Ep. 270 UNFORGETTABLE SERMONS WITH PASTOR SHANE PHILIP
Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,’ and what tools can they use to be unforgettable? Pastor Shane Philip of…
Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,’ and what tools can they use to be unforgettable? Pastor Shane Philip of…
Ping: (verb) to send a signal to (a device) in order to determine its status or location. As presenters, we must be sure that…
Imagine being on stage for the FIRST TIME, telling a deeply personal and emotional story that you’ve NEVER told before, to an audience of executives.…
You’ve just completed an engagement, and the event planner gives you a 5-star rating because you kicked butt! What next? What more can you do…
Do your clients and prospects know how much you have to offer? Mark and Darren discuss more than a dozen additional ways that you can…
Sometimes, life happens. It’s inevitable. Today, Darren opens up about a personal tragedy, as he and Mark explore ways to navigate life’s challenges and remain…
Change is constant and as presenters, we must stay relevant. Today Darren and Mark explore ways for us to stay current, stay relevant and become…
What does it take to truly become the speaker everyone loves and a master of your craft? Mark and Darren offer a ‘mathematical formula’ and…
Emerging presenters often wonder, “Should I join the National Speakers Association? Toastmasters? Both?” Darren and Mark ask and answer these questions while sharing the benefits…
Jeff Rogers, a fairly new member of the National Speakers Association, is the winner of NSA’s LAST STORY STANDING storytelling competition. He and Mike Davis…one…
Rotary Speech Contest, Story SLAM, MOTH, Last Story Standing, World Championship of Public Speaking, and more. Speech competitions abound, and today Darren and Mark are…
Imagine being asked to deliver new material, on a subject you have never addressed, on short notice, under pressure, three times in 24 hours. Today,…
We ALL speak with an accent, and at times it’s easy to believe that we must ‘lose’ our accent to be accepted. Today, Mark and…
Script writing takes work and the practical, time-saving methods that Darren and Mark discuss today will make the process easier. Listen as they examine how…
Quotations from famous speakers, authors, and celebrities can be very appealing and can support your message. The same can be said of oft-quoted statistics. Today…
Sometimes, even after your best pitch, the answer is “No.” But that need not be the end of the relationship. Darren and Mark offer some…
In this follow-up to Episode 253 (What Do You Ask An Event Planner) Mark and Darren talk about questions to ask participants ahead of your…
You’ve got the speaking engagement, now what? What can the event planner tell you to help you to deliver an unforgettable presentation? Darren and Mark…
“Why would I need TWO coaches?” you may ask. To answer that question, Mark and Darren have a conversation with Stage Time University coaches Chris…
Speakers make a common mistake when seeking audience participation. They ask “HOW MANY of you…” That question needs a NUMERICAL response. Today Darren and Mark…
Speakers sometimes ask for help making tweaks, adding humor, or finding more powerful stories…a few days before their presentation. All too often, it’s just too…
You can’t teach everything you know in an hour. (At least we hope not!) So, if you are a speaker, consultant or coach are you…
Every time you introduce a character in your story, you have an opportunity for humor. Quirky characters are familiar, engaging, and create memorable moments in…
How do four inexperienced presenters, who have never delivered a presentation to an audience of 1,000 people before, each get STANDING OVATIONS? Mark and Darren…
Humor is necessary to make a presentation interesting and entertaining. Uncovering humor can be a challenge, and to learn more about how to get more…
As presenters, we should expect the unexpected. At times, we will encounter unexpected circumstances and situations, and today Darren and Mark discuss steps that we…
You want to ‘make it’ in the speaking business so you seek advice from a seasoned pro. Are you willing to take their advice…even if…
You have just attended a conference, heard good speakers, and received powerful content. You walk away with a folder full of notes, e-mail addresses and…
You have just presented at an event and after all your hard work planning, preparing, and presenting, what should you do? Today Mark and Darren…
So, you want to travel the world and share your message. Perhaps you’ve wondered what it’s like to be a ‘road warrior.’ Mark and Darren…
Imagine, your largest audience so far has been fewer than ninety people, and you now get to tell your most emotional personal story on a…
Have you ever received advice that changed the game in your business, career, or relationships? Today Darren and Mark discuss some of the nuggets of…
Don’t memorize, internalize! Do you have a stage plan? Had you considered using the stage with purpose? A stage plan can help you internalize your…
