Present Influence: The Professional Speaking Show

John Ball
  • 5.0 (6)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED TWICE WEEKLY

Present Influence is the podcast for professional speakers, coaches, and leaders who want to master ethical persuasion, magnetic communication, and stage presence that drives action. Hosted by keynote coach and influence expert John Ball, each weekly episode delivers powerful insights, expert interviews, and practical tools to help you get more bookings, boost your re-bookings, and scale your speaking business. Whether you're leading from the stage or the boardroom, you'll learn how to inspire trust, influence decisions, and leave a lasting impact, without manipulation. Subscribe now and start commanding attention with confidence. Each week, John shares insights through solo episodes, interviews with influential guests, and in-depth book reviews. Whether you're looking to sharpen your presentation skills, master the art of persuasion, or enhance your leadership presence, Present Influence provides practical strategies and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and authenticity. Tune in and discover how to communicate your ideas in a way that resonates, persuades, and inspires lasting change.

  1. 17 DEC

    Why Many Great Speakers Are Broke

    Why Great Speakers Stay Broke SUMMARY In this episode, John addresses the challenges faced by speakers and coaches in gaining visibility and securing bookings. He emphasises the importance of marketing and the need for professionals in these fields to shift their identity from being just a performer to becoming a business owner. By focusing on marketing, networking, and consistent visibility, speakers and coaches can improve their chances of success. John also discusses the significance of setting clear goals and taking actionable steps to achieve them, urging listeners to treat their speaking or coaching endeavours as a business. The LinkedIn Article: READ HERE Key Takeaways Many talented speakers and coaches struggle to get bookings.Skill alone is not enough; marketing is crucial.Successful individuals take action before they feel ready.Recognition comes to those who actively seek it.Being known is more important than being the best.The best speakers often excel at running a business.Identity shift is foundational for success.Spend at least half your time on marketing activities.Set clear revenue goals and reverse engineer them.Treat your speaking or coaching as a business. Sound bites "Your identity shift is not optional." "Prospecting should be a daily activity." "Now's the time to start taking action." CHAPTERS 00:00 The Pain Point of Speakers and Coaches 02:28 The Importance of Marketing in Speaking 05:05 Identity Shift: From Speaker to Business Owner 07:44 Setting Goals and Taking Action 10:13 Call to Action and Future Insights 11:41 Close Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    12 min
  2. Sell First, Speak Later! Why Professional Speakers Need To Master Sales Skills Before Their Speaking Skills | with Merit Khan

    11 DEC

    Sell First, Speak Later! Why Professional Speakers Need To Master Sales Skills Before Their Speaking Skills | with Merit Khan

    Unlocking the Power of Stagecraft with Merit Khan: From Keynotes to Comedy SUMMARY In this episode of Present Influence, join John as he converses with Merit Khan, a dynamic speaker and performer, about the art of landing paid speaking engagements and refining your stagecraft. Merit shares insights from her journey, emphasising the importance of mastering sales skills to sell your talks before perfecting your stories. She discusses her diverse career, including keynoting for serious audiences, coaching sales professionals, and her one-woman show, 'Optimistic Personality Disorder.' Discover how improv, comedy, and understanding your audience can enhance your presentations and contribute to a thriving speaker ecosystem. Whether you are just starting out or looking to expand your existing speaking business, this episode offers practical strategies and inspirational stories to help you succeed. Find out more about Merit at meritkahn.com or her one-woman show at opdshow.com Here's the link to that article on why so many great speakers are broke: CLICK HERE TO READ IT CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Meet Merit Khan: Sales and Comedy Expert 01:36 Contrarian Viewpoint: Sales Skills First 03:30 Building a Business Ecosystem 06:19 Adapting to Market Needs 09:44 Balancing Multiple Business Ventures 17:55 The Importance of Sales Experience 22:35 Creating a One-Woman Show 24:44 Unexpected Connections and Personal Growth 26:09 Diving into Standup Comedy 29:35 The Power of Humour in Speaking 32:13 The Art of Storytelling and Performance 36:39 Personal and Professional Growth in Speaking 42:24 Lessons from Standup and Knowing Your Audience 46:25 Podcasting and Future Projects 49:33 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    52 min
  3. Is Podcast Guesting Still Worth It For Speakers & Coaches?

    20 NOV

    Is Podcast Guesting Still Worth It For Speakers & Coaches?

    Strategic Podcast Guesting: Boost Your Professional Impact SUMMARY In this episode, John delves into the nuanced value of podcast guesting for professional speakers and coaches. The discussion explores whether incorporating podcast guesting into your promotional strategies is worth it and emphasises the importance of strategic planning over mere volume. Key insights include the potential benefits of both audio and video formats, how podcast guesting can enhance authority and create long-term opportunities, and the importance of being well-prepared for interviews. The episode also highlights the pros and cons of using booking agencies, the significance of a clear call to action (CTA), and how to pitch and promote podcast appearances effectively. Finally, tips are shared on maintaining professional integrity and ensuring guest appearances align with your goals for maximum impact. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Is Podcast Guesting Worth It? 00:41 The Potential of Podcasting: Audio vs. Video 03:13 Strategic Podcast Guesting: Quality Over Quantity 05:40 Preparation and Performance Tips for Podcast Guests 12:36 The Role of Booking Agencies 15:29 Starting Out: Tips for New Podcast Guests 18:45 Maximising Your Podcast Guesting Experience 26:01 Conclusion: The Future of Podcast Guesting Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    29 min
  4. Underachievers Unite: Why You Don't Need To Become An Overachiever To Be Successful

    12 NOV

    Underachievers Unite: Why You Don't Need To Become An Overachiever To Be Successful

    Rejecting Overachievement: Embrace the Low-Pressure Success Method SUMMARY In this episode, John reflects on the pervasive culture of overachievement and hustle culture, discussing its detrimental effects on personal well-being and productivity. He shares his experiences and insights from coaching individuals who have faced burnout and highlights how this toxic mindset can lead to long-term damage. John advocates for a sustainable approach to success through the 'low-pressure success method,' emphasising consistency, patience, and maintaining one's health and relationships. He also encourages listeners to redefine success by focusing on presence over performance and taking deliberate, manageable steps toward their goals. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Overachiever Myth 00:32 The Evolution of Hustle Culture 01:25 The Hidden Costs of Burnout 02:42 Redefining Success 05:21 The Low-Pressure Success Method 07:27 Final Thoughts and Resources Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    8 min
  5. Simplifying Success: One Stage At A Time

    5 NOV

    Simplifying Success: One Stage At A Time

    Finding Clarity: Narrowing Focus for Greater Success SUMMARY In this episode, the host talks about the importance of clarity and shares personal insights on overcoming mental fog and distractions. The host discusses the challenges of juggling multiple goals and projects, emphasising the need to focus on what truly matters. The episode highlights the decision to narrow focus on speaking engagements and corporate comedy, leaving other pursuits on hold. A more intimate, heart-to-heart discussion is presented, aiming to provide listeners with valuable takeaways on simplifying their professional endeavours. The host also invites listeners to reach out for support and clarity, sharing details about future podcast plans and upcoming interviews. Want to chat? Check the info below. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:32 Struggles with Mental Fog and Clarity 00:53 The Challenge of Chasing Too Many Goals 02:13 The Importance of Simplifying and Focusing 04:48 Decisions About the Podcast and Future Plans 06:02 Realisations from Performance and Speaking 09:35 The Need for Focus and Letting Go 11:50 Commitment to Stage Domination 19:29 Support and Encouragement 21:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    22 min
  6. How To Be Credible When Everyone's Faking It

    29 OCT

    How To Be Credible When Everyone's Faking It

    Authenticity and Connection: Transforming Public Speaking with Marianne Hickman SUMMARY In this episode of Present Influence, host John welcomes Marianne Hickman to discuss the importance of authenticity, connection, and ethical speaking in public presentations. They explore issues such as trauma dumping, the power of telling stories from scars, and why confidence without competence can be detrimental. Marianne emphasises the sacredness of the microphone and shares insights on the 'Utah bro' archetype and the Dunning-Kruger effect. The conversation also delves into how humour, open mics, and even onstage mishaps can enhance teaching and engagement. They advocate for continuous learning and maintaining a 'white belt' mentality as they navigate public speaking and personal growth. CHAPTERS 00:00 Cutting Through Stage Fakery: Real Influence You Can Trust 00:55 Welcome to Present Influence: Live with Marianne Hickman 02:13 The Sacredness of the Microphone: Stories from Scars, Not Wounds 04:46 The Utah Bro Archetype and the Dangers of Manipulation 10:20 The Power of Humour and Authenticity in Public Speaking 11:45 Embracing Comedy: Lessons from Mr Rogers and Robin Williams 20:39 The Yes, And Principle: Turning Mishaps into Moments 28:32 Taking the Pressure Off: Embracing Imperfection 29:55 Facing High-Stakes Situations with Confidence 32:48 Finding Your People: The Importance of Authenticity 38:26 The Role of Confidence in Influence 41:46 The Lifelong Student: Embracing Humility 49:14 The Power of Confidence: A Personal Story 52:16 Final Thoughts and How to Connect Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    55 min
  7. Open Mic Nights: The Art of Getting Up and Falling Hard

    24 OCT · BONUS

    Open Mic Nights: The Art of Getting Up and Falling Hard

    The Importance of Humour and My Journey into Stand-Up Comedy SUMMARY In this bonus episode, the host shares updates about the show and discusses the vital role of humour in professional speaking. He talks about his personal journey into stand-up comedy, highlighting the challenges and rewards of performing at open-mic nights. The episode includes a recording of one of his recent comedy sets, where he reminisces about school experiences, the challenges of PE, and the humour he found in those moments. Additionally, the host emphasises the need for mental resilience in the face of criticism and encourages the audience to pursue their comedic endeavours. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Bonus Episode 00:28 The Importance of Humour in Public Speaking 01:25 Overcoming the Fear of Open Mic Nights 02:32 My Experience with Open Mic Comedy 03:32 The Joy and Challenges of Making People Laugh 07:06 Dealing with Online Criticism 09:36 Transition to the Comedy Set 10:11 Stand-Up Comedy Performance Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    23 min
  8. The Trust Deficit: Am I Part Of The Problem?

    22 OCT

    The Trust Deficit: Am I Part Of The Problem?

    Addressing the Trust Deficit in the Personal and Professional Development Industry SUMMARY In this episode, the host discusses the growing trust deficit within the speaking, coaching, and personal development industries. Highlighting issues such as overpromised transformation, shallow certifications, and unethical practices, the host shares thoughts on how to identify and avoid contributing to the problem. They offer practical steps for rebuilding trust, emphasising the importance of ethics, integrity, and realistic promises. The episode also serves as a precursor to an interview with Marianne Hickman, a fellow expert in communication skills, set to release later in the week. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 00:14 The Trust Deficit in Personal Development 02:01 Personal Scepticism and Industry Critique 04:05 The Problem with the Coaching Industry 06:16 Rebuilding Credibility and Ethical Practices 10:12 Guidelines for Ethical Coaching 12:03 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Visit presentinfluence.com/quiz to take the Speaker Radiance Quiz and discover your Charisma Quotient. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

    13 min
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Present Influence is the podcast for professional speakers, coaches, and leaders who want to master ethical persuasion, magnetic communication, and stage presence that drives action. Hosted by keynote coach and influence expert John Ball, each weekly episode delivers powerful insights, expert interviews, and practical tools to help you get more bookings, boost your re-bookings, and scale your speaking business. Whether you're leading from the stage or the boardroom, you'll learn how to inspire trust, influence decisions, and leave a lasting impact, without manipulation. Subscribe now and start commanding attention with confidence. Each week, John shares insights through solo episodes, interviews with influential guests, and in-depth book reviews. Whether you're looking to sharpen your presentation skills, master the art of persuasion, or enhance your leadership presence, Present Influence provides practical strategies and expert advice to help you lead with confidence and authenticity. Tune in and discover how to communicate your ideas in a way that resonates, persuades, and inspires lasting change.

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