The Speaker Lab Podcast

"Your story told honestly is your edge." Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this solo episode, TSL CEO Dan Irvin opens with a story about a factory worker named Gary — a man who worked hard, gave everything, and still got left behind when the game changed. It's a story from 1975, but it's happening right now, and Dan thinks you need to hear it. Because the premium is shifting again. This time it's moving toward the things AI can't replicate: lived experience, presence, perspective, and trust. That's exactly where speaking lives. And if you've been sitting on the sidelines wondering whether now is the right time to build a speaking business — this is the episode for you. Dan walks through the full SPEAK Framework that The Speaker Lab has used to coach thousands of speakers — not as theory, but as what's actually working in this environment right now. He ties each step to what's changing in the world and why human speakers are more valuable than ever. You'll learn: And much, much more! "Never again will I build something for someone else without building something for me." Ready to stop waiting? Head to thespeakerlab.com/SBA for a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment with Dan — a real diagnostic review of your audience, pipeline, and revenue. No pitch, just clarity on exactly where to start. Episode Resources: Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentCalculate Your Speaking Fee Join The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Clarity feels slower in the beginning until confusion costs you months." Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this solo episode, host Dan Irvin gets candid about what it actually took to complete 10 paid speaking gigs in 10 weeks — and why none of it was accidental. This wasn't luck, and it wasn't a hot streak. It was the result of five specific mindset shifts that Dan applied deliberately to his speaking business — the same shifts he coaches Speaker Lab students on every day. From getting crystal clear on who he serves, to showing up in every client conversation as a partner rather than a performer, Dan walks you through the mental framework behind consistent, predictable bookings. Whether you're just getting started or you've been speaking for years but can't seem to find your rhythm, this episode will help you identify exactly where your business needs tightening — and what to do about it. You'll learn: "The gap wasn't the talent. It was the structure." Want Dan to look at your speaking business? Head to thespeakerlab.com/SBA for a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment — a real diagnostic review of your audience clarity, pipeline, and revenue. No pitch, just clarity. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"If you can get one paid gig, you can build an empire off that." Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this episode, Dan Irvin (the newly minted TSL CEO and new host of the TSL podcast!) sits down with Erick Rheam — The Speaker Lab's own resident speaker and lead coach — to unpack one of the most remarkable client stories we've ever told: how Erick turned a single speaking relationship into a three-year, $900,000 contract. But here's the thing — the $900,000 didn't come from being the best speaker in the room. It came from being the most intentional. Erick breaks down a 12-year journey that started with a chance conversation at a vendor booth, a coaching nudge to lean into his niche, and a decision to consistently deliver more value than any client expected. His story is a masterclass in how speakers who think like business owners — not performers — build something that lasts. Whether you just landed your first $1,000 gig or you're wondering how to turn a great client relationship into something bigger, this episode is packed with practical wisdom you can use right now. You'll learn: "I think I'm an average speaker at best, maybe above average. I do alright. However, I'm organized, and I follow a system. And the system is not that hard. It's duplicatable. It's scalable." -- Ready to build your own predictable speaking business? Click the link below to claim your free Speaker Business Assessment — a real diagnostic review of your audience, niche, pipeline, and revenue model. No pitch, just clarity. 👉 Get Your Free Speaker Business Assessment See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"So you can speak to it from a very professional level of here's what I'm seeing right now, grassroots, I'm in it, I'm doing the thing. And that's what makes this transition of you taking over and leading TSL really, really exciting. Because again, you're on the front lines, you're doing the thing." WE'RE BACK. Welcome to a very special episode of The Speaker Lab podcast! Today, Grant Baldwin is here to share a massive update about the future of TSL and talk about the future of the speaking industry. After more than a decade building The Speaker Lab into one of the most trusted resources for aspiring professional speakers, Grant is passing the baton — and today, he's here to talk about it with the person taking the reins: Dan Irvin. Dan isn't new to the TSL world. He's been with the company for over five