In this episode of Speak to Impact, Kelly Kaye Walker sits down with Justin Maxwell, a Vistage speaker and former school teacher. Justin shares his journey to becoming a speaker and delivers a speech on creating generational wealth.
Kelly provides detailed feedback, touching on stagecraft, audience connection, and the nuances of impactful storytelling. This is an invaluable episode for anyone wanting to refine their speaking skills and learn how to make their message resonate deeply.
Connect with Justin at his website,
https://www.JustinDMaxwell.com
or find him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinmaxwellwealthpreserve/
🎯 Key Takeaways
Own Your Openings and Closings:
Kelly praised Justin’s opening, saying, “The beginning of a speech and the ending of a speech are the two most powerful points, and sadly, so many people biff the opening and then biff the landing. I love your opening—it’s an awesome example of opening with a shocking statement.” (Timestamp: 5:39)
Master the Pause:
“When you say, ‘You’ll all be out of business,’ that’s a really good place to add a long pause. My recommended time is a three-count—1, 2, 3—and that’s minimum. If you can go longer, even better.” (Timestamp: 6:44)
Stage Geography:
Kelly noted Justin’s use of movement: “When you said, ‘Let me take you back,’ you moved to your right, which for the audience represents the past. Stage geography is so important, and I love that you did that.” (Timestamp: 7:55)
Engaging with Energy:
On playing with voice and movement: “I see an opportunity here for you to step into sales-bro personality—really loud and fast, overly fake intimate. It would be a fun way to play with the audience and add vocal variety.” (Timestamp: 10:36)
Audience Connection:
“An audience wants to feel safe with you and confident in how to engage with you. Give super clear instructions so they never feel confused or afraid to respond.” (Timestamp: 13:00)
Visual Aids Matter:
Kelly noted, “The jars look smudged and scuffed up. Maybe you could do something that looks more high-end—it would elevate the overall feel of your presentation.” (Timestamp: 44:29)
Wardrobe Choices:
“The shirt kind of took away a little bit from your look. I recommend getting a really nice dress shirt—take away every obstacle from your message so people receive it fully into their souls.” (Timestamp: 40:31)
🕒 Timestamps
00:04 – Introduction: Justin Maxwell and his transition to public speaking.
07:00 – Justin shares how speaking at an event changed his business trajectory.
12:10 – Feedback on stage geography and the importance of intentional movement.
26:40 – The power of playing with energy and stepping outside your natural demeanor.
35:00 – How to create audience safety with clear instructions.
44:29 – Improving visual aids for a polished presentation.
40:31 – Why wardrobe details matter for professional speakers.
43:00 – Justin’s closing story on generational wealth and legacy.
💬 Memorable Quotes
“Discomfort is my compass. If there’s something I feel like I can’t do, that’s exactly what I need to do to grow.” (Justin, 12:00)
“Stage geography is so important—it helps the audience follow your story visually and emotionally.” (Kelly, 7:55)
The focus of this podcast is to:
- Help you get better at Public Speaking
- Show you ways to connect more deeply with your audience
- Improve your storytelling
- Level up your communication skills
- Share presentation tips for stage or Zoom
- Overcome the fear of public speaking
- Create and encourage more public speakers
Need help getting better at public speaking? Want to be a motivational speaker? Want to just not suck at presentations? Let's chat! Book a free 30 minute game plan session at https://tidycal.com/kellywalker/gameplan
Check out my speaker coaching options at: www.kellykayewalker.com/coaching
