Unforgettable Presentations
Attention experienced corporate presenters, public speakers, professional speakers and pastors. Do you want to deliver a good, a great or an unforgettable presentation? Get insights from behind the scenes on some of the most unforgettable presentations ever delivered. √ What's the story behind the presentation? √ Where did the idea come from? √ How did they prepare it? √ How did they execute it? Join World Champions of Public Speaking, Mark Brown & Darren LaCroix. They have been world-class speaking coaches for over a decade and have trained presenters in over 14 countries. You'll love their chemistry and wisdom. What will you hear? Some episodes will be rock-solid content, some episodes will be interviews with presenters who delivered an unforgettable presentation.
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Ep. 316 “BUT I SPEAK FROM THE HEART…”
09/11/2025
Ep. 316 “BUT I SPEAK FROM THE HEART…”
Darren freely admits that early in his career, he resisted writing out his presentations because he always spoke from the heart. In this brief episode, he and Mark discuss the value of speaking from the heart, and the additional benefit of doing so with the right preparation and structure. SNIPPETS: • Speaking from the heart is good, but passion doesn’t equal effectiveness • The heart isn’t the best editor • You can’t edit what isn’t written • What’s in your mind doesn’t always come out of your mouth • Speak in a way that the audience can absorb the message • Speak from your heart into a device/app that can transcribe it • Edit your transcript, use a proper structure, and prepare to present • Words prepared from the heart, spoken from the heart, will land on the heart Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 315 IS IT TOO LATE TO BE GREAT?
09/04/2025
Ep. 315 IS IT TOO LATE TO BE GREAT?
When is it too late to start a speaking career? Today Mark and Darren discuss this question with Julia Nicholson and Maria Garaitonandia, both mature presenters, at the beginning of their speaking careers. They talk about their concerns, their plans, and their process for achieving success later in life. Darren and Mark cite examples of well-known speakers who became professionals after the age of 40, and their guests also offer encouragement to anyone who wants to start their speaking journey during their later years. SNIPPETS: • Follow your purpose • Use your experience to shorten your learning curve • Investigate what it takes • Join Toastmasters for the art • Join NSA for the business • An NSA Academy program is a good investment • Avoid naysayers and keep the wind beneath your wings • Connect with pros and build a network • Have fun and enjoy the journey • ** Greats like Zig Ziglar and Les Brown began their careers after 40 ** ** SOURCE: ChatGPT
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Ep. 314 IS YOUR TRAINING UNFORGETTABLE?
08/28/2025
Ep. 314 IS YOUR TRAINING UNFORGETTABLE?
“Can’t I just add a couple of exercises to my keynote and create a killer training program?” Over the past two decades, Darren and Mark have heard that question numerous times, and the short answer is “No.” Today, they get comprehensive answers from their fellow World Champion and Certified Speaking Professional, Ed Tate...the trainer’s trainer. Not only do they discuss the differences between speaking and training, but they also delve into the mindset and methods that will help you deliver unforgettable training. SNIPPETS: • Speaking and training are different • Keynotes contain a higher level of abstraction • Keynotes affect thinking, training affects behavior • Audience engagement is key • Make ideas actionable • Instructions have various levels • Provide content in digestible pieces • Serve different learning styles • Repetition is your friend • Give content in different modalities • Debrief activities Check out Train-the-Trainer Workshop:
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Ep. 313 DO YOU ATTRIBUTE
08/21/2025
Ep. 313 DO YOU ATTRIBUTE
Well-chosen quotations, song lyrics, poetry and statistics can enhance any presentation. However, it’s important to attribute the sources and let our audiences know the sources for validation. If we don’t attribute, we might become unforgettable…for the wrong reason. SNIPPETS: • Provide the sources for polls, studies, statistics, and research findings • “Studies show”, “research proves,” “a recent poll reveals” isn’t enough • Attribute lyrics, quotations poetry etc. to their source • Quote accurately; someone always spots errors • Misquoting can negatively affect your credibility • Do your due diligence and verify quotations and sources • Verify using more than one source • Don’t use too many quotations/lyrics/statistics, etc. • Use AI wisely and verify the results that AI provides • Never plagiarize; you will harm your reputation Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 312 YOU ARE THE AVERAGE OF…WITH JULIA NICHOLSON