years, has hosted hundreds of webinars, and personally enrolled nearly 500 students into the program. But more than that, he's a full time professional speaker himself (who is right now in a stretch of doing ten paid gigs in ten weeks!). He knows this world from the inside out, both as a coach and as someone actively speaking to dozens of audiences every year. But what's important isn't just the future of TSL — it's also the future of the speaking industry as a whole. Dan and Grant believe that right now is an incredible opportunity for paid speakers, and they're here to tell you why — and how you can take advantage. In this conversation, Grant and Dan get candid about the transition, reflect on what's made The Speaker Lab work, and tackle the question many speakers are asking right now: what does AI actually mean for this industry? You’ll learn: "The Speaker Lab honestly changed my life. It changed my family's life. We want to continue to be that impact for other individuals and other families. And we know that when we really serve speakers well, they can go out and have a massive impact on audiences all over the place." Episode Resources Calculate Your Speaking Fee (And Join The Email List)Join The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Sometimes in today’s society, there’s a pressure to do entrepreneurship the right way. Others have the Instagram businesses that everybody makes look good, but I think everyone has their own particular situation and scenarios.” Welcome to another episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this episode, host Grant Baldwin welcomes speaker and author Velera Wilson, a remarkable leader who candidly shares her journey from corporate executive to building a thriving full-time speaking business. Velera opens up about the pivotal moments that led her to pursue her passion, from years of speaking in executive roles and nonprofit associations, to leaping into an unexpected corporate layoff. She discusses the behind-the-scenes reality: building her “off ramp” while juggling executive responsibilities, the importance of being selective with dream-sharing, and developing the grit to keep moving forward despite doubts and dry spells. Through her story, Velera reveals practical strategies for anyone considering a similar path: how to parlay your existing skills and network into new opportunities, why having a book is helpful but not essential to get booked, and the necessity of treating speaking like a business. She also emphasizes the need for community, highlighting the crucial role The Speaker Lab played in providing mentorship, camaraderie, and real-world advice about the unpredictable cycles of this industry. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just contemplating your first paid gig, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom on marketing yourself, managing your mindset, and designing a transition that fits your life and goals! You’ll learn: “I work for a company, but I am my own brand. I’m an individual…I take that with me [when I leave].” Episode Resources Velera’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“There’s a huge amount of progress that comes from pitching yourself and putting information out there and having discovery calls and doing events and speaking at events and fielding questions and posting on social media and seeing what people want.” Welcome to another episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast! Today, host Grant Baldwin welcomes Shannon GaNun, a former communications professional, college professor, and now a thriving full-time speaker who’s built an inspiring business around helping others communicate with purpose and confidence. In this conversation, Shannon takes us through her remarkable journey, starting from her roots in a small Wisconsin town, through her early career on Capitol Hill, and onto the classroom at Georgia Southern University. She shares how her lifelong passion for effective communication eventually led her to pitch herself, land gigs, and build programs that empower leaders at corporations and associations to strengthen their impact through better speaking skills. This episode dives deep into the realities of launching a speaking business later in life, the challenges of making a mid-career pivot, and the process of turning decades of both work and life experience into a valuable, marketable service. Shannon gets candid about overcoming imposter syndrome, learning the business side of speaking through The Speaker Lab, and tackling the not-so-glamorous parts. If you’re someone who wonders if you’re “special enough” to be on stage, or if you’ve wrestled with questions of timing, self-doubt, or financial security in pursuing your passion, you’ll walk away with encouragement to start where you are, leverage your experience, and take that next step! You’ll learn: “Everybody, even though we’re all kind of ordinary, normal, what I consider middle class Americans, we all have a unique experience and so we can take what we have experienced and teach others.” Episode Resources Shannon’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“If you’re consistent, you may miss the event with that event planner this round, but you’re going to