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  • Overcoming First Stage Nerves: How Preparation and Connection Build Confident Speakers

    Overcoming First Stage Nerves: How Preparation and Connection Build Confident Speakers
    Jun 25 2026
    Welcome back to My First Stage! Today I’m joined by Tim Newman—a recovering college professor turned communication coach and host of the Speaking with Confidence podcast.In this episode, Tim opens up about his very first (and very messy) speaking experience, how he overcame his nerves, and what it really took to start speaking with confidence. We talk about the long road from stage fright to the stage lights, practical steps for conquering filler words, the power of knowing your audience, and how understanding generational differences, especially with Gen Z, can transform your communication.What We Talked AboutThe Messiest First Stage Ever: Tim Newman literally threw up during his first five-minute college presentation—and he’ll tell you why that wasn’t even the last time that happened!Getting Comfortable (Slowly): How going from terrified to teach in high school and college forced Tim Newman to find a framework for real confidence and audience connection.How to Actually Cut Out Filler Words: The “lightbulb” moment that made Tim Newman reimagine public speaking—and why preparation and knowing your audience is everything.Generational Communication Differences: Why Gen Z doesn’t want to be lectured, how to adapt for younger (or older) crowds, and what it means to facilitate real two-way connection.Making it Interactive: The power of hands-on exercises, small group discussions, and napkin-based elevator pitches—even in a digital world.The Best Advice from a Connector: Why taking massive imperfect action is the single most important thing for your speaking journey, and how building connections fuels both personal and professional growth.If Tim Newman’s story inspired you—or made you feel a little less alone in your own stage jitters—here’s what you can do next:Share Your Story – I want to hear about your own first stage moments, messy or triumphant! Head to myfirststagepodcast.com and drop me a note.Connect with Tim Newman – Get his free ebook, tune into Speaking with Confidence, or grab his book at timnewmanspeaks.com.Subscribe & Review – Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to My First Stage, leave a review, and let me know your favorite guest or who you want to hear from next!Take Your First (or Next) Speaking Step – Whether it’s hosting a workshop, jumping on a podcast, or raising your hand at your next meeting, remember: confidence grows with action, not waiting.Thank you so much for being here. I can’t wait to bring you more real, relatable stories and game-changing advice on My First Stage!Timestamped Summaries[00:00-01:00] – I kick off the episode and introduce Tim Newman, who immediately admits his first speaking experiences were a little (okay, a LOT) messy.[01:00-02:41] – Tim Newman shares the infamous story of throwing up on stage in his very first college communications class. Spoiler: it wasn’t the last time, either![03:00-04:47] – We talk about why stage fright never totally disappears, how Tim Newman moved from fear to purpose, and the slow, hard process of becoming comfortable on stage.[05:32-06:15] – The game-changing student question that led Tim Newman to create his signature framework for cutting filler words and transforming how he taught communication.[06:31-08:15] – Tim Newman breaks down his prep strategy: researching the audience, understanding conference attendees, and how he does deep dives on LinkedIn before every big talk.[08:16-10:41] – We dive into how to adapt for generational differences on stage—and why Gen Z wants interaction, engagement, and trust (not just another lecture).[10:54-14:46] – Tim Newman reflects on what it took to connect with Gen Z, from taking students out to lunch to turning class into real conversations and building trust through action.[14:58-15:57] – Practical tips for engagement: using emojis, breakout rooms, and micro-interactions to keep digital (and in-person) Gen Z audiences tuned in.[16:27-17:07] – Tim Newman reveals two favorite attention-getters for presentations: opening with a question or a joke, and the napkin exercise that sparks creativity and connection.[17:44-18:30] – The best reward for being a true connector: Tim Newman shares a heartwarming story of former students showing up years later to celebrate their friendship and growth.[18:50-20:30] – We discuss Tim Newman’s book on connections, what being a connector (and a climber) actually means, and why you don’t have to choose between helping others and growing yourself.[21:12-21:54] – The single biggest piece of advice: Take massive imperfect action. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to begin your speaking journey.[22:17-24:35] – We wrap up with Tim Newman’s perspective on cheerleading, the importance of surrounding yourself with challengers (not just “yes” people), and the key to continuous growth.
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    26 Min.
  • Speaking Smarter, Not Harder: How to Book More Speaking Gigs with Leisa Reid