08/14/2025
Ep. 312 YOU ARE THE AVERAGE OF…WITH JULIA NICHOLSON
Jim Rohn is often quoted as saying, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Today Mark and Darren speak with Julia Nicholson, a former executive who finds value in Jim’s words. She is passionate about spending time with world-class communicators, and she shares lessons that she is learning along her journey to becoming unforgettable SNIPPETS: • Find your purpose and LIVE your purpose • Success fills your schedule, significance fills your soul • Know where you are in your speaker process • Develop your craft • Lean in and learn • There’s no substitute for getting on stage • Find the coach who is the right fit for you • You’re more effective when you’re DRIVEN, not COMPELLED • Don’t just create a speech, create an unforgettable speech
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Ep. 311 MORE RHETORICAL DEVICES
08/07/2025
Ep. 311 MORE RHETORICAL DEVICES
In this second and final conversation about RHETORICAL DEVICES, Mark and Darren once again review Mark’s winning Toastmasters speech, identifying ways that RHETORICAL DEVICES enhanced his presentation. THIS IS PART TWO OF TWO. SNIPPETS: • Rhetorical devices multiply your message • A rhetorical device can help to personify inanimate objects • Rhythmic rhetorical devices make your message more sticky • Rhetorical questions provide moments of introspection • Rhetorical devices can provide a frame of reference • Employ these devices to help your audience to ‘see’ characters and situations How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 310 DO YOU USE RHETORICAL DEVICES?
07/31/2025
Ep. 310 DO YOU USE RHETORICAL DEVICES?
RHETORICAL DEVICES are language tools that help presenters to be more compelling and memorable…and there are more than forty such devices. Darren examines Mark’s Toastmasters World Championship-winning speech, and together they discuss how Mark used some of them effectively. By applying rhetorical techniques, you can elevate the impact of your presentation. SNIPPETS: • Use rhetorical devices to connect emotionally • Elevate your audience’s experience • Tools like HYERBOLE can elicit humor when used well • Rhetorical devices add rhythm to a story and make it memorable • Couple rhetorical devices with body language • Combine delivery and rhetorical devices to bring your audience into the scene How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 309 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 6
07/24/2025
Ep. 309 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 6
You’ve worked hard on your presentation and it’s time to rehearse for readiness. In this episode in the series on their book DELIVER UNFORGETTABBLE PRESENTATIONS, Mark & Darren share tips for adding the final touches before taking the stage. This episode covers Step #7: OWN YOUR STAGE. SNIPPETS: • Use your script to indicate emotions, stage movement, pauses, and more • Create a stage plan • How you use your stage will enhance your audience’s experience • Don’t memorize your talk; internalize it • Your audience wants you to be present, not perfect • Walk through your presentation • Rehearse for a live audience and CRAVE FEEDBACK • Use slides as guides • Well-chosen props and illustrations clarify, solidify, and edify your message • Get a qualified coach How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University:
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Ep. 308 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 5
07/17/2025
Ep. 308 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 5
Impactful presentations are memorable, and today Darren and Mark share techniques for adding this final touch to your presentation before taking it to the platform. This episode covers Step #6: MAKE IT UNFORGETTABLE. SNIPPETS: • The more complex your topic, the more you need a simple structure • Make your points digestible • Use a proven story structure • The ‘THEN/NOW’ model is a powerful option • Show a day in the life of the main character • Introduce a challenge • You must have a guru, guide, source of wisdom • The character must experience a change • Your Foundational Phrase will make your message memorable • Cater to different learning styles (See podcast episodes 70, 71 & 72) How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 307 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 4
07/10/2025
Ep. 307 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 4
