Words that Change Lives

In this episode, I sit down with Shiggi Paktor, who's carved a niche for herself in the world of audio, from her days as a college DJ to becoming a sound engineering expert. We discuss everything from her love affair with vinyl and DJing, the world of podcasting, audiobook production, and the art of emotional storytelling through sound. Plus, we'll tackle the fascinating interplay between visuals and audio in learning and communication, and the critical role of having an authentic voice in an AI-driven world.

Here are the Highlights:

04:53 Learned English at a young age, skilled in communication.

09:42 Cocky teen learns DJing over summer break.

13:12 Transitioned to sound engineering for audiobooks.

20:15 Visual anchors and body language enhance communication.

24:11 On-stage performance requires both visual and auditory appeal.

26:54 Engaged in comedy show interaction, a learning experience.

32:44 Processing styles affect perception of audio content.

35:32 Interest in experimental assets and audio narration.

38:29 Adapting to new technology, explore voice cloning.

41:19 Consider long-term plans for your podcast.

Connect with: Shiggi Pakter

​​Shiggi is a multi-talented entrepreneur who found her niche in helping business entrepreneurs find their online voice through various audio assets, thus founding AudioFy as the playground for audiobook, podcast and other audio content production. With a background in sound engineering spanning over 20 years, twinned with a love for the theatrical, with the help of various clients over the years she's now created her own "Redline Method'' that allows business authors to remotely record professional-sounding audiobooks ready for Audible, private hosting or any other kind of online utilisation. 

Beyond AudioFy, she's a professional DJ, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast and coach and her idea of downtime usually involves spending hours rock-climbing.

Audio Production Services: www.audiofy.me

Voice Over Artist / Podcaster: www.shiggi.co.uk

DJ Bookings: www.theneopink.com

Exec PT Referrals: www.superbodied.me

Catalyst Climbing Private Coaching: www.catalystclimbing.com

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for actionable tips on different topics aimed to help you 10x the impact of your communication.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTxqnAHkZL5bGKGgA3VJRg

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

This episode explores the TEDx journey of Tony Brooks, a leadership psychologist and author, who recently gave his TEDx talk exploring the complex dance between survival thinking and creativity. 

Helen and Tony discuss the intricacies of applying and preparing for a TEDx talk under the theme of "creativity through adversity" and how Tony's upcoming book aims to tackle survival psychology in modern life.

Here are the highlights:

04:38 Emphasise expertise, passion, and impact in TEDx talk.

07:44 Creativity through adversity: managing survival thinking for freedom.

09:31 Event theme: Find link, challenge adversity creatively

12:47 Refining content and structure with rusted input.

17:22 TEDx talks raise awareness and change lives.

19:22 Tony shares insights and challenges in writing talk.

22:48 Understanding ancient survival behaviours in modern life.

27:30 Successful performance, positive feedback, pleased with outcome.

Connect with: Tony Brooks

Tony Brooks is an experienced Leadership Psychologist, Author, podcast Host, TEDx speaker and recognised as an inspiring and impactful Speaker on Leadership Mindset and Survival Psychology.

He believes the number one problem facing you as a leader is your leadership mindset. At the root of this is the impact of exaggerated, distorted and imagined Survival Thinking, manifested through areas such as Impostor Syndrome, Ego, Defensive Mindset, Negative Self Talk and Group Behaviour. 

Connect with Tony:

Website: https://thetonybrooks.com/podcast-episodes/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonybrooks63/?originalSubdomain=uk

Watch Tony’s TEDx talk here:

https://youtu.be/VpG41AH8OjA?si=mI0PzncHjW9QVxHF

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant access to the Cracking the TEDx Code workshop giving you all the step by step details for landing a TEDx gig here

https://helenpackham.lpages.co/tedx-code-workshop/

Learn how to speak confidently without notes or prompts in my YouTube video

https://youtu.be/7aKX_pqwskg?si=qnNtwYEJVuJPf2BQ

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of AI and humanity with special guest John Spencer Williams, an author, entrepreneur and a visionary in the realm of AI. 

John will share his insights on the hypnotic power of storytelling, its roots in human history, and its contemporary digital transformation. We also examine the pressing question of human connection and isolation in our tech-addicted society.

Here are the highlights:

• 03:52 Developed and marketed innovative technology
• 07:54 Using psychology and storytelling to engage audiences.
• 12:20 Fascination with psychology and storytelling's impact.
• 13:20 Sam Altman believes AI will achieve superhuman persuasion.
• 18:58 AI change creates dramatic but worrying uncertainty.
• 21:33 Seeking specific content to inspire and motivate.
• 24:01 Zoom fatigue, craving human interaction and AI impact.
• 27:53 Evidence for a link between creativity and mental health.
• 36:09 Praised colloquial style and borrowed from Chat GPT.
• 39:56 Embracing uniqueness to connect in a saturated world.
• 40:35 Personal stories have a universal impact on communication.

Connect with: John Spencer Williams

John started his career in special effects software then became a Senior Managing Consultant at Deloitte before quitting and declaring he never wanted a job ever again.

He is founder of The Ideas Lab and has now helped thousands of people to create a business they love that stands out in a crowded world.

John Spencer Williams is author of "F**k Work Let's Play: Do what you love & get paid for it" which was WHSmith business book of the month and is an updated version of a book that has now been translated into 9 languages. 

John runs the London AI event AIQ. Subscribe for notifications of the next event on Eventbrite at raiseyouraiq.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnswilliams

Download John's free 12-page guide to creating a business you love at:

http://theideaslab.co

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this episode, Helen Packham shares her personal journey of overcoming fear and delivering a TEDx talk with only 24 hours' notice. From her experiences, she delves into the essential components of developing an "idea worth spreading.”

She discusses the importance of aligning your idea with the event's theme, ensuring its clarity and societal relevance, and exploring different types of unique angles to make your idea stand out. The episode provides valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to land a TEDx gig and make an impact with their message. 

Here are the highlights:

• 05:01 Crucial aspect of landing TEDx talk discussed.
• 09:05 TEDx gig applications require personal-professional alignment.
• 11:17 Identifying event themes is crucial for planning and organisation.
• 13:46 Consider impact, expertise, and simplicity when developing your idea for a TEDx talk.
• 18:14 Bringing a fresh twist to existing ideas.
• 23:09 Encouraging goal-setting and pursuing TEDx talks. You can achieve it with preparation and work.

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Download my free TEDx worthy checklist to put your idea worth spreading through the TED filter.

Learn how to crack the TEDx code with Helen’s free workshop

https://helenpackham.lpages.co/tedx-code-workshop

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Today's episode brings us the breathtaking story of Zoe Cross, a distinguished speaker who's overcome the obstacle of facial paralysis to master the art of communication and share her message with the world. Zoe navigates life with Moebius syndrome and has made the bold choice to not let differences dim her light. Zoe and I delve into her emotional journey to TEDx Frankfurt, and her incredible TEDx talk on "Overcoming rejection by smiling with your heart," and the moments that forged her path from uncertainty to the stage. Join us as Zoe reflects on her TedX journey with me as her mentor and the pivotal question "What if you could?" We'll celebrate her shift from a perceived barrier to empowering Listen to Zoe’s story on the Words that Change Lives podcast, where every story has the power to spark change.

Here are the highlights:

• 00:01 Inspiring journey with Zoe to TEDx stage.
• 04:53 Positive experience promoting TEDx events, giving value.
• 06:52 Formulating aligned message, struggles connecting ideas, spreading talk.
• 10:39 Embracing visibility empowers Zoe to speak out.
• 13:22 Grateful for an upbringing that instilled a growth mindset early.
• 19:25 The power of words in connecting people.
• 20:08 Revisiting talk, spreading ideas, finding speaking gigs.
• 25:07 Recording in Frankfurt, special test experience.
• 28:29 Impromptu preparation led to a successful talk.
• 31:52 Alignment with passion and societal mission appreciated.
• 37:05 An emotional event led to potential speaking opportunities.
• 37:53 Public speaking empowerment, TEDx journey, and life-changing words.

Connect with: Zoe Cross

Website: https://zoe-cross.com/en/home/ 

TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/zoe_anthea_cross_overcome_rejection_by_smiling_with_your_heart_jan_2021?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Download my free TEDx worthy checklist to put your idea worth spreading through the TED filter.

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this episode, Helen Packham engages in an eye-opening and candid conversation with special guest and renowned podcast host Danusia Malina-Derben. Join them as they delve into the critical topic of giving voice to diverse perspectives that can often challenge the status quo. Uncover the struggles, triumphs, and personal growth that come with using one's voice, and explore the complexities of inclusion, identity, and freedom of speech.

