to being unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Know the type of speaker that you are • Understand your value; don’t underestimate it • Repetition, practice, and stage time build confidence • Determine how much can you relate to your audience • Start by making s...2024-11-0742 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 271 2024 WORLD CHAMPION OF PUBLIC SPEAKING LUISA MONTALVO 2024 World Champion of Public Speaking Luisa Montalvo sits down with Darren and Mark to discuss her journey from First Runner-Up in 2019 to World Champion in 2024…and her life-changing experience in between. Luisa also shares her perspective on mentors, contests, taking risks, and serving your audience, providing tips that will help any presenter to become unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Listen to your mentor • Have fun • Compete when it’s time • Ask: “Does the audience NEED this?” • Be willing to take risks2024-11-0158 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 270 UNFORGETTABLE SERMONS WITH PASTOR SHANE PHILIP Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,’ and what tools can they use to be unforgettable? Pastor Shane Philip of Las Vegas, NV talks with Mark and Darren about his process, as well as the tools, process and techniques that help him to be unforgettable. He explains how he uses visuals, illustrations, and humor to connect with his audiences and offers advice on how to increase your relatability to your audience. If you wish, see Shane’s message here SNIPPETS: • Everything in life becomes a story...2024-10-2559 min
Unforgettable PresentationsUNFORGETTABLE SERMONS WITH PASTOR SHANE PHILIP Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,’ and what tools can they use to be unforgettable? Pastor Shane Philip of Las Vegas, NV talks with Mark and Darren about his process, as well as the tools, process and techniques that help him to be unforgettable. He explains how he uses visuals, illustrations, and humor to connect with his audiences and offers advice on how to increase your relatability to your audience. If you wish, see Shane’s message here SNIPPETS: • Everything in life becomes a story...2024-10-2159 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 269 DO YOU PING YOUR AUDIENCE? Ping: (verb) to send a signal to (a device) in order to determine its status or location. As presenters, we must be sure that our audiences receive our message. We ‘ping’ in order to determine our audience’s status (engagement/understanding) and location (presence.) Today Darren and Mark drill down on ‘pinging’ and share how pinging, when done well, can leave a lasting impact. SNIPPETS: • Check in with the audience • Confirm their thought process • Make an emotional connection • Are they followin...2024-10-1723 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 268 MONIKA’S STORY Imagine being on stage for the FIRST TIME, telling a deeply personal and emotional story that you’ve NEVER told before, to an audience of executives. How would you navigate ? Today Darren and Mark get answers form Monika, a coaching client from Australia who faced that exact situation recently. She openly shares her fears and triumphs, as well as the process that helped her to deliver an unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Don’t underestimate the power of your personal story • Use the power of your mind to overcome your fear 2024-10-1026 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 267 YOU KICKED BUTT, NOW WHAT? You've just completed an engagement, and the event planner gives you a 5-star rating because you kicked butt! What next? What more can you do to maintain world class standards and service and elevate your game? Using one of his very recent experiences, Mark talks with Darren about proven practices to help any presenter shine after a successful event and remain unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Ask: how can I provide more value • Ask: How can I multiply what I have provided • Get testimonials • S...2024-10-0331 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 266 DO THEY KNOW? Do your clients and prospects know how much you have to offer? Mark and Darren discuss more than a dozen additional ways that you can serve your clients, and techniques for making meeting planners aware. SNIPPETS: • Add value • Let them know during your pitch • Reinforce during pre-event call • Remind them during your follow-up meeting • Put additional offerings in the contract/agreement • Seed additional services during your presentation • No need to sell from t...2024-09-2632 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 265 WHEN LIFE HAPPENS? Sometimes, life happens. It’s inevitable. Today, Darren opens up about a personal tragedy, as he and Mark explore ways to navigate