get it the next round, and you’re going to get the next round too because you’re going to stay on top.” In this episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast, Erick Rheam, professional speaker and author, opens the doors to a behind-the-scenes coaching session as Connor Wentling and Michael Hidalgo join him to unpack the realities of building a speaking career from the ground up. Connor shares his journey transitioning from free gigs to landing paid opportunities within the municipal association market. Despite finding traction, he’s faced with the anxiety and uncertainty that accompany a slower season, prompting a deep dive with Erick into sustaining momentum. They dig into the nitty-gritty of keeping the pipeline full, leveraging referrals, and making strategic tweaks based on feedback. Michael, meanwhile, discusses the challenge of prospecting habits and mastering the art of following up with potential clients. Together with Erick, he explores tangible ways to stay in the game, even when faced with delays and rejections. Erick also shares insights about the power of consistency, the importance of tracking your outreach, and why even a “not interested” is a positive sign. Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear actionable advice on everything from upgrading your presentation skills to maintaining discipline with prospecting “Power Hours,” and understanding why the speaking business takes patience and resilience. If you’re ready for some coaching wisdom and inspiring reminders to keep moving forward, this conversation is for you! You’ll learn: “When it comes to speaking, there’s always an inflection point for every speaker’s journey. The problem is we don’t know what it is.” Episode Resources Erick’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“One of the things that has helped me stay in ministry, and one of my keys that I share in my talk about burnout, is doing something new to refuel you. I’m still doing ministry thirty years later, but I find new ways to do it and that helps increase the fuel and the fire for me to do it.” Welcome back to The Speaker Lab podcast! On today’s episode, host Grant Baldwin is joined by Arthur James, a seasoned pastor, educator, and speaker who’s been making a difference from the pulpit and the podium for nearly three decades. In this conversation, Arthur opens up about his unique journey as a bivocational pastor, juggling roles in ministry, education, and business, while building his speaking career from the ground up. He reflects on crucial turning points, including the shift from viewing public speaking as a side hustle to embracing it as a purposeful business. Together, Grant and Arthur dive into the realities of transitioning from full-time work in education and hospitality to full-time ministry and professional speaking, highlighting the challenges of balancing financial responsibility with a heart for serving others. Arthur reveals how discovering The Speaker Lab framework helped him gain clarity, structure, and momentum in growing his speaking business. Whether you’re a pastor with a message to share, a speaker ready to make an impact, or simply someone searching for practical wisdom about building a business around your calling, you’ll find valuable lessons and encouragement in this episode. Listen in for a look at what it truly takes to turn your gifts as a communicator into a sustainable career! You’ll learn: “One of the things that’s very critical that is taught in The Speaker Lab program is to look at your speaking as a business and not just as getting on a stage to do a speech.” Episode Resources Arthur’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I’m a big believer in consuming what you sell and practicing what you preach…it’s a useful step on the path to understanding what’s possible and for growing in the skill set of standing on stage in front of any number of people that makes your body react and become nervous.” In this episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast, host Grant Baldwin sits down with Melanie Curtis, a world record-holding professional skydiver, seasoned coach, and sought-after keynote speaker. Their conversation explores Melanie’s unconventional career path, which began in the finance industry before she took the extraordinary leap into professional skydiving, amassing over twelve thousand jumps, and then eventually public speaking. Melanie opens up about the challenges she faced along the way, including imposter syndrome, persistent anxiety, and the internal doubts that can hold back even the most driven professionals. She reflects on why each stage of her journey was essential and shares the turning points that nudged her toward treating public speaking as a serious business, rather than a side endeavor. Throughout their discussion, you’ll hear advice on finding your target audience, building meaningful connections in both women-centric organizations and male-dominated industries, and leveraging storytelling to transform your message. Grant and Melanie also dig into the emotional side of entrepreneurship, the highs of big wins, the lows of self-doubt, and the importance of having a strong support network. Whether you’re contemplating your first speech or looking to scale your speaking business, Melanie’s story will inspire you to trust your intuition, stay persistent, and redefine what’s possible for your own speaking journey! You’ll learn: “If I didn’t learn how to manage my fears, how to work with my fears and anxieties, my insecurities, I imagine I would have lived a really small life.” Episode Resources Melanie’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Make sure you actually believe you can follow your plan. Because if you don’t feel hopeful, then you’re never going to feel motivated, you’re never going to feel committed, and you’re never going to follow through.” Welcome back to another episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast! Today, Grant Baldwin is joined by Adam Gilbert, the mastermind behind MyBodyTutor.com and DoneDaily.com, to discuss insights for anyone looking to build a thriving speaking business or simply create lasting change in their personal and professional life. Adam opens up about the profound impact his father's health struggles had on his mission to help others transform their lives through nutrition, fitness, and productivity. With over eighteen years of experience and over ten thousand clients served, he’s learned that while most people know what they should do, there’s often a huge gap between knowledge and action. This episode breaks down the importance of “MPH”—mindset, psychology, and habits—and highlights practical frameworks anyone can use to move from dreaming to doing. You’ll learn why accountability is a game-changer, how starting small can build the momentum you need, and what it really takes to keep promises to yourself. Additionally, Adam explains how discomfort can be a compass for growth, why surrounding yourself with supportive people matters, and how to challenge assumptions that keep you stuck. Whether you’re just starting and struggling to book your first gig or you’re a veteran looking to scale up, this conversation is loaded with implementable advice and motivating stories! You’ll learn: “There’s fear of failure, but there’s also fear of success, which is surprisingly very common but not often spoken about.” Episode Resources Adam’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“When you go to these associations’ websites, they don’t have robust staff…it’s not hard to find them. You can directly engage with them and talk to them about an event that’s coming up. You can identify, ‘You have a fall conference coming up. I’d love to chat with you and see how I can best support you on that.’” This week on The Speaker Lab podcast, host Grant Baldwin sits down with industry expert and regular guest Erick Rheam for a deep dive into one of the most powerful avenues for speakers: associations. If you've ever wondered what an association is, why they matter to your speaking business, or how to break into these lucrative networks, this episode is your roadmap. Throughout their conversation, Erick and Grant peel back the layers, starting with a clear definition of associations and moving into the different types. You’ll hear why associations can be the “low-hanging fruit” for both new and seasoned speakers, offering paid opportunities and exposure to hundreds of decision makers at a time. Additionally, the episode covers practical strategies for researching associations in your area, using both Google and ChatGPT to quickly uncover dozens of opportunities—plus tips on who to contact inside these organizations. You’ll also learn about Association Management Companies (AMCs) and Societies of Association Executives (SAEs), two insider gateways to getting in front of hundreds of associations through one well-placed showcase or breakout session. If you’re nervous about reaching out or unsure about timing and how to build relationships, Erick shares actionable advice for playing the long game, planting seeds, and earning your way onto bigger stages. This episode is packed with simple tactics and inspiring stories that will help you get past the overwhelm, start building momentum, and unlock the massive potential of speaking for associations! You’ll learn: “[Showcase events for speakers] are a great way in a forty-five minute to one hour talk to get in front of one hundred one one hundred and fifty decision makers that could potentially hire you.” Episode Resources Erick’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Everything [The Speaker Lab] does is very intentional drive, step driven, process driven, and it can fit whatever time that you can give it…So time is less relevant. Consistency is more relevant.” Welcome back to The Speaker Lab podcast! In this episode, we’re diving deep into the realities of building a thriving speaking business while balancing a busy professional life. Our host, Erick Rheam, brings on Dr. Yvette E. Pearson, an engineer, executive in higher education, and passionate advocate for people-centered STEM organizations. Dr. Pearson opens up about the unique challenges she faces as she transitions from speaking for free at conferences within her industry to establishing herself as a paid, professional speaker. She discusses the struggle of carving out time for business-building activities—like prospecting for speaking gigs—while balancing the demands of a full-time job and a consulting business. Throughout the conversation, Erick offers practical advice on how to break out of the “industry speaker” mold, set and negotiate fees with confidence, and implement consistent power hours. You’ll hear actionable strategies for navigating awkward money conversations, leveraging free speaking gigs for future opportunities, and building momentum that can transform your speaking business. Whether you’re just starting, looking to move from free to paid gigs, or searching for ways to fit speaking into an already busy life, the insights and encouragement in this episode are for you! You’ll learn: “...that’s your walkaway price. That’s number one. You have to have that in your mind, and you have to be prepared to actually walk away.” Episode Resources Dr. Yvette’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I’ve been a caterpillar. You know, what do caterpillars do? They collect, they eat, they stock up, they build up until they get a calling that says build yourself a chrysalis. And that [chrysalis], for me, was leaving public service.” Welcome back to The Speaker Lab podcast! Today’s episode features Marcy Grossman, whose career path took her from criminal psychologist, working in federal prisons, to Canadian ambassador in the United Arab Emirates, and now to the world of professional speaking. Host Grant Baldwin guides us through Marcy Grossman’s candid journey, revealing the authentic highs and lows behind building a business as a speaker. Less than a year ago, Marcy found herself in what she describes as the “dark valley of despair”—overwhelmed by anxiety, negative self-talk, and the fear that her stories wouldn’t matter. But instead of giving up, Marcy turned to The Speaker Lab podcast and program, discovering a supportive community, actionable frameworks, and the structure she needed to move forward. Grant and Marcy dig deep into what it really takes to pivot into the speaking industry. You’ll hear how Marcy leveraged her hard-earned experience, learned to embrace the nerves and adrenaline of being on stage, and realized the key to success is trusting the process. Additionally, the episode covers how speaking can fit into a broader consulting or coaching business, the challenges behind the scenes that most speakers face, and practical tips for building momentum, managing self-doubt, and packaging your unique story. If you’re a speaker in the making, this conversation will remind you that setbacks are part of the journey, and that the stage can be a place for anyone willing to put in the work! You’ll learn: “Many of the speakers I have met are people that have messages in their heart, and that’s why they’re unstoppable.” Episode Resources Marcy’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Within an in demand topic, how are you going to differentiate? There are only X number of categories of movies out there, right? And so it’s not like you’re suddenly going to invent a new category of movie, but you do want, within that well trenched category, to be distinct.” Welcome back to The Speaker Lab podcast! In today’s episode, host Grant Baldwin is joined once again by youth speaker and entrepreneur, Josh Shipp, for a masterclass on how to build a seven-figure speaking business. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to reach and sustain that elusive seven-figure mark in the speaking industry, this conversation is for you! Drawing inspiration from his own career and his work as the founder of a successful speakers bureau for the youth and education space, Josh pulls back the curtain on the practical, often overlooked strategies that lead to lasting success. He and Grant dive deep into the six core offerings every speaker should consider—starting with the foundational work of perfecting your speech, and then thoughtfully layering on merchandise, building an engaged online platform, writing a book, developing a course, and scaling through licensing. You’ll hear candid reflections on why speaking alone can be both lucrative and limiting, the importance of focusing on quality before quantity, and how to know when it’s time to pursue additional streams of revenue. Josh offers clear benchmarks, practical income thresholds, and valuable insights into everything from setting realistic goals, leveraging audience feedback, and understanding the true costs and opportunities of each new offering. Whether you’re trying to book more gigs, looking to expand with digital products, or simply want to avoid burnout while building a business you love, this episode outlines the unfiltered roadmap to becoming a seven-figure speaker! You’ll learn: “What I would advocate for, looking back on it with a bit of pattern recognition, is building these [avenues] deliberately step by step. That’s what’s going to help you get to a [seven-figure speaking business].” Episode Resources Josh’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Once you have your go-to framework, your go-to model, and then as you innovate, few come up with new ideas, and instead of just doing away with the old one, it becomes a tool in your pocket. And you can keep building that toolbox as you go.” This week, host Grant Baldwin reconnects with his good friend, renowned speaker, author, and content strategist Melanie Deziel. If you've ever struggled to organize your ideas, wanted to stand out in the crowded speaking market, or wondered how successful speakers build frameworks that turn concepts into intellectual property, you're in the right place. Grant and Melanie explore the crucial role frameworks play in building a memorable and scalable speaking business. Melanie breaks down why frameworks matter, what separates a strong framework from a pile of raw ideas, and how you can start developing your own signature process or model. Using relatable analogies, the discussion centers around how having a clear structure not only makes your message more memorable but also acts as a powerful tool for marketing, referral, and content creation. Listeners will gain practical strategies with Melanie’s “IRON” method—Information, Relationship, Operation, and Name—for building frameworks step-by-step. She discusses the risks of trying to cram too much into one model, why a unique name or catchy acronym isn’t the first thing you should focus on, and how to make sure your framework truly represents your expertise. Whether you’re a new speaker refining your message or a seasoned professional reimagining your brand, you’ll find plenty of guidance on how to take your ideas from abstract to impactful! You’ll learn: “The real challenge is having so many ideas, but they are not in a usable structure to be able to share those ideas effectively.” Episode Resources Melanie’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I started pursuing meaning instead of money. And I made way more money focusing on meaning and not thinking about money as much as I did when I was laser focused on making more money but living a life that was absent of meaning.” Welcome back to The Speaker Lab podcast! In today’s episode, host Grant Baldwin sits down with Harris III, an award-winning illusionist, speaker, author, and entrepreneur known for his unique blend of magic and impactful storytelling. Harris shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a career that’s not just about entertainment but inspiring meaningful change. Together, Grant and Harris dig deep into the art of connecting with audiences, the challenge of moving beyond labels like “Christian magician” or “entertainer,” and how Harris transitions his skills from performing magic to cultivating transformational experiences for organizations across the globe. They talk candidly about entrepreneurship, building a personal brand, and the difference between energizing a crowd and genuinely impacting lives. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out as a speaker, the role of storytelling in corporate culture, or how to balance personal fulfillment with business growth, this episode is packed with insights, honest reflections, and practical advice. Plus, Harris opens up about the powerful moments that shaped his career, the challenges of identity in the public eye, and his commitment to helping others unlock their own potential. Tune in for a conversation that goes behind the scenes of the speaking business and offers inspiration for anyone seeking to make a lasting difference both on and off the stage! You’ll learn: “You can have anything you want in life if you just help enough other people get what they want.” Episode Resources Harris’ WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"All those little intangibles that are so nuanced, the great storytellers can put themselves physically and emotionally back in the story and bring you with them, and then somehow bring it back to you.” If you’ve ever felt like your life isn’t interesting enough for the stage, Katie Quesada is here to change your mind. On this episode of The Speaker Lab, Katie and Grant Baldwin unpack what really makes stories memorable. Instead of rehashing a list of personal events, Katie encourages speakers to choose moments that spark connection. For example, she doesn’t just share about living in an RV; she asks audiences, “Have you ever craved simplicity?” Suddenly, everyone relates. Her simple storytelling framework uses the Three Cs: Katie’s practical advice is to test stories at dinner parties, coffee shops, or wherever you chat with friends. Notice what gets a reaction, and refine as you go. She recommends keeping a running note of story ideas and even using AI tools like ChatGPT to help organize and edit your thoughts. And when it comes to humor, focus on levity. You don’t need punchlines; just offer moments for your audience to breathe and relate. You don’t need a dramatic life event. Look for everyday moments that mean something, keep your stories concise, and always connect back to your listener! You’ll learn: “Authenticity is going to be what cuts the noise of becoming a stereotype, especially in the speaking space.” Episode Resources Katie’s WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“When downselling, it’s really good to say, ‘Who is above me, and who is below me?’ And then also find out, looking laterally, who do you compete against? Who is within a similar fee range?...Who can I refer that might fit along that axis.” In this episode, Grant Baldwin teams up with industry insider Brian Lord of Premier Speakers Bureau for a conversation about what it takes to succeed as a speaker. Brian’s insight is simple: know your place in the market, nurture real relationships, and don’t underestimate the power of referrals. Brian shares his “speakers matrix” concept, challenging every speaker to map out who’s above, below, and alongside them in terms of fees and content. Why? Because networking up and down this axis isn’t just smart, it’s essential. Those connections bring in gigs you’d otherwise miss and make sure you’re not flying solo in the business. Brian’s biggest reminder is to not get lost in the latest trends. AI may be hot, but your authentic message and consistently fresh content are what keep you booked and relevant. And always, always deliver value offstage because event planners love a speaker who’s great to work with, not just to watch. Moreover, if you’re an independent speaker, these strategies matter even more. The takeaway from this episode is to focus on building your network, referring others, and adapting as the industry evolves. Impact and bookings come from meaningful relationships, not complicated tactics, because it’s human connection that grows your career, one conversation and one referral at a time! You’ll learn: “If you get the thought into your head that you are somebody who goes around helping people get better for having met you than if they hadn’t, then that’s your goal as a speaker.” Episode Resources Brian’s Website2 Day Booked and Paid BootcampGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“You have to make sure you don’t lose the vision of what you started, because the team could begin and can take on a personality of its own. And if you don’t manage it, you can get off the vision of what brought you here.” What does it really take to build a thriving speaking business? In this week’s thought-provoking episode, Grant Baldwin sits down with Erick Rheam to explore the practical strategies and mindset shifts needed for true longevity in this industry. Erick, an established speaker with years of experience under his belt, opens up about his own journey: the early hustle, the inevitable challenges, and, most importantly, how he’s learned to balance ambition with sustainability. He and Grant get real about the myth of constant grind, explaining that putting in the hard work is necessary at the start, but staying stuck in overdrive isn’t the secret to lasting impact or happiness. Instead, this conversation dives deep into the habits and boundaries that separate career burnout from long-term success. Erick shares how intentional routines, clear priorities, and strategic rest have shaped his evolution, not just as a speaker, but as a leader, husband, and friend. If you’re dreaming about building a speaking business with staying power, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Tune in for a refreshing look at what it takes to sustain your passion and make an impact for years to come. Whether you’re just getting started or already established, Erick and Grant’s discussion is a must-listen for any speaker ready to play the long game. Don’t miss it! You’ll learn: “It’s fun when you do something that you’re really passionate about and aligned with, it’s amazing how every other part of your life starts to align once you figure out what that looks like.” Episode Resources Erick’s Website2 Day Booked and Paid BootcampGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“My job is to make [event planners] look like a rock star when I get off stage…I stand beside them so I can also have them hear the lovely things people are saying in line when people want to hug you and take their photo with you. And so what they need to see is [that I] was a good investment.” In this episode, Grant Baldwin connects with Neen James for an honest, energetic conversation on what it truly means to make an impact as a public speaker. Neen’s journey shines a spotlight on the power of intentional focus, where knowing exactly who you serve, and why, can transform not only your business but your ability to connect from the stage. As Neen shares, growing your speaking business is less about flashy tactics and more about consistent, meaningful action. She and Grant unravel the myth that you need a massive following or viral content to succeed. Instead, it’s about doubling down on the basics: nurturing authentic relationships within your network, following up with event planners, and always delivering value tailored to your audience’s needs. The episode also digs into the art of strategic outreach. It’s not ideal to sit back and hope your inbox fills up. Take ownership of your calendar by making outreach a daily habit, revisiting those half-finished conversations, and gently reminding people how you can help. Overall, landing more speaking gigs comes down to intentional action, relationship-building, and refusing to overcomplicate the process. You’ll learn: “Every speaker needs to think about how they can be exceptional? Because there’s plenty of average out there, but it’s exceptional that gets attention.” Episode Resources Neen’s Website2 Day Booked and Paid BootcampGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.