A weak presentation closing can dilute your message and at worst, nullify your impact. In Part 4 of this series, Mark and Darren explore both principles for a solid closing, and mistakes that inexperienced presenters tend to make. This episode covers Step #5: CREATE YOUR COMPELLING CLOSE. SNIPPETS: • Your close should reinforce your premise • There are several closing options • Select the most appropriate closing for your specific presentation • The DIALOG CLOSE is a flexible and easy option • A compelling close is an opportunity to repeat and reinforce a guru’s wisdom • Internalize your closing; know it cold • Prepare your closing and opening like choosing slices of bread for a sandwich • Avoid the common mistake of delivering multiple closings • Use Q & A to set up your closing • NEVER end on Q & A; leave one final point that inspires your audience How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 306 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 3
07/03/2025
Ep. 306 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 3
“Open STRONG!” This is Darren’s advice in Part 3 of this series as he and Mark explain the ‘WHY’ and the ‘HOW’ behind an unforgettable presentation’s opening. This episode covers Step #4: CREATE YOUR STRONG OPENING SNIPPETS: • Set the stage with your introduction • Your opening sets up your premise • The opening sets the trajectory of the listeners’ experience • Open strong • Explore various opening options • Use effective opening words • Be concise and precise • Avoid platitudes until after your strong opening • Choose opening words carefully and deliberately • Internalize your opening; know it by heart How to Write Your Own Introduction: https://markbrownspeaks.com/set-up-your-success-with-your-introduction/ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 305 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 2
06/26/2025
Ep. 305 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 2
In Part 2 of this series, Darren and Mark discuss the importance…and the benefits…of having a world-class presentation structure. This episode covers Step #3: STRUCTURE THIS! SNIPPETS: • The ‘Tell them, tell them, tell them’ structure is rudimentary and limited • The ‘Tell a story make a point’ structure lacks cohesiveness • Good structure gives your audience clarity and gives you confidence • The Fripp Speech Model provides the perfect structure • Solid structure makes your content digestible • An effective structure allows you to organize your thoughts logically • Proper structure allows easy customization • Proper structure is flexible and can be used for virtually any presentation Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 304 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 1
06/19/2025
Ep. 304 7 STEPS TO UNFORGETTABLE - PART 1
An unforgettable presentation requires an unforgettable process. Today Mark and Darren begin breaking down their 7-Step speech process, laid out in their book DELIVER UNFORGETTABLE PRESENTATIONS. This episode covers STEP #1: FINDING YOUR CONTENT, and STEP #2: CLARITY, CLARITY, CLARITY! SNIPPETS: • You need an unforgettable process • It’s your responsibility to give your audience next steps • FIND CONTENT from your own life and experience • Don’t undervalue your expertise • Start with what you know • Build your story folder • Be clear about your premise • Give information in context • Don’t give your audience a reason to take a mental detour • Don’t leave unanswered questions in your audience’s minds Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 303 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 2
06/12/2025
Ep. 303 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 2
In Part 2 of their conversation about the Top Ten Mistakes, Darren and Mark talk with Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis about mistakes #5 through #1 in the countdown. SNIPPETS: • Identify the guide/guru/compass, which may not be a human • The hero should not solve their own problem • It isn’t just about what changed, but about how the character grew • Give your audience time and room to reflect on the character’s development • Give the hero a time limit to reach their goal • Create and escalate conflict • Be clear about the hero’s goal; not what, but why • Specificity and clarity are key • Engage the audience immediately • Don’t open with trivialities like the weather or how nice it is to be there 1. Weak or Wandering Openings Why it matters: If you don’t hook the audience in the first 15 seconds, you risk losing them entirely. Many speakers start with platitudes or overused statements instead of tension, emotion, or curiosity.
✅ Fix: Begin with a vivid image, jarring question, or a clear inciting incident. (Craig Valentine: “When they’re predicting, you’re connecting.”) 2. The Main Character Lacks a Clear Goal or Stakes Why it matters: Without a specific goal and consequence, the story feels directionless and unmotivated. The audience won’t care what happens next.
✅ Fix: Use the ABS AND section to define the character's goal, traits, and motivation. 3. Stories Skip the Struggle Why it matters: Too many stories jump from the problem to the resolution. They miss the BUT—the emotional depth, obstacles, and low point that make the payoff matter.
✅ Fix: Amplify conflict. Show the tension before the turn. That’s where connection lives. 4. Resolution Without Reflection Why it matters: The SO isn’t just about what changed—it’s about how the character grew, and what we can take away. When this is rushed or vague, the audience misses the lesson.
✅ Fix: Let the character experience change and articulate new insight. Use dialogue, emotion, and detail. 5. The Guide Isn’t Clear (or is the same person as the hero) Why it matters: Without a separate Guide figure, the story sounds like self-congratulation. That breaks trust.
✅ Fix: Show who offered perspective, wisdom, or a framework that shifted the main character’s path. Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 302 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 1
06/05/2025
Ep. 302 TOP 10 MISTAKES - PART 1
Over the years Darren and Mark have made…and seen…several mistakes. Today they’re joined by Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis as they discuss the mistakes they see most often…even after 30+ years of coaching. This episode feature mistakes #10 through #6 in the countdown. Avoiding these will help you to be unforgettable on the platform. SNIPPETS: • Avoid ending on Q & A or with a ‘THANK YOU’ slide • Circle back to your opening and end with impact • Can your audience see themselves in your story • Do research and homework to relate more closely with your audience • Use present tense and phrases like “let me take you back…” • End with punchy, concrete words • Show the consequences of actions NOT taken • Be clear on what is at stake • Avoid continuous narration • Use dialogue, body language and facial expression for depiction 6. Too Much “Tell,” Not Enough “Show” Why it matters: Narrating facts and feelings doesn't activate the audience’s imagination. The brain craves visuals, dialogue, and motion.
✅ Fix: Include short bursts of scene-based storytelling. Show reactions. Use dialogue. Let us see and feel it. 7. Unclear If-Then Stakes Why it matters: Without an IF-THEN, there’s no urgency. No reason to act. No consequence for staying the same.
✅ Fix: Highlight the risk: “If I stayed silent, we would have lost the client. If I spoke up, I might get fired.” 8. Repetitive Sentence Structures or Passive Voice Why it matters: Flat rhythms, present participles, or soft endings weaken emotional impact and energy.
✅ Fix: Use nouns and verbs up front. End sentences with punchy, concrete words. Vary rhythm. 9. No Audience Relevance or Personalization Why it matters: Some stories sound good but don’t connect. If the audience can’t see themselves in it, they tune out.
✅ Fix: Ask the reflective question during the story: “Have you ever felt like that?” or “What would you have done in that moment?” 10. Ending With a Fizzle, Not a Frame Why it matters: If the ending feels rushed, abstract, or purely emotional, the story won’t stick.
✅ Fix: Reframe the opening or image in a new way. Bring the story full circle. Land with clarity and resonance. Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 301 PREPPING FOR THE ROAD
05/29/2025
Ep. 301 PREPPING FOR THE ROAD
At some point in your speaking career, you will have to travel…sometimes overseas…and it’s important to be prepared. Proper preparation includes getting ready for your presentation, and more. Darren and Mark break down their preparation process and provide tools to help any speaker prepare for their unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Prepare tech tools for your presentation • Prepare to be present • Create a TRAVEL CHECKLIST • Bring travel adapters/chargers • Pack for at least one extra day • Keep a travel event folder with contact info, travel and event itinerary, etc. • Make copies of your passport • Learn about your audience, get an attendee list, connect on LinkedIn • Make sure you have the correct visa for specific international locations • Secure a Letter of Invitation if required for international events • Use gift cards and your books as gifts for the tech team, drivers, event staff • Do venue walkthrough post-event to ensure you have chargers, cables, drives • Prepare your unforgettable presentation Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 300 YOUR VIDEO INTRO?
05/22/2025
Ep. 300 YOUR VIDEO INTRO?
Perhaps you’ve seen a poor introduction, or a well-written one poorly delivered. In this episode, Mark and Darren give insight into the power of a video introduction and share two examples to show how a good video introduction can help you to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • A good video intro connects your audience to you • It connects your audience to your subject • Keep the content simple • Include still photos • It tells a story in itself • It’s a teaser to create curiosity • Include royalty-free music • If using text, limit the text to one line per slide • Each line of text can be a cliffhanger • Be creative • You can’t edit what you don’t create • Use resources like 99Designs, Fiverr and Upwork Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 299 ACCELERATE YOUR BOOKINGS WITH LINKEDIN – RICHARD BLISS
05/15/2025
Ep. 299 ACCELERATE YOUR BOOKINGS WITH LINKEDIN – RICHARD BLISS
LinkedIn has become the business ‘go-to’ platform, but many users haven’t been using it properly. Today, Mark and Darren talk with LinkedIn expert Richard Bliss about the mistakes and best practices for maximizing LinkedIn to accelerate your business. SNIPPETS: • LinkedIn is a business platform • Don’t use LinkedIn like social media platforms • Social media activities are counterproductive on LinkedIn • Emojis can interfere with the intent of your content • Emojis have different meanings to different demographics • Leave insightful comments on people’s posts, not just ‘likes’ • 3X5 Rule: Comment 3X daily, for 5 days each week • Apply the Human Algorithm, investing in relationships before connecting • Write posts of 120 words or fewer, spacing every 3 lines • In your ABOUT profile, be INTERESTED before being INTERESTING Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 298 THE 11TH HOUR
05/08/2025
Ep. 298 THE 11TH HOUR
Webster’s Dictionary defines The 11th Hour as “the latest possible time before it’s too late.” Today Darren and Mark give examples of 11th hour speaking situations and offer advice on how to be unforgettable by performing professionally at the 11th hour. SNIPPETS: • We are paid to make 11th hour decisions • True professionals perform at the 11th hour • Be aware that meeting planners often face 11th hour challenges • Build relationships by serving others in their 11th hour • Be aware that people around you may be in their 11th hour • Be the meeting planner’s favorite • Be prepared for 11th hour situations • Make yourself available for 11th hour assignments • Be the 11th hour presenter • Learn all you can about events, so you don’t miss 11th hour opportunities • Don’t wait for 11th hour coaching • Think of ways to improve on what landed Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 297 WHAT LANDED?
05/01/2025
Ep. 297 WHAT LANDED?
When reviewing their speech recordings, speakers often look for what DIDN’T go well. Today, Mark and Darren invite you to focus on the positive, and to look first for what LANDED. This will help you to identify your strengths, and approach areas for improvement with a positive mindset. SNIPPETS: • Find the magic moments • Determine what worked • Identify the times you connected • Gauge audience reaction • We can’t see our best while we are on the stage • Look for times when you say something differently in the moment • Dissect the presentation • Notice where microexpressions make a difference • Your tone of voice and facial expressions can be impactful • Examine characters and decide: ‘remove or remain?’ • Think of ways to improve on what landed Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 296 THE POWER OF THE RE-WRITE
04/24/2025
Ep. 296 THE POWER OF THE RE-WRITE
Have you considered re-writing one of your previous stories? In today’s episode, Darren and Mark encourage you to examine your previous presentations with the goal of improving, enhancing, and re-writing. A re-write can elevate your content, enhance your performance, and most importantly amplify your impact. SNIPPETS: • Great speeches aren’t written; they’re re-written • Revisit previous presentations • Watch videos of your speeches • Review with a critical eye • Identify what you did well, and areas for improvement • Make review and re-write part of your routine • Put ‘WORLD CLASS TIME’ on your calendar • Start with one area…a story/idea/slide deck/segment • Choose when to replace narration with dialog • Examine characters and decide: ‘remove or remain?’ • Seek ways to enhance the audience’s experience Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 295 “NARRA-LOG?”
04/17/2025
Ep. 295 “NARRA-LOG?”
How do you find a balance between narration and dialog? NARRA-LOG! Like one of Mark and Darren’s clients, you may think, “That sounds like a NARROW LOG!” Today our co-hosts talk about bridging the gap between too much narration/not enough dialog…and vice versa…using that ‘narrow log.’ They give guidance on using both techniques effectively to build your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Find the right balance between narration and dialog • Look for key emotional shifts in your story • You may need to reel in the dialog • Avoid creating a soliloquy • Don’t create a stage play • Decide when narration serves best • Choose two or three ‘dialog moments’ • In dialog, more than one character must speak or react • Use dialog to increase conflict, show a revelation, and reveal the aftermath • Reactions tell the story Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 294 “BETTER” MINDSET
04/10/2025
Ep. 294 “BETTER” MINDSET
Darren and Mark encourage their clients to review their scripts and ask, “How can I say this better with fewer words?” Today they discuss how having a better mindset can transform your presentation, improve your business, and make you unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Ask: What can I make, say, or do better? • Re-evaluate your presentations, programs, and processes • Revisit your digital footprint • Cut superfluous content • Consider the audience’s mindset • Do a debrief • Random comments can provide better options • Find better marketing strategies • Give your audience a better experience • Build better relationships with clients and meeting planners Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 293 NEED A BREAKTHROUGH?
04/03/2025
Ep. 293 NEED A BREAKTHROUGH?
At some point, you may feel stuck in your business, doing the same thing over and over, without any measurable progress. Today Mark and Darren have an off-the-cuff discussion about ways to get breakthroughs on your path to becoming unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Reach your ‘enough is enough’ point • Revisit your habits • Adopt a new perspective • Seek qualified help • Find a mentor • Be humble and sincere • Be a sponge • Join a mastermind • Say ‘Yes’ when a pro offers to help • Apply their advice • Breakthroughs come from growth Join us for Game Changers: Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 292 WHAT KEEPS YOU FROM GETTING BOOKED WITH JENNIFER LIER
03/27/2025
Ep. 292 WHAT KEEPS YOU FROM GETTING BOOKED WITH JENNIFER LIER
We all want to get booked but we often lack the skills and knowledge to land the gig…on the best terms. Speaker bureau executive Jennifer Lier sits down with Darren and Mark to reveal the obstacles that keep you from getting booked, and the ‘must haves’ that will get you gigs and make you unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • YOU are your company, brand, and product • It’s hard for you to negotiate your own gigs • Let your bureau be your advocate • Bureaus will not seek you out • Bureaus look for speakers delivering at 25-30 events annually • Most bureaus look for speakers earning $7,500+ per speech • Bureaus speakers with fees under $10K • Treat the bureau as your partner • Have non-branded marketing materials ready • Have TWO shareable demo videos: 3-5 minutes and 30 minutes • Have a website that aligns with your brand • Bring the bureau a gig • Give the bureau a reason to work with you Check out Game Changers: Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 291 GET FOUND GET SEEN GET BUSINESS WITH FORD SAEKS
03/20/2025
Ep. 291 GET FOUND GET SEEN GET BUSINESS WITH FORD SAEKS
To get more business, your prospects need to know you exist. Today, Mark and Darren talk with Hall-Of-Fame speaker and million-dollar business growth innovator Ford Saeks Ford offers practical, business building wisdom to help you get found, get seen, and get business. SNIPPETS: • Be great on stage • Master your craft • Google yourself to see what your prospects see • Have a solid digital footprint • Use LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok • Content is a commodity • Don’t tie your identity to a delivery method • Lead with benefits • Help your audience to DISCOVER, UNCOVER and REVEAL • It’s not about selling; it’s about serving • Treat AI like an expert, monitor it as an intern Discount Code: Ford20 Check Out Game Changers:
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Ep. 290 YOUR UNFORGETTABLE IMAGE WITH JERRY METELLUS
03/13/2025
Ep. 290 YOUR UNFORGETTABLE IMAGE WITH JERRY METELLUS
Your headshot is a critical component in your marketing material. So how do you look your best, and BE your best on camera? Darren and Mark get answers from Las Vegas-based celebrity photographer Jerry Metellus as they talk about the how and why of an unforgettable profile photo. SNIPPETS: • Amplify what already is • Don’t be trapped in an image of what you think you should be • Remember who you are • Don’t become fake in front of the lens • Maintain a positive demeanor • When sitting for a photo, find the joy • Your photo tells a story • Your photo can be your ambassador • Show up STRONG in your photo • Let your brand show through you • Interview potential photographers to make sure you are a good fit Join us for Game Changers!
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Ep. 289 BE UNFORGETTABLE IN THE MEDIA WITH PILAR ORTIZ
03/06/2025
Ep. 289 BE UNFORGETTABLE IN THE MEDIA WITH PILAR ORTIZ
A media interview is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your expertise and serve a broader audience. How can you get the opportunity, and what should you do to maximize that opportunity? In today’s episode, Mark and Darren talk with speaker, author and coach Pilar Ortiz, former TV reporter, news anchor, producer and director. Pilar gives sage advice for handling media interviews, staying top of mind with the media. SNIPPETS: • Say ‘yes’ to the opportunity • Prepare bullet points and practice out loud • Be succinct and give short answers in soundbites • Just answer the question and make it easy for the audience to • Select THREE key nuggets • Create a story for your interviewer • Show the producer how your expertise and serve their audience • Make your topic newsworthy • Make yourself a resource by referring other experts • Build relationships with media personnel • Watch interviewers and familiarize yourself with their style • Wear clothes that fit well Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 288 YOUR VOICE WITH MILLIAN QUINTEROS
02/27/2025
Ep. 288 YOUR VOICE WITH MILLIAN QUINTEROS
Your voice is your instrument, so how do you keep it in top shape? Today, Darren and Mark sit down with Millian Quinteros, a voiceover artist, audio producer, podcast consultant, and voice care/maintenance coach. Using his own story of struggling with vocal issues, Millian explains some common voice-care mistakes, and offers practical advice to help you keep your instrument well-tuned. SNIPPETS: • The voice is the symphony of the heart • Your voice tells people who you are • Treat your voice like a professional • Use vocal warm-ups and cool-downs • Avoid alcohol and caffeine. • If you partake, drink room temperature water at a 1:1 ratio • Adopt proper posture when speaking • Hum gently first thing in the morning • Use diaphragmatic breathing in a steamy shower • Hydration is key, with ROOM TEMPERATURE water • When travelling, arrive at your destination a day early to acclimate • Voice rest for a few hors can be very helpful Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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Ep. 287 ARE YOU TOO CLOSE?
02/20/2025
Ep. 287 ARE YOU TOO CLOSE?
Mark says, “One man’s mundane is another man’s magnificent.” We sometimes fail to see the magnificence in our stories because we’re too close to them. Today Darren and Mark explain why we may be too close, and suggest ways to broaden our perspective SNIPPETS: • Start with a big block of clay • We can be so close that we can’t identify the magnificent in our story • Video-record yourself telling your story • Present to a test audience • Look at your story from the audience’s perspective • Learn what your audience is thinking • We can be too close to our favorite and signature stories • Work with a qualified coach • We can be so close that we miss ‘blind spots’ Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
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