life’s challenges and remain unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Life will happen • You are not alone • Accept help • Tap into your professional network and mastermind • Ask for grace • Take care of yourself • Call, or send e-mail to your clients and associates • How can your tragedy help others? • What can you still do amid...2024-09-1923 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 264 ARE YOU STAYING CURRENT? Change is constant and as presenters, we must stay relevant. Today Darren and Mark explore ways for us to stay current, stay relevant and become unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Seek to serve your audience • Update websites, slide decks, and demo videos regularly • Stay aware of industry changes • Be aware of what’s ‘top of mind’ in your area of expertise • Constantly look for relevant stories and events • Look for the ‘emotional juice.’ • Update your ref...2024-09-1225 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 263 THE MATH TO MASTERY? What does it take to truly become the speaker everyone loves and a master of your craft? Mark and Darren offer a ‘mathematical formula’ and a process to not only become a master, but to be unforgettable as well. SNIPPETS: • It starts with a decision to master your craft • Commit to the work • Put in the EFFORT • Multiply EFFORT by a PROVEN PROCESS • Use the CORE 4 PROCESS • Learn how to make each step better 2024-09-0530 min
Unforgettable PresentationsNSA? TOASTMASTERS? Emerging presenters often wonder, “Should I join the National Speakers Association? Toastmasters? Both?” Darren and Mark ask and answer these questions while sharing the benefits of both organizations. SNIPPETS: • Learn the art and business of speaking • Both organizations are valuable • Toastmasters is a wonderful place to make mistakes • NSA provides business-building tools and expertise • Toastmasters provides a friendly practice audience • NSA helps build professional relationships • Visit 3 Toastmasters clubs ...2024-08-2924 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 261 NSA’S LAST STORY STANDING WINNER – JEFF ROGERS Jeff Rogers, a fairly new member of the National Speakers Association, is the winner of NSA’s LAST STORY STANDING storytelling competition. He and Mike Davis…one of his coaches…chat with Mark and Darren about his intent, his process, and the lessons he learned on his journey to the first-place trophy. SNIPPETS: • Seek to build relationships first • Enter contests to learn • Work with a coach to sharpen your story • Step away from your ego • Don’t just tell the story; en...2024-08-2228 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 260 WHY COMPETE? Rotary Speech Contest, Story SLAM, MOTH, Last Story Standing, World Championship of Public Speaking, and more. Speech competitions abound, and today Darren and Mark are joined by Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis as they face the question: “Why compete?” Their answers provide the myriad benefits of competing. SNIPPETS: • Get better faster, grow, and improve quickly • Breakthroughs come from experience, and experience comes from competing • Transcend your comfort zone • Get coaches - plural • Competition pushes you to work harder 2024-08-1527 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 259 NEW CONTENT ON SHORT NOTICE WITH SHEREE CAIN-JONES Imagine being asked to deliver new material, on a subject you have never addressed, on short notice, under pressure, three times in 24 hours. Today, Mark and Darren talk with professional speaker and coach Sheree Cain-Jones, who found herself in that situation recently. Her insight from the lessons learned, and the principles she applied along the way, will help you navigate the ‘new content on short notice’ path, and deliver your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Acknowledge the weight of responsibility when delivering new content • Stop, think, take it in, then decide to accept...2024-08-0841 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 258 ACCENT ACQUISITION WITH DR. LESLIE GORDON We ALL speak with an accent, and at times it’s easy to believe that we must ‘lose’ our accent to be accepted. Today, Mark and Darren have a frank conversation with speech and accent expert Dr. Leslie Gordon, as she gives advice on using your accent as an asset. SNIPPETS: • Honor the skill of owning more than one sound • Treat the world as a playground for your eyes and ears • The way we speak creates a picture of who we are • Your accent...2024-08-0144 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 257 WHAT DOES YOUR SCRIPT LOOK LIKE? Script writing takes work and the practical, time-saving methods that Darren and Mark discuss today will make the process easier. Listen as they examine how to create your first script, edit with impact, and use your script as a presentation roadmap. SNIPPETS: • You can’t edit what you don’t create • In Microsoft Word use DICTATE to generate a transcript • Create your ‘sloppy first copy’ • Separate each line of your script • Add LINE NUMBERS in Google Docs, MS Word, etc. 2024-07-2524 min
