Most business presentations are packed with data no one remembers. Stories are what actually stick.

Karin Reed is joined by senior communication coach Andrea Brody for a conversation that redefines what storytelling looks like in a business setting. What makes someone pause, lean in, and actually remember what you said? Well, it’s probably not your bullet points.

Andrea shares insights from her Inspiring Through Storytelling workshop, including the science behind why our brains respond so strongly to stories, and why even simple, everyday moments can leave a lasting impression. She breaks down common misconceptions about what counts as a “real” story and explains how value stories, founder stories, and customer stories can all be used strategically, depending on your audience.

For anyone who’s tired of being forgettable in meetings, pitches, or presentations, Karin and Andrea’s conversation offers a smarter way to connect, and a clearer reason to start sharing stories that actually mean something.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Business Storytelling and Why It Matters

02:51 Inside the “Inspiring Through Storytelling” Workshop

05:04 The Science Behind Why Stories Stick

07:59 What Makes a Story Effective

10:54 “I’m Not a Storyteller” and Other Common Myths

11:18 How to Find Meaningful Stories in Everyday Life

13:35 Participant Breakthroughs and Story Wins

19:40 NFL Combine Example: Quiet Leadership Through Story

22:07 Leading Through Storytelling in Tough Times

Links

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Becoming a go-to media expert doesn’t happen by chance. There are multiple factors that make you the guest who is on speed dial. But what are those factors? 

Karin Reed talks with Paula Rizzo, an Emmy-winning producer, author and media trainer, about what it really takes to get booked by the media and asked back. Why do some experts become regulars while others never hear a word? What makes a producer stop scrolling and actually open your pitch?

Paula shares what she looked for when booking guests during her years in TV news and how she used those same strategies to build her own media presence. She explains the importance of showing up online, pitching with a clear hook and takeaway, and creating content that reflects your expertise. She also unpacks what it means to be “good on camera” and why clarity always matters more than charisma.

This episode offers guidance for authors, entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts who want to raise their visibility and be taken seriously by the media. If you’re ready to be seen as the expert, this is where to begin.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Becoming a Media Expert

01:13 Paula Rizzo’s Media Journey

03:20 How to Start: Blogging, Pitching, and Visibility

05:00 What Makes a Great Media Guest

06:10 Why Availability Matters

08:19 How to Pitch the Media Effectively

10:54 Follow-Up and Relationship Building

13:11 Understanding What Producers Actually Need

14:55 Being Good on Camera

19:11 Speaking in Soundbites

21:23 Where to Begin as an Aspiring Expert

23:57 Common Misconceptions About Media

26:04 When to Start Media Training

27:50 Be Visible to Be Found

Links

Connect with Paula Rizzo:

For listeners – anyone who is interested in applying for a free strategy session with me can go to SpeakWithPaula.com to apply. There are limited spots available.

For anyone interested in lists and productivity, here’s a list-making starter kit at paularizzo.com/lists

To connect via LinkedIn please go here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paularizzo1/

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Controlling a room full of senior leaders starts with knowing your mission and refusing to let interruptions derail it. So what happens when you walk into a meeting ready to present and the executives start cutting you off before you even reach slide two? Karin Reed knows the feeling, and she offers a smarter way to handle it without losing control or losing your nerve.

In this episode, Karin breaks down five practical strategies for staying in charge when senior leaders steer the conversation off course. She shares why setting expectations early can help you hold the room, how trimming your content down to what matters most can work in your favor, and why you should never make a busy executive wait for the point you’re trying to make. Would your presentation land differently if you led with the ‘ask’ instead of saving it for the end? Karin explains why it would and how it changes the way people listen. You’ll also hear smart ways to handle interruptions without giving away control and how to design your slides to flex with the conversation instead of boxing you in.

Karin drives home a simple truth: your voice matters, no matter where you sit on the org chart. When you stay intentional, respectful, and focused, you help leaders make better decisions. And that is exactly why you are in the room.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

01:04 Mission and Importance of Presentation

02:32 Understanding Senior Leaders’ Intent

04:51 Five Strategies Overview

05:03 Strategy 1: Setting Expectations

07:10 Strategy 2: Be Realistic with Content

10:18 Strategy 3: Don’t Bury the Lead

14:00 Strategy 4: Handling Questions

18:46 Strategy 5: Be Flexible

Links

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people think polish makes a speaker great. Authenticity is what makes an audience listen.

