Feeling unsure if your presentation topic is too broad or too narrow?

In this episode, I dig into one of the most common challenges speakers face - and share how to fix it with clarity and confidence.

Years ago, when I built a talk around “women’s leadership,” I ran into the same issue: I had *so* much to say and no clear structure to tie it all together.

The turning point? Discovering the power of a throughline, which is a focused core message that anchors your entire talk.

In just a few minutes, you’ll learn how to:
- Know when your topic is too big or too small
- Use the “palm tree” test to connect your points to one strong idea
- Turn overwhelming content into a portfolio of signature talks

You’ll walk away with three key questions to ask yourself that will help you streamline your topic and speak with more impact.

Remember, the best speakers aren’t the ones who say everything; they’re the ones who clarify what matters most for their audience right now.

If you’re ready to develop a meaningful talk that showcases your voice and vision, I’d love to guide you. Head over to speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together to clarify your idea and message and create your signature talk.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

How many slides should you use for a 30-minute presentation? It’s one of the most common questions I get—and it makes sense!

You want your talk to be impactful, engaging, and delivered with confidence, not feel like a race through a deck or a textbook on screen.

In this short and actionable episode, I share three key tips to help you decide how many slides to use, how to design them effectively, and how to keep your energy focused on connecting with your audience.

You’ll learn:

- A smart rule of thumb for slide count (without feeling boxed in)
- The most important design principle for visuals that actually support your message
- How giving your content space and breathing room leads to better engagement

Whether you tend to overpack your slides or you’re not sure when to use them at all, this episode will help you strike the right balance so your next presentation lands with clarity and purpose.

You’ve got something powerful to share—let’s make sure your slides work for you, not against you.

Want help developing your signature talk? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

What exactly makes a keynote different from your typical business presentation or breakout session?

In this episode, I’m diving into the real distinctions between delivering a keynote and giving a regular talk—and how you can show up powerfully for either one.

Whether you're eyeing the main stage or preparing for your next training, understanding the purpose and structure of your talk will boost your impact.

I share the moment I realized a keynote demands more than just information—it calls for an emotional connection and a lasting impression.

And I walk you through three key differences to help you step into your role with confidence:

**1. Experience vs. Education** A keynote is about transformation—it inspires and moves your audience. A regular talk is about application—it delivers actionable knowledge. Learn how to tell which role you’re in and how to tailor your message accordingly.

**2. Story vs. Structure** Keynotes revolve around storytelling and big ideas, while breakout sessions benefit from strategic frameworks and clear takeaways. I reveal how to blend story and structure no matter what format you’re in.

**3. Performance vs. Instruction** On the keynote stage, you’re leading with presence and energy. In regular sessions, you’re guiding through interaction and insight. I talk about embracing both roles with authenticity and intention.

Whether you're creating your first keynote, refining your workshop, or simply looking to connect deeper with your audience, this episode will give you the clarity you need—and the encouragement to own your voice.

Want help developing your signature talk or keynote? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Dreaming of landing more speaking gigs but feeling stuck on how to get the invites?

In this empowering episode, I dive into how to build a personal brand that naturally attracts speaking opportunities—again and again. 

It’s not just about your headshot or your elevator pitch. It’s about how people experience you, the stories you tell, and the connection you create with your audience and community.

I share the decision that changed everything for me and helped me build lasting relationships that continue to lead to speaking engagements, even two decades later.

You'll learn three actionable steps to get yourself on more stages:

**1. Show Up Where You Want to Get Hired** Start local and get involved in the communities and events where your ideal audience gathers. Before you pitch, participate. Be generous and build genuine relationships with organizers and attendees.

**2. Clarify Your Signature Message** Narrow down what you want to be known for—and make it memorable. Your personal brand should radiate your mission, values, and spark. That’s what makes an audience lean in and remember you long after the talk is over.

**3. Be Visible. Consistently.** From podcast guesting to thoughtful posts on LinkedIn to short-form videos, your consistent online presence helps build familiarity, credibility, and demand for what you offer.

If you want event organizers to say, “She’s exactly who we need,” this episode is your starting point.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Want to make your business presentations more powerful, memorable, and impactful? It’s time to bring in your personal stories.

In this episode, I share why storytelling is a must-have skill for speakers, presenters, and thought leaders—especially in business settings.

If you’ve ever wondered whether telling personal stories might make you sound less professional, I’m here to tell you the opposite is true: stories make you *more* relatable, *more* credible, and *more* unforgettable.

I reflect on my own experiences of favoring data over emotion—and how everything shifted when I took the risk to share something personal. That single story often becomes the most talked-about part of the presentation.

You’ll learn:
- Why personal stories build connection and trust with your audience
- How stories help your content land and stick
- The role emotion plays in driving audience action

Plus, I give you 3 practical storytelling tips you can use right away:
1. Choose a story that directly supports your main message
2. Focus on the moment of change or insight
3. Always close with a clear takeaway that ties back to your audience

Stories don’t need to be dramatic or deeply personal. Even small, honest moments from your work life can have a powerful impact. 

The key is knowing how to use stories with intention. Because your audience isn’t just seeking information—they’re seeking transformation. 

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. 

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

How much of your talk should be memorized versus using notes?

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to memorize every word, but you do need to know your message by heart.

I walk you through a powerful mindset shift, plus specific strategies, that will help you become a more impactful and confident speaker - not a perfectionist reader. 

From structuring your content to practicing your delivery in a more natural, story-driven way, you’ll learn how to make your message land without getting stuck in your head.

You’ll also hear:

- A real client example of what happened when she tried to memorize her 40-minute keynote - and how her delivery transformed with a different approach  

- Why outlining your talk is more effective than scripting it word-for-word  

- How to use personal stories and frameworks as anchors in your presentation  

- Smart ways to use minimal notes to stay on track and sound polished  

- The key mindset: you don’t need to be perfect; you need to be present  

Whether you're prepping for a keynote, webinar, or pitch, this episode will give you the insight and encouragement you need to speak from a grounded, confident, and authentic place.

Want help crafting a talk that feels natural and compelling? Head over to https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together to bring your story and message to life.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Have you seen a speaker on stage and thought, “How do I get there too?”

In this episode, I’m diving into the exact steps you can take to start getting booked for speaking engagements, whether your goal is to headline a major conference or be the go-to expert at industry events. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t happen by accident.

I’ll walk you through three key actions that will move you from dreaming about speaking to being seen and heard on real stages:

1. **Build Your Speaker Page**: What to include so event organizers know who you are, what you speak about, and how to book you.

2. **Get Visible in the Right Places**: How showing up - both online and in person - opens doors and creates the connections that lead to bookings.

3. **Pitch Yourself with Purpose**: What makes a pitch stand out to event planners and how to align your message with what their audience truly needs.

These strategies have helped our clients land incredible speaking opportunities and they’re exactly what I used when I first started my own speaking journey.

If you've been wondering when would be the "right time" to start speaking, this is your sign. You don’t need to have everything perfect. You just need to start showing up as the speaker you’re becoming.

Tune in and learn how you can take those first steps with clarity, confidence, and practical tools that get results.

Want help developing your signature talk or keynote? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Have you finished a presentation only to think… “Well, that’s it”? Or maybe your audience gave polite applause, but didn’t seem all that energized or inspired? 

The way you end your presentation is just as important - if not more important - than how you begin.

In this solo episode, I (AI Carol!) explore how to design an impactful ending that leaves your audience feeling connected, motivated, and compelled to take action.

I share:
- Why a strong close matters more than you might think
- What I learned from a fizzled-out ending in one of my own early talks
- Three powerful ways to end your presentation intentionally
- Bring it full circle by revisiting your opening story or metaphor
- Create emotional resonance with heartfelt stories, quotes, or declarations
- Offer one actionable next step to guide your audience forward
- My take on why “Any questions?” should never be your actual closing line 

Plus, I prompt you to think about how you want your audience to *feel* and *do* after your talk—because that’s what they’ll remember most.

Before your next speaking engagement, give your ending the thoughtful attention it deserves. Your message, and your audience, are worth it.

If you're ready to elevate your keynote or signature talk, head over to https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can help. 

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Feeling stuck in a whirlwind of ideas and unsure of where to begin?

If you're a visionary bursting with possibilities but spinning your wheels trying to pick the “right” starting point, you’re going to love this episode

I know what it’s like—your brain feels like it has 42 tabs open at once. You're juggling creativity, strategy, excitement, and maybe a little bit of pressure to pick the most perfect idea to pursue. And that’s exactly where we can get stuck.

Here’s what I want you to know: having too many ideas isn’t the problem. The key is choosing just *one* to explore—without the pressure of perfection.

In this episode, I walk you through three simple and empowering steps to move from overwhelm to focused clarity: 

1. **Pick one idea** that lights you up—not the “best” or most “profitable,” but the one that sparks your curiosity.

2. **Talk it out loud** to gain instant clarity. Whether with a friend, coach, or a voice memo app, speaking activates insights that thinking alone can’t reach.

3. **Create a container** for your ideas so they don’t keep piling up in your brain. Free up mental space and build trust that your ideas will be there when you’re ready. 

Whether you're crafting your next talk, business offering, or simply exploring your message, this episode will help you tame the idea flood and take meaningful action. 

If you're ready to clarify your message and create a transformational signature talk, https://speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together. 

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Have you ever stepped onto a stage thinking, “I hope they like my talk…”?  

I’ve been there too. But here’s the truth: your presentation isn’t about *you* - it’s about your *audience*. And when you shift your focus to serve them, everything changes.  

In this episode, I’m sharing how to organize your presentation using a simple yet powerful 3-act structure based on our Signature Talk Canvas framework. This is your key to creating talks that don’t just inform, but truly connect, flow effortlessly, and leave a lasting impact.  

Inside this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Structure your talk like a compelling story, with a clear beginning, middle, and end  
• Open strong by establishing context and emotional connection (hello, Act 1!)  
• Share your big idea and key takeaways without overwhelming your audience (hello, Act 2!)  
• End with inspiration *and* action so your audience leaves energized (you guessed it: Act 3!)  

Plus, I’m giving you actionable tips you can use *right now*, like:

• My favorite color-coded post-it note method  
• Why your call to action should guide the entire flow of your content  

Whether you’re gearing up for your first big keynote or refining your current presentation, this framework will help you deliver with more confidence, clarity, and connection.  

Want personalized help creating your signature talk? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to find out how we can support you.  

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.