Sit down with Darren and Michael Davis as they cover what it really takes to make an event flow, the MC. Michael is not only…
Sit down with Darren and Ford as they talk prospecting. How to remain timely, topical and relevant. What does an ideal prospect look like for…
Can you influence without authority? Yes! Do you know how to truly influence with integrity? You already do every day. Maybe you didn’t realize it.…
In addition to being part of speaking communities, we, as presenters belong to professional, social, charitable, faith-based, and other communities. Today Mark and Darren discuss…
Thorough research is an invaluable part of preparing unforgettable presentations. There are myriad ways to access information, and so much information from which to glean.…
Virtual presentations are now commonplace and it’s easy to assume, “I’ve done quite a few of these and I’m good!” Today Darren and Mark share…
The story is arguably a presenter’s most potent tool. While it’s important to tell stories well, it is equally…if not significantly more important to transport…
Holograms? Hula hoops? What do they have to do with delivering an unforgettable presentation? Mark and Darren explain how and why holograms help you to…
Avoiding mistakes and adopting the right practices are keys to successfully growing your business. Today Darren and Mark talk with business growth expert and Hall…
A new year often brings New Year resolutions. Today Mark and Darren offer four unforgettable habits to help you take your presentations…and your business…to a…
As presenters, our words are our most important tools. Preparing an unforgettable presentation requires some wordsmithing. Darren joins Mark…our resident wordsmith…to discuss this critical aspect…
“I thought you would come out with more ENERGY!” Imagine hearing THAT from a meeting planner! (Ask Darren!) He and Mark talk about matching the…
Getting referrals after a presentation isn’t always easy, but a new tool called TALKADOT is a game changer. Mark and Darren talk with professional speaker…
Mental Health. Suicide. Comedy. Those topics don’t seem to flow seamlessly together…unless you’re talking with 10-time TEDx speaker and comedian Frank King. Darren and Mark…
Your presentation is over, you’ve delivered great content, and you’ve served your audience well. But is there a way to add value IMMEDIATELY? Darren and…
“To be unforgettable, you must have calluses on your head and your hands.” So says Dr. Jeff Magee, one of the world’s foremost leadership and…
How do you communicate a message of LOVE in a highly competitive, fast-paced, results-driven corporate world? Mark and Darren get the answer to this question…and…
No two audiences are alike, so how can you ensure that you connect with every audience, especially when you deliver the same presentation frequently? Darren…
Did you know that there are world class techniques embedded in the structure of speeches and stories? Today Mark and Darren discuss several of these…
After your presentation, an audience member tells you that you said something that offended them. What should you do? What should you say? In a…
Unforgettable presentations have FOUR basic, core elements and today Darren and Mark drill down on CORE 3: HUMOR and CORE 4: DELIVERY. Learn how to…
Unforgettable presentations have basic, core elements that help to make them unforgettable. Today Darren and Mark discuss CORE 1: CONTENT & STRUCTURE as well as…
There will likely be times when you must present, but you are not at your best. Perhaps you’re not feeling well, facing a personal challenge,…
You will be on the platform in FIVE MINUTES. What goes through your head? How can you get ready to SHINE? Darren and Mark share…
What can clown presence teach us about being unforgettable presenters? Darren and Mark find out from Don Colliver, comedian, improvisor, director, writer and clown. He…
A speaker at an event you’re attending can’t make it and someone asks YOU to step in on very short notice. Are you READY? Today…
Does a speaker need more than one coach? Can a speaker have too many coaches? What if I know several equally qualified coaches; should I…
What makes a pro SHINE? Today Mark and Darren identify three techniques that true pros use to be unforgettable. SNIPPETS: • Engage the…
Stories can greatly enhance any presentation but they can be confusing if characters aren’t clearly identified. In today’s discussion, Darren and Mark explore the value…
Imagine hearing a presenter and thinking, “They remind me of Tony Robbins and Les Brown. The perfect Motivational Speaker!” Then you meet them in the…
“But it’s some of my FAVORITE MATERIAL!” We want to give our audiences ALL our wisdom and experiences. But that’s not always the best…
Poor corporate presentations can cost you money. Today Mark and Darren will discuss NINE corporate presentation mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them,…
Should we tell our most painful stories…the ones that take us to The Dark Place? Today Darren and Mark have a serious conversation about this…