    Speaking Smarter, Not Harder: How to Book More Speaking Gigs with Leisa Reid
    Jun 11 2026
    Welcome back to My First Stage! I’m your host, Sara Lohse, and this is the show where I get real with speakers from all walks of life about how they landed their first gigs, overcame setbacks, and built thriving businesses—and communities—through getting on stage.This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Leisa Reid, a name you absolutely need to know if you’re serious about public speaking. With over 600 talks delivered, nine books, and as the founder of Get Speaking Gigs Now and CEO of the International Speaker Network, Leisa has not only mastered the art of getting onstage—she’s built a business around helping others do it, too. If you’ve ever wondered how to go from dreaming about speaking to actually getting booked (a LOT), Leisa’s story and advice are going to fire you up.Here’s a quick overview of what Leisa Reid and I covered:Her journey from starting out in 2013, landing 83 speaking gigs in her first year, and then building a machine for consistent bookings and referralsThe launch of the International Speaker Network for collaboration instead of cold-callingThe biggest myths around “paid” vs. “free” gigs and why she focused on lead generation instead of speaking feesHow to develop your one “ready to rock” signature talk and why you don’t need dozens of unique presentationsUsing regional association chapters and event mapping to multiply your speaking opportunities close to homeThe wildest moments on stage—from malfunctioning projectors to unexpected tornado warningsThe secret sauce for turning talks into clients (and what most speakers miss)How to sort the real gigs from the “catfish” ones and use referrals to find your best oppsWhy “brilliance hoarding” keeps you invisible, and how confidence skyrockets when you claim your expertise—and your offerReady to step up your speaking game after this episode? Here’s what you can do:Grab Leisa’s Free Tips – Visit getspeakinggigsnow.com/tips to get Leisa Reid’s five top tips for booking more speaking gigs right now.Audit Your Signature Talk – Take a page from Leisa Reid: focus on creating and perfecting one “ready to rock” talk before anything else!Map Your Opportunities – List out local associations and organizations where your ideal audience hangs out, and start nurturing those networks—referrals are gold.Avoid the Catfish – Network with other speakers, trade honest feedback about events, and don’t fall for the “pay to play” hype unless you know your ROI.Subscribe & Leave a Review – If this episode inspired you, subscribe to My First Stage, leave a review, and tell me what tip or story stood out—or who I should bring on next!Thank you so much for tuning in. I can’t wait to bring you more no-fluff advice, wild stories, and actionable strategies next week on My First Stage!Timestamped Summaries[00:00-02:46] – I introduce Leisa Reid, who dives right in with her story of landing 83 speaking gigs in her first year (and the lesson in not cold-calling alone, thanks to building a referral network).[02:46-03:45] – We talk about why her early focus wasn’t on paid gigs, but generating high-value clients through speaking, and why “what’s your talk?” should be your first question.[03:45-05:12] – Leisa Reid breaks down why having ONE signature talk is game-changing, and how perfecting it leads to real results instead of burning time creating new talks for every event.[05:12-07:23] – Strategies to book dozens of stages within a “50 mile radius”—and how Leisa Reid leveraged regional association chapters to quadruple her opportunities.[08:58-09:53] – We discuss the learning curve of speaking, why you should do one talk a LOT before expanding, and how things inevitably go wrong (including tech disasters and last-minute pivots).[12:15-13:41] – Leisa Reid shares her “worst day” stories—like the time a failed projector forced her to improvise with an easel—and why going analog can save the day.[15:33-16:46] – What to always bring with you, from handouts and offers to “knowing your talk in your bones,” so you’re ready whether the power goes out or bees fly into the room.[19:05-20:31] – Why there’s no “magic list of gigs”—and how mapping your ideal audience, associations, and events locally builds the “treasure in your backyard.”[22:40-23:53] – We dig deep on why not all gigs are worth your time, how to avoid getting catfished, and why trusted speaker networks are crucial for quality referrals.[27:04-28:55] – A real talk about “pay to play” opportunities, running events through your “resentment filter,” and what to watch out for if you’re offered a stage in exchange for a fee.[30:10-31:26] – Why not getting clients from your talks means there’s a “hole in the boat,” and how sales strategy is an inescapable reality (even for doctors and attorneys).[32:36-33:39] – How to create genuine visibility: get your signature ...
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    38 Min.
  • Confessions of a First-Time TEDx Speaker with Colette Fehr

