Un-Conventionally Speaking

Leon Flitton

Un-Conventionally Speaking - The Professional Speakers Australia podcast where you will get to know our Learning Gurus and Experience Masters who will be helping you hone your craft, grow your business and manage your mindset during Un-Convention 2022.

  1. The Journey to Becoming A Professional Speaker with Allan Parker, OAM

    14/03/2022

    The Journey to Becoming A Professional Speaker with Allan Parker, OAM

    Most people think that being a professional speaker is easy. They see someone on the stage, delivering a great presentation, and they think, "I could do that." But the truth is, being a professional speaker is hard work. It takes years of practice and refining your craft. And even then, there are no guarantees.  So why do we do it? Why put ourselves through all of that tough work? Because when it pays off, there's nothing quite like it. When you deliver a great presentation and connect with your audience, it's an incredible feeling. It's worth all the hard work and effort. In this episode, Kim Seeling Smith speaks with Allan Parker about his journey to becoming a professional speaker. He shares the things he has been through before he became a professional speaker and gives a sneak peek at what to expect from him. To Allan, the road isn’t easy. He has been through a lot before becoming a professional speaker. But what matters most to him is the feeling he gets when he connects with his audience. It’s the best feeling in the world, and it’s worth all the hard work. As hard as it seems, the journey to becoming a professional speaker is worth it. And Allan Parker is a prime example of that. Be sure to stay tuned for his episode! WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Allan’s verbal showreel (1:33)How do the last two years change Allan’s business (2:53)Services offered by Allan Parker (3:25)Allan Parker’s journey from the age of 32 (6:25)What did Allan Parker do after being matriculated in high school (10:08)Allan Parker’s next step in his journey (11:46)Calming Conversation Session by Allan Parker (16:50)Who watches Calming Conversation Session (19:51)Type of work that Allan Parker do with his clients (21:41)What will participants expect from his Un-Convention session (24:42) Quotes  “Things become wrong because we do it in a wrong way” – Allan Parker “If it is not working, do the opposite” – Allan Parker “People get sick because of what they thought and not what they did” – Allan Parker PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on leveling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED Calming Conversations PSA Un-Convention 2022 WHERE TO FIND ALLAN PARKER Website: https://www.peakpd.com/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/allanparkeroam  SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and speakers who want to increase their authority and...

    26 min
  2. Getting Future Ready In A Fast-Changing World With Gihan Perera

    09/03/2022

    Getting Future Ready In A Fast-Changing World With Gihan Perera

    What does the future hold? No one can be sure, but it's certain that change is happening faster than ever before. Rapid advances in technology and global interconnectedness result in unprecedented economic, social, and political shifts. To navigate these changes and prepare for whatever the future may bring, we need to understand the underlying trends driving them.  In this episode, Warwick Merry talks with Gihan Perera, a futurist, online presenter, conference speaker, and author who gives you a glimpse into what’s ahead. He is also the author of “The Future of Leadership,” “Disruption By Design,” “Disrupted,” and ten other books. According to Gihan, in today's world, it's more important than ever to be prepared for a future in a fast-changing world. Whether you're just starting in your career or are already established, it's crucial to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. If you want to know what you can do to stay ahead of the future, then this episode is for you.  WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Gihan’s verbal showreel (2:13)Gihan's secret before he became a professional speaker (3:11)What made him decide to become a professional speaker (4:16)Impact of living in Perth on Gihan's business (7:58)What did Gihan do to keep going (11:20)How his topics have evolved throughout the years (14:59)How Gihan generate revenue on and off the stage (18:55)What does speaking industry would going to look like in 10 years for Gihan (22:40)What changes will happen to Srilankan Economy for Gihan (27:06)What to expect from Gihan’s PSA Un-Convention session (30:10)Rapid-fire questions with Gihan (32:29) Quotes "We learn and unlearn things." - Gihan Perera "Removing our biases makes our decisions better." - Gihan Perera PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on leveling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED The Skeptics Guide to the Universe by Steven Novella WHERE TO FIND GIHAN PERERA Website: https://gihanperera.com/ LinkedIn: Gihan Perera  SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and speakers who want to increase their authority and generate leads from their show.  You press record, and let them do the rest. ​​SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW THE UN-CONVENTIONALLY SPEAKING PODCAST Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Un-Conventionally Speaking podcast. If you have enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts, click the 3 dots in the top right corner of your...

    38 min
  3. Data And Exploration Of Influence in Professional Speaking with Jon Yeo

    07/03/2022

    Data And Exploration Of Influence in Professional Speaking with Jon Yeo

    In a world where people can share their thoughts and ideas freely, the professional speaking industry is one that can be easily influenced. Through social media platforms and online resources, anyone can become a speaker and have their work heard by others.  This has led to an increase in the number of people looking to make a name for themselves in the speaking world. But with this increase in competition, it has become more important than ever to understand how to best use data and explore your influence as a speaker. In this episode, Kim Seeling Smith speaks with Jon Yeo, who works with TEDxMelbourne. Jon is known for his interest in the psychology of influence over the mechanics of storytelling.  According to him, speaking is a compelling way to share your message with the world. He also believes that the most effective speeches are tailored to their audience.  By understanding who your listeners are and what they want to hear, you can create a message that truly resonates with them. To do this, you need to be well-prepared and have a clear idea of your goals. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Jon’s verbal showreel (01:23)What does Jon do now, speaking or coaching? (05:10)His turning point into becoming a professional speaker (06:38)The importance of message and timing (07:30)The time Jon wanted to give up and what made him not to (09:37)What does Jon do to level up (12:55)Principles that Jon is following (13:49)Jon’s TEDxMelbourne story (15:50)Jon’s experiences when the COVID-19 started (18:20)The future of speaking according to Jon (25:40)What are Jon’s plans this year (29:24)What will participants expect from his Un-Convention session (30:05)Rapid-fire questions with Jon Yeo (30:50) Quotes “To be a great speaker is not about having enough knowledge; it’s about having a lot of traction, connection, and engagement.” -Jon Yeo "Focus on what you love and what drives you and continue to prioritize it." -Jon Yeo "Choices are always a good thing." - Jon Yeo PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on leveling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED How I Work podcast by Amantha Imber  PSA Un-Convention 2022 WHERE TO FIND JON YEO Website: https://www.brightstar.net.au/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/jonyeo  SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and...

    33 min
  4. From Theatre Stage to The Boardroom with Marianna Pascal

    28/02/2022

    From Theatre Stage to The Boardroom with Marianna Pascal

    Many people believe that public speaking is one of the most challenging skills to master. But great speakers are not born-they are made through practice and considerable discipline. And while great speaking skills can add immeasurably to any professional's career, the truth is that everyone has something of value to say. In this episode, Warwick Merry chats with Marianna Pascal, a theatre actress turned professional speaker. Marianna's hilarious and engaging style speeches have been important in ensuring easy collaboration and good communication inside organizations. She was a semi-finalist in the 2019 Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking and has been granted the designation of CSP (Certified Speaking Professional). According to Marianna, the key to becoming an effective speaker is preparation-you must first understand why you are speaking and what you want your audience to learn or do as a result of your talk. If you are interested in becoming a professional speaker with a different background, then this episode is for you! WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Marianna’s verbal showreel (01:12)Marianna’s acting and theatre background (02:09)What made her decide to become a professional speaker (04:20)The evolution of her target market as a professional speaker (08:06)Her journey as a professional speaker throughout the years (10:10)Marianna’s businesses where she generates revenue (12:50)How her topics have evolved over the past few years (15:15)How she sees the future of her business (16:57)What to expect from Marianna’s PSA Un-Convention session (18:28)Rapid-fire questions with Marianna Pascal (21:00) Quotes “It’s neither keynote nor workshop; it’s a mermaid.” -Marianna Pascal “There is so much more to life than work or business.” -Warwick Merry PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on leveling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED Anthony Robbins Personal Power: A 30 Day ProgramTEDxAdvantage Quest BBC World Service Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything by BJ Fogg WHERE TO FIND MARIANNA PASCAL Website: https://www.mariannapascal.com/ LinkedIn: Marianna Pascal SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and...