“But I wasn’t born funny!” may be a common exclamation, so what’s the SECRET to being funny? For answers, Darren and Mark turn to television…
Believe it or not, your audience can be an ally who helps you to hone your content and make your presentation even better. Mark and…
You want to believe that your audience remembers you and your message, but how can you KNOW? Today Mark and Darren explain the value of…
Co-hosts Darren & Mark encourage their clients to stretch and challenge themselves. Today Mark discusses his greatest speaking challenge…a 12-minute speech in French…and he is…
AI is everywhere. How can presenters use AI as a tool, without diminishing their expertise? Today Darren and Mark offer THREE specific ways that presenters…
You’ve just delivered your presentation, then someone gives you feedback, and it feels tough…even harsh. Now what? Mark and Darren have been there, and today…
“I’ll just add a couple of stories, insert a few activities, and I’ll convert my keynote into a training. That should work, right?” It’s not…
This question is based on the role of the lamplighter: a person employed to light and maintain gas streetlights. Today Mark and Darren explore ways…
“So many presenters mistake memorization for preparation” says Darren, as he and Mark reveal some powerful principles for preparing and delivering unforgettable presentations. SNIPPETS: •…
As presenters we are often tempted to teach our audience everything we know. Mark and Darren drill down on the importance of, and methods for…
The term ‘Selfish Presenter’ may seem harsh, but today Mark and Darren talk about one way we deny our audiences the full experience of our…
It’s easy to focus on your next presentation based on the occasion, especially when you have customized it for a specific audience. Today Darren and…
No matter how pithy your point may be, you have to PROVE it to your audience. Today Darren and Mark offer nine ways to do…
You deliver your presentation, then well-meaning friends and would-be advisors offer their feedback. However, their recommendations vary widely. Which do you implement? Mark and Darren…
Mark and Darren have oft said that the first step to an unforgettable presentation is A CLEAR MESSAGE, but what is Step #2? In this…
A key element in a story is the hero’s journey, and it must end in transformation. There are ways to make the transformation clear, and…
“If you want to get booked, you need a demo reel!” This is now common advice for speakers. But what makes a good speaker demo…
“Don’t give a speech; deliver an EXPERIENCE!” is an exhortation that co-host Mark offers frequently. Today he and Darren dive into the ‘3-D’ technique they…
Can you remember the moment when you KNEW you were ‘legit?’ Perhaps you’re an emerging presenter and have no idea what that means. Darren and…
It’s always nice to know that you rocked your presentation. The audience is buzzing and the event planner is happy. Do you go home thrilled…
You’ve delivered your presentation, but your impact doesn’t have to end there. How can you extend your influence? With testimonials! How valuable can they be?…
How do you handle the overwhelming questions and comments that come after your talk? How do you get testimonials when others want to talk to…
What can presenters learn from a professional football (soccer) commentator? Today Mark and Darren find out from Peter Drury, rated by the world’s largest football…
Is there a science to being unforgettable? The answer comes today from the man known as “America’s Science Teacher,’ author, Hall-Of-Fame speaker, TV personality, and…
Burned over 100% of his body at 9 years old, John O’Leary lives a story of great inspiration. Today he talks with Darren and Mark…
“When should I use dialogue in my speech?” Darren and Mark have fielded this question numerous times. Today they provide answers…and a bonus: WHY it’s…
You’ve worked hard, you’ve rehearsed, you’ve delivered your presentation…perhaps several times…and it’s GOOD. But is it good ENOUGH? Today Mark and Darren take a look…
Every endeavor starts with Version 1.0. Today Darren and Mark present Version 1.0 of their podcast livestream using StreamYard for the first time. They speak…
New Year Resolutions have become commonplace, and all too often, these resolutions don’t last. In this brief episode, Darren and Mark outline the difference between…
Following up on last week’s episode featuring Australian international speaker coach Jennifer Leone, this episode features live coaching. Mark takes the client’s hot seat as…
How does a coach help their client get to the root of a story? How do they help uncover the gems hidden layers deep within…
Do you have a presentation that has served you well for quite a while? Have you made any modifications recently? Could it be time for…
With experience comes the risk of being comfortable and too casual. Today Mark and Darren look at areas where presenters can become casual, and how…
You’ve invested hours preparing to deliver your unforgettable presentation, and you are READY! Right before you take the stage, the MC recites your bio, or…
In North America, Thanksgiving is a time for food, fun and family. In this first LIVE brainstorming session, Mark and Darren come up with ideas…
From playing in empty ‘dive bars’, to playing for millions and earning a gold record, to helping individuals and organizations ‘find their voice’. This has…
Today’s guest Annie Sarnblad is a global expert on microexpressions…facial expressions that last a short time but reveal a great deal about us. In this…
As important as our unforgettable presentations may be, let’s not neglect the impact of our relationships and our network. They help us make connections with…
There may come a point when a speaker decides to become a professional…a pro. Others take it one step further and decide to ‘Go Pro’.…
In this final installment of a three-part series, Mark and Darren are joined by guest coach Mike Davis to review the presentation of the 2022…
The Toastmasters International Speech Contest draws the interest of thousands each year, and in this second episode of a three-part podcast series, Darren, Mark, and…
Each year, 35,000 people enter the Toastmasters International Speech Contest with the dream of becoming the World Champion of Public Speaking. For this special three-part…
We all want a great audience, and most of the time, that’s what we get. However, sometimes we must face a tough crowd…unsmiling, stone-faced, and…
Your presentation, your message, and your ability to share them are gifts to your audience. This advice comes from global workforce expert, international keynoter, author,…
The Fripp Presentation Model is the perfect tool for preparing presentations that are well-structured, flow smoothly, and contain all the elements that transform a speech…
Nobody wants to make mistakes, but we all do…emerging speakers and experienced professionals alike. In this episode, Darren and Mark talk with their mentor, Hall…
“Speak to TEENAGERS?” To some, that’s normal. To others, it’s SCARY. Today Mark draws from his 20+ years serving the youth market, as he and…
You may have more stories than you know, and for years, Darren and Mark have encouraged their students to ‘keep a story file.’ They have…
You may one day be interviewed on television, and you may have only 3-5 minutes to deliver your message. How can you be effective in…
Does your life hold an untold story? Perhaps one you tried before that didn’t work well, so you abandoned it? Maybe you thought it wasn’t…
In this follow-up to last week’s episode about preparing to be a panelist, Darren and Mark share how some of the DOs and DON’Ts in…
Your expertise can earn you a seat on the platform as a panelist. Today Darren and Mark and Darren unpack the DOs and DON’Ts of…
You’ve been tasked with moderating a panel discussion. Where do you start? What do you do? Mark and Darren offer SIX suggestions that will help…
“I don’t live there any more.” That was the answer that 1999 World Champion speaker Craig Valentine gave to many who asked him to deliver…
Have you ever felt depressed or actually had depression and still had to give an inspiring presentation? Mark and Darren tackle this thorny question in…
Your presentation title can have a greater impact on your potential audience than you may think. A strategically written title can inspire prospective meeting planners…
“Why do I even NEED a coach? I’m doing fine on my own and I’m getting better!” As true as that may be, Mark and…
What’s a good process for delivering an unforgettable presentation? Today Darren and Mark discuss their 7-step process in the book ‘DELIVER UNFORGETTABLE PRESENTATIONS’, which they…
What can speakers learn from an award-winning vocalist? Darren and Mark find out from Wintley Phipps, an internationally known singer who has performed for millions,…
Life as a professional speaker sometimes presents the unusual, the comical, and the bizarre. In today’s light-hearted episode, Darren and Mark sit down with fellow…
Success as a presenter takes work, along with the insight and guidance of mentors and coaches. Today, Mark and Darren have a heart-to-heart conversation with…
“To be EFFECTIVE you must be SELECTIVE!” Mark has been sharing this mantra with his clients for months. In today’s episode, he and Darren show…
“PRESENTATION CUSTOMIZATION? What’s that?” Mark and Darren ask and answer this question in today’s episode. They explain why customization serves your audience…and you. They also…
“…but if I don’t memorize, how will I remember my speech?” That’s not an uncommon question, but here’s a more important one: Does memorizing really…
Ep. 140 – Inside The Brain Of A Bureau with Deia Starr Rank A relationship with a speaker’s bureau can be just what a speaker…
As speakers we are constantly being evaluated. But how should we respond to criticism, especially when it’s quite harsh? Darren and Mark discuss different types…
Musicians care for their instruments by cleaning and tuning them. As speakers, how should we care for our instrument…our voice? Today Mark and Darren get…
What does it take to be ‘at the top of your game’ on LIVE television and radio every day, as well as being unforgettable in…
