Claim the Stage: A Podcast About Public Speaking and Speaking Up

Today's episode is a mini farewell episode. I'm taking the summer off from the podcast! I know I've done this before, and now I'm doing it again. It's also a permission slip for you to say no to more things so you can take more time for yourself and the things you want to be doing. Where can you pause, quit, or otherwise say NO THANKS and bow out? Hopefully today's episode will give you the support and inspiration you need to join me on the bench this summer. See you in September! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

You shared something personal. You allowed yourself to be judged and get feedback. You did something scary in front of other people. And now... You have a vulnerability hangover. How do you know? You’re saying… What next? You're stuck in a loop of negative thinking and you can't get out. On today's episode, I share three ways to manage your vulnerability hangover so it doesn't own you! Want to join a public speaking club and improve your speaking skills? Check out a Speaker Sisterhood club right here. Guests are free anytime. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Struggle with how to start your speech in a way that grabs your audience's attention? Have a hard time wrapping it up succinctly? Today's episode is for you! I share a few strategies you can use again and again to start and end your speech on a strong note. No more rambling, apologizing, or worrying - just use these tips and your presentations will always shine! Learn more about Speaker Sisterhood and our clubs. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

You've probably heard "less is more." This statement couldn't be more true when it comes to public speaking and crafting a powerful talk. On today's episode, I break down the three ways to keep your speeches simple and effective. They are: Listen in as I share how to go about using this advice on today's episode of Claim the Stage! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Wondering if it's too late to get started as a professional speaker? Today's episode is for you! Maria Romano is the founder of True Love Knots. She started her business in her 50s after her husband, Frank, passed away. She got back into the dating world and discovered it was dramatically different. Today she coaches people on how to be successful at dating and found her passion. Maria is also a professional speaker and performs wedding ceremonies, baptisms, and end-of-life celebrations. She is the author of Going from Just One to Plus One which hit #1 on the Amazon bestseller lists. On today's episode, Maria shares her three best pieces of advice for women who want to start a speaking business later in life. She says building a community of coaches and supporters, clarifying your message, and just getting started were key to her success. Listen in as she shares her story and more! Get Maria's online course, Become a Rockstar Officiant here. Check out her book here. Register for Speaking School for Women, my signature six-week course to turn you into a paid speaker. Registration closes April 6th! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Have you been dreaming about speaking on bigger stages, taking your expertise to more audiences, and getting paid for your expertise? If you're wondering if you're ready for this step, this episode will help you decide. Learn the five secrets to becoming a paid speaker and then check out my new course, Speaking School for Women, launching next week. Sign up for our mailing list at speakersisterhood.com or get on the waiting list by contacting us! Sign up for our free webinar on March 30th: Build Your Brand Through Speaking here. Transform your public speaking with my 60 Minute Public Speaking Makeover here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Have you ever found yourself saying this before a presentation? "What if I’m boring? I’m afraid everything I say everyone has already heard." If so, you are definitely not alone! Instead of focusing on having the most unique ideas, what if you focused on giving advice that is tried and true, and in your own style? On today's show, I share three ways to bring your own brilliance to your words. Sometimes it's not what you say, it's how you say it. My three tips: Want more information about Speaking School for Women? Get on the waiting list by emailing me at angela@speakersisterhood.com! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