    Confessions of a First-Time TEDx Speaker with Colette Fehr
    Jun 4 2026
    Welcome to another episode of My First Stage, where I get to sit down with amazing public speakers, dig into their journeys, and uncover how those “first stage” moments became launchpads for business, growth, and transformation.This week, I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Colette Fehr—a licensed psychotherapist, nationally recognized relationship expert, author, podcast host, and, as of last year, a TEDx speaker! If you’ve ever felt the sting of rejection or wondered if putting yourself out there is really worth it, Colette’s story is going to hit home in the best possible way.Colette Fehr is the author of The Cost of Quiet, a breakthrough book on communication in relationships, and she’s the host of the Substack newsletter “Secrets from a Therapist.” Known for her warmth, honesty, and practical advice, Colette brings decades of experience as a therapist and public speaker. In April 2024, she achieved a major goal by landing—and absolutely crushing—a coveted TEDx stage.Here’s a snapshot of what Colette and I dug into:The Realities of Landing a TEDx Talk: How Colette navigated repeated rejection, burnout, and the “franchise” world of TEDx applications.Using Personal Connections (and How to Pitch): Why and how she chose local and meaningful places to apply, and the strategies she put into her applications.Failing Forward—Openly: Why Colette embraces talking about setbacks and how she uses vulnerability as fuel for personal and professional growth.Show Day Surprises (and Epic Recoveries): What really happened when her slides glitched, the clicker died, and how she managed to connect in the face of technical chaos.Collaboration Over Ego: The power of working with coaches and trusted partners, and why you shouldn’t write your keynote or talk in a vacuum.Turning TEDx Into a Platform: How being on a TEDx stage (and being chosen as a TED Editor’s Pick!) has opened doors, boosted her speaking fees, and become a key credibility builder.Advice for Aspiring Speakers: Why Colette says you should speak anywhere and everywhere, leverage Toastmasters, tap into mentorship, and never stop refining your craft—even when you’re terrified.If Colette’s stage story inspired you, here’s your next move:Watch Colette’s TEDx Talk – Find the link in our show notes, give it a watch, and soak up her wisdom about communication, vulnerability, and growth.Connect with Colette – Grab her book The Cost of Quiet wherever books are sold, subscribe to her Substack “Secrets from a Therapist,” or find her on Instagram @colettejanefehr.Start Building Your Own Stage Muscles – Join Toastmasters, offer to speak in your local community, or just start sharing your insights online—every rep counts.Subscribe & Review – If you loved this episode, please hit subscribe, drop a review, and let me know who you want to hear from next!Pitch Your Story – Have a first stage memory (triumph or disaster) you want to share? Visit myfirststagepodcast.com and let’s connect!Thanks for joining me on this episode of My First Stage. Colette’s story is proof that persistence, vulnerability, and collaboration will always outshine perfection. I can’t wait to bring you more amazing journeys next week!Timestamped Summaries[00:00-00:38] – I introduce Colette and highlight her many hats: psychotherapist, author, podcast host, and TEDx speaker.[00:38-02:57] – Colette introduces her book The Cost of Quiet and draws the connection between her work and the stories she chose for her TEDx Talk.[02:57-03:34] – We dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of applying for TEDx, the pain (and lessons) of rejection, and how personal “connections” played into her pitches.[04:05-05:45] – Colette breaks down her TEDx hunt process: navigating decentralized applications, LinkedIn cold outreach, customizing every pitch, and getting “lucky” on her 7th try.[07:16-10:11] – Colette describes the days leading up to landing her TEDx “at the last minute,” the exhilaration of getting picked, and the intense prep work that followed.[10:11-13:14] – The real chaos: Colette recounts her first TEDx onstage moment, encountering a dead mic, slides gone rogue, and how she powered through by ditching the script, embracing vulnerability, and connecting with her audience.[13:14-14:29] – We talk about what it means to be a TED Editor’s Pick, the honor of being highlighted, and why her video was delayed in release.[14:46-16:16] – We dig into the impact of her TEDx Talk (26,000 views and counting), how she’s used it to level up, and why it’s not always about going viral but building credibility and community.[16:16-17:39] – The magic of collaboration: why even seasoned speakers need writers, editors, and perspective shifters to make their stories stronger and more relatable.[17:39-20:03] – We reflect on what it’s like to write and coach a talk together, and how an authentic partnership put Colette...
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    26 Min.
  • Mastering Speaking, Storytelling, and Stage Presence with PodMatch Founder Alex Sanfilippo

    Mastering Speaking, Storytelling, and Stage Presence with PodMatch Founder Alex Sanfilippo
    May 28 2026
    Welcome back to another episode of My First Stage! I’m your host, Sara Lohse, and this is the podcast where I sit down with professional speakers to dig into how they landed their first stages, survived their early stumbles, and learned to leverage speaking for serious growth—personally and professionally.This week, I had the absolute joy of chatting with my friend, my true “podmatch,” Alex Sanfilippo. From running one of the most respected platforms in podcasting to conquering everything from tech conferences to lightning-fast Pecha Kucha talks, Alex is a powerhouse in both podcasting and public speaking. If you’ve ever wondered how to own your quirks on stage, or how authenticity can actually give you an edge, you’re not going to want to miss this episode.Alex Sanfilippo is a podcaster and the founder of PodMatch.com, a platform that automatically matches podcast hosts and guests for interviews. Through PodMatch and his podcast titled Podcasting Made Simple, Alex helps independent podcasters grow their influence and revenue so they can better serve their listeners!Here’s what Alex and I talked about in this conversation:From Conference Puns to First Stages: How we met (and how I embarrassed myself), and Alex’s unexpectedly stressful (but life-changing) debut on a WordPress stage.Miscommunication, Imposter Syndrome, and What Happens When Your Talk Gets “Bumped”: The story behind my near-trash-can-moment and what really happened with my “lost” keynote.Pecha Kucha Panic: Why the five-minute, auto-advancing-slide format is secretly the hardest stage around—and our mutual respect (and terror) for anyone who nails it.Finding Your Room: How to know if a stage or conference is really the right fit for your personality, business, and style—and why it’s okay to say no to the wrong audience.Authenticity > Perfection: The moments that reinforced why showing up 100% as yourself can be your best asset—even if your slides are covered in sparkles instead of stats.Selling Without the Ick: Alex’s approach to sharing your offer from the stage so it feels like a gift—not a pitch.The Power of Stories, Using Your Hands, and Being “Too Much”: We unpack tips from Carnegie training, ADHD over-explaining, and why neither of us can resist tangents (or pink slides).Lead With Value: The core of Alex’s philosophy for growing a speaking business that actually helps people—and keeps the lights on.The Soggy Sandwich Principle: Why generosity on stage (and off) pays off in unexpected ways, even if you don’t get your payoff right away.Did Alex’s story inspire you to find your own stage (and own your quirks while you’re at it)? Here’s what you can do next:Connect with Alex – Head to podmatch.com/ep/207 to check out my training that Alex referenced, plus resources and everything PodMatch related.Subscribe, Rate & Review – If you loved this episode, hit subscribe, share with a fellow podcaster or speaker, and leave a review on your favorite app.Choose Your Room – This week, reflect on where you show up best. Say yes to your people, and don’t be afraid to say no where you can’t be your truest self.Lead with Value – Before you speak, pod, or pitch, ask yourself: am I here to give or to get? Start with generosity—watch what comes back (maybe, in the form of a “soggy sandwich”).Thanks so much for joining Alex and me this episode. I can’t wait to bring you more stories, strategies, and real talk on My First Stage!Timestamped Summaries[00:00-01:14] – I welcome you back, introduce Alex, and we reminisce about how a pun-filled bracelet at a Houston conference started our pod-matched friendship.[01:19-02:59] – The embarrassing backstory: why I almost hid behind a trash can at Podcast Movement after misreading radio silence from Alex.[03:34-05:33] – Alex recounts his real “first stage”—a WordPress conference where, despite nerves and imposter syndrome, he came out the “blog guy” and found his calling as a trainer.[06:07-07:29] – The content journey: blogging to podcasting, why text-only wasn’t enough, and how he bridged those worlds for early podcasters.[07:29-09:10] – Discovering PodFest by accident, stepping onto his first Pecha Kucha stage, and why five-minute “chit chat” talks are the ultimate speaker challenge.[09:12-11:10] – We admit our mutual terror for Pecha Kucha, and joke about attempting one together (maybe…in 2027?).[12:05-13:15] – The perils of speaking too fast, cramming too much content into too little time, and the surprising value of slowing down for your audience.[14:07-15:14] – Alex shares Dale Carnegie’s best speaking tip: tell one story, explain it once, and let it land—plus, the odd exercise of demonstrating how to “rub the shine out of a quarter.”[16:27-18:12] – Using your hands, being animated, and how body language creates instant trust with your audience.[19:13-21:12] – Permission to double down on your ...
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    40 Min.
  • Davondra Brown’s Advice for New Speakers: Know Yourself and Find Your People

    Davondra Brown’s Advice for New Speakers: Know Yourself and Find Your People
    May 21 2026
    Welcome to another episode of My First Stage! I’m your host, and today I’m sharing a conversation recorded live at the NSA Influence Conference, featuring an incredible speaker and educator: Davondra Brown. If you’re standing at the edge, wondering if you’re ready to make the leap from public speaking to full-time professional speaking, this episode is for you!With over 20 years’ background in public health education and academia, Davondra Brown recently transitioned to a full-time professional speaking career. Her focus? Sexual wellness, its integration into health and healing professions, and building deep relationship connections. She’s made her mark as a sought-after voice for physicians, nurses, midwives, therapists, and business professionals who are ready to build authentic connections and break down the barriers to real conversations.Here’s what you’ll hear us dive into during this candid and inspiring episode:The pivotal moment Davondra Brown decided to become a professional speaker after decades in public healthThe difference between public speaking in academia versus professional speaking—and why that leap mattersHow powerful mentorship and organizations like NSA changed her journey (and can do the same for you)The importance of community, finding your tribe, and why you shouldn’t try to speak to “everyone”Why authenticity and self-awareness are a speaker’s secret weaponBuilding a niche and embracing the message that’s truly yours (even if it’s not for everyone)Real talk about imperfection, “ums and ahs,” and sitting in your own laneActionable advice for finding your unique voice and audience as a speakerInspired by Davondra Brown’s story? Here’s what you can do next:Connect with Davondra Brown – Find her on LinkedIn or Instagram, or follow “Dibs on Sex” on all social platforms to continue learning about sexual wellness, relationships, and authentic life transformation.Join a Community – If you’re thinking of becoming a pro speaker or are looking for your tribe, consider checking out NSA or finding a mastermind group that aligns with your values.Define Your Audience – Get specific! Whether it’s your podcast, your stage, or your business—clarity creates connection.Watch Evolution of Dance: If you haven't yet seen Judson Laipply's Evolution of Dance video, watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNgSubscribe & Review – Love the conversation? Make sure to subscribe to My First Stage, leave a rating or review, and let me know which guests or stories speak to you most!Step on Your Stage – Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Start imperfectly, share your unique message, and let your people find you.Thank you so much for tuning in! Join me next week for more real stories, actionable advice, and inspiration from the world’s most compelling speakers.Timestamped Summaries00:00 – I welcome Davondra Brown to the show, and she introduces herself, sharing how the National Speakers Association (NSA) and mentor Crystal Washington have influenced her path into full-time professional speaking.00:48 – Davondra Brown discusses her transition from over 20 years in public health and academia to intentional, purposeful professional speaking—and why those worlds are so different.01:47 – We talk about what motivated her career pivot: planning for retirement, following passion, and designing a future on her own terms.02:25 – Davondra Brown breaks down the role NSA played in making her transition easier, the value of mentors like Mimi Brown and Crystal Washington, and why the community refuses to “gatekeep” knowledge.03:58 – We share stories about meeting heroes at industry events, how approachable role models really are, and why these moments matter so much for connection and learning.05:20 – Davondra Brown gives her “$10,000 masterclass” advice for free: everything starts with knowing yourself, filtering advice based on your own values, and being grounded as a speaker.06:20 – She candidly shares how self-awareness is built over time (and through failure), why imperfection belongs on stage, and the importance of just starting before you feel ready.07:21 – “My message is not for everybody”—Davondra Brown talks about her focus on sexual wellness, relationship expertise, and the freedom that comes from serving a specific audience.08:30 – We discuss the dangers of trying to appeal to everyone, why specificity matters, and how to find your true tribe as a speaker or podcaster.10:00 – Davondra Brown explains how she found her own tribe: first through NSA, then through a women-in-business mastermind that’s been going strong for years—and how doing the work attracts your right people.12:55 – We wrap up with an ode to mastermind friendships, continued growth, and a reminder that you’ll never be perfect out the gate—so just start now.
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    14 Min.
  • Discovering Your Niche: Lon Graham’s Advice for Aspiring Speakers

    Discovering Your Niche: Lon Graham’s Advice for Aspiring Speakers
    May 14 2026

    Welcome to another episode of My First Stage! I’m your host, Sara Lohse, and I’m so excited to bring you a conversation direct from the NSA Influence Conference floor. Each week, I sit down with speakers and leaders to find out how they broke into the business, discovered their message, and built lives around sharing their voices from the stage.

    This episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lon Graham—founder of LG Inspires, sales leadership expert, and co-host of the Grow Business podcast! Lon’s journey is a testament to resilience, listening, and reinventing yourself when life throws you some unexpected curveballs. If you’ve ever felt stuck, questioned your value, or wondered how to find your lane as a speaker, Lon’s story will absolutely resonate.

    Here’s what we talked about:

    • Finding Your Lane: Lon’s winding path from sales leader to fired employee, to recruiter, and finally to discovering his true stage as a sales leadership expert.
    • The Power of Listening: Why paying attention to what others come to you for should inform your message—and how that guided Lon’s pivot in his content and focus.
    • Overcoming Setbacks: How losing a job after 14 years rocked Lon’s confidence and made him question his expertise… and how he bounced back stronger.
    • The Three-List Strategy: Lon’s practical exercise for finding your niche based on what you love, what you’re good at, and what people seek you out for.
    • Letting Go & Leaning In: The difference between learning from the past and releasing it so you can truly move forward—and how ego and self-doubt can get in the way.
    • Advice for Pivoting: Steps any aspiring speaker or professional can take to identify the right direction and thrive there.

    If Lon Graham’s journey gave you food for thought, here’s what you can do next:

    • Share Your Own Pivot: Have you had to switch lanes or rediscover your calling? Head to myfirststagepodcast.com and tell me about it!
    • Connect with Lon: Reach out to Lon Graham on LinkedIn, check out longraham.com, and don’t miss the Grow Business podcast for more leadership gems.
    • Do the Three-List Exercise: Set aside some time this week to list what lights you up, what you’re good at, and what people already seek you out for—then look for the overlap!
    • Subscribe & Review: If you’re enjoying My First Stage, please hit subscribe, leave a review, and help us reach more future speakers and leaders.
    • Get Involved: Whether it’s joining a conference, speaking up on a podcast, or sharing your thoughts online, every step brings you closer to your own first stage.

    Thank you for tuning in! I can’t wait to bring you more stories and advice to help you launch your own first stage.

    Timestamped Summaries

    00:00 – We kick off at the NSA Influence Conference, introduce Lon Graham, and bond over the excitement of our first Influence event.

    00:42 – Lon Graham shares why proximity to successful speakers and immersion in the community is essential to building his speaking business.

    01:33 – Lon opens up about getting fired from a long-standing sales leadership role, experimenting with a recruiting franchise, and finally realizing that speaking was his calling—only to struggle launching during COVID.

    02:38 – The power of feedback: Lon Graham describes listening to what people were really seeking from him and realizing leadership was his true lane.

    03:26 – How Lon used feedback from leaders, friends, and nonprofit colleagues to realign his content, and why working “in the dark” prepared him for the spotlight.

    04:53 – Why it can be humbling to embrace what you’re truly known for—and the mindset shift required after setbacks or career changes.

    06:53 – Both Lon Graham and I open up about the aftermath of losing jobs, dealing with self-doubt, and relearning how to see our own value.

    09:51 – Lon introduces his “learn and lean” framework: learn from your past, release it, and lean into your future.

    10:51 – We talk about finding the lane you should truly be in and why forcing yourself into the wrong topic or role just won’t work.

    12:10 – Lon Graham details his three-list exercise: what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what people come to you for, and how the intersection points you to your ideal niche.

    13:58 – Find out where to connect with Lon Graham: LinkedIn, lawngraham.com, and the Grow Business podcast.