    25 min
  5. The Many Paths to Speaking Professionally with Karen Tui Boyes

    21/02/2022

    The Many Paths to Speaking Professionally with Karen Tui Boyes

    There is no one specific path to becoming a professional speaker. Some start as experts in a particular field, while others become well-known through writing or public speaking engagements.  In this episode, Kim Seeling Smith speaks with the professional speaker, Karen Tui Boyes. Karen has been a professional speaker, predominantly in the education sector, for 27 years, giving her a unique perspective in her quest to improve the lives of teachers, children, and young people. According to Karen, being a professional speaker is what she has always wanted. Never has she thought to give this up for any other job. Indeed, she has found her passion and profession at the same time. If you want to know more about Karen and how you can jumpstart your career as a professional speaker, then keep on tuning in! WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Karen's verbal showreel (02:00)Her career before becoming a professional speaker (02:32)What made her decide to become a professional speaker (03:47)The evolution of her target market as a professional speaker (05:50)How her topics have evolved over the past few years (07:25)How she has grown throughout the years (11:47)What Karen has to offer (13:03)How Karen had adopted when COVID started (16:05)What to expect from Karen’s PSA Un-Convention session (18:08)What the future of education look like to Karen (20:00)Rapid-fire questions with Karen Tui Boyes (21:30) Quotes “I have never had a time I totally wanted to check it in because my whys are too strong” -Karen Tui Boyes “To become better professionally, you have to become better personally.” -Karen Tui Boyes PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on levelling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED iStudyAlarm for IOS / iStudyAlarm for AndroidPomodoro Technique The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan HolidayEgo is the Enemy by Ryan HolidayStillness is the Key by Ryan HolidayCourage is Calling by Ryan Holiday WHERE TO FIND KAREN TUI BOYES Website: a...

    26 min
  6. How to Un-Suck Panel Discussions with Brian Walter

    14/02/2022

    How to Un-Suck Panel Discussions with Brian Walter

    The whole point of panel discussions is to get people to spill ideas in insightful and snappy ways. But in reality, panel discussions are seen as boring and the audience isn’t motivated to engage.  In this episode, Kim Seeling Smith speaks with the professional engager, Brian Walter. He knows that at some point in a professional speaker’s life, they will be asked to moderate a panel discussion. Instead of looking at panel moderation as wasted effort, Brian sees this as an opportunity to develop his skillset and grow his business. For PSA Un-Convention 2022, he will demonstrate several techniques to make panel discussions engaging.  If you want to learn more about how to level up panel discussions through fun and quirky ways, let’s dive in. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Brian's verbal showreel (01:50)His secret career before becoming famous (03:35)His turning point towards professional speaking (05:01)The moment he wanted to throw it all in (07:40)How does Brian get unstuck from all the challenges (11:50)The evolution of his target market over the years (15:05)What to expect from Brian's PSA Un-Convention session (18:10)What does Brian see for the future of professional speaking? (23:51)Rapid-fire questions with Brian Walter (28:35) Quotes “There are different ways to push ourselves and one is to embrace the opportunities that come our way.” -Brian Walter "Everything that got me to go up another level is because an opportunity was presented to me and I said, absolutely!" -Brian Walter PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on levelling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED Hidden Brain Podcast WHERE TO FIND BRIAN WALTER Website: https://extrememeetings.com/ LinkedIn: Brian Walter SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and speakers who want to increase their authority and generate leads from their show.  You press record, and let them do the rest. ​​SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW THE UN-CONVENTIONALLY SPEAKING PODCAST Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Un-Conventionally Speaking podcast. If you have enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts, click the 3 dots in the top right corner of your smartphone screen, follow the show, and leave us an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help us continue to deliver valuable content but will also help us reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like...

    36 min
  7. Feed Your Starving Crowd With Dr. Neryl East

    07/02/2022

    Feed Your Starving Crowd With Dr. Neryl East

    013: Feed Your Starving Crowd With Dr. Neryl East If there’s one thing the pandemic taught us, it’s that leaders must communicate with clarity and confidence throughout difficult times. Your message needs to be delivered in a way that prevents confusion and uncertainty. In this episode, Kim Seeling Smith speaks with the incoming president of the Professional Speakers Australia (PSA) and credibility specialist, Dr. Neryl East. Dr. Neryl showcases her credibility by working with leaders of all levels. She guides them through communication when they're in spotlight situations. As Dr Nerly explains, these situations occur when circumstances and stakes are high and the outcome greatly matters.  She always thinks ahead, in fact, she’s discovered the benefits of online presentations even before the pandemic. This kind of mindset helped Dr. Neryl and her clients stay on top of their game while everyone else was in shambles. Dr. Neryl will show you the importance of continuously developing skills regardless of any situation levelling up. This results in becoming better leaders able to face any type of challenge. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Dr. Neryl's verbal showreel (01:20)Her secret career before professional speaking (02:17)What made her decide to become a speaker (03:40)The moment she questioned her decision about professional speaking (06:33)Her methodology of getting unstuck and levelling up (09:29)The changes in her business in the past 2 years (13:10)The various ways Dr. Neryl interacts with her audience (15:55)The journey that led her to create an online community (17:40)What is she excited about PSA UN-Convention 2022? (23:03)Where will the speaking industry be in 10 years? (24:20)What's in-store for PSA? (26:32)Rapid-fire questions with Dr. Neryl East (29:15) Quotes “As a speaker and expert in your field, you need to identify your starving crowd. Who are the clients that are figuratively starving for your message?” -Dr. Neryl East “As an adult, I get to call the shots on what happens next. How I think and what I choose will determine my future, not external factors.”  -Dr. Neryl East PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on levelling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED PSA Un-Convention 2022 Local Government Communication Professionals Network Mind Your Business Podcast WHERE TO FIND  DR. NERYL EAST Website: www.neryleast.com LinkedIn: a...

    34 min
  8. How to Sell Yourself Using the Power of Communication with Chris Huet

    31/01/2022

    How to Sell Yourself Using the Power of Communication with Chris Huet

    Marketing yourself across different networks is one constant challenge speakers face. But Chris Huet does this with ease by harnessing the power of precise and effective communication. In this episode, Warwick Merry speaks with the communication ace, Chris Huet. He shares his interesting journey from being the Commanding Officer of Australia’s Air Force to becoming a poet and professional speaker. These jobs may seem too different from each other, but Chris is able to excel in these areas, and he did this by honing his communication skills.  He use to relay clear commands that lead fighter jet squadrons and now he aims to generate impact and change to his audience one poetry at a time. Let Chris show how you can better sell yourself using one thing we do every single day -  communicate.  WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: Chris' verbal showreel (01:15)His career before becoming a communication ace (02:15)His turning point into becoming a professional speaker (04:39)The biggest mindset shift for Chris (08:21)The changes in his business through the pandemic (10:55)How has his topic and target audience changed over the years (12:42)Additional services that Chris offers his clients (15:47)What does the future hold for professional speakers? (17:09)What gets Chris excited about the Un-Convention 2022? (19:09)What will participants expect from his Un-Convention session (20:02)Rapid-fire questions with Chris Huet (22:57) Quotes “There are questions that make you stop, reflect and think about experiences you've had and relate them to people who don't have that background.” -Chris Huet “Being flexible and being able to take advantage of tools you have and the way that you can engage an audience is essential to our work now.” -Chris Huet “Flexibility is key for our business now.” -Chris Huet PSA Un-Convention March 25-26, ONLINE If your success depends on leveling up, thinking differently, upskilling, or exploring additional revenue streams, or if you just want to hang out with your tribe, you won’t want to miss this event.   24 World-Class experience leaders10+ Leading Edge Tech Unpacks2 days of deep connection, active participation, competitions, and fun!Sessions will include multiple streams but all will be recorded so you don’t miss a minute!1 Immersive game-changing experience   Join us at PSA Un-Convention 2022 - Register Now! RESOURCES MENTIONED PSA Un-Convention 2022 Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity The Radical Candor Podcast WHERE TO FIND CHRIS HUET Website: https://www.chrishuet.com/ LinkedIn: Chris Huet SHOW SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Your Podcast Concierge.  Affordable podcast production for coaches and speakers who want to increase their authority and...

    28 min

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Un-Conventionally Speaking - The Professional Speakers Australia podcast where you will get to know our Learning Gurus and Experience Masters who will be helping you hone your craft, grow your business and manage your mindset during Un-Convention 2022.