Unforgettable PresentationsMISQUOTED? Quotations from famous speakers, authors, and celebrities can be very appealing and can support your message. The same can be said of oft-quoted statistics. Today Mark and Darren discuss the importance of accuracy when using quotes and statistics, share a few examples, and provide simple yet effective advice for ‘getting it right.’ SNIPPETS: • Do due diligence • Your reputation and credibility are at stake • Verification sources abound…web searches, AI, etc. Use them • “Stop quoting dead white men!” – Patricia Fripp • Create...2024-07-1821 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 255 WHEN THE ANSWER IS NOSometimes, even after your best pitch, the answer is “No.” But that need not be the end of the relationship. Darren and Mark offer some sage wisdom about taking advantage of every ‘no,’ and sometimes turning a “no” into “yes.” SNIPPETS: • No can mean several things • “Not yet, not the right time, not the best fit” • Be remembered • Have CONTENT and INTENT • Don’t take “no” personally • Build relationships, regardless of the outcome ...2024-07-1115 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 254 WHAT TO ASK PARTICIPANTS AHEAD OF TIME In this follow-up to Episode 253 (What Do You Ask An Event Planner) Mark and Darren talk about questions to ask participants ahead of your speaking engagement. This episode will help you to unearth critical material and help you to customize your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Discover the organization’s mentors, matriarchs, patriarchs, and legends • Get permission to call event attendees • Schedule a 10-minute call to weeks before the event • Ask questions and listen carefully to answers • Learn the organization’s lan...2024-07-0423 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 253 WHAT TO ASK AN EVENT PLANNER AFTER THEY SAY YES You’ve got the speaking engagement, now what? What can the event planner tell you to help you to deliver an unforgettable presentation? Darren and Mark discuss the pre-event questionnaire and offer insight into how you can set yourself up for presentation success. SNIPPETS: • Prepare an Event Planners Questionnaire • Have a call and connect casually first (video is ideal) • Ask questions and listen carefully to answers • Your client is the event planner • Identify the economic buyer ...2024-06-2736 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 252 DYNAMIC DUO PRESENTATION COACHING? “Why would I need TWO coaches?” you may ask. To answer that question, Mark and Darren have a conversation with Stage Time University coaches Chris McGuire and Mike Davis. They have coached together, as have Mark and Darren, and in today’s discussion they explain the benefits of having a duo coaching team. SNIPPETS: • Different coaching styles are complimentary • Different perspectives create multiple options for clients • Client gets twice the value in half the time • Coaches learn from each other • Coa...2024-06-2031 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 251 ARE YOU ASKING THE CRITICAL QUESTIONS? Speakers make a common mistake when seeking audience participation. They ask “HOW MANY of you…” That question needs a NUMERICAL response. Today Darren and Mark explain how to ask BETTER questions, and how to use the audience’s non-verbal response to enhance their own experience. SNIPPETS: • How would you say it over coffee to one person • Use the language of a conversation • Respect the versatility of the word YOU’ • Ask you-focused questions • Put the audience into your story ...2024-06-1326 min
Unforgettable PresentationsIT’S TOO LATE! Speakers sometimes ask for help making tweaks, adding humor, or finding more powerful stories…a few days before their presentation. All too often, it’s just too late. Today, Darren and Mark share their experience with speakers who have waited too long, explain the benefits of getting help early, and offer advice on how to avoid waiting until it’s too late. SNIPPETS: • Get a speaking coach sooner • Speech contestants, don’t assume you will reach a certain level automatically • Stop making changes several days before the presen...2024-06-0618 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 249 WRITE THE RIGHT BOOKYou can’t teach everything you know in an hour. (At least we hope not!) So, if you are a speaker, consultant or coach are you allowing people to take more of your wisdom home? Anyone can write a book, but do you have the right book? Do you offer it in your proposals? What if you could wave your speaking fee and still earn revenue. Darren sits down with his publisher, Henry Devires to get some insights from experience. Why other experience does Henry offer? "The Agency Owner Book Guy" | Author of Marketing With A...2024-05-3041 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 248 CREATE QUIRKY CHARACTERS?Every time you introduce a character in your story, you have an opportunity for humor. Quirky characters are familiar, engaging, and create memorable moments in presentations. Darren is joined by Television Writer & Producer Chris McGuire to discuss the people in our stories and how to make them unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Use quirky characters to create memorable moments that enhance speaker relatability with the audience. • Character traits are the qualities that make a character memorable. (Brave, smart, loyal) Quirks are exaggerated, unusual or unexpected qualities that add humor or intrigue to stories.2024-05-2340 min
Unforgettable PresentationsFOUR STANDING OVATIONS How do four inexperienced presenters, who have never delivered a presentation to an audience of 1,000 people before, each get STANDING OVATIONS? Mark and Darren review their recent experience coaching four CEOs to deliver deeply personal 8-minute stories to their peers in the Young Presidents’ Organization. The lessons learned are invaluable and will help you to deliver your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Invest energy an effort • Be coachable • Practice, practice, practice • Rehearse handling distractions • Trust your instinct about what works well f...2024-05-1640 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 246 Get More Laughs With Chris McGuire Humor is necessary to make a presentation interesting and entertaining. Uncovering humor can be a challenge, and to learn more about how to get more laughs, Mark and Darren sit down with Hollywood comedy writer and humor expert Chris McGuire. Chris shares tips and techniques for uncovering humor and being unforgettably funny. SNIPPETS: • Use levity at the beginning of your presentation • Connection with the audience is critical; always connect first • Find out what the event attendees have in common • Use People, Places, Thin...2024-05-0950 min
Unforgettable PresentationsADAPT TO THE SITUATION? As presenters, we should expect the unexpected. At times, we will encounter unexpected circumstances and situations, and today Darren and Mark discuss steps that we can take to not only adapt, but to give our audiences unforgettable experiences. SNIPPETS: • Assess the situations • Explore options • Use creativity • Go heart-to-heart with the event planner • Let go of your ego • Adjust your presentation as needed • Ask: How can I best serve my client and my audience • Always have slide de...2024-05-0235 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 244 ADVICE YOU DON’T WANT TO HEAR You want to ‘make it’ in the speaking business so you seek advice from a seasoned pro. Are you willing to take their advice…even if it’s hard to receive? Mark and Darren talk about advice they have received…and given…that some people don’t accept. These poignant nuggets of wisdom can help any presenter along the path to becoming unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Get your sea legs • Find a way to give 100 speeches • Invest the effort to get XXX rated…Xperience, Xpertise and Xposure. 2024-04-2529 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 243 What Do You Do After? PART 2 You have just attended a conference, heard good speakers, and received powerful content. You walk away with a folder full of notes, e-mail addresses and phone numbers. NOW what should you do? Darren and Mark share best practices to keep your enthusiasm and momentum alive and productively take full advantage of the event experience. SNIPPETS: • Review KEEPERS and ACTION ITEMS • Prioritize ONE ACTION and follow through on that action consistently • Connect with another attendee as an accountability partner • Create a mastermind w...2024-04-1830 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 242 What Do You Do After? PART 1 You have just presented at an event and after all your hard work planning, preparing, and presenting, what should you do? Today Mark and Darren offer solid suggestions to help you stay on top of your game after every speaking event. SNIPPETS: • Schedule a day off • Block time for your family, even if they are at the event with you • Don’t ruin your “speaker’s high” • Debrief with the client within a week • Treat the debrief as a s...2024-04-1123 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 241 Road Warrior? So, you want to travel the world and share your message. Perhaps you’ve wondered what it’s like to be a ‘road warrior.’ Mark and Darren pull back the curtain on their experiences of a combined 50+ years of traveling to speak, and share their time-tested tips for being a successful road warrior. SNIPPETS: • You are not alone • It’s not always glamorous • Give yourself grace • Going international hire an agent/bureau to manage proposals & negotiations • Examine the systems you set up to...2024-04-0445 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 240 BIG STAGE, FIRST TIME WITH JODY LAVOIE Imagine, your largest audience so far has been fewer than ninety people, and you now get to tell your most emotional personal story on a BIG STAGE to more than 1,300 CEOs! What thoughts swirl through your head, and how will you pull it off? Today Darren and Mark get answers from Management Consultant and Executive Coach Jody LaVoie. Mark and Darren helped to prepare Jody for her first time on the big stage…a global conference for CEOs. Jody’s lessons learned and wisdom gained will help you to get ready for your first (or next...2024-03-2845 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 239 Game Changing Advice Have you ever received advice that changed the game in your business, career, or relationships? Today Darren and Mark discuss some of the nuggets of wisdom that they’ve received…and successfully applied…throughout their careers. SNIPPETS: • Let no one out-prepare you • Strive to be the client’s favorite • Your money should make more money than you do • A true champion overcomes all adversities • Write a speech you can’t wait to deliver • Humanize data ...2024-03-2119 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 237 The Unforgettable MC with Michael Davis?Sit down with Darren and Michael Davis as they cover what it really takes to make an event flow, the MC. Michael is not only a speaker and a TEDx Coach, he has been MCing Lady and the Champs and Game Changers for over a decade. Unforgettable events have unforgettable MCs. World-class MCs have skillsets that many do not even think about. Whether you want to be an MC, speaking at a large event or running one, get a deeper understanding of the role they play. It is critical to the success of the event. ...2024-03-0728 min
Unforgettable PresentationsPower Prospecting with Ford SaeksSit down with Darren and Ford as they talk prospecting. How to remain timely, topical and relevant. What does an ideal prospect look like for you? What are some of the tangible tactics that you can use to get in front of the audiences you can serve. To get booked you have to be found first! SNIPPETS: • What are some to the mistakes speakers make? • Are you bookable? • What is your digital footprint? • Fish where the fish are and have bait! ...2024-02-2934 min
Unforgettable PresentationsTHE POWER OF COMMUNITY In addition to being part of speaking communities, we, as presenters belong to professional, social, charitable, faith-based, and other communities. Today Mark and Darren discuss the power of community, examining the ways that communities make us grow…and change. They offer advice on collaborating with your community, growing your community, and even leaving your community. Using Stage Time University, Toastmasters International, and the National Speakers Association as examples, they show benefits and blessings of being in community with like-minded people and reveal how community has helped them to prepare unforgettable presentations. SNIPPETS: • Community helps...2024-02-1528 min
Unforgettable PresentationsUNFORGETTABLE RESEARCH With Vince Antonucci and Chris McGuire Thorough research is an invaluable part of preparing unforgettable presentations. There are myriad ways to access information, and so much information from which to glean. Where do I look? How much should I use? How can I verify? Darren and Mark discuss these questions with…and get answer from…researcher/author/speaker Vince Antonucci and comedy writer/TV producer Chris McGuire. Their perspective on effective research will help you to prepare your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Dig deeper into your subject • Look for compelling and unique information • Put in...2024-02-0847 min
Unforgettable PresentationsVIRTUAL PRESENTATION ENGAGEMENT? Virtual presentations are now commonplace and it’s easy to assume, “I’ve done quite a few of these and I’m good!” Today Darren and Mark share reminders of how FLOW, FOCUS and PACE ELEMENTS can make a significant difference in your virtual presentation…especially since distractions can be continuous and abundant. SNIPPETS: • Check your studio setup…especially what’s behind you • Re-evaluate every aspect of your virtual presentation • To maintain FLOW, it’s wise to have a producer, co-host, or co-presenter • Be aware of the dif...2024-02-0129 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 231 Congruent Characters? The story is arguably a presenter’s most potent tool. While it’s important to tell stories well, it is equally…if not significantly more important to transport your audience into the story. As Mark and Darren explain today, the key is to have CONGRUENT CHARACTERS, whose emotions are congruent with the emotion that they feel in the story. They share why many presenters fall short in this area and offer solid suggestions for using body language for greater emotional impact. SNIPPETS: • Let your audience feel the emotion of the characters • D...2024-01-2530 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 230 Your Holograms? Holograms? Hula hoops? What do they have to do with delivering an unforgettable presentation? Mark and Darren explain how and why holograms help you to vividly create scenes in the minds of your audiences. This simple but potent technique will allow you to transform your speech into an experience. SNIPPETS: • Holograms appear in the audience’s mind whether you’re aware or not • Holograms establish characters and scenes • You can point to a hologram and the audience will recall the scene/story • Holograms...2024-01-1825 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 229 Unforgettable Business Growth With Mark LeBlanc Avoiding mistakes and adopting the right practices are keys to successfully growing your business. Today Darren and Mark talk with business growth expert and Hall of Fame speaker Mark LeBlanc as he shares four decades worth of wisdom on finding your niche, developing your content, connecting with your audience, and much more. SNIPPETS: • If you quit 1,000 times, start again 1,001 times • You must earn the right to speak • Avoid thinking that you’re better than you are • Raise your hand and get help ...2024-01-1151 min
Unforgettable PresentationsUnforgettable Habits A new year often brings New Year resolutions. Today Mark and Darren offer four unforgettable habits to help you take your presentations…and your business…to a new level in 2024 and beyond. SNIPPETS: • Take a TOP 5 Inventory • Disconnect to reconnect • Marketing has changed; find a way that works today • It is our job to reach out to clients and stay TOP of mind • Share fresh ideas • Reach out, and reach back • Get TOP Level professional feedback on your marketing and presentation • Change sal...2024-01-0435 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 227 Unforgettable Wordsmithing As presenters, our words are our most important tools. Preparing an unforgettable presentation requires some wordsmithing. Darren joins Mark…our resident wordsmith…to discuss this critical aspect of the script editing process. They offer several wordsmithing techniques, explain how to use them, and reveal why they are extremely effective. SNIPPETS: • Say it in a more VIVID and VIBRANT way • Edit for impact by asking, “How can I say it better in fewer words?” • Monosyllabic words are easier for the audience to remember • Use rhythm and...2023-12-2831 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 226 Match Their Energy? “I thought you would come out with more ENERGY!” Imagine hearing THAT from a meeting planner! (Ask Darren!) He and Mark talk about matching the audience’s energy as they share techniques for connecting quickly and delivering an unforgettable experience. SNIPPETS: • Read the room and match the energy • Always connect first • Research the audience; learn what is top of mind for them • Arrive hours or days early and have conversations in the corridor • Keep your finger on the pulse of the event • Avoid get caught thi...2023-12-2126 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 225 Unforgettable Referrals With Arel Moodie Getting referrals after a presentation isn’t always easy, but a new tool called TALKADOT is a game changer. Mark and Darren talk with professional speaker and TALKADOT co-founder Arel Moodie about his own speaking journey and the power of TALKADOT to get referrals and grow your business. Arel also shares principles for building relationships with prospects and creating a win/win/win for you, your clients and your audience. SNIPPETS: • Leave an indelible mark on people’s souls • Always elevate your audience • Be clear on th...2023-12-141h 04
Unforgettable PresentationsTackling A Tough Topic With Frank King. 224 Tackling A Tough Topic With Frank King Mental Health. Suicide. Comedy. Those topics don’t seem to flow seamlessly together…unless you’re talking with 10-time TEDx speaker and comedian Frank King. Darren and Mark have a heart-to-heart with Frank, as he reveals his techniques for addressing such a tough topic, including vulnerability and humor. He also shares sage advice for securing, preparing and presenting TEDx talks. This powerful conversation delivers emotional and inspirational information that will help you to deliver an unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Find your idea worth spreading • Avoid bringing too many ideas 2023-12-0753 min
