Benjamin Loh, Certified Speaking Professional and Jeremy Au discussed public speaking, thought leadership, and leadership growth. They reflected on Benjamin’s journey from public speaking to training financial advisors and running a thought leadership agency. They explored how social media amplifies voices, how leaders can shape industry narratives, and the challenges of managing perception online. Benjamin also shared personal reflections on balancing ambition with personal commitments and learning from past mistakes.

1. From speaker to trainer to agency leader: Benjamin started as a public speaker, transitioned into training financial advisors, and eventually launched a thought leadership agency to scale his impact.

2. The power of storytelling in leadership: He sees himself as a teacher, believing great speakers don’t just inform but create change through compelling narratives.

3. Public speaking and consulting have shared DNA: Both require deep understanding of people, but agency work demands managing teams, systems, and fast-changing industry trends.

4. Thought leadership must be polarizing: To stand out in a noisy world, leaders must take clear, sometimes divisive stances that attract their audience while pushing away others.

5. Social media rewards boldness, not neutrality: The best content sparks conversation, and platforms amplify strong opinions over safe, middle-ground messages.

6. Managing criticism is part of the game: Benjamin shares how he handles online negativity, including personal attacks, and reframes them as opportunities to engage and build credibility.

7. Balancing ambition and family is tough but necessary: He opens up about past mistakes in prioritizing work over family and the effort it takes to rebuild relationships.

Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.braves ea.com/blog/polarizing-thought-leadership

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