Speaking at a hybrid event can be exciting, rewarding, and challenging. Imagine HOSTING one…especially after not having done so in three years! Mark and Darren…
For as long as he can remember, author, entrepreneur and Hall Of Fame speaker Michael Aun has been breaking unwritten rules. Decades before the now-common…
We use emojis every day in our digital communication. But what if you used emojis in your stories? Listen as Darren and Mark offer concrete…
What are some of your recent GAME CHANGERS that have helped you to grow? Today Mark and Darren talk about some of the decisions they…
Today Darren and Mark talk about a unique way to brand yourself and stand out. NAME-ISMS are words or phrases that YOU coin and create,…
What exactly is your ‘personal brand’? Mark and Darren get the answer from Rory Vaden, author, Hall of Fame speaker, and co-founder of the Brand…
In this episode, Mark and Darren help veteran wedding officiant Maria Romano…who has performed over 3,000 wedding ceremonies…to dig for ‘gold’ in a new story,…
You tell your ‘signature story’ and you’re confident that your audience will get your message…or will they? Today Mark and Darren explore how a story…
Hybrid presentations became popular in the early 2020s, and they are here to stay. Darren and Mark have been using the hybrid model for several…
“I don’t deserve to be here. They will find out I’m not as good as they think I am.” If you’ve ever had that thought,…
The term ‘pregnant pause’ is widely used to describe a period of silence that keeps the audience in suspense, with a feeling of anticipation. In…
There’s nothing like delivering your first paid speech or taking your first flight to deliver an ‘out-of-town’ presentation. Today Darren and Mark speak with fellow…
What can writing, producing, and performing a comedy television show teach us about being unforgettable presenters? 29-time Emmy Award winner and Hall Of Fame Speaker…
Ep. 123 – Why Less Is More Speakers sometimes make the mistake of trying to say a lot in a limited time. Darren and Mark…
It’s easy to assume that training and keynote speaking are the same. They’re not. Today Mark and Darren are joined by fellow Certified Speaking Professional…
A strong audience connection is one of the keys to being unforgettable. How can you establish that connection, even BEFORE you take the platform? Today…
You have a keynote presentation and it’s good. But how do you take it to the next level? Jane Atkinson, known throughout the speaking industry…
Today Darren and Mark address your presentation WALKTHROUGH. This isn’t a rehearsal; it’s a review of the structure of your presentation, like a storyboard in…
Sometimes we fail to recognize powerful stories from our lives because they don’t appear to be significant on the surface. Today Mark and Darren discuss…
How can a presenter BECOME unforgettable? Today Darren and Mark talk with Mike Davis, Sara McGill, and Kathi Kulesza, three members of Darren’s Stage Time…
What’s a great career move when your children grow up and move out? Leave your corporate career and become a stand-up comedian! Stephanie McHugh explains…
“I never planned on a career in the world of public speaking”, says UK-based Simon Bucknall, speaker/author/trainer/consultant serving prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge as…
How does one go from being a shy child to 3-time South Africa Skateboarding Champion to the only 5-time winner of the Southern African Championship…
How can you inspire the best people to work with you and collaborate with you? There’s nothing wrong with promoting your track record of achievement.…
Any business owner can list their credentials and unleash their CV to promote their products and services. Many do just that on their website and…
High-energy Las Vegas headliner Jeff Civillico is also a dynamic speaker and professional Master of Ceremonies (Emcee). He talks with Mark and Darren about the…
Dr. Nido Qubein, a true speaking legend, has inspired audiences across the globe for almost 50 years. As he chats with Darren and Mark, he…
Speaking, is the first Grenadian to take that stage. He gets up close with Mark and Darren, revealing the motivation behind messages. He also explains…
Imagine believing that you lack the heart, brains and courage to take the Yellow Brick Road of public speaking, so it takes you SIX MONTHS…
We all know how to use descriptive language to create scenes in the minds of our audiences. Today Mark and Darren reveal the secret to…
Imagine that 25 years of your life story includes writing songs as a teenager in Cape Town, South Africa, singing professionally in Nashville, Tennessee, acting…
How do you take client customization to the next level…and beyond? Sales, Leadership and Business Expert Ryan Estis uses original, personalized research to ‘know more…
Competence at virtual presentations has become a necessity, and industry experts confirm that presenters MUST have this skill in their arsenal because as hopeful as…
From childhood abuse to contemplating suicide to Oprah to the TEDx stage, Rena Romano has a story you won’t forget. Now a respected speaker, author…
The lights go out in the middle of your presentation. Your tech fails right before you start. You have 15 minutes to deliver your 1-hour…
“If you want to be an unforgettable speaker, you have to be an unforgettable person.” This acorn of wisdom is one of many that Hall…
He started out with nothing, had multiple failures, and even slept in his car! Today, Brian Tracy is a speaking LEGEND! He sits down with…
Since 1993, the National Speakers Association (NSA) has recognized those who have influenced the speaking profession in a significant way with the Master of Influence…
“My stories are now UNFORGETTABLE!”, says Denise Marek, award-winning speaker and author, eight months after being coached by Mark and Darren LIVE on Episode 65.…
In this episode, Darren and Mark work with Maureen Zappala on the opening story in her keynote. They help her to more deeply embrace the…
Have you ever felt like you’ve stopped making progress? Or that you should toss a story because you don’t think it works? Using case stories…
To be unforgettable we must be willing to do what most presenters won’t, even when it is painful. Today Mark and Darren unpack three ‘must-do’…
You probably have stories that you have told over and over. How could you possibly make them better? Darren and Mark reveal a three-step ‘makeover’…
As the world slowly emerges from the pandemic, in-person events are opening up. But between virtual and in-person, there’s the HYBRID event, where some attend…
“When I was your age…” Those words have prompted many of us to roll our eyes as someone older tries to tell us about “The…
We’ve all heard inspirational stories of famous people and celebrities, and they’ve been overused for years. Today Mark and Darren examine an untapped resource…family, relatives,…
Why tell stories? How do you make them unforgettable? Kindra Hall replies using her story journey from ‘unofficial elementary school storyteller’ to National Champion Storyteller…
You’ve got the ‘gig’ and you’ll get to showcase your expertise and experience. But why are you REALLY there? Darren and Mark answer this question…
“LIVE YOUR DREAMS!” Millions have heard these words by the legendary Les Brown, who opens up to Mark and Darren about his incredible journey, which…
Do you have a story, a presentation, a sermon or experience that you haven’t used in a long time? Maybe you think it’s past its…
Today Mark and Darren help Denise Banks-Grasedyck uncover the power of her stories using ‘triads’…the power of three. Denise learns how characters and contrast can…
How can you tell if you’re connecting with your audience? How can you make your characters come alive? How can your face, hands and body…
What happens when you STRETCH? Darren and Mark chat with four of their speaking students, Kory May, Amanda Mae Gray, Sara McGill, and Kathi Kulesza,…
After spending almost 6 years as a Prisoner of War, writing a book so people will STOP asking about it, giving over 400 FREE speeches,…
Props can be powerful tools for supporting your premise and reinforcing your message. Should you use them? Why? When? How? Mark and Darren provide answers…
Without knowing it, we sometimes leave unanswered questions in the minds of our audience…open loops that we don’t close. Today Darren and Mark examine 4…
If you’ve ever left a presentation wondering, “Is that it?” it’s possible that the speaker didn’t close convincingly. Mark and Darren discuss 5 common closing…
Perhaps you’ve failed, at something, at some time. If you’d rather not share it, that’s normal. Today Mark and Darren discuss failures…and share a few…
‘HUMOR ENGINEER.’ Somehow those two words just don’t seem to belong together. Today Mark and Darren chat with Drew Tarvin, the world’s FIRST humor engineer,…
Did you ever accept a dare when you were younger? Or did you choose the comfortable path and ‘play it safe?’ As presenters, it’s easy…
It’s easy for a presentation to become a lecture, as we spoon-feed the audience with the knowledge we want to share. Mark and Darren investigate…
When life hits, it’s hard to ‘look on the bright side’. Darren and Mark offer specific strategies for seeking out the blessings in our battles,…
You’re suddenly asked to ‘say a few words’ at a special occasion, or to replace a no-show speaker at the last minute. Are you nervous,…
“If you’re trying to be anything other than yourself, you’re playing a game called ‘YOU LOSE!’” So says magician, coach, and speaker Judy Carter, author…
In this final episode of a 3-part series, Jacob and Linda share their need for authenticity, originality, proven processes, and hope. Finally, Carolyn, the meeting…
Today we hear from 3 more audience members, Gavin, Kristoff & Mark, as they reveal what they are REALLY thinking during your presentation. Darren and…
If your audience members could personally tell you what they really need, would you adjust your content or your presentation? Mark and Darren hear from…
Virtual training done well can be delightful. Done poorly, it can be disastrous. Darren, Mark & guest host Ed Tate, CSP take a deep dive…
