What makes some creators cut through the noise while others just… fade into the scroll?

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Jay Acunzo, international speaker, storytelling coach, and the mastermind behind the “resonance over reach” philosophy. Jay has worked with brands like Google, HubSpot, and ESPN—and today, he shares what really helps coaches, creators, and business leaders connect with their audience in a meaningful, profitable way.

We talk about how to uncover clarity in your message, why most “signature talks” miss the mark, and how you can structure your communication to inspire change—not just attention.

If you’re trying to grow your thought leadership, book speaking gigs, or create content that sticks, this conversation is a masterclass.

What you'll learn:

• Why clarity is more important than consistency
• The 4-part storytelling framework to boost resonance
• How to refine your thought leadership on LinkedIn
• The right way to test, tweak, and ship your ideas
• Why a "signature talk" is really an argument for change

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Key to Effortless Attention

00:27 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing

00:58 Introducing Jay Acunzo: Master of Clarity

06:43 The Importance of Public Speaking

14:12 Crafting Memorable Stories

19:19 The Four Beats of Storytelling

19:54 Align: Understanding Your Audience

20:07 Agitate: Highlighting the Problems

21:00 Assert: Presenting Your Solution

21:32 Invite: Engaging Your Audience

22:36 The Importance of Personal Branding

23:14 Finding Your Unique Speaking Voice

24:28 The Role of Authenticity in Speaking

25:59 Developing and Refining Your Ideas

28:37 Practical Tips for Nervous Speakers

31:17 The Power of a Creative Practice

33:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Tune in now, and let’s help you build a message that actually moves people.

Visit Jay Acunzo online:

Website: https://jayacunzo.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayacunzo/

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-stories-happen/id1736586770

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jayacunzo

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

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