If you want to build a business as a speaker, coach, or author, getting visibility will make all the difference. Visibility is also important if you're trying to build a personal brand as a leader in your field. But how do you get visibility if you're just starting out? On today's show, Amanda Berlin, PR expert, shares how to DIY your PR so you can get yourself out there. She says there are three key types of visibility: Collaborations and alliances, speaking and events, and media. But how do you know where to start? Amanda breaks it all down and even offers a free training at the end to give you more helpful tips. Links from the episode: Want one of the last three seats in Speaker Sisterhood Express? Get registered here. Transform your public speaking with my 60 Minute Public Speaking Makeover here. Get Amanda's free training: The Three Pillars of Visibility Check out Amanda's live two day event: Pitch School Live More about Amanda: After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media. Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skill-set they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert. Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings and works one on one with clients to guide them to strategic story-telling and media relations based on her 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world. Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skill-set they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert. Amanda has spoken on the topics of visibility, publicity, and entrepreneurship at BizChix Live, Style Collective Raleigh and New York City, Body Local, Hoboken Entrepreneur Group, and more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Do you consider yourself to be a pretty good public speaker? Maybe even a great speaker? It's possible you're getting the job done, but there's always room for improvement. As you'll hear in part four of our four part series with Speaker Sisterhood club leaders and members, today's guest came to our clubs to make small tweaks with an eye on big changes. My guest today is Kathy Vines, a Certified Professional Organizer, owner of Clever Girl Organizing, and certified coach (CTACC) and professional resume writer through Kathy Vines Coaching. On today's show, Kathy describes her desire to go from being a trainer to being a more inspirational speaker through the use of storytelling and audience engagement techniques. She got the chance to test these new skills in her Speaker Sisterhood club before showing up in front of her audience and saw the difference right away. If you want to take your skills to the next level, listen to today's episode and take a look at our new program, Speaker Sisterhood Express. This is our new six-month, accelerated public speaking training program launching next month. Registration closes today at 5pm ET and more information can be found here. More about Kathy: Kathy Vines has been a solopreneur times two since 2013. She is a Certified Professional Organizer and the owner of Clever Girl Organizing, based in Melrose, MA. She works with people to help untangle their relationship to stuff and create the systems to conquer the chaos around them, and these days, she does it all virtually. Kathy is also a certified coach (CTACC) and professional resume writer through Kathy Vines Coaching. She helps Gen X and Older Millennials with their career strategy, LinkedIn presence, and resumes as they navigate what comes next for them in their professional life. She’s been bringing her ideas to audiences from the stage and the zoom screen for years. She is the author of the book, “Clever Girl’s Guide to Living with Less: Break Free from Your Stuff, Even When Your Head and Heart Get in the Way”. She has appeared regularly in Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, the Boston Globe and the Washington Post. She even appeared in a segment about fridge organization on “Inside Edition.” That video has been viewed on YouTube over 2.5 million, though she has no idea why. Kathy loves creating clarity and aha moments for people, whether it is figuring out how they should spend the next 20 years of their career, or the best place to put their keys so they stop losing them, once and for all. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Today's episode is part three of a four-part series with Speaker Sisterhood club leaders and members. I put this series together for you because I'm always asked how Speaker Sisterhood is different than Toastmasters, why it's only for women, and what you learn if you sign up. On today's show, I interview Jennifer Cummings Hillery, Speaker Sisterhood member and club leader. Jen shares that she originally checked out Speaker Sisterhood because her friend was starting a club in her community and she wanted to see what it was all about. When she arrived, she was surprised by what she found. That was three years ago and she is still a member of that club and has run her own club for over two years. Listen as Jen talks about her fears around showing emotion while speaking and how she deals with that today, what she has learned about practice, why listening is important, and how being part of a supportive community has helped her on her speaking journey. If you'd like to check out Jen's club, you can do so here. We also have a brand new program called Speaker Sisterhood Express and registration is open until February 24th! It's an accelerated public speaking training program you can participate in from the comfort of your own couch. New clubs are launching in March and they are limited to 10 women per club. Learn more about Speaker Sisterhood Express and register here. More about my guest: Jennifer Cummings Hillery is a lawyer, an active volunteer in her community and a published writer. As an attorney, Jennifer was recognized for her writing skills and oral advocacy. After taking a break from the legal world, Jennifer has found great fulfillment volunteering and serving on the boards of various not-for-profit organizations, political campaigns, and as an elected Town Meeting Member. She was recently awarded an "Outstanding Service Award" from her Alma mater, Skidmore College. Her community involvement has solidified her belief that anything is possible when committed, hardworking, thoughtful individuals come together to support a common goal. She is honored that two of her Speaker Sisterhood club speeches are included in the Speaker Sisterhood compilation book, “Secrets of the Sisterhood: 45 Stories of Love, Truth and Power.” Jennifer loves spending time with her family – husband, three children, two cats, and a dog – who constantly remind her of the joy that exists in all the little things in life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Today's episode is part two of a four-part series with Speaker Sisterhood club leaders and members. I put this series together for you because I'm always asked how Speaker Sisterhood is different than Toastmasters, why it's only for women, and what you learn if you sign up. On today's show, I interview Liz Nania, Speaker Sisterhood member. I asked Liz to come on the show to share the benefits she's gained through her membership. I think you'll be surprised by some of them! If you've been thinking about checking out Speaker Sisterhood, now is a great time. We have a brand new program launching today called Speaker Sisterhood Express! It's an accelerated public speaking training program you can participate in from the comfort of your own couch. New clubs are launching in March and they are limited to 10 women per club. Learn more about Speaker Sisterhood Express and register here. More about my guest: Liz Nania is the director and founder of OUT to Dance, an award-winning dance studio where adults learn salsa, swing, ballroom, wedding dance, and more; and where both LGBTQ and straight folks are warmly welcomed. Classes and private lessons are offered virtually on Zoom and in-person in Boston. Liz is also a lifelong visual artist. You can find her dance studio at OUTtoDance.com, and her art at LizNania.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Today's episode kicks off a four-part series with Speaker Sisterhood club leaders and members. I put this series together for you because I'm always asked how Speaker Sisterhood is different than Toastmasters, why it's only for women, and what you learn if you sign up. On today's show, I interview Becky Vesce, veteran Speaker Sisterhood club leader and member. Becky is also the club leader who will be leading our newest program, Speaker Sisterhood Express, which you will learn about at the end of today's show. Listen to find out: Learn more about Speaker Sisterhood Express and get on the waiting list here. Follow Becky on TikTok or Instagram --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