Do you know that favorite movie scene when there’s a plot twist, a change in a character, a revelation, or a shock? Think STAR WARS…
It’s tough creating a new presentation 50 times a year, and keeping your audience engaged week after week, but Pastor Josh Teis does just that.…
Do you remember the times when your family got together for holidays, anniversary celebrations or special occasions? The laughter you shared, the memories you made,…
Take another peek behind the coaches’ curtain as Darren and Mark show Denise Marek, award-winning speaker and author, how minor adjustments can have major impact.…
Imagine: Winning the World Championship of Public Speaking with a timeless message, pioneering unconventional attire & audience response, and mentoring several other finalists and champions,…
Have you clarified your why lately? What drives you to get on stage…or online…and deliver a presentation? We all have our reasons, and they may…
Racism is a highly volatile social issue. Tackling it head-on, to a global audience, breaks the mold, yet the 2020 World Championship Of Public Speaking…
How do you put a smile of the faces of your audience, or make them laugh out loud…especially when you KNOW you aren’t funny? Mark…
How do you deliver a potentially controversial presentation with grace and dignity, yet be effective without being offensive, and ultimately become UNFORGETTABLE? Mark and Darren…
What happens when 2 World Champions are each asked to officiate a wedding for the first time? How do they approach it? Perhaps you will…
With the global pandemic, it seems the whole world has been thrown off balance. How can you still be impactful? What if you’re a presenter…
What does it take to ‘out-speak’ 35,000 global contestants to become the first VIRTUAL World Champion of Public Speaking? Mark and Darren chat with the…
Unforgettable presentations have MOMENTS…scenes, conversations, statements, and emotions that resonate with the audience or with the presenter. These are the moments that remain in our…
That ‘Nudge Your Neighbor’ moment; when the speaker starts to tell a story you’ve heard before, so you nudge your neighbor and say, “You’re going…
Entertainment superstar Will Smith calls him ‘The Legend’. Michael Hauge is a story expert and Hollywood script consultant to the stars. Today he responds to…
Have you ever wondered what it’s like being coached on your story? Today you get a peek behind the coaches’ curtain as Darren and Mark…
Imagine yourself in the HOT SEAT, as an expert grills you with questions, with the only goal of showing you how to enhance your presentations,…
From tiny obscure comedy clubs to television specials to stages on 3 continents, Butch Bradley has conquered the comedy world. But what techniques has he…
“An unforgettable presenter is an imperfect presenter striving to be unforgettable.” So says co-host Darren as he and Mark share 10 choices that every presenter…
“Look for those events in your life that brought you pain…and go deeper into the pain. Audiences will identify…and connect with your vulnerability.” These words…
“Having fun allows me to do what I love without any great pressure.” says Olympic double gold medalist Ester Ledecka of the Czech Republic. As…
How can we improve as communicators daily? Former prosecutor David Henderson, civil rights attorney, Toastmaster, and educator has answers. He has been published in Newsweek…
Where can you continue to find fresh material every day? Every month? Every year? For more than 55 YEARS? Legendary speaker, ‘Grandma Gone Viral’ with…
“Business is a dance between the practical and the creative,” says today’s guest. Mark and Darren sit down Grammy-Nominated musician, Freddie Ravel who toured with…
“Your last words LINGER.” So says Hall of Fame speaking legend Patricia Fripp. You may have delivered a presentation containing hilarious humor, powerful stories, and…
Do your first words FASCINATE, or FRUSTRATE? Your opening lines can make or break your presentation, and your audience will either tune in, or check…
Perhaps you’re thinking about working with a Speaker Bureau. What do they need from you? In what ways can you help them to help you?…
What does it take to be successful in one speaking market, then to radically change lanes and become equally successful in a completely different market?…
So you want to give a TED or TEDx talk. What do event organizers and TEDs coaches look for? What are the DOs and DON’Ts…
Be honest. You’ve seen them. PowerPoint slides with images taken from a Google search. Clip-art that has been on the Internet for years. Stock photography…
Special Edition Episode for Speech Contestants: You were SURE that you won the contest. You were set to ‘WOW’ your audience. You were confident that…
During his journey ‘from pothead to pastor’ as he put it, Manley Miller discovered the power of AUDIENCE CONNECTION, and has been committed to becoming…
The need for virtual presentations has skyrocketed in recent weeks, and as presenters, none of us wants to be BORING. But how can we keep…
Picture this: All your life you feel awkward, and out of place. You make the commitment to develop your speaking skills. You decide to become…
