Speaking Your Brand: Public Speaking Tips and Strategies

It's time to escape the expert trap and become an in-demand speaker and thought leader through compelling and memorable business presentations, keynotes, workshops, and TEDx talks. If you want to LEVEL UP your public speaking to get MORE and BETTER, including PAID, speaking engagements, you've come to the right place! Thousands of entrepreneurs and leaders have learned from Speaking Your Brand and now you can too through our episodes that will help you with storytelling, audience engagement, building confidence, handling nerves, pitching to speak, getting paid, and more. Hosted by Carol Cox, entrepreneur, speaker, and TV political analyst. This is your place to learn how to persuasively communicate your message to your audience.

Behind the Scenes of My AI-Powered Business: Real-World Use Cases 06/30/2025

Behind the Scenes of My AI-Powered Business: Real-World Use Cases Ever wish you had an extra set of hands - or better yet, an AI assistant - to take care of all those repetitive tasks in your business? In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes to share the exact AI-powered workflows I’ve built and now rely on every week at Speaking Your Brand. From automating my podcast production (yes, even these show notes!) to cloning my voice for a brand-new companion podcast, you’ll get a sense at what’s possible - and what's already working. I walk you through real-world examples of how I’m using AI to: Save time with automated content workflows Personalize client communication at scale Build an AI-powered knowledge base Launch a 100% AI-generated podcast using my frameworks and brand voice I also share how these automations free up my time to do the more human work I love, including coaching, speaking, and creating programs like Automate & Amplify with AI, where I teach you how to build these systems for your own business. Whether you’re a solopreneur or have a small team, this episode will get your wheels turning on what’s possible when you stop doing the repetitive tasks and start building with AI. Plus, I talk about: The difference between using ChatGPT and building true automation Why I created “AI Carol” to answer podcast listener questions How we’re developing a DIY version of our Signature Talk framework with ChatSYB If you’ve been curious about using AI in your business, but you’re not sure where to start, this is the episode to listen to. Watch the video version with slides and demos at Learn more and apply for the Automate & Amplify with AI program at Links: Show notes at Check out my new companion podcast “Confident Speaker”: Join our Automate & Amplify with AI program: Learn how we can work together on your thought leadership and signature talk: Connect with me on LinkedIn: Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/37212890

AI Is Already Impacting Your Business – Here are 4 Innovative Ways to Leverage It 06/23/2025

Why Your Tech Presentations Aren’t Landing - and How to Fix Them 06/16/2025

What Giving a TED-Style Talk Revealed About Us as Speakers 06/09/2025

What Giving a TED-Style Talk Revealed About Us as Speakers Have you ever wondered what it really takes to create, practice for, and deliver a powerful TED-style talk - especially one that’s only 8 minutes long? In this episode, I’m joined by Diane Diaz, our lead speaking coach at Speaking Your Brand, as we take you behind the scenes of our recent TED-style speaking experience. We were invited to be part of a live event called ElleX, hosted by a women’s entrepreneurship group at a local college. We had only one week to prepare our full talks for the audition! Diane and I share: How we came up with our topics and aligned them with the theme The difference between a TED-style talk and a typical keynote or presentation How we approached “memorizing” our talks (spoiler: we didn’t, exactly!) What surprised us about the experience (and what we’d do differently next time) Why it's essential to amplify who you naturally are on stage And… which of us has decided TED-style talks are not her favorite and what is 😉 You’ll hear how Diane used humor and storytelling to deliver a deeply moving (and yes, funny!) talk about her Ironman triathlon journey and how I wove in women’s leadership, history, and AI into my talk about the future of tech and humanity. Whether you're preparing for your own TEDx talk, want to challenge yourself as a speaker, or simply love the behind-the-scenes of crafting powerful messages, this episode will inspire you to lean into your unique style and maybe even try a new speaking “muscle.” Want to discover your speaker archetype? Take our free quiz at to get personalized recommendations based on your strengths. We’ll add the video links to our talks in the show notes as soon as we get them, so check back! Links: Show notes at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/36839920

What Most Speakers Miss: 3 Secrets to Insightful and Inspirational Presentations 06/02/2025

