"You need to sell yourself" they say. But here's the truth: most people turn that into a babbling diatribe that likely does more harm than good. Why? Because there is an art to the "pitch". Whether you're pitching yourself for a promotion or to get on The Moth, there is a 3-part system that can change everything. As with anything, Erin and Nicole bring you powerful advice through real-world, real-time examples. The goal is to all grow and rise together. This episode is no exception.  This week Erin Hatzikostas and Nicole Licata Grant once again join each other for another "How Was Your Week" episode. Nicole has a Covid scare, but she has the Italian magic of pastina, AKA "the life-saving juice." She updates everyone on her company's Christmas commercial debacle from a few weeks back. The short story: after all that drama, they're not using it. Time for take 2. Erin talks us through her latest embarrassing obsession: Instagram Reels. After shunning it for a long time, she may have found her calling. Although she may need some support from the listeners to overcome the mocking from her kids. Erin asks Nicole about The Moth, one of Nicole's favorite storytelling platforms, and her plans to pitch an idea. Which leads into a conversation on how to pitch an idea. Which leads into a conversation on how to pitch effectively, whether it's for a story idea, a Ted Talk, or a promotion at work. While different, there are elements to a good pitch which are applicable no matter the platform. Erin talks through the three key aspects of a successful pitch: the hook, the switch, and creating the connection. Nicole then talks about her idea for a pitch to The Moth. She and Erin discuss some ideas for how to approach the pitch. From writing the first draft, to cutting that draft into pieces and giving yourself the visual space to look at it differently. Erin uses her pitch writing process for her TEDx Talk as a comparative piece for Nicole as she goes into the process of her own pitch. Aside from the actual technique of pitch writing, they discuss the positives that come from taking a step toward doing something new. Whether you want to write a book, do a TV show, start a podcast, or get a new role at ork. Writing a pitch to bring your idea to life can actually bring you to life. Erin shares a story about one of her clients who needed help making a pitch at work for a promotion. She talks about how to apply the same three elements to this work situation: from prepping a hook (in this scenario that's your "superhero statement"), to writing a switch, to building a connection with the audience.  We end with a hilarious story from Nicole and her board meeting for her Foundation this week. You'll have to listen in to learn more about Exhibit C!  To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Every week Nicole has a crazy week, and this one is no exception." "My hair looked like a helmet...but a glamorous helmet." "A pitch needs intrigue, excitement, and curiosity." "Connection is all about flipping the table. IF I were on the other side of the table, what would I want?" "The first thing you do is write a shitty first draft." "The shorter and more succinct you need to be, the more work it takes." "Get the arc down, then focus on what is the main lesson. Go through it in layers." "I'm not trying to change you. I'm trying to change your addiction." "This is the Venn Diagram of all things Nicole." "You're not interviewing for the job you already have. Tell them what you can do, not what you've done." "Always think what is most important to the person on the other side of the table." "Things I'm doing are so transactional. What I need is something transformational." "If you're looking for Reference C, it's not fucking there!"