Conflict makes a story interesting and suspenseful. It also engages the audience, especially if they identify with the conflicted character. But how can you use…
From 14-year-old sports commentator, to movie reviewer, to being hired by Arnold Schwarzenegger to speak at the White House, Scott McKain has had a distinctive…
One of the strengths of every presentation is the MAIN CHARACTER in a story. But how do you get the audience to SEE, FEEL &…
You have to deliver a presentation, provide a corporate update, facilitate a workshop, host a seminar, or moderate a panel. But you have to do…
How do you transform a FRAUD INVESTIGATOR into ‘The FUNNY FED?’ What’s the magic behind taking a so-so story, and making it hilarious? How can…
How do you perform at 100% when PowerPoint fails, you’re not physically at your best, the meeting planner is pulling their hair out, you have…
Same presentation again? How do you keep it fresh and make it UNFORGETTABLE? Ask Kevin Burke who has performed as a Vegas Headliner, for a…
How can you deliver stories that pack an emotional punch…even if the story is simple, with only a few characters, and is fewer than 20…
Perhaps you’ve seen them; the presenters who wander aimlessly back and forth across the stage. Or those for whom EVERY talk is like a Ted…
How can you live life in the ‘FRONT ROW’, instead of in the ‘CHEAP SEATS’ up in the balcony, all the way in the back…and…
How do you create a classic presentation, break down the tensions that exist between audience and presenter, appeal to various learning styles, give your audience…
What are some of the most memorable ‘AHAs’ that, when applied, can transform any presentation? Listen as Darren and Mark discuss seven of the most…
How can you WOW your audience with presentations that pack a PUNCH, and eclipse more famous speakers who share your stage? Darren and Mark chat…
How do you stand out on the platform, whether you’re one of 30,000 competitors with a dream of winning the World Championship of Public Speaking,…
It’s not what you think. You’ll probably be surprised. No, it’s not your amazing opening, your signature story, your dazzling slides and infographics, or your…
What does it take to own the stage with energy as high as Mt. Everest, and lie face down on the platform, in a shocking…
many speakers offer…the Q & A session. Suddenly, attendees start to fidget, some start to pack their things, and others head for the door. But…
“Don’t give a speech; give an EXPERIENCE!”, says podcast co-host Mark Brown. 21st-century audiences are more savvy than ever, rarely wanting a presenter who will…
How can you GUARANTEE that your audience won’t get lost as you deliver your message? That’s the sexy, yet unsexy part of presentation preparation. Lean…
Amateur mechanic at the tender age of 8. First-time pro basketballer at the ancient age of 25. NBA All-Star at 32. Now, entrepreneur, author, media…
So you want a new keynote, a ‘sexier’ presentation, the perfect story, to find the funny, or better platform technique. You need a SPEAKER COACH!…
Fly-swatter. Cinder block. Tattoo. These are just a few of the items that speaker, author, attorney, church pioneer, consultant and pastor Vince Antonucci employs when…
How should you MENTALLY prepare for the platform? What should you do 2 months before, 2 days before, and 2 minutes before your presentation? Mark…
Would you wake up 100 days in a row with the specific goal of getting REJECTED? Would you abandon your Bill Gates-inspired ‘tech-trepreneurial dream’ to…
How do you get your audience to lean in, eager to hear your every word…BEFORE you take the stage? The secret is in your PRESENTER…
How do you get your audience to lean in, eager to hear your every word…BEFORE you take the stage? The secret is in your PRESENTER…
How do you fulfill your promise to your clients, your family, and yourself, while delivering presentations that are both wildly entertaining and deeply insightful? Get…
Can you recall leaving a presentation wondering, “What was their point again?” That’s probably because the premise or the main idea was unclear. In this…
Mark & Darren sit down with one of their mentors, an UNFORGETTABLE singer, speaker & entertainer! What would you do if at the height of…
Be honest. Have you had STORY ENVY? You know…you hear a presenter share a SENSATIONAL story and think to yourself, “Man! I wish I had…
In this episode, Mark delves deeper into the key questions that helped Darren to mine the gold in his life, uncover his message, and deliver…
Do you want to find your unique message, or the gold from your life’s story? The gold is there if you know where to look.…
What does it take to defeat more than 20,000 contestants and win the World Championship of Public Speaking? Listen in as three World Champions dissect…
Have you ever seen a keynote speech where the audience jumped to their feet and erupted in a well-deserved standing ovation? It’s just magical and…
Are you making any of the Top 10 Presentation Mistakes? The first step to being unforgettable is to be aware of the mistakes most presenters…