Introverted and tired of networking that feels like forced small talk? In this episode, host Rupesh Parbhoo sits down with Rachel Perez, Owner and Creative Director of Composion, to share low-pressure ways to build real professional relationships. They talk about why deep listening is an introvert superpower, how arriving early makes conversations easier, and simple icebreakers that feel natural. Rachel also shares how improv classes helped her get comfortable thinking on her feet. Perfect for introverts and quiet professionals who want to grow their network with confidence and authenticity.

Key takeaways

Rachel Perez is the Owner and Creative Director of Composion. She specializes in branding, logo design, and website design for small, service-based businesses in the human and animal health and wellness space, with 14+ years of experience and a degree in Visual Communication.

Chapters:

Serban Mare: PMP-certified Technical Program Manager with 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, leading complex mixed-signal IC projects from concept to mass production. Corporate speaker specializing in stress resilience, energy management, and workplace well-being.

www.SerbanMare.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/serban-morea-pmp/

[email protected]

 Stress Test Evaluation: https://serbanmare.com/stress-check/

How can knowing your strengths change every conversation you have? In this episode, host Rupesh Parbhoo sits down with leadership coach Kelly Soifer to explore how a strengths-based lens reshapes communication, collaboration, and conflict. They unpack what CliftonStrengths really measures, how your “balconies and basements” show up when you speak, and why some people thrive in debate while others shine in one-on-one conversations. Kelly shares real coaching stories, practical ways to map your strengths to your communication style, and one simple habit you can start using in your very next meeting. Perfect for leaders, managers, and communicators who want to connect more effectively and bring out the best in every voice.

Always setting goals but not following through? In this episode of Speak Arizona, host Rupesh sits down with Hugo and Crystal Vasquez to explore how accountability can turn vague intentions into real results. They share the story behind their Team 212°, why most people stall after the initial excitement, and how a simple structure of check-ins, tracking, and encouragement keeps members moving forward. You’ll hear practical ideas for setting meaningful goals, staying consistent when life gets busy, and creating a culture where people feel both supported and challenged.

Perfect for Toastmasters, leaders, and growth-minded professionals who want their goals to finally stick.

00:00 – Welcome to Speak Arizona

In this episode of Speak Arizona, hosts Serban and Rupesh delve into various facets of effective communication, inspired leadership, and the power of creating versus consuming. They discuss how creating content, such as Rupesh’s LinkedIn newsletter 'Leadership in the Wild,' provides energy and reflection. They also share insights on storytelling versus pragmatic discussions, the balance of vulnerability and embarrassment, and the importance of asking questions to understand your audience better. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a professional speaker, this episode offers valuable tips and inspiring stories to elevate your communication skills.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

In this episode of Speak Arizona, host Serban and guest host Rupesh discuss the transformative journey of becoming a paid public speaker. Serban opens up about his initial crippling fear of public speaking and how he overcame it through Toastmasters and consistent practice. The discussion emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges, visualizing success, and finding a unique voice in the crowded field of public speaking. The episode also delves into tactical advice for aspiring speakers, the power of feedback, and the significance of mindset in achieving professional success. With inspiring stories and expert insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their communication skills.

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

00:36 Meet the Hosts: Serban and Rupesh

01:04 Rupesh Interviews Serban: Journey to Public Speaking

02:15 Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

05:21 The Importance of Communication Skills

08:10 First Paid Speaking Gig

12:16 Embracing Challenges and Growth

20:15 Finding Your Unique Voice

26:38 The Power of Visualization

31:40 Mindset and Belief

41:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Speak Arizona, host Serban offers three surprising yet simple shifts to immediately enhance your communication skills. Drawing on personal experiences and professional insights, Serban emphasizes the importance of saying less to create clarity, sharing stories from a place of healed experience (a scar, not a wound), and actively involving the audience to foster engagement and connection. These actionable tips aim to help professionals captivate their audience, lead successful meetings, and boost their overall professional presence.

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

00:36 Host Introduction and Episode Overview

00:54 The Problem with Modern Presentations

02:02 Tip 1: Say Less, Communicate More

04:02 Tip 2: Share from a Scar, Not a Wound

06:32 Tip 3: Engage Your Audience

09:44 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of Speak Arizona, hosts Rupesh Pabu and Serban interview entrepreneur and fellow podcaster, Dave Zegan. The discussion covers Dave's journey from childhood performances to launching his own businesses, including 'All Good Network' and 'Soundy.' They delve into the importance of effective communication, the role of Toastmasters in honing speaking skills, and the art of asking insightful questions. Dave shares his experience with building and leveraging a podcast for business relationships, as well as the transformative impact of communication on personal and professional success. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories on elevating your speaking skills.

For more information visit speakarizona.com

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

00:43 Meet the Hosts: Rupesh and Serban

00:57 Special Guest: Dave Zegan

01:29 Dave's Entrepreneurial Journey

02:09 The All Good Network and Soundy

04:40 Podcasting at Mesa Business Builders Studios

08:41 The Legends of Zeen Podcast

13:02 The Art of Asking Good Questions

19:59 Defining Success and Personal Reflections

22:58 Embracing Gratitude and Success

24:44 Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

26:41 The Power of Presence in Scary Situations

28:13 The Journey of Public Speaking

36:13 The Role of Toastmasters in Personal Growth

42:27 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

In this episode of Speak Arizona, host Serban tackles why many presentations fall flat despite having technical accuracy. The episode explores how overloading with information causes disengagement and how simplifying your presentation can lead to better audience connection. Serban introduces the 'Rule of One' framework: one big idea, one story per point, and one clear call to action, emphasizing clarity and repeatability over quantity. Practical tips are provided to ensure presentations are engaging, memorable, and impactful. Listeners are encouraged to adopt this concise approach for their next presentation and improve their communication skills.

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

00:36 Why Presentations Fall Flat

03:35 The Rule of One Framework

04:02 One Big Idea

05:22 One Story Per Point

07:06 One Clear Call to Action

08:47 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of Speak Arizona, host Rupesh and guest Tatum O Kennedy, a senior analytics engineer and chair of the Women of Seek, explore the intricacies of team building and its impact on effective leadership. They discuss the importance of proactive leadership, psychological safety, and creating diverse communication pathways. They also delve into gender dynamics in team building and share personal anecdotes, highlighting the importance of ongoing and intentional team-building activities. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about books, public speaking pet peeves, and advice for new speakers.

Visit Speakarizona.com for more information. 

00:00 Introduction to Speak Arizona

00:37 Meet Your Hosts: Rupesh and Tatum

01:46 The Importance of Team Building

05:43 Gender Dynamics in Team Building

13:29 Designing Effective Team Building Activities

19:44 Memorable Team Building Moments

23:07 Common Mistakes in Team Building

28:21 Rapid Fire Questions