Unforgettable PresentationsCritical Corridor Conversations Your presentation is over, you’ve delivered great content, and you’ve served your audience well. But is there a way to add value IMMEDIATELY? Darren and Mark discuss the concept of CORRIDOR CONVERSATIONS…how getting an audience to continue engaging and interacting with each other can provide added benefit. SNIPPETS: • Ignite corridor conversations • Use stories as conversation-starters • Invite attendees to ask: What’s the problem, and what story has the solution? • Create questions that spark conversation • Hang around to gauge the impact • Debrief corri...2023-11-3022 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 222 Unforgettable Content With Dr. Jeff Magee “To be unforgettable, you must have calluses on your head and your hands.” So says Dr. Jeff Magee, one of the world’s foremost leadership and marketing strategists. In a brutally honest conversation with Mark and Darren, Dr. Magee opens his treasure trove of wisdom and passionately reinforces the value of solid content. SNIPPETS: • People pay for your wisdom • Make sure your content stands up • What are your calluses on your head and your hands? • Play the student • Ask: “How can I become better?” • Know...2023-11-2352 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 221 How Love Works In The Business World With Joel Manby How do you communicate a message of LOVE in a highly competitive, fast-paced, results-driven corporate world? Mark and Darren get the answer to this question…and many others…from Joel Manby, former CEO of SeaWorld who was also featured on an episode of ‘Undercover Boss.’ He shares lessons learned about customizing presentations, revealing failures and sharing a message of love. Applying his practical but powerful techniques will help any speaker to deliver an unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Clearly identify your audience demographic • Tell stories to which your specific audience will relate 2023-11-1647 min
Unforgettable PresentationsConnect Deeply with Your Next Audience No two audiences are alike, so how can you ensure that you connect with every audience, especially when you deliver the same presentation frequently? Darren and Mark share personal experiences as they talk about ways to connect with every unique audience, keep your presentation fresh, and get glowing testimonials. SNIPPETS: • Every audience is different • We are 100% responsible for our connection with the audience • Interview audience members in advance • Identify and honor the company’s ‘patriarch’ and ‘matriarch’ • Identify and edify NEW emp...2023-11-0936 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 219 Did You Know? Did you know that there are world class techniques embedded in the structure of speeches and stories? Today Mark and Darren discuss several of these techniques, which, when applied, can make your next presentation unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Never devalue the power of a well-told story • Assign names to your characters • Provide at least one physical characteristic • Give the audience a reason to emotionally connect with the main character • Show characters’ ‘BEFORE’ condition (body language, emotion, demeanor) • Make the main character ‘likeable’ •...2023-11-0225 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 218 When We Unintentionally Offend With Margaret Page After your presentation, an audience member tells you that you said something that offended them. What should you do? What should you say? In a candid, vulnerable conversation, Mark and Darren hear first-hand from speaker, business leader, entrepreneur and grandma Margaret Page as she shares her faux pas, and her journey to redemption. Margaret offers sage advice to help any presenter avoid offending their audience, and to recover if they do. SNIPPETS: • If you offend, don’t make excuses • Listen to your audience • Don’t place blame e...2023-10-2638 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 217 The CORE 4: Part 2 Unforgettable presentations have FOUR basic, core elements and today Darren and Mark drill down on CORE 3: HUMOR and CORE 4: DELIVERY. Learn how to use humor well and deliver with impact…to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Humor is a key to engagement; they work together • The problem is funny; the solution is serious • Find the audience’s frustration • Comedy cuts down; humor lifts up • Use appropriate humor • Intention is part of delivery • If you’re in your head, your emotions are dead...2023-10-1928 