On today's show, I'm combining a makeover with a quiz...all for you! Today's episode continues January's theme of "connection" and I cover: 1. The difference between a comfort zone and a comfiness zone (and why you really need the latter!) 2. The Public Speaking Quiz and where you stand on various elements of speaking and speaking up. 3. We cover your results and what it all means for you. If you want to get more information and register for The 60 Minute Public Speaking Makeover, hop over here. This class will take place Tuesday, February 8th at 12:00pm ET. Registration is now open! Can't attend live? No problem, I'll send you the recording. Hope to see you there! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

How do you connect the expertise you offer to asking for money as a speaker? What are the three things speakers should be thinking about if they want to make money and get paid to speak in 2022? These are the questions I ask today's guest, Danielle Hayden. Danielle is a reformed corporate CFO and co-owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. She is on a mission to help speakers understand their numbers so they can increase their profitability and take home pay. Danielle shares her three best tips for speakers when it comes to making money and your money story. We discuss: Here are the podcasts and books she mentions: Danielle's podcast: Entrepreneur Money Stories Money Magic by Laurence Kotlikoff The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel You're a Bad Ass at Making Money by Jen Sincero Get Danielle's 5 Day Video Bootcamp: 5 days to transform your financial fear to financial clarity More about Danielle: After spending 10+ years in the boardroom as a corporate finance officer, Danielle is now in her sweet spot as the owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. where she helps business owners with bookkeeping, financial analysis, and education and as the author of the Profit Planner book series. When Danielle isn’t crunching numbers on her clients’ behalf or crafting the next iteration of the Profit Planner, you can find her hanging with her two kids as she inspires them to lead their fullest lives or doing any, and almost every fitness-related activity ranging from Spartan races to pilates. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Welcome to episode two of my new format, "three things". In case you missed last week, each episode will feature three things to help you. Of course I'm always focused on speaking, but that can mean a lot of things! This month's theme is "Connection" and I continue talking about different ways to connect with your audience, yourself, and your friends. Today's three things are: 1. The hidden benefit of making more mistakes 2. The #1 reason you're uncomfortable speaking 3. The Connection Quiz (and what it says about you!) Tune in each week as I offer tips, stories, interviews, resources and more. If you'd like to check out the Inc.com article I covered in today's show, read it here. -------------- View my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare! Go here. Want to improve your public speaking skills and check out a Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest? Your first meeting is free and all clubs are meeting online. Find the club that works for you here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Happy New Year! It's good to be back. I'm trying something new on the podcast! Each episode will feature three curated things that I think can help you. Of course I'm always focused on speaking, but that can mean a lot of things! On today's show, I introduce this new format and give you three things that all center on the theme of connection. In fact, the entire month of January is about connection! Tune in each week as I offer tips, stories, interviews, resources and more. ------------ If you'd like to check out my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare, go here. Want to improve your public speaking skills and check out a Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest? Your first meeting is free and all clubs are meeting online. Find the club that works for you here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

I know you're already awesome, but if you want to continue building on your awesomeness, you'll love today's episode! It's episode 200 and it's packed with stories, ideas, and tips from things I learned this year. I hope you love it! This'll be my last episode of this year and I'll be back in January with more fun. Enjoy! ---------- If you'd like to check out my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare, go here. Want to improve your public speaking skills and check out a Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest? Your first meeting is free and all clubs are meeting online. Find the club that works for you here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

You've likely heard of mindfulness by now, perhaps you have even studied and practiced it. But have you thought about how mindfulness can improve the process of putting together a speech, delivering that speech, and processing the whole experience afterwards? On today's show, I interview Theresa Wiggins, a mindfulness coach, Speaker Sisterhood club leader, and owner of Village Parenting. Theresa kicks off the episode by leading a three minute mindfulness exercise to demonstrate how it works and then we launch right into the benefits, the science behind it, and how to apply it in the various stages of the speech creation and presentation phases. You can learn more about Theresa's work at Village Parenting here or check out her Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest here. More about Theresa: Theresa Wiggins speaks on a variety of topics including parenting, mindfulness, family engagement in education, as well as her own journey with mental health. With over 20 years combined experience in the fields of education and coaching, she integrates her passion for kids, families, and education into Village Parenting. Theresa teaches mindfulness, is a parenting coach, and provides consultation and staff development to schools. Village Parenting seeks to build bridges between home and school in order to improve the education and happiness for the whole child. ---------- If you'd like to check out my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare, go here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

Public speaking, speaking up, being singled out...all of these activities can lead to serious fear and anxiety. In fact, you may feel so much fear and anxiety about them that all of your life decisions are made in an effort to avoid them. If this is you, you are going to love today's episode. My guest today is Judy Grupenhoff, MEd, NBC-HWC. She is an Integrative Wellness Coach, HeartMath® Certified Trainer and Interventions Professional. She specializes in anxiety coaching with a focus on the neurobiology of change and self-compassion. For over 10 years she has been helping women of all ages learn practical brain-based skills to calm the nervous system, quiet inner critical dialogs, and live with greater power, peace and possibility. We discuss: Learn more about Judy and get her 3 Steps to Calm an Anxious Brain. ---------- If you'd like to check out my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare, go here. Want to improve your public speaking skills and check out a Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest? Your first meeting is free and all clubs are meeting online. Find the club that works for you here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support

How many times have you had something you wanted to say, but stopped yourself in fear of being wrong, looking stupid, or being the center of attention? My guest today, Hope Timberlake, is a speaker, trainer and author who focuses on the communication side of leadership. She is here to talk about her new book, Speak Up, Dammit! How to Quiet Your Fears, Polish Your Presence and Share Your Voice and offer you actionable tips for speaking up. We discuss: Find Hope's book here More about my guest: Hope Timberlake is a speaker, trainer and author who focuses on the communication side of leadership. She is passionate about persuasive messaging, relationship building, executive presence, developing others, and elevating the voices of women and those underrepresented in leadership. Her book, Speak Up, Dammit! How to Quiet Your Fears, Polish Your Presence and Share Your Voice was released in October, 2021. Hope works with executives and their teams across many industries at companies including AirBnB, Autodesk, Bank of America, BlackRock, Dropbox, Intel, PlayStation, Splunk and many scaling start-ups. By creating rapport and building trust, Hope successfully empowers people to excel as communicators and leaders. Her energy, creativity and results-oriented approach make her keynotes and workshops impactful, engaging and entertaining Hope earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University and completed a Masters degree at University of California, Berkeley. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, teenaged children and dog Mona. ---------- If you'd like to check out my new course, Public Speaking for Shy Creatives, and get one free month of Skillshare, go here. Want to improve your public speaking skills and check out a Speaker Sisterhood club as a guest? Your first meeting is free and all clubs are meeting online. Find the club that works for you here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claim-the-stage-podcast/support