Connect with Carmen Sederino
Website: illuminatedstory.com
LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino
YouTube: Illuminated Story
Instagram: @illuminatedstory
Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote Masterclass
Connect with Michael Crossland
Website: michaelcrossland.com
LinkedIn: Michael Crossland
Michael Crossland: From Childhood Cancer Survivor to One of Australia's Most In-Demand Speakers
Episode Description
In this deeply moving episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Michael Crossland, an inspirational speaker, bestselling author, and humanitarian who has turned a life defined by adversity into one devoted to helping others find resilience, perspective, and purpose.
Key Moments
Diagnosed with life-threatening cancer before his first birthday, and spending nearly a quarter of his life in hospital
The sole survivor of a devastating cancer drug trial that took the lives of 24 other children
Transitioning from a high-flying corporate career to full-time speaking
Lessons learned from sharing stages with Richard Branson and the Dalai Lama
The role of ego, authenticity, and emotional storytelling in connecting with audiences
Quotes to Remember
"It's not the adversity that defines us, but how we deal with it."
"Life is about choices, and my mom chose hope."
Michael's Incredible Journey
Diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma before his first birthday
The only survivor of a 25-child cancer drug trial
Survived a cardiac arrest before age 12
Represented Australia in his chosen sport
Held an executive corporate position by the age of 23
International bestselling author in six countries
Founded a children's orphanage and school in Haiti
Featured on ABC's Australian Story, viewed by over 4 million people
A speaking video from Los Angeles has been viewed by more than 84 million people
Australian of the Year finalist, Australia Day Ambassador, and International Hall of Fame inductee
Speaking Career Highlights
Inspired over 900,000 people worldwide through live presentations
Shared stages with Sir Richard Branson and the Dalai Lama
Spoken to corporate audiences, professional sporting teams, schools, and September 11 victims
Navigated the shift from in-person to virtual speaking during COVID
Works with audiences of all sizes, adapting his approach to each room
Advice for Speakers
Believe in your message before expecting the audience to
Set an intention and warm up before every performance
Authenticity disarms a room and creates genuine connection
Chase impact over income for more fulfilling work
Protect your energy and time as fiercely as your brand
Be mindful of selling from the stage; it's an art form, not a retail pitch
Practice relentlessly; emotional storytelling requires balance and care
Find humour in the audience to manage emotional depth on stage
Free Resource
Beyond the Keynote Masterclass
About the Host
Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.