In this episode, Karin Reed talks with international keynote speaker and bestselling author Ryan Vet about what it really takes to build a professional speaking business. From a non-linear journey shaped by entrepreneurship and early Twitter fame to a moment of clarity sparked by unexpected feedback, Ryan shares how authenticity, not polish, is the quality that sets great speakers apart.

Ryan and Karin discuss common misconceptions about the speaking world, including the myth that success happens quickly or that all impactful talks happen on massive stages. Ryan offers practical insight into building a sustainable speaking business, from understanding who’s in the room to customizing talks without compromising your voice. He also explains why things like AV etiquette, recording your talks, and building multiple revenue streams are part of the job, not just extras.

Whether you’re aiming for the main stage or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this conversation pulls back the curtain on professional speaking with honesty, humor, and a healthy dose of real talk.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

01:30 Ryan’s Path to Professional Speaking

04:30 Lessons from Writing Speak Goodr

06:00 Handling On-Stage Mishaps

09:24 Respecting the AV Team

10:04 Building a Speaking Business

12:43 Setting and Explaining Your Fee

16:37 Creating Multiple Revenue Streams

17:05 Preparing for Your Audience

20:14 Why Recording Your Talks Matters

22:19 How the Speaking Industry is Changing

23:32 Impacting Audiences of Any Size

25:55 Stick With It

Links

Connect with Ryan Vet:

www.RyanVet.com 

www.SpeakGoodr.com

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Executive presence isn’t something you’re just born with. It’s built through intention, visibility, and the willingness to quiet your inner critic. These are some of the key takeaways from Karin Reed’s talk produced by e-learning titan, Madecraft, as part of their &Then speakers’ series.

Karin returns to a topic she’s known for—owning the room—but this time through a more personal lens. What does it take to show up with confidence when your inner voice is questioning every move? How do you project leadership when imposter syndrome is creeping into your psyche?

Through stories from her early days as a young reporter and lessons learned from years coaching professionals on camera and in the room, Karin outlines what executive presence really requires. She breaks it down into three areas: how others see you, how you see yourself, and how you stay true to who you are while still making an impact.

You’ll hear tips for making stronger digital impressions, learn why solo episodes almost didn’t happen on her podcast, and get a reminder that your value isn’t tied to how well you match someone else’s mold. This episode is a smart, honest look at how to show up clearly, confidently, and fully yourself.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction 

02:08 Defining Executive Presence

05:12 The Importance of First Impressions

07:00 Elements of Strong Presence

09:17 Improving Your Virtual Presence

12:48 Maximizing Your Screen Space

13:10 Owning Your Expertise

16:02 The Value of Authenticity

17:27 The Importance of Executive Presence

Links

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Rigid leadership is a thing of the past. In today’s unpredictable world, leaders who adapt are the ones who thrive. But what does true flexibility look like?

Karin Reed sits down with leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry to talk about the ideas in his latest book, “Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence.” He challenges the belief that leadership styles should stay fixed, arguing that clinging to one approach can limit effectiveness. Instead, he shares how leaders can stay rooted in their values while adjusting their methods to fit the moment.

How do you break free from habits that no longer serve you? When should you step in with direction, and when should you hold back and listen? Kevin shares examples, strategies, and a framework for developing the mindset, skillset, and habit set needed to lead with confidence, no matter what comes next.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction to Flexible Leadership

06:37 Flexibility Beyond Remote Work

09:01 Real-World Example: Asking vs. Telling

13:23 Importance of Listening in Leadership

15:34 Framework: Mindset, Skill Set, and Habit Set

18:30 Balancing Empathy with Organizational Goals

20:26 Challenges in Adopting Flexible Leadership

24:35 Future of Flexible Leadership

25:44 One Big Takeaway: Context Matters

Links

Connect with Kevin Eikenberry:

https://kevineikenberry.com

http://KevinEikenberry.com/flexible

KevinEikenberry.com/gift

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevineikenberry/

https://twitter.com/kevineikenberry

https://www.youtube.com/user/KevinEikenberryGroup

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Milestones often go unnoticed in the moment, but looking back, they reveal the moments that shape careers, confidence, and impact.

As Speaker Dynamics turns one, Karin Reed reflects on the moments that defined her communication journey: an unexpected assignment that led to an Emmy, a simple legal pad sketch that became a career-defining framework, and the years of preparation that positioned her to help professionals navigate the sudden shift to virtual communication. Along the way, she discovered that the most meaningful opportunities aren’t always the ones we seek out, but the ones that challenge us in ways we never expected.