    14:53 – Final words and a reminder to share your voice, follow the show, and keep seeking your first (or next!) stage.
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    15 Min.
  • Building Influence: Kevin Sidebottom's Lessons from Sales and the Stage

    Building Influence: Kevin Sidebottom's Lessons from Sales and the Stage
    May 7 2026
    Welcome to another episode of My First Stage, where I sit down with public speakers to dig into the messy, funny, and inspiring stories behind their first moments on stage—and the lessons that changed both their businesses and their lives.Back at the NSA Influence Conference, I had the absolute pleasure of connecting with Kevin Sidebottom—whose journey from introverted engineer to high-powered sales leader and sought-after speaker is packed with jaw-dropping twists, honest advice, and a heavy dose of humor. If you’re an introvert, afraid of the spotlight, or convinced that “speaking isn’t for you,” Kevin’s story will definitely get you thinking twice.With roots in engineering and a self-confessed introvert, Kevin Sidebottom did the unthinkable: he dove headfirst into sales, landed massive corporate deals, and built a thriving career influencing teams and audiences across the country. Today, he blends transparency, self-deprecation, and no-nonsense strategy to demystify what it really takes to succeed on stage—and in business.Here’s a peek into what you’ll hear in this episode:From Sailboats to Sales: The wild story of how a “job interview” for a date with his boss’s daughter unexpectedly launched Kevin into a high-stakes sales career.Becoming an Influencer (the Real Kind): Why Kevin believes that influence—not personality type—is the key to both sales and leadership success.Overcoming Stage Fright as an Introvert: A frank discussion on fear, energy, and how to recharge when speaking drains you.Running Reps and Reviewing Game Tape: The role of “practice, practice, practice” (and cringey self-review) in leveling up as a speaker.Serving Unexpected Audiences: Taking the stage for groups outside your niche, tailoring content, and the simple but overlooked power of “just asking” your audience what matters to them.Trust, Referrals, and Building Reputation: Why Kevin refers business to others and how honesty creates loyal, long-term relationships in sales—and speaking.If Kevin's journey resonated with you, here’s how to take the next step:Share Your First Stage Story – Have your own tale to tell? Visit myfirststagepodcast.com—I’d love to hear it and maybe feature it on a future episode.Connect with Kevin Sidebottom – Head to kevinsidebottom.com or catch his quick-hit tips on his YouTube channel (but start with the recent videos—he’ll thank you).Practice, Review, and Release Your Own Bloopers – Take every opportunity to get on stage (big or small), watch your own “game film,” and remember: we all start somewhere. Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself!Thanks for tuning in! See you next week for more behind-the-scenes stories, honest advice, and first stage inspiration on My First Stage.Timestamped Summaries[00:00-01:02] – I kick off the episode and introduce Kevin Sidebottom, the introverted engineer turned sales heavyweight, and we get a taste of his quick wit and dry humor.[01:02-02:29] – Kevin Sidebottom shares the hilarious (and slightly terrifying) story of his first “interview”—on a sailboat with an ex-Navy SEAL who happened to be the father of his date. This moment sets off his pivot from engineering into sales.[02:29-03:57] – We explore why he started speaking on stages, the connection between influence in sales and leadership, and why everyone is terrified of public speaking (even more than death!).[03:57-05:04] – Kevin Sidebottom breaks down his approach to overcoming stage fright, managing his energy as an introvert, and why adding value trumps comfort zones.[05:04-06:58] – The details behind his very first paid stage talk, learning through smaller “rep” gigs with rotaries and organizations, and why your first time is never perfect (but you need to do it anyway).[06:58-07:38] – We talk about recording and reviewing your own talks, the value of “game tape,” and why feedback—even if it makes you cringe—is key for improvement.[08:06-09:14] – Kevin Sidebottom introduces his signature keynote, “Sales Titans Built, Not Born,” and shares how his message resonated with unexpected audiences (hello, Women Infants and Children!).[09:32-10:44] – The art of accepting speaking gigs for non-typical audiences, preparing for new crowds, and referring others when they’re a better fit—without losing trust or reputation.[10:44-12:35] – Why honesty and long-term relationships matter, building trust through referrals, and the power of word-of-mouth marketing in the speaking business.[13:39-14:31] – Kevin Sidebottom shares his playbook for connecting with unfamiliar audiences: mandatory pre-event calls, deep dives into attendee pain points, and turning assumptions into actionable questions.[14:32-16:08] – We wrap up with a lighter note on blooper reels, “Fat Kevin,” and why sharing your failures—or your funniest outtakes—can make you more relatable (and maybe go viral on YouTube).
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    17 Min.
  • Measuring Speaker ROI: Julie Holmes’ Practical Advice for New and Experienced Professionals

    Measuring Speaker ROI: Julie Holmes’ Practical Advice for New and Experienced Professionals
    Apr 30 2026
    Welcome back to My First Stage! On the last day of the NSA Influence Conference I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Julie Holmes. If you’re looking to level up your speaking business, land paid gigs, or just muster the courage to watch your own “game tape,” this episode is packed with exactly what you need.Julie Holmes is the founder of Stage Hopper, a lead finding and sharing platform built specifically for professional speakers aiming for paid gigs. But Julie is so much more than just a tech founder—she’s a Hall of Fame speaker, a PSA Fellow, a national champion in public speaking, and someone who’s spent decades helping companies (and speakers) master the art of communication. Safe to say, she knows what she’s talking about when it comes to getting—and crushing—your first stage.During our conversation, Julie Holmes and I covered so much ground:Defining and Demonstrating Your Value: Why it takes more than being “funny and engaging” to get booked and paid in the speaking world.The Five Sales Triggers: Julie Holmes’ simple but powerful system—internal, external, before, after, and time—for identifying why an organization would need your voice.Doing the Research: Real tactics for uncovering what’s going on behind the scenes at companies and how to speak directly to their biggest challenges.Numbers That Matter: How to articulate ROI in ways that clients can’t ignore (and how to translate abstract value into hard numbers).Different Paths to Payment: From paid keynotes to back-of-room sales to workshops and more, Julie Holmes breaks down the many business models in speaking.Her Own “First Stage”: From degrees in public speaking to decades in corporate, Julie Holmes traces her unique journey and the value of early career “reps.”The Infinite Value of Watching Your Own Tape: Why recording yourself is non-negotiable, and how the discomfort of seeing yourself on camera is just part of getting better.Advice for New Speakers: What to do if you’re scared, how to reframe the nerves, and why mastery comes from honest self-reflection and relentless practice.Ready to take your speaking career to the next stage? Here are your next steps:Rewatch Your “Game Tape” – No more hiding from the camera! Start recording your talks, watch yourself back, and see every single moment as a chance to improve.Connect with Julie Holmes – Learn more about her speaking, business, and strategies on LinkedIn.Share Your Story – How did you get your first stage? Head to myfirststagepodcast.com and share your journey—I’d love to hear from you!Subscribe & Review – Like what you’re hearing? Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and help us bring even more real-world advice and inspiration to speakers everywhere.Thanks for tuning in to My First Stage. Whether this was your first episode or your fiftieth, I hope Julie Holmes’s insights inspire you as much as they did me. See you next week for another behind-the-scenes story!Timestamped Summaries[00:00-01:07] – I welcome Julie Holmes to the podcast, and she shares her dual perspective as both a speaker and a founder. We dig right into what real ROI looks like for event organizers—not just entertainment value, but true organizational impact.[01:12-02:32] – Julie Holmes introduces her five-point system for identifying a client’s needs—internal, external, before, after, and time—and why researching these is the secret to getting paid.[02:52-03:37] – We walk through internal and external triggers, from company reorganizations to broader industry upheaval (hello, AI!). Julie Holmes lays out exactly how these events tie to the value you bring.[03:51-04:46] – Julie Holmes explains the “before” and “after” of organizational change and how aligning your expertise to where the client’s headed is a mega sales tool.[05:12-06:17] – We talk research tactics: digging into board memos, third-party surveys, and, yes, even using AI. Julie Holmes stresses the difference between making assumptions and backing up your pitch with hard data.[06:39-07:39] – What does it mean to “find the number?” Julie Holmes shares how speaking on sales teams (with real growth targets) forced her to quantify value—not just “fun with AI,” but concrete outcomes and ROI.[08:01-09:52] – We tackle the many ways to “get paid”—from keynotes to workshops to back-of-room book sales—and why each speaker must find their own lane (and their own joy) in this business.[10:12-12:25] – Julie Holmes tells the story of her own first stages, from college competitions to corporate conferences, and why even those early, unpaid opportunities set the foundation for everything that followed.[12:28-14:56] – We go deep on the importance (and pain!) of recording yourself. Julie Holmes gives tough-love advice for getting past the cringe of seeing yourself on camera, and how self-review is the not-so-secret key to getting ...
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    16 Min.