Why is it terrifying to present to just four people? According to Will Greenblatt, it's because our brains still think the tribe might "club us over the head" if they don't like what we say.

Will's journey from Canadian child actor (yes, a self-proclaimed "nepo baby") to sought-after corporate speaking coach is anything but typical. After working with Anne Bancroft as a kid and nearly getting swept up in the Hollywood machine, a family tragedy and toxic theater school experience led him to completely reinvent himself.

But here's what makes this episode essential listening: Will discovered that the same skills that make great actors also create breakthrough leaders. The difference? It's not about performing—it's about finding emotional truth and connecting authentically with your audience.

The game-changing insight: When Will's clients embrace just 10% more vulnerability in meetings, they see measurable career improvements—better performance reviews, more influence, and stronger professional relationships. Because while everyone else is playing it safe, that small dose of authenticity makes you unforgettable.

We dive deep into why mentorship is broken in today's workplace, how to spot genuine people in interviews, and Will's three-act framework for storytelling that builds instant trust. Plus, he shares the uncomfortable truth about why taking career risks, like leaving acting or corporate, might be the safest move you can make.

“You give somebody the opportunity to destroy you, and you hope that they won't, and they might. But you can't love without that risk. And it's the same kind of thing when you tell your boss what you really think.” 

~ Will Greenblatt

In This Episode:

-The real difference between performing and authentic communication

-Why our fear of public speaking is literally prehistoric 

-The 10% vulnerability rule that transforms careers 

-How to build trust through authentic storytelling 

-Will's childhood-to-adult-choice framework for connection 

-Why the "speaker-writer-coach-creator" career is the future 

-How to network without being transactional 

And much more!

Resources:

-Free Guide to LinkedIn Job Hunting for the 40+ Crew - https://www.itgetslateearly.com/job-guide

-Supercharge Your Speaking Skills by Will Greenblatt - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2esQpzqZUUYD8Nxp9lKe05K1aYMpsNwU

Connect with Will Greenblatt:

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willgreenblatt/

-Website: https://www.skool.com/speakingheroes/about

Connect with Maureen Clough:

-LinkedIn: maureenwclough - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureenwclough/

-Website: itgetslateearly.com - https://www.itgetslateearly.com/

-Instagram: @itgetslateearly - https://www.instagram.com/itgetslateearly/

-YouTube: @itgetslateearly - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGrHwk-y7ERaq7bCSjZYf1A?sub_confirmation=1

-Facebook: It Gets Late Early - https://www.facebook.com/people/It-gets-late-early/100088694515585/