What experiences have quietly reshaped your path? This episode is a reminder to recognize the lessons in past milestones, and to use them to shape what comes next.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

03:06 First Communication Milestone: Tuesday’s Child

05:37 Impact of Tuesday’s Child Assignment

06:48 Emmy Award for Special Needs Adoption Documentary

07:02 Lesson from Tuesday’s Child Experience

07:03 Second Communication Milestone: Teaching On-Camera Communication

08:58 Developing the MVPs of On-Camera Success

10:13 Expanding Workshops and Writing a Book

10:45 Lesson from Teaching On-Camera Communication

11:07 Third Communication Milestone: 2020 and Virtual Communication

12:13 Webinar with Dr. Joe Allen

13:06 Onslaught of Business in 2020

14:00 Scaling Training and Speaker Dynamics University

15:04 Lesson from 2020 Experience

16:10 Reflecting on Career Impact

17:35 This Week’s Big Takeaway

18:17 Encouragement to Reflect on Personal Milestones

18:48 Closing

Links

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Can remote teams recreate those spontaneous office moments, the quick chats and casual check-ins, without stepping into a building?

Karin Reed sits down with Lisette Sutherland, director of Collaboration Superpowers, to talk about spatial working, a fresh approach to remote work that brings a real sense of presence to virtual teams. Instead of relying on scheduled meetings, these digital office spaces create opportunities for spontaneous interactions. Teams can see who is around, drop in for quick conversations, and feel more connected throughout the day.

Lisette shares her own experience testing these tools, including Welo, and explains why they offer something that video calls and Slack messages cannot. She also digs into the biggest hurdles, why teams hesitate to try new tech, what makes adoption tricky, and how to introduce it in a way that actually sticks.

If remote work feels disconnected or overly structured, this episode offers a different way forward. Could spatial working be the key to rebuilding team culture and making virtual collaboration feel effortless?

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction to Spatial Working

01:06 Lisette Sutherland

02:08 Defining Spatial Working

03:55 Benefits of Spatial Working

06:20 Lisette’s Deep Dive into Spatial Working

09:10 Serendipity in Virtual Offices

10:12 Barriers to Adoption

13:13 Ideal Organization Size for Spatial Working

16:14 Solving Connectedness with Spatial Working

18:13 Experimenting with Spatial Working

19:04 Lack of Awareness and Future Trends

21:44 Ingredients for a Successful Launch

23:44 Making Networking Events Fun

24:34 Key Takeaways

26:01 Closing

Links

Welo (a Collaboration Superpowers favorite) - https://www.welo.space

Remo - https://remo.co

Gathertown - https://www.gather.town

Kumospace - https://www.kumospace.com

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most New Year’s resolutions don’t last, but a few small shifts in how you communicate can lead to meaningful, lasting change.

Karin Reed shares three communication resolutions designed to help you show up with more confidence, clarity, and impact. She breaks down why winging it is a gamble, how listening can be a superpower, and why your voice deserves to be heard. Through personal stories and insights, she challenges common habits that hold people back—like underpreparing for high-stakes moments, tuning out instead of truly listening, and staying silent when their perspective matters. 

Whether you want to be a stronger leader, a more effective speaker, or simply more intentional in daily conversations, Karin offers a fresh approach to communication resolutions that actually stick.

Quotes

Links

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Great leadership starts with connecting as a person, not commanding from a position. In this episode, Karin Reed is joined by Mark Carpenter, the best-selling author of “Lead Like a Person, Not a Position,” to discuss how leaders can prioritize human connection over authority. Mark shares the personal regrets that fueled his mission to help leaders avoid the pitfalls of positional power and lead with empathy and humanity.

Through a career anecdote, Mark points out the consequences of leadership that’s rooted in authority—damaged trust, strained relationships, and high turnover—and explains why treating team members as people rather than subordinates is essential in today’s knowledge-based economy.

Mark introduces three actionable behaviors for leading like a person: listening intently to understand issues fully, communicating clearly to build trust, and recognizing contributions in meaningful ways. These habits do not only strengthen teams but also foster environments where people thrive.

The episode also tackles the challenge of leading authentically in cultures that reward hierarchy. Mark provides insights on whether those environments align with a leader’s values and shares a success story of a leader who embraced these principles to build a solid team.

Mark’s final takeaway? Leadership is a choice. Be intentional about the legacy you want to create.

Quotes

Links

Connect with Mark Carpenter:

Website: LeadLikeAPerson.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-carpenter-0b55221/

Connect with Karin Reed:

Website: www.speakerdynamics.com

Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/

Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/

Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm