Speakernomics

What do top speakers wish they knew when starting out? In this episode, industry veterans and experts dish out hard-earned wisdom to help you thrive in the speaking business. * Why playing the long game matters more than chasing quick wins *The critical importance of authentic connection with your audience *Avoiding ego traps and keeping the focus on service, not self *How being easy to work with...

In this special edition of Speakernomics, host Kenneth ""Shark"" Kinney sits down with 14 individuals ranging from Hall of Fame Speakers, Coaches to Speaker Bureaus and Meeting Planners to talk about what, in their opinion, makes a killer Speaker Reel. By the end of this episode, you will:* Evaluate the importance of capturing audience engagement and presenting a clear problem-solution narrative w...

Get the inside scoop on how Sam Demma became the youngest Certified Speaking Professional and booked over 750 paid speaking gigs, all before 2025. In this episode of Speakernomics, Sam breaks down the exact outreach and sales strategies that built his thriving speaking business in the education market. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:* How Sam focused and expanded his market from local sc...

Unlock next-level social media strategies for speakers with insights from top experts and booking agents. Discover the practical steps that make your social presence work for your speaking business.* How to choose the right social platform and boost consistency without spreading yourself too thin* Why social proof and testimonials matter more than self-promotion* Content strategies: balancing valu...

Prepare to be frippnotized and take your speaking career to the next level with Patricia Fripp's time-tested advice and actionable insights. In this session, Patricia will:* Guide speakers to focus on their audience and ensure their stories are relevant and engaging for the listeners, making them feel connected and invested.* Demonstrate the significance of having a core message and adaptable cont...

Join Shark and his lineup of seasoned professionals to enhance your understanding of fee management and explore balanced, ethical approaches to maintaining speaker value in a fluctuating market. In this session, you will:* Evaluate the concept of fee congruency and how it allows speakers to adapt their fees based on added values or specific circumstances.* Create a strategy for maintaining fee int...

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney brings together insights from 16 diverse voices within the speaking industry to explore the essential marketing materials needed for speakers to elevate their business. In this session, you will:* Analyze the various perspectives on the most critical marketing tool, including the significance of a compelling demo reel and a comprehensiv...

AI is transforming how speakers are discovered, trusted, and booked—and your content strategy needs to change with it. In this episode, Lethia Owens, CSP shares actionable insights on optimizing your digital footprint for both human and AI-driven search.* How meeting planners and bureaus are using AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to find speakers* Strategies for creating “AI-friendly” content...

This episode is essential for speakers aiming to transform their presentations from ordinary to extraordinary by honing in on what truly captures and holds an audience's attention. This episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney engages with Brian Walters, CSP, CPAE, a seasoned speaker, emcee, and infotainment expert. Brian, a past president of the National Speakers Association, shares...

Whether you are an emerging or experienced speaker, let Simon’s journey inspire you to align your inner spark with external success and to leverage your expertise for meaningful, memorable impact. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) sits down with renowned CSP and CPAE Hall of Fame keynote speaker Simon T. Bailey to explore what it truly means to amplify your brilliance a...

Discover what it really takes to stand out as a professional speaker in today’s evolving meetings industry. In this episode, Sarah Michel shares insider tips from both the speaker and meeting planner perspectives to help you get noticed, get booked, and add more value. The latest trends in how meeting planners search for and select speakers:*Why unedited, authentic video is more important than eve...

Learn how to turn your expertise into income with practical tips from LaShaundra McCarty on this episode of Speakernomics. Discover actionable strategies for speakers to grow their business and make smarter financial choices.* The importance of diversifying your revenue streams as a speaker* How to track your numbers for better business decisions* Passive income ideas like online courses, workbook...

Ready to elevate your online presentations? In this episode of Speakernomics, guest Kassy LaBorie shares actionable strategies to boost connection, engagement, and authenticity in the virtual speaking world. Here’s what’s covered:* How Kassy’s journey from Silicon Valley and WebEx to the speaking stage shaped her approach to virtual engagement* The importance of making genuine invitations for audi...

Learn how to build a smart, streamlined, and strategic digital presence as a professional speaker. Guest expert Carolyn Cummins shares actionable tips to help you master your content, connection, and credibility online. The importance of identifying multiple target audiences for your speaking business How to use content pillars to define what you speak about and your unique value Measuring your di...

Get ready to elevate your virtual speaking game! In this episode of Speakernomics, Jason LeVasseur shares practical, low-tech strategies for making a real impact and keeping your audience engaged in the digital world. Why stories matter more than slides in virtual presentations How props can boost audience attention and interaction The importance of human connection in today’s digital-first world...

Ready to take your presentations to the next level? In this episode of Speakernomics, guest Trevor Perry shares essential strategies for creating slide decks that amplify your message–not distract from it. The importance of making your slides clear, concise, and consistent Why your slides are not your message, but simply a tool Common mistakes speakers make with fonts, images, and deck consistency...

Join us for a heartfelt tribute to Kenneth "Shark" Kinney, beloved host of Speakernomics and an influential member of the National Speakers Association, who recently passed away. In this special episode, friends and colleagues gather to share their memories, stories, and the impact he made on the speaking community. What you'll hear in this episode: Personal stories from Tom Singer, Maureen Mahone...

What do top speakers wish they knew when starting out? In this episode, industry veterans and experts dish out hard-earned wisdom to help you thrive in the speaking business. Why playing the long game matters more than chasing quick wins The critical importance of authentic connection with your audience Avoiding ego traps and keeping the focus on service, not self How being easy to work with sets...

AI is transforming how speakers are discovered, trusted, and booked—and your content strategy needs to change with it. In this episode, Lethia Owens shares actionable insights on optimizing your digital footprint for both human and AI-driven search. How meeting planners and bureaus are using AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to find speakers Strategies for creating “AI-friendly” content across...

Unlock the secrets to thriving as a professional speaker, even in uncertain times. In this episode of Speakernomics, Joyce Marder shares expert insights on shifting your financial mindset, building business resilience, and unlocking greater value from your speaking career. Identify and overcome the most common mindset blocks holding speakers back from financial success Strategies for maintaining c...

Get the inside scoop on how Sam Demma became the youngest Certified Speaking Professional and booked over 750 paid speaking gigs, all before 2025. In this episode of Speakernomics, Sam breaks down the exact outreach and sales strategies that built his thriving speaking business in the education market. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: How Sam focused and expanded his market from local sch...

In this episode of Speakernomics, Dr. Kevin Snyder joins host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney to share insider tips and real stories from the world of professional speaking. Get actionable advice on storytelling, building your speaking business, and making a lasting impact. Behind the scenes look at the new book "Speechless," supporting the NSA Foundation How to share personal stories with vulnerability wh...

Ready to take your speaking career to the next level? In this episode of Speakernomics, industry pros break down exactly how podcasting can amplify your brand, grow your business, and keep your voice front and center. Here’s what you’ll learn: The unique value of hosting your own podcast as a professional speaker How podcasting strengthens your message, builds your platform, and boosts credibility...

Ready to take your travel game to the next level as a professional speaker? In this episode of Speakernomics, top speakers share their favorite travel tips to help you stay efficient, comfortable, and ready for anything on the road. Smart packing strategies for both carry-ons and checked bags How to use travel downtime productively—think handwritten notes and task batching Essential comfort tips,...

Curious how to become the go-to expert in your field and dominate your speaking niche? In this episode of Speakernomics, construction industry leader George Hedley shares his direct advice on carving out your place as a professional speaker. Here's what you'll learn: How George targeted and owned his industry niche to become the "hard hat biz coach" Why focusing on what you know best leads to more...