From Expert to Thought Leader: 3 Key Strategies You Need Now in the AI Age 05/26/2025

The Heart of Your Message: Why Emotion is Your Secret Speaking Superpower 05/19/2025

How to Land a TEDx Talk: From Idea to Application 05/12/2025

What a Signature Talk Really Is - and What It Should Be Doing for You 05/05/2025

Want to Feel More Confident on Stage? Start Here. 04/28/2025

The Business of Speaking: From Lead Gen to Speaker Fees 04/21/2025

428: How to Keep Momentum in Your Business and Visibility When Everything Feels Uncertain 04/14/2025

428: How to Keep Momentum in Your Business and Visibility When Everything Feels Uncertain Do you feel like hitting pause when everything around you feels uncertain? Whether it's the economy, politics, AI, or just the general state of flux we're all living in, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You’re not alone - I’ve been feeling it too. In this episode, Diane Diaz and I talk candidly about what we've been noticing in ourselves, our clients, and the conversations we're having behind the scenes here at Speaking Your Brand. Spoiler alert: pausing too long or isolating yourself isn't the answer. Instead, we share: Why action creates clarity and how to act your way to right thinking A behind-the-scenes look at how we’re navigating uncertainty at Speaking Your Brand How in-person speaking engagements and networking are helping us build momentum Why now is the best time to connect and take action (even if you’re an introvert) How to experiment and refresh your offerings without overwhelm What to do when ChatGPT gives you too many ideas (yes, really!) If you’ve been feeling stuck, this episode is your invitation to move from “What now?” to “What’s next?” Let this episode be the boost you need to keep showing up, sharing your message, and stepping into your next level. Plus, we share about our upcoming in-person workshop in Orlando, Narrative that Sells, and how it’s designed to help you attract clients, speaking opportunities, and thought leadership visibility by creating and practicing your signature talk. 🎟️ Use code PODCAST200 for $200 off: Links: Show notes at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Sign up for our Narrative That Sells in-person messaging and speaking workshop in Orlando on June 5th = Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/36090085

427: Using Your Voice as a Woman in Leadership with Mary Beth Plank-Mezo 04/09/2025

427: Using Your Voice as a Woman in Leadership with Mary Beth Plank-Mezo What does it really look like to lead with courage, advocate for yourself (and others), and embrace vulnerability as a strength? In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Mary Beth Plank-Mezo, who is the Vice President of Staff and Cultural Development at Full Sail University and has been with the university for an incredible 36 years. Her leadership has touched so many across the campus — and I know firsthand how impactful she’s been. We recorded this conversation live in studio at Full Sail, and you’ll hear how Mary Beth’s leadership journey has evolved over the years, from being a quiet observer in meetings to becoming a powerful voice and advocate for change. She shares the pivotal moments that shaped her, including the time she walked into the founder’s office and asked to switch departments (talk about bold self-advocacy!) and how she helped start the university’s Staff and Cultural Development department. We talk about: Why asking for what you want is so important (even when it’s scary) How to deal with “no” - and why it doesn’t always mean “never” The value of listening first and co-creating a vision to build trust and buy-in What happens when leaders show vulnerability (and how it fosters innovation) Why women often hold themselves back and what we can do to push past that The three layers of advocacy: for yourself, by others, and for others Mary Beth also shares what continues to fuel her passion for mentoring and growing new leaders and how she sees her role now as ensuring the next generation is ready to take the reins. This is one of those episodes that will stay with you, especially if you’ve ever questioned whether your voice matters (spoiler: it does). Tune in and then ask yourself: What’s one area where you can advocate for yourself right now? Who’s in your corner, cheering you on and who can you advocate for? Links: Show notes at Watch the video of this episode at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Mary Beth Plank-Mezo (guest) = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/36019245

Stop Overloading Your Presentations: Why Less Info = More Impact 04/02/2025

You are the Messenger: How to Activate the Idea that’s Been Calling You 03/27/2025

426: Every Talk Needs Humor: Here are 5 Ways to Make Your Audience Laugh 03/19/2025

426: Every Talk Needs Humor: Here are 5 Ways to Make Your Audience Laugh Have you ever wondered if you really need to add humor to your business presentations, keynotes, or conference talks? Maybe you think, I’m just here to share valuable information - why should I try to be funny? Well, in this episode, I’m joined by our lead speaking coach, Diane Diaz, to show you exactly why humor isn’t just a nice-to-have - it’s a must-have. We’re diving into how to use humor effectively in your talks, without forcing corny jokes (unless that’s your thing!). From situational storytelling to physical comedy, sarcasm, self-deprecating humor, and even well-placed memes and GIFs, we cover it all. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why humor makes your audience feel more connected and engaged How to plan humor in your talk (even if you don’t think you’re funny) The power of physical comedy as a speaker Diane’s hilarious story about her mom teaching her to be a petty thief The one type of self-deprecating humor to avoid Even if you don’t consider yourself a comedian, there are so many ways to add humor that feel natural and authentic to you. Your audience will thank you - and they’ll definitely remember you! Action Step: The next time you’re working on a presentation, pick one of the humor techniques we talk about and try incorporating it. Let us know how it goes! You’ll also want to watch the video version at . We’ve included funny clips from stand-up comedians and sitcoms to illustrate our points - you won’t want to miss them! This episode was filmed in one of the beautiful studios on the campus of Full Sail University, where Diane and I have been teaching business and marketing classes since 2009. Links: Show notes at Watch the video of this episode at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/35588875

3 Signs You're Stuck in the Expert Trap with Your Public Speaking [Best Of] 03/03/2025

425: The Story You're Most Reluctant to Share is the One You Should 02/24/2025

425: The Story You're Most Reluctant to Share is the One You Should Is there a story you’re reluctant to share? The one that still makes you cringe a little, that feels raw and vulnerable? That’s probably the exact story you should be telling - not just for your audience, but for yourself. In this episode, I’m joined by Diane Diaz, and we’re pulling back the curtain on our own stories - the ones we’ve hesitated to share. We talk a lot about storytelling in public speaking, thought leadership, and keynotes, but let’s be honest: we often default to the safer stories. You know, the ones about career missteps, lessons learned, or professional challenges. But what about the deeply personal stories? The ones that shaped who we are? Diane and I each share a story we’ve been reluctant to tell - stories tied to our self-worth, identity, and fears. We unpack how these experiences have influenced our careers, our approach to public speaking, and even the way we show up in the world. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why the stories that scare you the most are the ones that will connect the deepest with your audience How childhood experiences still shape the way we think about ourselves (and what to do about it) Why leaning into imperfection and vulnerability makes you a more compelling speaker How to balance preparation and spontaneity in your speaking style (Diane and I approach this very differently!) A behind-the-scenes look at our own speaking journeys, including what we’ve learned from our clients This episode was filmed in one of the beautiful studios on the campus of Full Sail University, where Diane and I have been teaching business and marketing classes since 2009. Watch the video episode at Show notes at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/35302285

424: Evolving Your Brand is a Must: How to Align Who You Are, Even the Messy Parts 02/03/2025

424: Evolving Your Brand is a Must: How to Align Who You Are, Even the Messy Parts We hear all the time that we should “reinvent” ourselves to stay relevant. Or that we should ignore or dismiss aspects of our careers that no longer seem to “fit” with what we’re doing now. I’m not sure we can truly “reinvent” ourselves, nor should we. Instead, we should embrace how we evolve over time - and actually seek out ways to challenge ourselves to evolve! In this episode, Diane Diaz, our lead speaking coach, joins me for a lively and insightful conversation about the difference between reinvention and evolution. We explore why embracing your full self - quirks, career twists, and even those moments that feel “messy” - is essential for authenticity and personal branding. Diane shares how her Ironman journey continues to influence her life, even years later, and I reflect on bringing my tech background into Speaking Your Brand’s evolution. You’ll learn: Why “reinvention” might not be the right word (and why evolution feels more authentic) The importance of challenging yourself - even when it feels uncomfortable How to embrace all aspects of your past, from childhood passions to career pivots, to shape your personal brand What saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities (hello, comedy sets!) can do for your growth This episode is full of personal stories and actionable takeaways to help you think about what’s next for you. Whether it’s launching a podcast, tackling public speaking, delivering a TEDx talk, or simply trying something new, it’s never too late to evolve. This episode was filmed in one of the beautiful studios on the campus of Full Sail University, where Diane and I have been teaching business and marketing classes since 2009. Watch the video episode (you’ll love it, including some behind the scenes!) at Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction: Reinvention vs. Evolution – Are You Challenging Yourself? [00:25] Behind the Scenes: Filming at Full Sail University [01:15] Why Evolution is More Authentic Than Reinvention [02:33] Embracing Your Full Self in Your Personal Brand [04:19] Diane’s Ironman Journey: Lessons That Still Resonate [06:48] Carol’s Career Evolution: From Tech to Speaking Your Brand [08:46] The Role of Adaptability in Personal and Professional Growth [10:36] Saying Yes to Unexpected Opportunities (Diane’s Comedy Set!) [12:21] The Importance of Enjoying the Process Over Perfection [13:02] Closing Thoughts: What’s Your Next Challenge? Links: Show notes at Watch the video of this episode at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Join us at our B.O.L.D. Brand Intensive Retreat in London in Summer 2025: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Dr. Nicole Rochester = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/35051830

423: Feeling Stuck or at a Plateau with Your Brand or Visibility? It's Time to Break the Rules 12/09/2024

422: How to Create a 10-Out-of-10 Keynote that Leaves Your Audience in Awe with Julia Korn 12/02/2024

422: How to Create a 10-Out-of-10 Keynote that Leaves Your Audience in Awe with Julia Korn Have you ever attended a keynote that truly wowed you—one that stood out, engaged the audience, and provided an unforgettable experience? Let’s face it, most keynotes do the job, but very few deliver that multidimensional magic. In today’s episode, I sit down with Julia Korn, the founder and CEO of The Authenticity Guide and a recent client. We worked closely together to create her new keynote, from the content to the magic touches that made it a 10 out of 10. How did she do it? That’s what we’re diving into! We explore: The step-by-step process Julia used to land her keynote slot a year in advance (hint: proactive pitching matters!). Why the concept of a Personal Board of Directors became the winning topic that resonated with her audience. How Julia and I worked together to create a keynote that went beyond content to deliver an experience, including interactive elements like a creative game show featuring Oprah, Yoda, and even Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg! The importance of storytelling and vulnerability, including how Julia captivated her audience with her personal story of a career demotion—and even laid flat on the stage to drive her point home. We also discuss the work that goes into crafting a stellar keynote: Balancing humor, audience engagement, and actionable takeaways. Collaborating with AV teams to nail the technical elements. Hiring a videographer to capture powerful moments for future sizzle reels. Julia shares the audience’s reactions, from laughter to tears, and how her keynote set a transformative tone for the rest of the conference. She also provides valuable tips for speakers who want to make a lasting impact, whether they’re on a keynote stage or pitching their next big speaking opportunity. About My Guest: Julia Korn is the founder and CEO of The Authenticity Guide, an executive coaching company focused on empowering ambitious leaders to find success without sacrificing joy. Julia is a self-described recovering perfectionist. She has been named a Business Insider Most Innovative Coach and she is also a Contributor to Forbes. She has been featured on BBC World News, Fox Business News, and more. Her recent TEDx talk, Break Up With “Should” In Your Career was named a TED Editors Pick of the year. In 2024, she launched the first of its kind community just for female emerging leaders, called The Emerging Leader Collective. Her greatest creation of all, however, is her two-year-old daughter. Links: Show notes at Julia’s website: Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Attend our 1-day speaking workshop in Orlando: Check out our coaching programs: Join us in London for our B.O.L.D. Brand Intensive Retreat in Summer 2025: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Julia Korn (guest) = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/34036514

421: 100x Your Speaking in a Day: Insights from Our Recent In-Person Workshop 11/25/2024

421: 100x Your Speaking in a Day: Insights from Our Recent In-Person Workshop Have you ever wondered how you can improve your speaking skills and truly connect with your audience? I’m joined by Wendy McManus and Tara Lassiter, who recently attended our 1-day in-person speaking workshop in Orlando, Florida. They share their stories, lessons learned, and the transformations they experienced, all within a single day. We talk about: Why in-person workshops provide a unique opportunity to grow as a speaker. The power of immediate feedback and how it helps you identify habits you didn’t realize you had. How improv exercises can help you loosen up, step out of your comfort zone, and have fun while learning. Why storytelling is the heart of impactful presentations—and how to use “active storytelling” with your voice and body. The surprising stories we’re most reluctant to share—and why they often resonate the most with audiences. Personal anecdotes from Wendy and Tara about the challenges and breakthroughs they had during the workshop. Key Takeaways: Practice Makes Progress: Speaking more frequently and getting feedback in the moment accelerates your growth. Own Your Story: The stories you might hesitate to share can create the deepest connections. Be Intentional: From movement on stage to vocal variety, deliberate choices make your delivery more impactful. Play and Learn: Don’t underestimate the value of play, from improv to dancing—because growth can be fun too! About My Guests: Wendy McManus is a leadership coach specializing in helping newer people managers build their confidence and skills as leaders. She’s passionate about storytelling as a tool for connection and growth. Tara Lassiter is a brand strategist and ghostwriter with a background in on-air modeling at QVC. Her mission is to help others break through barriers and create representation in the business world. Our next 1-day Speaking Workshop is on February 27, 2025, in Downtown Orlando, Florida! If you’re ready to accelerate your growth as a speaker, gain hands-on feedback, and have a lot of fun, this is your chance. Learn more and grab your spot at . Links: Show notes at Video from the live show: Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Attend our 1-day speaking workshop in Orlando: Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Join us in London for our B.O.L.D. Brand Intensive Retreat in Summer 2025: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Tara Lassiter (guest) = Wendy McManus (guest) = /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/34049891

420: Finding and Developing Your Big I.D.E.A. [Best Of] 11/18/2024

419: Using Your Voice and Story for Business Impact with Michelle Massman 11/11/2024

419: Using Your Voice and Story for Business Impact with Michelle Massman In this episode, our lead speaking coach Diane Diaz speaks with Michelle Massman, a longtime entrepreneur and graduate of our Thought Leader Academy, who shares her journey from “stuck” to “unstoppable” through storytelling and public speaking. You’ll hear Michelle’s candid stories—from launching unexpected ventures like The Culinary Studio to her partnership with a music group—that reveal her resilience and passion for following her intuition. As Diane and Michelle discuss the power of sharing vulnerable stories, Michelle opens up about the anxiety she’s faced and how she’s turned her experiences into speaking topics that resonate deeply with her audiences. Her frameworks, including From Stuck to Unstoppable and Passion to Profit, provide practical steps for anyone feeling stuck or seeking more clarity and confidence. Michelle’s story is a reminder that by saying “yes” to opportunities, connecting with the right people, and being willing to share your authentic self, you can create incredible impact and growth for both yourself and others. Diane and Michelle talk about: Finding clarity on the message you want to share and ways to bring your unique story to life Connecting with audiences authentically by sharing vulnerable, relatable experiences Understanding the power of frameworks and storytelling to guide and engage listeners Gaining inspiration to overcome obstacles and embrace your next speaking opportunity About Our Guest: Michelle Massman has been a visionary entrepreneur for over 30 years and knew, even as a teen, that she wanted to own a business someday. After working at a few (ok several) jobs, she realized she didn’t like being told what to do, and didn’t like managing people. So she started her business and loved it! She has guided, launched, directed and overhauled everything from small start up ventures to multi-million dollar private companies, consulted with hundreds of people in the areas of entrepreneurship, marketing, brand partnerships, event production, and music management, and weathered failures and missteps that have given her experience and knowledge that she uses to help her clients sidestep them. Michelle’s sweet spot, as a problem solver, connector, advocate, and persuasive force, is the ability to jump into any problem and help find the best solution while helping her clients access the knowledge they need to get unstuck in their business. Links: Show notes at Michelle’s website: Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Michelle Massman (guest) = /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/33828642

418: Our Thoughts on the 2024 Election Results: Here We Are Once Again 11/06/2024

418: Our Thoughts on the 2024 Election Results: Here We Are Once Again The election clearly did not go the way many of us wanted. I was on the TV news once again on Election Night and the morning after. The outcome wasn't the shock it was in 2016, but it's profoundly disappointing. Join me and Diane Diaz for this conversation on our thoughts and how we’re moving forward (recorded on Wednesday, November 6 at 11 am EST). We too are sad and frustrated but we also want to remind you of the power of your voice and your community. It's easy to jump to the conclusion that America won't elect a woman as president or that voters don't care about women's rights. Two things to keep in mind. First, in both Missouri and Arizona (as well as other states - both blue and red - since the Dobbs decision in 2022), amendments passed to counter very restrictive abortion laws. Unfortunately, in Florida where I live, a similar amendment did not pass because Florida requires 60% and the amendment got 57% (a similar percentage as in the other states). A healthy majority of voters, both men and women, agree that women's reproductive rights are essential. Second, it was a *very* close race. Kamala Harris only had 100 days to do what most presidential candidates have 2 years to do: introduce herself to the American people, talk about the issues she would focus on as president, and contrast herself not only with her opponent but also with the incumbent (Biden) in an era of anti-incumbency sentiment. Harris ran a nearly flawless campaign and I believe she simply ran out of time. Hang in there. Your voice matters and the work you do matters. About Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at . Links: Show notes at Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Join us in London for our B.O.L.D. Brand Intensive Retreat Summer 2025: Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Diane Diaz = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/33818306

417: The 3 Key Elements for Your Transformational Personal Brand 11/04/2024

417: The 3 Key Elements for Your Transformational Personal Brand We’re diving into what makes a personal brand truly transformational. If you’re working to build a brand that’s memorable and impactful, whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone looking to expand your influence, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share three essential elements that go into creating a transformational personal brand: being remembered, relevant, and relational I’ll walk you through how to identify what makes you unique, why staying in tune with trends matters, and how building genuine connections can fuel your brand’s growth. Here’s a peek at what we’ll cover: Why "Transformational"? - Your brand isn’t just about what you do; it’s about who you are and how you show up—even when you’re not in the room. It’s a combination of your expertise, values, and the mission you’re passionate about. We’ll talk about what it means to have a brand that inspires change and how that can elevate both you and your audience. Be Remembered - People remember those who make an impact. I’ll share some personal stories, including an unexpected moment at a political fundraiser where I reconnected with someone from years ago because I was memorable. I’ll guide you on how to make sure people think of you when they talk about topics related to your mission and values. Stay Relevant - We’re in a fast-changing world, and it’s critical to adapt. I’ll explain why I’ve been deeply involved with AI, how this aligns with my mission, and why being relevant means more than just following trends—it’s about resonating with what matters in today’s society. Build Relational Connections - Relationships are the heartbeat of a strong personal brand. I’ll discuss why building offline relationships can be just as powerful (if not more) than online connections and share tips for growing a network that helps keep your brand top of mind. Plus, I’ve created a free workbook to help you start building your transformational personal brand. You can download it at . I hope this episode inspires you to think about what makes your brand transformational, to make sure your message isn’t just heard, it’s remembered and felt. Links: Show notes at Download the free personal brand workbook that goes with this episode: Apply for our B.O.L.D. Brand Intensive retreat in London Summer 2025: Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/33766807

416: The Secret to Authentic Connection with Your Audiences Is Your Brand Voice with Ashleigh Harvey 10/28/2024

416: The Secret to Authentic Connection with Your Audiences Is Your Brand Voice with Ashleigh Harvey As an entrepreneur or professional, you know the power of having a clear and compelling brand voice that resonates with your audience. You want your message to attract the right clients, opportunities, and partners - but knowing how to express your authentic self can feel like a challenge. Many women struggle with feeling like they need to fit a mold: too professional, not bold enough, or maybe even too much. The fear of sounding "wrong" or "inauthentic" holds many of us back from fully stepping into our voice, whether we're delivering a talk, crafting website copy, or writing emails. In this episode, I talk with Ashleigh Harvey, a copywriting and brand messaging expert (and Thought Leader Academy grad), about how you can confidently find and express your authentic brand voice to connect deeply with your audience. Ashleigh shares practical strategies for honing your message, so you’ll attract the right people for you. We talk about: The common challenges women face when trying to find their brand voice How Ashleigh and I describe our own brand voices (I was surprised to figure out what my brand voice is!) Why authenticity is more important than ever in the age of AI-driven content The power of having a consistent practice for developing your brand voice Practical tips for writing copy that connects, persuades, and inspires action Plus, Ashleigh and I announce an exciting joint retreat we’re hosting in London next summer! Over 4 days (June 29-July 2, 2025), you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in developing your brand voice and story, all while experiencing the rich performing arts culture and women’s history in an incredible city. Learn more at . About My Guest: Ashleigh Harvey runs The Story Team, her persuasion copywriting business. Her mission is to empower female entrepreneurs to embrace their authentic voice and weave it into their business, creating consistent branding and copy that converts. She works with female entrepreneurs from South Africa to New Zealand, from India to South Korea, from the UK to the USA, helping them with badass brand voice and copy tips. She is an unapologetic vegan who started her business from her car while working as a care worker. She swears too much, is far too loud, is working more and more on not caring too much about what other people think, and she wants to tell her story so that it may help other women to find their power. Links: Show notes at Ashleigh’s website: Apply for our London Brand Building Retreat in Summer 2025: Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Ashleigh Harvey (guest) = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/33589967

415: What Event Producers Look for When Selecting Speakers with Johanna (Jo) Murillo 10/21/2024

415: What Event Producers Look for When Selecting Speakers with Johanna (Jo) Murillo If you’ve ever wondered how to land those coveted speaking and panel spots at events, this episode is for you! I’m thrilled to have Johanna (Jo) Murillo join me to share her insider knowledge on how event organizers and producers choose speakers and panelists. Jo is an event producer extraordinaire based in Orlando, Florida, where I live. She runs Wow Brand Studios, a full-service agency specializing in event production, brand strategy, and helping business owners stand out through powerful visual branding. I’ve had the pleasure of attending several of Jo’s events, and they are truly one-of-a-kind! In our conversation, Jo reveals the secrets of what she looks for when selecting speakers and panelists. It’s not just about who has the biggest social media following, but about who can bring genuine value, inspire the audience, and share knowledge in a way that makes everyone in the room feel uplifted and enriched. We dive into: The importance of attending local in-person events to build your visibility and network The qualities Jo looks for in speakers (hint: it’s more than just being an expert!) How diversity and inclusion play a central role in curating impactful events Memorable stories of speakers who wowed the audience and exceeded expectations Red flags that make event organizers hesitate to book a speaker How to make sure you are meeting expectations as a speaker and how event organizers can ensure a successful event for speakers Ready to develop your signature talk and land more speaking opportunities? Join our Thought Leader Academy where you’ll work on creating your signature talk, developing your thought leadership, and learning the business of speaking. Get all the details and sign up at speakingyourbrand.com/academy. About My Guest: With over 25 years of experience in visual design, brand development, and marketing, Johanna (Jo) Murillo stands as a dynamic and accomplished professional in the industry. She is the proud owner of WOW Brand Studios, a full-service branding and public relations agency renowned for its creative and strategic excellence. A trailblazer for Hispanics in our community, Johanna was unanimously elected to join the Board of Directors for Opera Orlando. Further amplifying her impact, Johanna recently founded The WOW PWR, a nonprofit organization that empowers women in business by providing them with essential resources and a supportive network to thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Links: Show notes at Jo’s website: Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: Connect on LinkedIn: Carol Cox = Jo Murillo (guest) = Related Podcast Episodes: /episode/index/show/speakingyourbrand/id/33339057

414: Using ‘Stages’ and ‘Lessons’: Live Signature Talks from Our Thought Leader Academy Grads 10/14/2024

413: Design and Deliver Workshops that Get You Leads and Clients 10/07/2024

Speaking Your Brand: Public Speaking Tips and Strategies

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