Speakernomics

Join host Anne Bonney, CSP, as she chats with Cassandra Worthy about her journey from corporate leader to main stage Influence speaker. Get straight talk on the strategies, mindset, and frameworks that can help you bring lasting value to your clients and grow your speaking business.What you'll learn in this episode:* How Cassandra Worthy transitioned from corporate America to a career in speaking* The pivotal moment that inspired her "change enthusiasm" framework* Why building a practical, actionable framework sets speakers apart* What clients are really looking for now—partnership over performanceTop advice for speakers preparing for big stages and growing their network strategicallyBecome an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership Attend Influence 2026! Register here: https://influence.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock the secrets to landing high-paying, right-fit clients and taking your speaking business to the next level. In this episode, Gina Carr interviews Angelique Rewers, CEO of BoldHouse, who shares actionable advice for speakers looking to transform their impact and grow sustainably.* The biggest untapped opportunities speakers miss with corporate clients* How to maximize client lifetime value and avoid the "one-and-done" keynote trap* Building scalable training offerings (and when to bring in outside support)* The crucial role of AI in today's business landscape and how to position your expertise* The 5 rules of business every expert needs to accelerate growth and profitabilityBecome an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, Terry Brock, CSP, CPAE welcomes renowned personal branding strategist and Speaker Hall of Fame member Rory Vaden, CSP, CPAE, for an engaging exploration on building, refining, and leveraging your personal brand as a professional speaker.In this session, Rory will:* Define and distinguish the real meaning of personal branding as the formalization, digitization, and monetization of your reputation—moving beyond logos and social media to focus on trust and authenticity.* Demonstrate how to effectively leverage emerging tools, including AI and custom GPT bots, to streamline and personalize your speaking business while maintaining your unique human touch.* Formulate actionable strategies for breaking through industry noise, finding your uniqueness, and applying proven frameworks to grow your business, secure higher speaking fees, and expand your platform.* Whether you’re an established professional or just building your brand, this discussion will help you evaluate the strengths of your current reputation and construct a targeted plan to enhance your recognition and reach in the speaking marketplace. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hall of Fame speaker Don Yaeger joins Thom Singer for the first Speakernomics episode of 2026, sharing actionable insights on building a lasting career and business in professional speaking. Get straight to the essentials with proven tips, powerful stories, and strategies for growth.* How to constantly develop fresh content to keep your talks relevant and engaging* The importance of multiple streams of income for long-term stability* Insights from writing bestselling books and leveraging them in speaking* Creating a powerful inner circle and the impact of NSA community connections* Why signature stories set great speakers apart and tips for mastering yours Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to take your speaking career to the next level? In this episode of Speakernomics, industry pros break down exactly how podcasting can amplify your brand, grow your business, and keep your voice front and center.Here’s what you’ll learn:* The unique value of hosting your own podcast as a professional speaker* How podcasting strengthens your message, builds your platform, and boosts credibility with clients and event planners* Strategies for managing podcast production and avoiding common pitfalls like “podfade”* Ways to effectively repurpose podcast content across social, newsletters, and other channels* Real-world advice on staying consistent, finding your audience, and making podcasting work for your business* Straightforward insights, practical advice, and actionable steps—hit play and level up!Episode includes Guests: Mark Hunter and 2 Influence 2025 sponsors, Ellie Puckett of Resonate Recordings and Larry Roberts of Red Hat Media) Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney, affectionately known as "Shark," embarks on a journey with a panel of international speaking experts including Ruby Newell Legner, CSP, Cavett Award; Sylvie di Giusto, CSP; Elias Kanaris; Stan Phelps; and more. Together, they explore the dynamics of becoming a successful international speaker and the nuances that distinguish it from occasional international engagements.In this session, the esteemed speakers will:* Explain how to adapt speeches culturally and contextually to match diverse global audiences, ensuring both relevance and resonance.* Argue the significance of building strong, service-oriented relationships with international clients, rather than focusing solely on sales intentions.* Outline strategies for defining a clear international speaking strategy by targeting specific regions or industries aligned with personal values and expertise. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do top speakers wish they knew when starting out? In this episode, industry veterans and experts dish out hard-earned wisdom to help you thrive in the speaking business. * Why playing the long game matters more than chasing quick wins *The critical importance of authentic connection with your audience *Avoiding ego traps and keeping the focus on service, not self *How being easy to work with sets you apart for meeting planners and agencies *Simple strategies to stand out and keep your speaking business sustainable *Watch now to level up your speaking career with advice from Hall of Famers and seasoned pros!Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special edition of Speakernomics, host Kenneth ""Shark"" Kinney sits down with 14 individuals ranging from Hall of Fame Speakers, Coaches to Speaker Bureaus and Meeting Planners to talk about what, in their opinion, makes a killer Speaker Reel.By the end of this episode, you will:* Evaluate the importance of capturing audience engagement and presenting a clear problem-solution narrative within your demo reel.* Demonstrate techniques to quickly and effectively grab the viewer's attention, ensuring your video is tailored to the client's needs.* Explore the significance of authenticity, storytelling, and audience interaction in building a compelling and credible speaker video.* Identify best practices for maintaining a dynamic and fast-paced reel that highlights your speaking style and expertise. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get the inside scoop on how Sam Demma became the youngest Certified Speaking Professional and booked over 750 paid speaking gigs, all before 2025. In this episode of Speakernomics, Sam breaks down the exact outreach and sales strategies that built his thriving speaking business in the education market.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:* How Sam focused and expanded his market from local schools in Ontario to the entire US and Canada* The concrete sales and outreach tactics he used to land hundreds of gigs, including video emails and social media* Why value always wins over budget objections—and how to position yourself for higher fees* The three-part sales playbook (pre-call, during-call, post-call) Sam uses to consistently close 30-40% of leads* Creative ways to turn “no” into new opportunities and keep your speaking pipeline fullIf you want a no-nonsense blueprint for growth as a professional speaker, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can use right away! Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock next-level social media strategies for speakers with insights from top experts and booking agents. Discover the practical steps that make your social presence work for your speaking business.* How to choose the right social platform and boost consistency without spreading yourself too thin* Why social proof and testimonials matter more than self-promotion* Content strategies: balancing value, authenticity, and connection with your audience* The importance of tailoring posts to decision-makers, bookers, and meeting professionals* Actionable tips to maximize social media for bookings, brand-building, and business growth Watch now to learn what truly works (and what to avoid) for speakers on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and more! Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prepare to be frippnotized and take your speaking career to the next level with Patricia Fripp's time-tested advice and actionable insights.In this session, Patricia will:* Guide speakers to focus on their audience and ensure their stories are relevant and engaging for the listeners, making them feel connected and invested.* Demonstrate the significance of having a core message and adaptable content that can be customized for different industries and varied speech lengths.* Advocate for the hiring of a speech coach, providing key insights into how even seasoned speakers can continue to improve and refine their presentations.* Highlight the importance of specificity in language and offers strategies to enhance the clarity and impact of your words Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Shark and his lineup of seasoned professionals to enhance your understanding of fee management and explore balanced, ethical approaches to maintaining speaker value in a fluctuating market. In this session, you will:* Evaluate the concept of fee congruency and how it allows speakers to adapt their fees based on added values or specific circumstances.* Create a strategy for maintaining fee integrity while being open to non-monetary value exchanges when clients face budget constraints.* Analyze the importance of having a structured fee schedule and the benefits of aligning speaking engagements with personal and family commitments. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney brings together insights from 16 diverse voices within the speaking industry to explore the essential marketing materials needed for speakers to elevate their business.In this session, you will:* Analyze the various perspectives on the most critical marketing tool, including the significance of a compelling demo reel and a comprehensive website.* Explore the role of relationships and reputation in driving successful speaking engagements and building a thriving speaking career.* Synthesize the collective wisdom from speakers, agents, and meeting planners on creating a holistic marketing strategy that emphasizes transformation over self-promotion.Join Shark and industry experts as they unveil strategies to help you speak, get paid, and repeat with success. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI is transforming how speakers are discovered, trusted, and booked—and your content strategy needs to change with it. In this episode, Lethia Owens, CSP shares actionable insights on optimizing your digital footprint for both human and AI-driven search.