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 216 The CORE 4: Part 1 Unforgettable presentations have basic, core elements that help to make them unforgettable. Today Darren and Mark discuss CORE 1: CONTENT & STRUCTURE as well as CORE 2: STORIES. Their principles will set you on the path to delivering your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • The CORE 4 lay the foundation of your presentation • Use a strong structure on which to hang your presentation • Strong structure makes your presentation digestible and unforgettable • Choose content that serves the audience best • Visuals and stage use should reinforce your presentation’s structure 2023-10-1241 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 215 When You Are A Little Off There will likely be times when you must present, but you are not at your best. Perhaps you’re not feeling well, facing a personal challenge, or exhausted because of a lengthy flight delay. Mark and Darren prove that they know this all too well as they share their experience and advice about how to be unforgettable…even when you are ‘a little off.’ SNIPPETS: • Inform the event planner • Remember that you’re there to serve the audience • Acknowledge the ‘elephant in the room’ and ask for grace ...2023-10-0527 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 214 Five Minutes Before Liftoff! You will be on the platform in FIVE MINUTES. What goes through your head? How can you get ready to SHINE? Darren and Mark share how to maximize your last five minutes before stage time to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Be prepared…and be PRESENT • Ground yourself, and center yourself • Apply any method that serves you best • Prayer, meditation, silence, walking, vocal exercises, physical movement • Speaking is a privilege…and a RESPONSIBILITY • Prepare like a pilot…do...2023-09-2823 min
Unforgettable PresentationsStart Clowning Around With Don Colliver What can clown presence teach us about being unforgettable presenters? Darren and Mark find out from Don Colliver, comedian, improvisor, director, writer and clown. He shares his insights and experience on audience engagement and reveals how to make every presentation FUN…for you and your audience. SNIPPETS: • Take IMPROV classes; improvised can be better than prepared • Train yourself to lose your audience then get then back • When you err, acknowledge your humanity and move on • Wrap your error in a callback 2023-09-2147 min
Unforgettable PresentationsAre You Ready For The Opportunity? A speaker at an event you’re attending can’t make it and someone asks YOU to step in on very short notice. Are you READY? Today Mark and Darren share insights on how and why to be ready for any presentation opportunity. They also disclose the benefits, to you and others, of being ready. SNIPPETS: • Don’t GET ready; KEEP ready • Identify the opportunity, jump on it, own it • Have a ‘front pocket’ speech ready to go at all times • Attend events with a servant’s heart...2023-09-1431 min
Unforgettable PresentationsEp. 211 Too Many Coaches? Does a speaker need more than one coach? Can a speaker have too many coaches? What if I know several equally qualified coaches; should I use them all? In this episode, Darren and Mark tackle this thorny issue and offer specific guidance on coach selection…to help you deliver your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Pick ONE coach • Choose a coach who understands your backstory • Choose a coach who appreciates your style • Be careful who you listen to • Equally qualified coaches can give conflic...2023-09-0728 min
Unforgettable PresentationsWatching A True Pro In Action What makes a pro SHINE? Today Mark and Darren identify three techniques that true pros use to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Engage the audience instantly • Stand out before you even say a word • Be fully present • The first second and a half is critical • Note cards are not a liability • Don’t be concerned about perfection • Love the audience, love the moment • Work the room in your style ...2023-08-3139 min
Confident Storytelling PodcastInspirational Interview - World Champion Speaker Darren LaCroixIn this most awaited episode of Small Town Bigger Dreams Podcast, I had the privilege to interview 2001 World Champion of Public Speaking Darren LaCroix who is also an accredited speaker as well as Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), the only person in the world to hold these 3 titles together.
After a failed business in 1992, Darren LaCroix took the stage in a Boston comedy club and bombed miserably. It was horrible. The headliner that night told him to “keep his day job.” Friends told him that his dream of making people laugh for a living was crazy and stupid. He did...2022-01-1443 min