Episode 272  (Deevo is based in Charlotte, NC)

how to cut through industry noise with a no-fluff branding approach

why self-discovery is the foundation of personal branding

the role of trust and experience in building client relationships

how authentic storytelling creates emotional connections

why honesty and vulnerability make you relatable

the importance of aligning your values with your business story

why branding is more than visuals—it’s every customer touchpoint

how personal struggles and pain points can strengthen your brand

why your story won’t resonate with everyone (and that’s a good thing)

what qualities make someone an ideal client for branding work

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About our guest, Deevo Tindal:

Unapologetically Bold – he says what others won’t, and it lands. Personal Brand-First – he helps people build brands rooted in identity, not imitation. No Fluff, All Fire – Real-world experience meets razor-sharp insights you can act on. It’s Not Just a Talk – It’s an experience. One that will shake your audience into clarity.

Ready to learn more or check out his services? Visit https://www.thebrandstoryteller.com/

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

https://www.instagram.com/deevothebrandstoryteller/

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the no-fluff approach means dropping templates and discovering your unique story

personal branding starts with knowing yourself first, not copying others

trust is built through intentional client experiences, not just final products

authentic storytelling connects emotionally and sets you apart

vulnerability and honesty make your brand relatable

your values and problem-solving define the heart of your story

branding is every touchpoint in the customer journey, not just logos or colors

pain points and struggles can strengthen your story if shared with purpose

not everyone will resonate with your brand—and that’s okay

the best clients are purpose-driven, coachable, and ready to share their genius

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

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

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

Episode 271 (Ken is based in the Greater Toronto Area)

why innovation often stalls in organizations

the difference between innovation, entrepreneurship, and ingenuity

how to measure and manage openness to ambiguity

why diversity of thought and background is essential for innovation

how leadership roles should rotate during the innovation cycle

why bias is the greatest barrier to new thinking

the role of students and external control groups in innovation

the difference between simple, complex, and wicked challenges

why human ingenuity requires clever, inventive, and fearless thinking

how the 90% Rule honors the past while pushing toward the future

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About our guest, Ken Tencer:

Ken is a long time entrepreneur, author and global speaker.

He is completing a doctorate in human ingenuity - clever, inventive an fearless thinking in the faces of wicked challenges (incomplete information, ambiguity, and uncertainty)

Ken works with organizations to help them identify and resolve their wicked challenges, (strategy, team development and tactics). Learn more and contact him at:   https://sayhitothefuture.ca/

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Innovation requires three dimensions: innovation (process), entrepreneurship (team), and ingenuity (thinking).

Ambiguity is a core skill: successful innovation teams must measure and embrace tolerance for ambiguity.

Diversity fuels innovation: variety in backgrounds, perspectives, and disciplines prevents groupthink.

Leadership should rotate: the right leader shifts depending on the stage of the innovation cycle.

Bias is the biggest barrier: more than money or time, it blocks new thinking.

External voices help: student or alumni “control groups” bring fresh, unbiased perspectives.

Understand the three challenge types: simple, complex, and wicked — each requires different approaches.

Human ingenuity demands fearlessness: decisions must be made even without certainty.

The 90% Rule: honor the past while pushing forward to the next 10%.

Future readiness means “saying hi to the future”: embracing macro trends, empathy, and new thinking tools.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

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

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

Episode 270 (Angela is based in Massachusetts)

why every business needs a crisis communication plan

how to identify vulnerabilities and prepare for unexpected risks

why proactive preparation is a positive mindset

how to communicate with honesty, transparency, and values

why “no comment” often damages credibility

how high-stakes opportunities like product launches mirror crises

the importance of aligning launches with brand and values

authentic ways to show gratitude to your “stunt team”

how stories help explain, justify, and inspire in high-stakes situations

why customer service and communication plans drive launch success

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About our guest: Angela Betancourt:

Angela is a strategic communications expert with over 20 years of experience across five continents helping business, nonprofits, political leaders and startups clarify and amplify their messages - especially when the stakes are high.

As founder of Betancourt Group she works with purpose-driven organizations that are tackling today's urgent issues.

Learn more about Angela and her services at:

https://groupbetancourt.com/

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prepare a crisis communication plan before you need it

understand your organization’s unique risks and vulnerabilities

proactive preparation is positive thinking, not negative

avoid “no comment” and lean into honesty and transparency

high-stakes opportunities require the same planning as crises

align product launches with your brand and values

celebrate wins and show authentic gratitude to your “stunt team”

storytelling makes complex or high-stakes messages relatable

origin stories and narratives reinforce purpose and intention

communication plans must include both strategy and customer service

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

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

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

Episode 269 (Ashely is based in Indianapolis, Indiana)

how AI can serve as a no-cost, personalized sales coach

why combining emotional intelligence with artificial intelligence strengthens selling skills

the importance of reviewing your own sales calls to identify scarcity language and missed questions

how to match your outreach method to the customer’s preferred communication style

why cold calling still works when it’s targeted and respectful

the fastest way to build trust in the first 30 seconds of a call

how to sustain energy and focus during repetitive outreach

the strengths introverts and extroverts each bring to sales

ways to confidently discuss money by knowing your value

why mindset, abundance, and intent matter more than scripts or tools

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About our guest, Ashely Beck Cuellar:

Ashely worked for 17 years selling to car dealers. She believes that natural curiosity is one of the greatest strengths any seller can have.

Learn more about Ashley and the sales workshops at 

https://salessparkcoaching.com/

The next 6-month sales coaching programs launches in Oct 2025.

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AI can be a personal sales coach

Analyze your conversations for missed opportunities

Match your communication channel to the client’s preference

Cold calling is still effective when done thoughtfully

Build trust quickly with honesty

Energy and resilience are critical in high-volume outreach

Introverts and extroverts bring different strengths to sales

Confidently discuss pricing by knowing your value

Clients often need guidance to make the best decision

Mindset shapes sales performance more than tools

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

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

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

Episode 268 (Mitch is based in New York State)

how cultural values shape communication and decision-making

the hidden “lies” that societies accept and how they influence relationships

why the survival brain reacts faster than the resourceful brain

what “Part X” is and how it sabotages growth

the difference between simple, complicated, and complex problems

how to build resilience by experimenting instead of seeking one perfect answer

why collaboration depends on flexibility in conflict resolution

the four strategies to move from survival mode to resourceful mode

the five powers of the resourceful mind and how to use them

Mitch’s mission to teach 5 million people resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration

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About our Guest, Mitchell Weisburgh:

Mitchell is creator of the Mind Shifting Method, a practical brain-based system built from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and leadership strategy. He helps entrepreneurs, executives, and coaches rewire their internal operating systems — so they can lead, decide, and scale without burning out.

Learn more about Mind Shifting and how Mitch can help you and your team at:

https://www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com/

https://mindshiftingwithmitch.blog/

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Cultural norms shape communication—including acceptable “lies” people tell.

The brain’s survival mode reacts instantly and often overrides resourceful thinking.

Part X—the inner critic—tries to keep us “safe” by discouraging change.

Resourcefulness comes from tapping into the creative, empathetic, and executive functions of the brain.

Resilience is about navigating uncertainty, not finding one “right” answer.

Collaboration requires understanding conflict styles and using flexibility, not force.

Recognizing when you’re in survival mode is the first step to shifting your mindset.

Positive self-talk works best when it’s curious and open-ended, not cheerleader-style.

Distraction and trusted allies can help you reset from emotional overload.

The five powers of the resourceful mind—empathy, exploration, innovation, navigate, and focused action—help guide better decisions.

-----

----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

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

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

Episode 267 (Danny is based in Denver, Colorado)

In this conversation with Danny Brassel we explore:

how to instantly connect with your audience using relatability, authority, and purpose

why storytelling beats bullet points for memorability and emotional connection

how to mine everyday experiences for meaningful stories that support your message

why self-deprecating humor is the safest and most effective form of humor in today’s culture

how sharing personal failures builds stronger trust and audience rapport than bragging

how business leaders can use storytelling to boost team morale and alignment

why sad stories must have a hopeful ending to avoid emotional manipulation

how to balance facts and feelings to reach both logical and emotional audience members

the importance of a single clear call to action at the end of your presentation

how to structure your talk using the 5C framework: Clarity, Connect, Content, Call to Action, and Close

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About our guest, Danny Brassel:

A speaker, trainer and coach known as “Jim Carrey with a Ph.D.,” Dr. Danny Brassell (www.DannyBrassell.com) has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide.

He has authored 18 books, including Leadership Begins with Motivation and Misfits and Crackpots. The co-founder of The WellCrafted Story Workshop™, Danny helps entrepreneurs, individuals and organizations leverage speaking on stages as a client lead-source that converts. 

Get your free copy of the Storytelling Blueprint https://wellcraftedstoryworkshop.com/blueprint

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Open strong with R.A.P. – Build connection in the first five minutes by being Relatable, demonstrating Authority, and declaring your Purpose.

Stories beat slides. – People remember stories, not bullet points. Use storytelling to make your message stick and drive action.

You already have great stories. – Everyday experiences—even small, silly, or embarrassing ones—can become powerful presentation tools when reframed with purpose.

Self-deprecating humor is the safest humor. – When you laugh at yourself, you make the audience comfortable, avoid offending anyone, and build trust.

Your failures build credibility. – Audiences connect more with your struggles than your successes. Vulnerability creates relatability.

Sad stories need hopeful endings. – A story without a resolution leaves the audience emotionally stuck. If you use a heavy story, resolve it with a positive outcome.

Be helpful, not just impressive. – Demonstrating usefulness—even with small tips—builds goodwill and long-term trust.

One clear call to action is essential. – Don’t overwhelm your audience with options. Give them a single, clear next step.

Appeal to both logic and emotion. – Speak to the “Joe Fridays” (fact-driven) and “Julia Roberts” (feeling-driven) in your audience for maximum engagement.

Training must be ongoing. – A one-day workshop isn’t enough. Repetition and coaching are necessary to truly master effective communication.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

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

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

Episode 266 (Donnie is based in Texas)

In this conversation with Donnie Boivin we explore:

why the traditional rules of networking fail in the B2B space

how to eliminate the pitch and still make meaningful connections

how to use LinkedIn QR codes instead of business cards

what it means to rank your network and why it matters

how to earn a trusted spot on someone’s “starting lineup”

the power of introductions vs. referrals

how to use targeted questions to unlock valuable connections

what types of professionals are best suited as referral partners

how to use a simple five-word intro to start real conversations

the mindset shift from “get a client” to “be a connector”

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About our guest, Donnie Boivin:

Donnie started his company at age 40 and was selected for the 40 under 40 list. 

He is founder of Success Champion Networking, an online community for serious networkers. https://successchampionnetworking.com/

He is producer of the Bad Ass Business Summit

https://badassbusinesssummit.com/

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Key Lessons from this conversation:

Traditional networking is broken: Most networking advice is based on transactional sales models that don’t apply to modern B2B relationships.

Ditch the business cards and 30-second pitch: These old-school tools no longer serve professionals focused on building real business relationships.

Use technology to connect smartly: Tools like LinkedIn QR codes help maintain control of your contacts and avoid spam.

Your goal isn’t clients—it’s introductions: Real success comes from building relationships with synergistic partners who already sell to your ideal clients.

Rank your network strategically: Donnie’s 4-tier system helps you identify who’s worth nurturing and who’s just noise.

Earn your spot on the ‘starting lineup’: Become the go-to person for strategic partners by opening doors for them first.

Ask better questions at events: Questions like “How did you get into what you do?” lead to meaningful conversations.

Be specific when describing your ideal partner: Help others help you by clearly identifying who you want to meet and why.

Make introductions, not referrals: Introductions are easier, lower-pressure, and can generate more opportunities in the long run.

Network for synergy, not sales: The most powerful connections come from mutual support between professionals with shared clientele but no competition.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

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

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

Episode 265 (Diana is based in Florida)

In this conversation with Diana Fritz we explore:

how Diana uses her literal blind spot to teach about communication blind spots

why vulnerability builds stronger connections in leadership and teams

how DISC profiles reveal communication styles and hidden friction

strategies to adjust your communication style by reading body language and tone

how reflection and journaling help leaders reframe adversity and recharge

the difference between being people-focused vs task-focused in communication

how Diana’s cancer journey helped her discover her purpose, not her limit

ways to help team members feel seen, heard, and supported—beyond the task

how to coach others to discover their own blind spots through guided questions

why it’s better to be refined by challenges than defined by them

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About our guest, Diana Fritz:

Diana is author of "Uniquely Imperfect, Uniquely Qualified" which can can find on Amazon and where fine books are sold.

Diana lost her left eye to cancer and leverages her difference to emphasize how to reveal and use our flaws to connect with others and lead authentically.

Key Lessons from this conversation:

transparency builds trust and invites others to open up

everyone has communication blind spots—some are visible, others hidden

leaders grow when they admit their weaknesses and build systems to support them

DISC profiles help teams understand personality-driven behavior differences

vulnerability and authenticity are tools for influence, not weaknesses

reading body language and listening are key to adapting communication

daily reflection helps leaders grow from challenges, not just survive them

communication is not one-size-fits-all—it must be customized to the listener

your physical or emotional scars can become powerful conversation starters

reframing adversity can turn pain into purpose and fuel growth

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

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

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

Episode 264 (Richard is based in South Africa)

In this conversation with Richard Reid we explore:

the true meaning of charisma and why it’s more about how others feel than how you appear

the role of psychological safety in building trust, influence, and innovation

why self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership

how emotional leakage can sabotage your message and your team culture

strategies to reset your internal state between meetings for greater presence

how leaders can communicate calm during crises through deliberate body language and speech

the power of micro-habits to improve energy, confidence, and communication

how reflection and journaling enhance resilience and leadership effectiveness

practical routines to prevent burnout and show up as your best self

how leaders can foster a growth mindset and create space for others to shine

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About our guest, Richard Reid:

Richard is the author of "Charisma Unlocked: The Science and Strategy to Captivate, Influence and Succeed in Business".

He was Chief People Officer at a global law firm. He is from the UK and now lives in South Africa.

Learn more about his Masterclasses and coaching at

https://richard-reid.com/live-events/charisma-workshops/

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Key lessons from this conversation:

Charisma is about how others feel, not how impressive you appear.

Psychological safety is central to charisma and effective leadership.

Charisma starts with self-awareness and managing your internal world.

Reflective routines enhance emotional regulation and presence.

Effective communication means seeing others as individuals, not objects.

In a crisis, calm leadership is conveyed through body language and vocal control.

Leaders need to be intentional with their energy and meeting schedules.

Small micro-habits, like breathing or posture resets, have a big impact.

True charisma is sustainable and rooted in authenticity, not performance.

Teams thrive when members feel safe to express themselves and fail forward.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

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

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

Episode 263 (Meaghan is based in Chicago)

In this conversation with Meaghan Benjamin we explore:

The difference between credibility and rapport — and why both matter in leadership.

How communication habits are formed and the importance of adapting them.

What it means to practice agile communication in today’s digital world.

How curiosity fosters connection, learning, and innovation.

Why tone, gestures, and delivery shape how others receive your message.

How to use the Know–Feel–Do framework to craft more persuasive messages.

Ways to build fast rapport in emotionally or professionally high-stakes settings.

How to help your audience become better listeners by how you speak.

The challenge and opportunity of virtual communication for modern professionals.

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About our guest, Meaghan Kane Benjamin:

Credibility vs Rapport

Rapport creates emotional connection; credibility is built by consistent follow-through.

Communication as Habit + Adaptability

Effective communication adapts to the context and people involved.

Agile Communication Framework

A methodology based on science, systems thinking, and storytelling.

The Power of Curiosity

Authentic curiosity drives rapport, empathy, and innovation.

Tone Is More Than Words

Tone, gestures, and expression shape how your message is received.

The Know-Feel-Do Framework

Define what you want the audience to know, feel, and do. Let the "feel" and "do" guide your messaging.

Build Rapport Fast in High-Stakes Moments

Especially in healthcare and business pitches, rapport often matters more than content volume.

Listening as a Shared Responsibility

It's not just about being a better speaker — help others become better listeners too.

Four Levels of Listening

From small talk (Level 1) to generative collaboration (Level 4).

Virtual Communication Challenges

With screens reducing non-verbal cues, intentional delivery matters more than ever.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

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

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

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/