* How meeting planners and bureaus are using AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to find speakers* Strategies for creating “AI-friendly” content across your website and social platforms* Why video and high-authority content (like definitive guides and white papers) boost your visibility* The importance of niche expertise and authoritative frameworks to get noticed by AI engines* Lethia’s tips for consistent content creation, brand auditing, and becoming an “AI-first” speaker entrepreneurWant to future-proof your speaking business? Watch now and level up your digital presence for the age of AI. Become an NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is essential for speakers aiming to transform their presentations from ordinary to extraordinary by honing in on what truly captures and holds an audience's attention.This episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney engages with Brian Walters, CSP, CPAE, a seasoned speaker, emcee, and infotainment expert. Brian, a past president of the National Speakers Association, shares his expert advice on creating memorable and "sticky" content in the ever-evolving speaking industry.In this session, Brian will: * Explain the "sticky framework" as a crucial method for speakers to design presentations that resonate. Attendees will learn to identify and apply the framework's components: gettable, feelable, sayable, and doable in their presentations. * Illustrate how to identify the Scooby Doo moment in a speech, ensuring that speakers recognize and craft their 'aha' moments to maximize audience engagement and recall. * Discuss techniques for crafting and branding key points, using memory hacks and storytelling to enhance the impact and retention of a speaker's message. Become and NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you are an emerging or experienced speaker, let Simon’s journey inspire you to align your inner spark with external success and to leverage your expertise for meaningful, memorable impact.In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) sits down with renowned CSP and CPAE Hall of Fame keynote speaker Simon T. Bailey to explore what it truly means to amplify your brilliance as a professional speaker. Simon, widely recognized as the world’s leading expert on brilliance, shares personal milestones, strategies for sustainable influence, and the pivotal role research has played in redefining his brand and value proposition in the speaking industry.In this session, Simon will:* Illustrate how to differentiate yourself by embracing originality and authenticity rather than mimicking industry icons, ensuring your message resonates beyond the applause.* Analyze the impact of integrating proprietary research into your business, elevating conversations with decision-makers, commanding higher fees, and building long-term influence within client organizations.* Reflect on common career challenges—such as chasing stages and seeking validation from speaker bureaus—and encourage speakers to focus on service, humility, and the true meaning behind every keynote. Become and NSA Member! https://nsaspeaker.org/join/#membership THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! https://thrive.nsaspeaker.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover what it really takes to stand out as a professional speaker in today’s evolving meetings industry. In this episode, Sarah Michel shares insider tips from both the speaker and meeting planner perspectives to help you get noticed, get booked, and add more value.The latest trends in how meeting planners search for and select speakers:*Why unedited, authentic video is more important than ever for getting booked*The critical importance of customizing your keynote to audience pain points*Creative ways speakers can deliver more value beyond just the keynote*Building lasting relationships with event professionals, not just closing a saleTune in and learn how to elevate your speaking business and get ahead of industry changes!Become an NSA Member!THRIVE 2026! You NEED to be here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to turn your expertise into income with practical tips from LaShaundra McCarty on this episode of Speakernomics. Discover actionable strategies for speakers to grow their business and make smarter financial choices.* The importance of diversifying your revenue streams as a speaker* How to track your numbers for better business decisions* Passive income ideas like online courses, workbooks, podcasts, and newsletters* Monetization tips specifically for podcasting and written materialsWhy knowing your financials and audience demographics drives long-term success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to elevate your online presentations? In this episode of Speakernomics, guest Kassy LaBorie shares actionable strategies to boost connection, engagement, and authenticity in the virtual speaking world.Here’s what’s covered:* How Kassy’s journey from Silicon Valley and WebEx to the speaking stage shaped her approach to virtual engagement* The importance of making genuine invitations for audience participation, not just surface-level chat prompts* Tips on reframing questions to encourage deeper audience interaction and connection* Why owning the digital tools—and knowing when to move beyond them—leads to better presentations* Simple ways to unleash your authentic presence and engage audiences, both online and in personTune in for practical advice you can use at your next virtual event! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to build a smart, streamlined, and strategic digital presence as a professional speaker. Guest expert Carolyn Cummins shares actionable tips to help you master your content, connection, and credibility online. The importance of identifying multiple target audiences for your speaking business How to use content pillars to define what you speak about and your unique value Measuring your digital content using the "Visibility Triangle": visibility, credibility, and hireability Why authenticity and consistency matter on social media, even when balancing different roles and topics Tips for leveraging keywords, alt text, and AI tools to boost your online presence and business results Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices