• Home
  • Episodes
  • Books for Leaders
  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Contact Us
  • Our Sponsors
  • Blog
  • Our Newsletter
The Leadership Podcast

The Leadership Podcast

We Study Leaders

July 24, 2019

TLP160: How to Astound an Audience!

http://traffic.libsyn.com/theleadershippodcast/TLP_160.mp3
Play in New Window Download
Lynda Jackson

Lynda Jackson is a world renowned speaking coach, and has had a hand in transforming the speaking ability of Prime Ministers, Actors and Executives. Lynda says leaders need to communicate more effectively, and shares examples of clients overcoming their fear of public speaking, and the importance of connecting with the audience. She also discusses how her clients get over anxiety, what makes a talk memorable, and why preparation is critical. 


The Leadership Podcast is proud to announce a new initiative with thoughtLEADERS to provide very short podcasts called “chalk talks.” They’re “bitesize” hacks on common (but challenging) leadership issues. You can only access the Chalk Talks by subscribing to our mailing list at The Leadership Podcast.


In addition, listen in to learn how 10 of you can apply to be selected to participate in the March 2020 Self-Reliant Leadership Crucible and Podcast Guest Reunion in Austin, Texas! It’s an exclusive event only for past Crucible participants and Podcast Guests, so this is a very unique opportunity.

If you want to be one of the ten lucky listeners who will get to attend this event… click on the link below to send in your submission.  We will make our selection on Veterans Day (11/11/19) so get your submission in by November 8th, 2019.

http://bit.ly/Lucky10Contest

The only other way to participate is through corporate sponsorship. If that’s of interest, please send a note to info@selfreliantleadership.com. 


Key Takeaways 

[4:07] Communication is one of the most important aspects of being a great leader. In order to lead, one must be able to connect with their followers, and properly convey their message. 

[6:56] Three examples that Lynda gives for great speakers to study: Mary Robinson, Steve Jobs, and Nelson Mandela. 

[8:10] Even more than worrying about if we are authentic in public speaking, we should focus more on the goal of the talk and how the audience can connect with us and get our message. 

[12:02] Great speakers make it about the audience more than they make it about themselves. They are focused on the audience and how they can transfer the information inside their head to benefit, help, teach or inspire those listening. 

[13:31] Public speaking can be a large room, or it can also be just a sales call or pitch meeting. It is a different way of speaking than a conversation, and Lynda works with her clients to make sure they are able to connect with the client. 

[19:23] Our speech patterns now reflect our ultra sensitive environment and desire to seek approval from others. One example is up talk, where statements have a rising intonation at the end as though you are asking a question. 

[19:23] Approval is different than respect. Great leaders know their self worth and are secure in their own value, and it translates into how they communicate. 

[22:58] Every word matters. Be succinct. 

[25:02] It’s fine to share your story, but make it for the benefit of your audience. 

[29:36] Preparation is key. Before each talk Lynda encourages her clients to prepare an outline and list three major points to talk about, as well as the goal they want out of the event or meeting.  

[36:43] Storytelling can be powerful, but it is just one piece of the puzzle. 

[40:41] Public speakers have the opportunity to inspire the audience, or to strike a chord of emotion. 

[41:52] Everybody has a story to tell, and it’s important to share that story for the sake of the audience rather than for yourself. 

[42:02] You don’t have to be a stand up comedian, or joke writer to make people laugh and feel humor during your public speaking.

How to Contact Lynda:

Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram 

Quotable Quotes 

  • “Every performance should have a goal.” 
  • “If a leader does not communicate well, how do they lead? 
  • “When you are a great public speaker you can not afford to be beholden to the approval of your audience.” 
  • “The less word spoken the more words remembered.” 
  • “We earn respect from the audience.” 
  • “If we all did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves.” – Thomas Edison 

Additional Links:

  • TLP047: Insights on How Individual Self Awareness Affects Team Performance
  • TLP157: Agility – perspectives from the former Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of US Cyber Command

Filed Under: Podcast Tagged With: communication, leadership, Professionalism, speaking, stories

TLP159: Search for Meaning
TLP161: “We don’t hire people to fulfill ...

Related Posts

  • TLP317: Steel Toes, Stilettos, and Cowboy Boots: Women Manufacturing Leaders
  • TLP385: Be Authentic, Boost Connections, and Make Bold Bets on Yourself with Selena Rezvani
  • TLP428: What Makes A Good Leadership Book with Jim and Jan
  • TLP357: Feedback Is Not Nearly as Effective as You Think
  • TLP026: Humor at work – really?
iTunes
Spotify
Audible
SoundCloud
iHeartRADIO

Instagram Feed

westudyleaders

#leadership #leadershiptraining #leader #westudyleaders

General Maxwell Taylor gave this speech to West Po General Maxwell Taylor gave this speech to West Point cadets, and Ray Palumbo wishes he'd listened better as a young man. Instead of hanging out at the pizza shop, he could've been learning guitar, studying languages, or reading. Those little moments add up over a lifetime.What are you doing with your scraps of time?Listen here - https://bit.ly/TLP-469?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-469?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#ScrapsOfTime #WestPoint #MaxwellTaylor #TimeManagement #PersonalDevelopment #Success #Growth #Discipline #Habits #Productivity #Leadership #Military
Not all silence looks the same. For Jan, movement Not all silence looks the same. For Jan, movement is his version of stillness. There's power in knowing how you process best—especially in leadership. https://bit.ly/TLP-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watch it in our YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#LeadershipWisdom #DoNothingDifferently #QuietLeadership #MovementIsMeditation #JanRutherford #LeadershipPodcast #MindfulMotion #ExecutiveReflection #SilentStrength #LeadershipHabits #SelfReliantLeadership #NatureLeadership #SnowySunday
You can hustle hard and still miss the point. Jan You can hustle hard and still miss the point. Jan shares how a hallway chat reshaped his career—and it had nothing to do with performance. Sometimes, the best "networking strategy" is simply showing up for coffee. https://bit.ly/TLP-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watch it in our YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#LeadershipDevelopment #CareerGrowth #NetworkingTips #WorkLifeBalance #HumanConnection #BuildRelationships #LeadershipPodcast #MentorshipMatters
Flexible leadership isn't just a buzzword — it's Flexible leadership isn't just a buzzword — it's a necessity. Kevin Eikenberry joins us to talk about how staying rooted in your values while adapting your approach can change everything in today's fast-moving world. If you want to lead with confidence through uncertainty, this episode is a must-listen. https://bit.ly/TLP-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here: https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #FlexibleLeadership #LeadWithConfidence #Adaptability #LeadershipDevelopment #Leaders #LeadershipPodcast #GrowthMindset #SelfReliantLeadership #BusinessLeadership #RemoteLeadership #TeamLeadership #LeadershipTips #LeadershipGrowth #LeadershipMatters
Flexibility isn't about being wishy-washy or incon Flexibility isn't about being wishy-washy or inconsistent. Kevin Eikenberry explains why leaders must be both rooted and adaptable. Holding fast to purpose and values while shifting their approach as the situation demands. If you want to lead with confidence in uncertainty, this perspective is critical. https://bit.ly/TLP-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here: https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#FlexibleLeadership #LeadershipMindset #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadershipGrowth #LeadWithPurpose #Adaptability #LeadershipPodcast #Leaders #SelfReliantLeadership #BusinessLeadership #LeadershipTips #LeadershipCoach #LeadershipSkills #LeadershipStrategy #RemoteLeadership
Mental toughness is powerful — but push it too f Mental toughness is powerful — but push it too far, and it can turn toxic. Andreas Stamatis unpacks how unchecked grit can lead to injury, burnout, and tunnel vision. Find the balance before it finds you. Listen to the full episode! https://bit.ly/TLP-465?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watched in The Leadership Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/RAzQPtYfVZE?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders #Leadership #MentalToughness #MindsetMatters #PerformanceCoaching #HighPerformance #LeadershipPodcast #SelfGrowth #Toughness #SelfAwareness
TLP465: How Mental Toughness is Developed with Dr. TLP465: How Mental Toughness is Developed with Dr. Andreas Stamatis Our latest episode with Dr. Andreas Stamatis https://bit.ly/TLP-465?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLP465%3A%20How%20Mental%20Toughness%20is%20Developed%20with%20Dr.%20Andreas%20Stamatis #leadership #MentalToughness, #Leadership, #Psychology, #Performance, #ExistentialPsychology, #Resilience, #GrowthThroughAdversity, #SportsPsychology, #Mindset, #SelfReliantLeadership
TLP467: Navigate Uncertainty with Kevin Eikenberry TLP467: Navigate Uncertainty with Kevin Eikenberry Our latest episode with Kevin Eikenberry https://bit.ly/TLP-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLP467%3A%20Navigate%20Uncertainty%20with%20Kevin%20Eikenberry #leadership #LeadershipPodcast, #KevinEikenberry, #FlexibleLeadership, #DelegationIsAnInvestment, #LeadershipWisdom, #TrustAndLeadership, #IntentionalLeadership, #WorkplaceEngagement, #LeadWithConfidence, #ModernLeadership, #ContextMatters, #RemarkableLeadership, #SelfLeadership, #TheLeadershipPodcast, #LeadershipDevelopment
You don't always need to do more to be effective—sometimes the smartest move is to pause. In this episode, Jim and Jan explore the power of doing nothing—and how stepping back can lead to better clarity, stronger decisions, and more aligned action. This isn't about being lazy—it's about being intentional. Tune in for lessons, stories, and real talk on character, values, and leadership. https://bit.ly/TLP-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watch it in our YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#LeadershipPodcast #SelfLeadership #DoNothing #PauseAndReflect #LeadershipLessons #HighPerformance #JimAndJan #MentalClarity #DecisionMaking #LeadershipTools #SlowDownToSpeedUp #BusinessLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #WorkSmarter #LeadershipDevelopment
Trying to be someone else won't make you a better Trying to be someone else won't make you a better leader. In this honest reflection, General Stanley McChrystal shares how he experimented with different personas—until he discovered the power of leading as himself. Authentic leadership isn't easy, but it's worth it.🎧 Full episode here - The Leadership Podcast Mastermind 012 https://bit.ly/TLPMM012?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-qnt0VWJ1S8?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#authenticleadership #stanleymcchrystal #leadershipidentity, #becomingabetterleader, #selfawarenessinleadership, #leadershipdevelopment, #militaryleadership
TLPMM012: On Character with General Stanley McChry TLPMM012: On Character with General Stanley McChrystal Our latest episode with General Stanley McChrystal https://bit.ly/TLPMM012?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders&utm_content=TLPMM012%3A%20On%20Character%20with%20General%20Stanley%20McChrystal #leadership #LeadershipPodcast, #StanMcChrystal, #MilitaryLeadership, #CharacterMatters, #DisciplineEqualsFreedom, #SelfReflection, #ServiceAboveSelf, #MoralCourage, #TeamOfTeams, #LeadersInAction, #ConvictionAndDiscipline, #LegacyLeadership
This isn't about collecting business cards at netw This isn't about collecting business cards at networking events. It's about building genuine relationships that become the foundation for everything meaningful you'll accomplish.Hear more from Jed Brewer at https://bit.ly/TLP-476?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-476?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#networking #relationships #success #leadership #theleadershippodcast
Jumping to solutions without naming the real probl Jumping to solutions without naming the real problem? Jim breaks down why that's a leadership trap. One pause. One clear question. That's where better decisions begin. https://bit.ly/TLP-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watch it in our YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-468?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#LeadershipWisdom #ProblemSolving #TeamAlignment #ReflectionMatters #LeadershipTips #ThinkBeforeYouAct #PodcastQuote #ExecutiveLeadership #MeetingTips
In this week's episode of The Leadership Podcast, In this week's episode of The Leadership Podcast, General Stanley McChrystal reminds us that character isn't inherited, it's chosen. Again and again. In the small, quiet decisions when no one's watching. In the moments of failure, discomfort, and hard-earned growth.It's not charisma. It's not confidence. It's conviction multiplied by discipline.In this conversation, General McChrystal opens up about near-misses at West Point, personal setbacks, and the deep introspection that shaped him into one of the most respected military leaders of our time.If leadership is about anything, it's this: choosing, every day, who you want to be.🎧 Hear the full conversation on The Leadership Podcast: https://bit.ly/TLPMM012?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-qnt0VWJ1S8?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders
Discover the hidden power behind mental toughness Discover the hidden power behind mental toughness with Dr. Andreas Stamatis! From Greek Special Forces to high-performance coaching, his journey reveals how adversity can fuel greatness.Dive into the science of mental performance and leadership now. 🚀 https://bit.ly/TLP-465?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watched in The Leadership Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/RAzQPtYfVZE?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders #LeadershipPodcast #MentalToughness #MindsetMatters #AdversityToStrength #LeadTheWay #GrowthMindset #MentalPerformance #LeadershipDevelopment #PodcastLife #SelfReliantLeadership #WinningMindset #PerformancePsychology #LeadByExample #StayStrong #LeadersWhoInspire #ResilientLeadership #TheLeadershipPodcast #AthleteMindset
Dr. Margaret Heffernan just blew our minds talking Dr. Margaret Heffernan just blew our minds talking about how the chief economist at the Bank of England would wander London streets before big decisions - not to think about the problem, but to absorb the mood of the country. Turns out your brain needs random, unplanned input to make brilliant connections. We're all so obsessed with efficiency that we're starving our intuition of the very thing it needs most: time to wander and wonder.Listen to the full episode at https://bit.ly/TLP-472?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-472?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #DecisionMaking #Intuition #BusinessStrategy
Growth doesn't happen without adversity. Existenti Growth doesn't happen without adversity. Existential Positive Psychology reminds us: stress, trauma, and hardship are not just obstacles — they're opportunities for self-transcendence. When you push through your darkest hours, you forge a stronger, better version of yourself.Listen to Dr. Andreas Stamatis as he reframes suffering into strength on this week's episode. 🎧 https://bit.ly/TLP-465?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersYou can also watched in The Leadership Podcast YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/RAzQPtYfVZE?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders #LeadershipPodcast #MentalToughness #SelfTranscendence #ExistentialPsychology #PositivePsychology #ResilientLeadership #GrowthMindset #OvercomingAdversity
The world has changed, and your leadership approac The world has changed, and your leadership approach should too. Kevin Eikenberry reminds us that flexibility means adapting to the moment, not sticking to old habits. Leading isn't about comfort, it's about serving your team in the way that fits best right now. Ready to rethink your leadership? Tune into episode 467 of The Leadership Podcast. https://bit.ly/TLP-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders Watch the full episode here: https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-467?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #FlexibleLeadership #Adaptability #ChangeManagement #Leadership #ServeYourTeam #LeadWithPurpose #LeadWithFlexibility #GrowthMindset
The stuff that triggers you, annoys you, or makes The stuff that triggers you, annoys you, or makes you resist that's where the learning is. Growth doesn't happen in the comfort zone, it happens when you sharpen your brain and push into the edges of what feels hard. That's the real work of leadership.Hear the full conversation with Sara Sabin on https://bit.ly/TLP-477?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full conversation https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-477?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #GrowthMindset #EmotionalIntelligence #LeanIntoDiscomfort #TheLeadershipPodcast
From tavern owner's grandson to three-star general From tavern owner's grandson to three-star general - Ray Palumbo's journey proves that humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary leadership. This episode dives deep into the difference between leadership and generalship, why some of our best military minds won't run for office, and the power of using your "scraps of time." Listen here - https://bit.ly/TLP-469?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleadersWatch the full episode here - https://bit.ly/TLP-YT-469?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=westudyleaders#Leadership #Military #ThreeStarGeneral #ValuesBasedLeadership #SpecialOperations #160thSOAR #Leadership469 #LeadershipPodcast
Follow on Instagram

Recent Posts

  • TLP484: Balancing Innovation with Human Connection
  • TLP483: People Must Feel Valued Before They Can Add Value
  • TLP482: The 100 Best Books for Work and Life
  • TLP481: The New Language of Leadership with Michael Ventura
  • TLP480: Number One Factor for Changing Team Behaviors with Tamara Myles

Recent Comments

  • Anonymous on TLP478: The Consequences of Inaction with Nick Cooney
  • Anonymous on TLP477: Myths About Intuition with Sara Sabin
  • Anonymous on TLP478: The Consequences of Inaction with Nick Cooney
  • Anonymous on TLP468: The Power of Doing Nothing with Jim and Jan
  • Anonymous on TLP459: Small, Consistent Actions Over Time with Adam Contos

Tags

adaptability assumptions athletics authenticity business change coaching communication corporate crucible culture Curiosity decision making education emotional intelligence entrepreneur financial hiring history humor innovation interview Jim & Jan leader leadership leadership development military neuroscience Patagonia Personal Growth philosophy practitioner productivity relationships resilience sales speaker sports stories team development teamwork thought leader trust values veterans

Copyright © 2025 Rafti Advisors, LLC & Self-Reliant Leadership, LLC - All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy