Finding Clarity: Narrowing Focus for Greater Success

SUMMARY

In this episode, the host talks about the importance of clarity and shares personal insights on overcoming mental fog and distractions. The host discusses the challenges of juggling multiple goals and projects, emphasising the need to focus on what truly matters. The episode highlights the decision to narrow focus on speaking engagements and corporate comedy, leaving other pursuits on hold. A more intimate, heart-to-heart discussion is presented, aiming to provide listeners with valuable takeaways on simplifying their professional endeavours. The host also invites listeners to reach out for support and clarity, sharing details about future podcast plans and upcoming interviews.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:32 Struggles with Mental Fog and Clarity

00:53 The Challenge of Chasing Too Many Goals

02:13 The Importance of Simplifying and Focusing

04:48 Decisions About the Podcast and Future Plans

06:02 Realisations from Performance and Speaking

09:35 The Need for Focus and Letting Go

11:50 Commitment to Stage Domination

19:29 Support and Encouragement

21:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.

For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn

You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence

Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

Authenticity and Connection: Transforming Public Speaking with Marianne Hickman

SUMMARY

In this episode of Present Influence, host John welcomes Marianne Hickman to discuss the importance of authenticity, connection, and ethical speaking in public presentations. They explore issues such as trauma dumping, the power of telling stories from scars, and why confidence without competence can be detrimental. Marianne emphasises the sacredness of the microphone and shares insights on the 'Utah bro' archetype and the Dunning-Kruger effect. The conversation also delves into how humour, open mics, and even onstage mishaps can enhance teaching and engagement. They advocate for continuous learning and maintaining a 'white belt' mentality as they navigate public speaking and personal growth.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Cutting Through Stage Fakery: Real Influence You Can Trust

00:55 Welcome to Present Influence: Live with Marianne Hickman

02:13 The Sacredness of the Microphone: Stories from Scars, Not Wounds

04:46 The Utah Bro Archetype and the Dangers of Manipulation

10:20 The Power of Humour and Authenticity in Public Speaking

11:45 Embracing Comedy: Lessons from Mr Rogers and Robin Williams

20:39 The Yes, And Principle: Turning Mishaps into Moments

28:32 Taking the Pressure Off: Embracing Imperfection

29:55 Facing High-Stakes Situations with Confidence

32:48 Finding Your People: The Importance of Authenticity

38:26 The Role of Confidence in Influence

41:46 The Lifelong Student: Embracing Humility

49:14 The Power of Confidence: A Personal Story

52:16 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.

For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn

You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence

Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

The Importance of Humour and My Journey into Stand-Up Comedy

SUMMARY

In this bonus episode, the host shares updates about the show and discusses the vital role of humour in professional speaking. He talks about his personal journey into stand-up comedy, highlighting the challenges and rewards of performing at open-mic nights. The episode includes a recording of one of his recent comedy sets, where he reminisces about school experiences, the challenges of PE, and the humour he found in those moments. Additionally, the host emphasises the need for mental resilience in the face of criticism and encourages the audience to pursue their comedic endeavours.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Bonus Episode

00:28 The Importance of Humour in Public Speaking

01:25 Overcoming the Fear of Open Mic Nights

02:32 My Experience with Open Mic Comedy

03:32 The Joy and Challenges of Making People Laugh

07:06 Dealing with Online Criticism

09:36 Transition to the Comedy Set

10:11 Stand-Up Comedy Performance

Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient.

For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn

You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence

Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.