Together, they navigate through a thought-provoking discussion on parenting, controversy and diversity. Plus the dilemma of giving a voice to Katie Hopkins. Shedding light on the power of words to ignite change. With real-life experiences and empowering insights, this episode promises to inspire and challenge listeners to amplify their voices and embrace the impact of their words on the world.

Here are the highlights:

• 06:33 Survival through adversity, despair, and corporate connections.
• 08:25 Negotiated settlement after a prolonged, and invasive process.
• 13:18 Reached out for help with serious fraud.
• 16:13 Empowerment through adversity, using voice, achieving limits.
• 17:42 Promoting diversity and inclusion in podcasting.
• 20:47 Focus on inclusion and diversity in motherhood.
• 28:39 Unpublished episode titled "Too Afraid to Publish"
• 33:05 Facilitating open, respectful dialogue on important topics.
• 36:41 Fear of cancel culture affecting public image.
• 39:30 Acknowledging the need for vulnerability in self-reflection.
• 46:30 Danusia’s child doesn't need to be the favourite.
• 47:52 Importance of giving a voice to divisive topics.

Connect with: Danusia Malina-Derben

Danusia Malina-Derben is a mother of ten children, and still her own woman. From teen mother to tenured Organisational Behaviour and Development academic, on to award-winning, internationally published leadership expert. Danusia traded academia in for boardrooms where she, and her team, consult on peak performance and strategic leadership in senior teams. Beyond the boardroom she is a regular contributor on future C-level business changes/trends, cultivating women's leadership and age-old debates about women's careers and family. Danusia is a rousing and sought-after keynote speaker, and frequent expert commentator featured most recently in The Guardian, The Times, Observer, and Metro. 

Danusia hosts two top-rated companion podcasts; School for Mothers and School for Fathers. In 2021 her book on motherhood identity “NOISE: A Manifesto Modernising Motherhood” (Triumph Press) received praise and recognition from The Sunday Times to Metro, Psychologies to the Guardian. Her next book “SPUNK: A Manifesto Modernising Fatherhood” (2022) on fatherhood identity was described by The Metro as provocative and compelling. She lives in Somerset with her family, and their mini-dachshund, Dickie Van der Sausage. 

Website: danusiamalinaderben.com 

Substack: https://danusiamalinaderben.substack.com

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this episode of Words that Change Lives, your host Helen Packham delves into the art of having honest conversations and using language to create lasting impressions. Helen shares her personal struggles with honest communication and the strategies she has used to improve in this area. She discusses the importance of mindset in feeling confident and worthy of having direct, assertive conversations. Additionally, Helen explores the dynamics of relationships and how they influence our ability to have open, honest conversations. Drawing from her experience in corporate coaching, she introduces the concepts of influencing styles and creating a climate for open dialogue. By sharing practical examples and strategies, Helen aims to empower listeners to apply these techniques in their own lives to achieve win-win outcomes. So, get ready to dive into the power of language and the art of honest communication.

Here are the highlights:

• 00:01 This episode explores strategies for successful conversations.
• 04:02 Overcoming communication challenges in work and life.
• 09:11 Empower yourself, avoid comparison, and stay focused.
• 10:44 Focus on yourself, avoid distractions, trust yourself.
• 15:59 Categorising energy into push and pull strategies.
• 21:39 Neutral, assertive communication can change lives.

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this Head to Head episode, "Stand-Up Versus Public Speaking," host Helen Packham is joined by guest Louise Stevenson, a stand-up comedian and founder of Speak Easy Coaching. Together, they delve into the world of stand-up comedy and public speaking, discussing the similarities, differences, and the essential skills required for each. They highlight the importance of confidence, stage presence, and the ability to navigate challenges in both realms. Join us as we uncover valuable insights and practical tips for aspiring performers, speakers, and leaders. Get ready for an engaging and enlightening conversation that can change the way you view the art of speaking.

Here are the highlights:

• 04:46 Comedy can be taught and inspired by upbringing.
• 08:09 Success in stand-up comedy requires hard graft.
• 11:21 Bouncing back is crucial in stand-up comedy.
• 14:03 Continuous improvement through practice and discipline.
• 19:49 Engage the audience at the start, humour breaks walls.
• 22:14 Use humour to lighten up serious talks.
• 23:51 Clients' experiences inspire humour in the workplace.
• 29:26 Quotes about failure, fear of speaking. Client's fear.
• 31:11 Fear of public exposure is an instinct.
• 33:48 Prioritise confidence and demand respect in speaking.
• 38:20 Prepare for audience needs and questions confidently.
• 39:54 Addressing audience questions, starting with "why."
• 43:34 Stepping out of your comfort zone leads to growth.

Connect with Louise:

Louise started a career in stand-up comedy in 1999. She worked alongside Jimmy Carr, Alan Carr, Rich Hall and Steven K Amos among others as she entertained international audiences with her Glaswegian wit. 

An engaging speaker with a terrific storytelling style, Louise has earned a reputation for entertaining, informing, and inspiring large (and small) audiences. She founded her business Speakeasy Coaching for people who want to be Powerful and Authentic Speakers. She uses techniques from the world of comedy to help others create engaging content and deliver it with confidence and style

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-stevenson-a8323139/

Website: www.speakeasycoach.co.uk

Book:https://www.brightonstandupcomedy.co.uk/books/

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this candid conversation, Helen sits down with award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and mindset coach Cordell Jeffers to explore the power of purpose-driven words. Cordell shares his personal journey from facing challenges in inner-city Birmingham to the transformative turning point he experienced living in the Caribbean. This episode delves into the impact of words on our lives, the concept of purpose, and the importance of self-awareness and reflection. Join Helen and Cordell as they dive into how purpose-driven words can change lives in profound ways.

Here are the highlights:

• 00:01 Cordell, an international speaker and mindset coach from Birmingham, overcame immense adversity in his early life
• 04:20 "Polarity" represents a balanced perspective in life situations.
• 08:57 A Caribbean trip changed my perception and led to personal growth and self-discovery.
• 12:28 Striving for positivity and balance despite life's challenges.
• 14:11 Practicing daily gratitude is key for human consciousness.
• 16:29 Sharing our stories connects and inspires others. 
• 21:25 TEDX talk inspired overcoming trauma and career success.
• 23:25 Purpose is aligning with personal values, not society's.
• 27:13 Values can change, particularly with the addition of children. Aim for mastery instead of trying to do too many things.
• 31:08 So what we are doing is we are not carrying that emotional baggage through life.

Connect with Cordell:

Cordell is an award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker and mindset coach from Birmingham. He used adversity in his early life to become the unstoppable force he is today. 

Growing up in inner-city Birmingham Cordell faced vast challenges around crime and drugs, he was expelled from school, moved to the Caribbean and spent a year in this new, raw environment. Since then he has progressed beyond all expectations and is now the founder of multiple successful businesses and an international social enterprise. 

He has impacted and inspired thousands of lives with his story, which has gained him praise from his peers and notably King Charles III, Idris Elba, Lionel Richie and Sir Richard Branson.

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

Tedx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/cordell_jeffers_how_to_turn_your_pain_into_purpose?language=en

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

In this episode, your host Helen Packham delves into the fascinating world of storytelling and its profound impact on human communication. Helen traces the origins of storytelling, highlighting its evolutionary significance and how it has been passed down through generations as an innate skill. She explores the wide-ranging applications of storytelling in our modern lives, from enhancing presentations and fostering empathy to building personal branding and resolving conflicts. With valuable insights and practical examples, Helen empowers listeners to harness the power of storytelling to elevate their communication in various facets of their personal and professional endeavours. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of storytelling and learn how to infuse it into your own life and work.

Here are the highlights:

• 00:01 Analysing insights, motivation, sharing bright and dark sides.
• 04:12 Early human connection, language, and storytelling importance.
• 08:51 Replace data with stories, increases impact massively.
• 11:38 Storytelling inspires, motivates, and aids memory retention.
• 14:21 Enhance storytelling with magic, problem-solving, and analogies.
• 16:15 Connecting through authentic storytelling and embracing vulnerability.

Connect with Helen:

Website: helenpackham.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/helenpackham

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenpackhamcoach

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenpackham

Get instant, free access to my master series where I explore storytelling in more detail. I share more on how you can develop your core story, and how you can use storytelling in your talks, meetings and presentations to increase their impact. 

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk