The Speaker Lab With Grant Baldwin // Public Speaking / Motivational Speaking / Entrepreneurship

Amidst a global pandemic and just weeks after he and his wife welcomed their second son into the world, Wolf Millstone decided it was time to leave his full-time sales gig and start Wolf Millstone Group. It was time to take a leap of faith and begin his journey to the stage --- and that’s exactly what happened.Just one year later and Wolf is bringing in six figures, booking gigs left and right, and is now in a position of needing to scale his business and bring on his first employee. In just 12 months the demand for his message on stage, in workshops, and for training exploded! He has experienced unprecedented growth and success because of his grit and intense desire to learn and apply strategies for success.Where did he start you might ask? With Episode 001 of The Speaker Lab Podcast. Soon Wolf was listening to three episodes a day, seeking the counsel of trusted mentors and coaches, and then he was off and running with a website and demo reel. He’s first to admit that his temptation to strive for perfection

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down with some of our coaches and take a deep dive into some of the hottest topics for speakers?Join Maryalice Goldsmith, Director of Student Success, and Lead Coach, Rick Clemons for our second episode of the Coaches Corner series!Together they're unpacking the 5 biggest mistakes made by aspiring speakers and how to keep them from standing in your way of success.Our coaches at TSL are in the trenches with students to challenge, encourage, and inspire as they navigate their own path to the stage. The structure of the TSL program and one-on-one coaching affords students the opportunity to seek counsel and rely on a trusted framework that will provide a healthy pace towards growth!Maryalice and Rick unpack what it looks like to "niche down," why you have to take your speaking career seriously, and what it means to be a "squirrel" --- but you'll have to listen to the episode to understand this one!Together they share their own experiences and what the

So, you’re thinking about hosting a podcast, but you don’t know where to begin?Jeff Sanders launched his show, The 5 AM Miracle, 8 ½ years ago with no audience, minimal equipment, and the simple goal of expanding on the content he was already providing on his blog.Fast-forward to today, and he has a wildly successful show that has catapulted his ability to network, market, and book gigs as a speaker and author.How did he do it? He’s here to share! Jeff quickly realized that his show attracted the kind of people he wanted to work with.During this episode, Jeff unpacks the power of podcasting and why it’s one of the best mediums to personally showcase your skills and talents. He walks us through the ins and outs, dos and don’ts, and creativity that make up the very best podcasts. THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Why podcasting is personalWhat keeps an audience coming back for more?Putting a positive spin on your brand for your peopleHave you missed the opportunity to launch a show?What equipment do you need

So, you want to write a book, but you don’t know where to begin. That’s okay! Look no further.Chandler Bolt leads the organization Self-Publishing School and has helped lead entrepreneurs through the process of bringing their own book to life through self-publishing.His MOVE writing method helps build momentum through a unique checklist process that keeps the light at the end of the tunnel in focus.During this episode, you’ll learn more about why self-publishing can help fast-track the opportunity to diversify revenue streams and provide your audience with a more personal introduction of yourself.Chandler will also address questions about creating your cover, editing, formatting, and when you’ll know the right time to take the leap from rough draft to reality! If you’re at all considering adding a book to your repertoire, this is the episode for you.Chandler brings actionable next steps, encouragement, and expertise that you don’t want to miss!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Traditional vs. self vs. hybrid, wh

Sharing in the excitement of our student's success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.Francesco Samarelli believes in paying it forward to fellow speakers and generously agreed to share about his journey to speaking success. One of the pillars of value for students at TSL is the ability to learn from one another and to be in the trenches together!For Francesco it all started with an opportunity to take the stage that was followed up with a surprising response --- the audience loved him! He shares his journey of how at a young age his teacher, Mrs. Fowler, helped plant a seed that would inspire him to express himself and use his skill sets to share his message.During this episode, Maryalice and Francesco take a deep dive into what it looks like to turn a passion into a c

Are you a speaker? An author? Considering both? Jessi Beyer is both but her journey to this point in her career is not one you might expect! She joined us for Episode 381 to narrate her experience in building a business committed to helping others find healing through their struggles with mental health.Jessi quickly found that the success of her first book catapulted her into a world of opportunity she’d not yet experienced as a speaker. She talks about her insecurities (or lack there-of!), what kept her motivated and energized, and why coaching earlier in her career was key to her success.Jessi’s commitment to the process and can-do attitude has helped her pave a path to success, even at such a young age. Her enthusiasm and dedication to her mission and vision are hard to beat!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Finding confidence in your messageHow to find the right audienceWhat it looks like to pivot from speaking to writing, and back again!How to leverage a successful book launch?Finding a balance as an author

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down with some of our coaches and find out what coaching is all about?!Well, you’re in luck. Because that’s exactly what the Coaches Corner Podcast series is all about. We’re handing the mic to Maryalice Goldsmith, Director of Student Success, and she’ll be sitting down with an esteemed member of our coaching team to take a deep dive into some of the hottest topics for speakers!In this episode of the Coaches Corner series, Maryalice welcomes our Lead Coach, Rick Clemons, to unpack the topic of professional coaching. Maybe some of you have coaches, others are considering it, or some of you might be thinking --- what does it mean to have a professional coach?!Maryalice and Rick are answering all your questions by sharing their personal experiences with coaching, the vision behind coaching at The Speaker Lab, and why it’s a crucial step in your success in building a speaking business. Their questions will challenge you, their mission will inspire you, and

We all have that little voice in our heads.You know, the one that creeps in when we start to doubt ourselves and the ability to share our message.So what can we do about that voice?Kindra Hall is a successful speaker and author, recently releasing her book, Choose Your Story, Change Your Life: Silence Your Inner Critic and Rewrite Your Life from the Inside Out. She joined us to talk about her mission to combat the comparison game and help speakers protect their mentality and confidence.The unknown challenges and necessary pivots of pandemic life have demanded that speakers adjust and keep their minds from wandering to the dark places of defeat. Kindra reminds us of where we’ve come from, how we’ve grown in recent years, and what it takes to find a balance of confidence and care when taking the stage ---- in person or virtually!Her energy and willingness to share her own fears allow for an honest conversation packed with insight and encouragement to keep going.THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Getting back in sha

Sharing in the excitement of our student’s success is such a privilege for our team at The Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.Chris Failla has got an awesome story to share and you’re sure to leave this episode feeling inspired and encouraged to take the next big step in your own career. He’s full of heart and has a really unique narrative to share about what has inspired him to take the stage. Chris and Maryalice talk about finding your “deeper why” and how to use your message to make an impact.During this conversation, Chris unpacks his process, how he came to find The Speaker Lab, and how this investment in his business and himself brought him to stages he never could have imagined. Chris is motivated by the desire to help others love their work for the long haul and have a sustainable impact on a hum

If you’re ready to hear a life-changing, vision-defining story of gratitude, then you’re in the right place.John Israel is a friend and entrepreneur-turned-speaker who has redefined success in his unique niche of the industry. After serving for nearly a decade as the leader of a strategic gifting company, John found himself with a message of gratitude that holds the power to impact client and employee attrition.In this episode he’s sharing his journey to defining the problem he solves and the vision he’s committed to living out. He unpacks the social experiment that changed his life and why it’s important to find your right audience and then teach them (rather than sell to them)! John also talks about why free events are the way to start and how strategic marketing and a willingness to pivot are essential in this industry.THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:The competitive advantage in gratitudeWhy experimenting, pivoting, and flexibility will help you find your nicheTeaching vs. selling, and why it matters!W

Have you found the one? Not that one, but the one thing?The one and only Geoff Woods joined us for Episode 376 to explain what “the one thing” is and why you need to find it to achieve your goals.Passionate about how small things make a big difference and why world-class content is a must, Geoff’s approach to productivity and building a business is contagious.Not only will this episode help you begin your journey to finding “the one thing,” but you’ll also get to hear more about Geoff’s road to becoming co-founder and president of the organization, The One Thing.How did he get started? By asking a simple question, “How might I be able to help?” And the rest is history! If you’re looking for the one thing that will reignite your “why” and lead you into the future, then this episode is a must!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:What is “the one thing?”Why does “the one thing matter?”Understanding your goalsHow to start a new careerWhat it means to prioritize (for real)!Having a job vs. building a businessHow can you

The art of stagecraft. It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. Understanding your artistic ability, and how to bring things to life, will separate the speakers from the professional speakers.So how do you find your inner performer?Our lead coach, Rick Clemons, is the expert on helping others find where their star shines the brightest, and how to take delivery and content to the next level.Rick takes a deep dive into what speakers should be doing to bring their craft to life while balancing the value of performance vs. being in the moment with your audience. He shares a few of his own first-hand experiences on the stage and how he’s relied on strong fundamentals and creativity to adjust his stagecraft for each audience.What’s exciting is that Rick will also share about a special cohort we will be launching SOON here at The Speaker Lab.Through live virtual sessions, Rick will be working with students to develop everything from volume, cadence, receiving constructive feedback, and navigating the te

You’ve done the heavy lifting, you’ve put in the sweat equity, and as a result, you have a thriving, growing business. And now you need help! So what’s next?Erick Rheam joined us for Episode 374 to explain three things you must consider when you decide to build out a team. We’ll talk in detail about mapping out your organization, creating margin so you can focus on areas you need to focus on, and even how to interact with vendors.Erick has so much insight to share because he’s worked through each of these challenges personally. He’s sharing his experience, and together we’ll highlight what has helped set us up for success along the path of growing as speakers and entrepreneurs.If you’re wondering when it’s time to take the plunge and call in some backup, then this episode is for you!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:What it means to manage your assetsWhen to fire yourself and make a new hireMaking project-based hiresSetting clear expectationsEmployee compensationWhy the structure will continue to evolveAnalyzing

Sharing in the excitement of our students' success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.Dana Knowles joined The Speaker Lab in April 2021. Her enthusiasm and motivation are unmatched, and she quickly engaged with our coaches and the Elite program. She’s always loved speaking and realizing she might be able to get paid to speak was a game changer. Passionate about sharing her extraordinary story with audiences, Dana shares more about her product that went to market and how that helped launch her speaking career. She also reveals the importance of accountability, networking, and goal setting as she continues to grow her speaking business.Dana has overcome, conquered, and continues to strive for excellence. Her conversation with Maryalice will make you feel “not so alone” in

Dorie Clark is the real deal. She’s intentional, professional, experienced, sincere, and she’s passionate about educating others to take action with the future in mind.Having just released her most recent book, The Long Game, Dorie joined The Speaker Lab Podcast to look at what you need to be doing today to build a successful (and sustainable!) tomorrow.In this episode we cover everything from diversified income streams to finding the patience and persistence to give opportunities a chance to gain traction.She’s also giving insight into building meaningful relationships and leveraging archival research to determine what business strategies have led to success for others and could work for you too.THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Pre-pandemic vs. post-pandemic speaking engagementsWhat it looks like to provide a premium in-person experienceWhy it matters to have diversified streams of revenueHow to build meaningful relationshipsWhy being a speaker is a long-term gameResearching what worksWhy the “science of it” m

We have to start somewhere right? And we've all been there, trying to build a business, cash is tight, and we need to make ends meet.Erick Rheam, a great friend of TSL, has found incredible success in recent years as his speaking career has taken off. He's about to release his sixth book and year after year he's breaking his own income records. So, how is he doing it?Erick joined us for a deep dive into cash flow management. We're talking about four must-haves when it comes to building a sustainable business with a solid financial foundation.There's no claim here to financial expertise, but you'll see from our conversation that there is a ton of life experience and business success to learn from as you grow your own speaking career!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:The cyclical nature of a speaking careerWhy you need to treat your speaking career like a real businessWhat are money buckets and why do they matter?What it means to "run lean"Why you need a cushion of cashDetermining an ROIEvaluating recurring expens

John Jantsch: author, speaker, marketing extraordinaire, and he’s here for Episode 370 of The Speaker Lab Podcast!John just released his seventh book, The Ultimate Marketing Engine. When it comes to finding expertise on how to use book writing to grow your speaking business, John’s the one to give it. For decades he’s leveraged opportunities that fueled one another and created a growing platform for coaching, consulting, networking, writing and speaking. During our conversation, we cover the process of bringing a book to life, what it can do for your speaking career, and how to know when it's time to start writing.So, if you’re intimidated by the idea of taking on more, but intrigued by what it takes to capitalize on meaningful opportunities, then this episode is for you!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Expectations for virtual gigsWhy every piece of your business should be connectedEvaluating opportunitiesWhy you should have just a few primary keynotesHow to build a business and a lifestylePricing presentation

Sharing in the excitement of our student’s success is such a privilege for our team at the Speaker Lab. Our Director of Student Success, Maryalice Goldsmith, is taking the mic for our Student Highlight series so you can hear more about our students’ experiences and what they want you to know about growing your speaking business.Carrie Kerskie has been speaking for over 15 years to consumer groups about identity theft and helping victims of fraud. Through a variety of opportunities, she uncovered a passion for helping people develop their cyber intelligence. With the need to shift her perspective and learn how to land speaking gigs, Carrie found The Speaker Lab and everything changed!She shares about finding her niche, learning to build a pipeline, create meaningful content, and how to tap into the pain points of your audience. Join Maryalice and Carrie for an energetic and encouraging conversation on what it looks like to work through our TSL Elite program!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:What is a cy

He’s refreshingly funny, incredibly honest, and 100% awesome.It wasn’t all fun and games when Mike Goodwin first took the stage, but through hard work, determination, and a gift for making others crack a smile, Mike has made a way for himself as a comedian and speaker.During our conversation Mike shares how he got his start, what led him to comedy, and how he has found success in both! He shares how you can grow from your mistakes and what it looks like to pivot in the moment. He’s got a ton of experience and even more energy for the work he’s doing and the opportunity to help others learn from his journey. You’re going to love our conversation!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:Why your audience needs to smile.Nature vs. Nurture as a speaker.How to adjust to your audience.How many “opportunities for laughter” does your speech need?The art to using comedy in your speaking.How do you know if you’re funny?And much more!EPISODE RESOURCESGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speakin

There’s so much pressure in the speaking industry to land your big idea.But how do you find it?When do you know if it’s the right one?What if it isn’t?Jeff Goins brings tons of industry experience and “big idea expertise” to the table in this episode.Jeff is demystifying the “idea formula” and unpacks why commitment to your craft, understanding your category of the industry, and getting your idea in front of an audience really matters.He also explains why it’s important to show up and focus on making your idea more interesting rather than better. Jeff shares crucial steps needed in landing your big idea, and what to do once you have it.No matter where you’re at in your speaking career, Jeff has a take-away that will leave you with a desire to build a big idea that will take your speaking career into the future!THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:What does it mean to be 80% same and 20% different?Three steps to landing your big idea – but it’s not a formula!Why you must get your idea in front of an audience.Does it