Speaker Life

Lea Woodford

Speaker Life is your behind-the-scenes pass into the world of professional speaking, luxury branding and media opportunities. Hosted by media strategist and Speaker Life Magazine founder Lea Woodford, this podcast delivers actionable insights, expert strategies, and powerful conversations with speakers who are building unforgettable brands and booking high-impact stages. Whether you're just stepping into the spotlight or scaling a multiple six-figure speaking career, Speaker Life gives you the tools, connections, and confidence to own the mic and rise as a thought leader. New episodes weekly—subscribe now and get booked, seen, and heard.

  1. 3D AGO

    Facial Decoding and Human Connection for Speakers

    Powerful speaking starts the moment you step into the room. In this episode, Brian Galke, keynote speaker and Founder of SubtleSkills, explains how facial decoding gives speakers a real advantage in reading the room, building trust, and connecting with intention. He breaks down how subtle cues like eye contact, eyebrows, and smiling shape audience perception long before your message fully lands. Brian challenges speakers to move beyond performance and into genuine presence. He shares practical habits from engaging the room early to promoting the events that book you. Authenticity and service build influence faster than polish ever will.  The next time you walk on stage, don't just deliver content, command connection. Press play to watch the full episode of Facial Decoding and Human Connection for Speakers. Brian Galke is a keynote speaker and founder of SubtleSkills, where he teaches teams how to decode facial features to build deeper human connection. With over two decades of experience in business coaching and sales training, Brian equips speakers and leaders with practical skills to read the room, strengthen relationships, and increase impact. Known as a "People Connector," he blends science-backed insights on facial decoding and body language with street-smart storytelling. His work spans industries from healthcare and SaaS to retail and government, helping professionals communicate with clarity and confidence. Connect with Brian Galke:    FB: https://www.facebook.com/brian.galke/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/briangalke/?hl=en  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briangalke/  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMfwlTUDTOxRgp15WnAhnPg    SubtleSkills: https://subtleskills.com/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/subtleskills  IG: https://www.instagram.com/subtleskills/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/subtleskills/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@subtleskills     Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    24 min
  2. FEB 10

    From Stage Fright to Stage Presence: A Speaker's Shift

    Stage presence begins with clarity, intention, and trust in yourself. In this episode, Mark Yuzuik, speaker and hypnotist, explains why stage fright isn't something to eliminate, but a natural signal that can guide growth.  Mark shares how pressure and the need for approval pull speakers out of presence and how reconnecting to purpose, preparation, and service brings confidence back in. Through real coaching stories, He shows how managing energy, visualizing outcomes, and releasing ego help speakers show up grounded and authentic.  This conversation offers practical mindset shifts for anyone ready to move from tension to confidence and from nerves to connection.  Learn how true stage presence is built from the inside out. Watch the full episode of From Stage Fright to Stage Presence: A Speaker's Shift. Mark Yuzuik is a speaker and master stage hypnotist who has captivated audiences worldwide since 1991. With over 10,000 performances and more than 8 million people reached, he understands what it takes to command a room and create unforgettable stage presence. Beyond entertainment, Mark uses hypnosis as a tool for personal growth, helping individuals move past fear and step into confidence. His work spans corporate events, theme parks, and transformational seminars focused on mindset and accountability. Connect with Mark Yuzuik:    Website: https://hypnotizememark.com/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/Hypnotistmark/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/markyuzuik/?hl=en  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markyuzuik/     Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    18 min
  3. FEB 4

    Speaking From the Heart: Why Authenticity Outperforms Fluff

    Great speaking creates connection, clarity, and trust from the very first moment. In this episode, Rebecca Powers, speaker and reporter, shares why authenticity consistently outperforms scripted delivery.  Drawing from decades in broadcast journalism, live reporting, and public service, Rebecca explains how speaking heart-to-heart builds trust, credibility, and emotional resonance on stage. Rebecca highlights why fluff falls flat, how presence and intentional pauses deepen impact, and what it truly means to feel the room. She also reflects on how personal experience, integrity, and faith shape a message that connects beyond performance.  Hear how authenticity becomes your greatest advantage on stage. Tune in to the full episode of Speaking From the Heart: Why Authenticity Outperforms Fluff. Rebecca Powers is a former investigative reporter and news anchor turned speaker who believes the most powerful messages are spoken from the heart. With decades in media, she mastered the art of authentic connection by telling real stories that protect children and amplify unheard voices. Rebecca brings a deeply human, conversational style to the stage, shaped by years of interviewing people at their most vulnerable moments. Her passion for family, music, and child advocacy fuels every message she delivers. In a world full of noise, Rebecca reminds audiences that authenticity will always outperform fluff.  Connect with Rebecca Powers:    FB: https://www.facebook.com/rebecca.powers.792/   Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    20 min
  4. JAN 27

    The Speaker's Guide to Predictable, Paid Bookings

    Most speakers don't struggle because they lack talent but they lack a system. In this episode, Joey Dentici, CEO of Speakhyve, breaks down why predictable, paid bookings come from building consistent lead engines rather than waiting on referrals or hoping visibility turns into opportunities.  Joey explains how outbound outreach puts speakers back in control, why email and LinkedIn still work when done with intention, and what event planners actually look for when deciding who gets booked. He also clarifies why traffic matters more than polished websites, why funnels outperform static pages, and how simple, repeatable processes reduce stress while increasing consistency.  Predictable systems turn speaking goals into paid stages month after month. Tune in to the full episode of The Speaker's Guide to Predictable, Paid Bookings. Joey Dentici is the CEO and founder of Speakhyve, where he helps professional speakers build AI-powered marketing systems that generate consistent paid speaking opportunities. With a deep focus on outbound marketing and lead generation, Joey and his team have booked over 1,000 paid education speaking engagements and helped hundreds of speakers scale without agents, bureaus, or referrals. Speakhyve specializes in the education market, including K–12, colleges, and faith-based organizations. Joey's approach replaces inconsistent bookings with predictable opportunity flow through proven systems.  Connect with Joey Dentici:    IG: https://www.instagram.com/joey.dentici/?hl=en  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-dentici-9990b3182/    Lean more about Speakhyve: Website: https://speakhyve.io/  YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakhyve/videos  IG: https://www.instagram.com/speakhyve/?hl=en  FB: https://www.facebook.com/speakhub.io/#     Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    19 min
  5. 12/30/2025

    Mindset Shifts That Turned Dreams Into Millions

    Everything changes the moment you decide your dreams deserve action, not hesitation. In this episode, Michelle Cunningham, a digital marketer who built an eight‑figure brand from almost nothing, shows how a changed mindset fuels results long before strategy ever does. Her rise from modest beginnings to building a multimillion‑dollar business proves what's possible when you stop shrinking your potential and start owning your voice. Michelle shares the beliefs she had to release, the bold choices that shifted her trajectory. She also pulls back the curtain on the internal shifts required to scale—raising your standards, trusting your worth, and learning from wise mentors.  The moment you believe your story matters, everything else begins to rise with it. Your next breakthrough starts with a shift in how you think. Tune in to the full episode of Mindset Shifts That Turned Dreams Into Millions. Michelle Cunningham is a digital marketer known for helping entrepreneurs sell their knowledge online with ease and authenticity. After 17 years as a top network marketer, she built a multiple seven-figure brand by mastering the power of video. Through her signature program, The Video Superstar, Michelle has taught over 40,000 students how to confidently show up on camera and attract leads on autopilot. Her mission is to help small business owners work less, live more, and grow by simply being themselves.  Connect with Michelle Cunningham:    Website: https://michellecunningham.com/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecunninghamonline/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/themichellecunningham/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellecunningham  YT: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichelleCunningham FB: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleCunninghamOnline/?ref=_xav_ig_profile_page_web#     Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    34 min
  6. 12/16/2025

    The Hidden Power of Facial Expressions in Speaking

    Authenticity is the strength that makes your presence unforgettable. In this episode, Dr. Cathy L. Goldstein, A.P., Founder of Tru Energy Natural Facelift System, reveals how genuine expression shapes deeper audience connection long before a single word is spoken. She explains why speakers who show up with real emotion, honest presence, and expressive energy become the ones audiences remember. Drawing from her understanding of facial muscles, emotional patterns, and the mind–body connection, Dr. Cathy breaks down why stress, insecurity, and societal pressure often show up on our faces. She also shares how daily practices, emotional release, and natural facial techniques can help speakers look and feel more aligned with who they truly are.   Learn how authenticity can transform the way you speak, connect, and create impact. Tune in to this episode of The Hidden Power of Facial Expressions in Speaking. Dr. Cathy L. Goldstein, A.P. is the founder of the Tru Energy Natural Facelift System, blending energy medicine with neuro-psychology to promote cellular healing and graceful aging. With over 40 years of experience in integrative health, she is a sought-after speaker, educator, and global voice in natural medicine. As a pioneer in authentic, non-invasive beauty rooted in deep healing, Cathy empowers individuals—especially women—to reclaim confidence, clarity, and presence both on stage and in life. Her unique approach merges quantum biology, emotional release, and daily self-care practices to help speakers radiate joy and connection. Connect with Dr. Cathy L. Goldstein, A.P.:    LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-goldstein-ap/  Website: https://truenergyskincare.com/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/truenergyskincare  IG: https://www.instagram.com/truenergyskincare?igsh=NGFnbGl5aWhqbDlo  Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    16 min
  7. 12/09/2025

    The Education System Isn't Broken—It's Just Obsolete

    Education holds tremendous potential and now is the moment to let it rise to meet the future. In this episode, Annalies Corbin, Founder & CEO of the PAST Foundation, explains why today's kids are being prepared for a world that no longer exists. She shares how the education system, designed 150 years ago, still shapes classrooms today and why it's urgent time to rethink what learning should look like in a world of smartphones, AI, and rapid innovation. Annalies breaks down the gap between how kids learn naturally and how schools still teach. She highlights why students disengage and policymakers often miss the mark. Through real stories and bold insights, she shows how communities, families, and schools can work together to create education that meets kids where they are. If you're passionate about helping the next generation thrive, this episode will ignite your imagination. Tune in now: The Education System Isn't Broken—It's Just Obsolete. Annalies Corbin is the Founder and CEO of the PAST Foundation, where for over 25 years she has led groundbreaking efforts to transform education through real-world, experiential learning. With a background in anthropology and a role as Adjunct Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, she fuses research and innovation to bridge the gap between learning and life. Annalies empowers educators, teams, and organizations to create systems that equip students for the future of work and discovery. Her work as a leader and author is rooted in a mission to make learning meaningful, adaptive, and lasting. She believes education must evolve and she's building that evolution one learner at a time.  Connect with Annalies Corbin:    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annalies-corbin-4016121/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/annaliescorbin/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/annalies.corbin/    PAST Foundation: https://www.pastfoundation.org/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PastFoundation  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/past-foundation/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/pastfoundation  YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/PASTFoundation/videos  Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    16 min
  8. 12/02/2025

    Finding Purpose Beyond the Spotlight

    Purpose shines brighter than any spotlight. In this episode, Shab Azma, founder of ARC Collective, gets straight to the truth that purpose not visibility is what makes a message land. Years of working with celebrities and thought leaders taught her that clarity wins every time.  Shab calls out the habits that hold new speakers back moving on autopilot, following trends, or chasing attention without intention. Her own shift from behind-the-scenes to leading with purpose is a reminder that alignment creates impact, not hustle.  When your message comes from conviction, it resonates deeper and travels farther. Hear how stepping beyond the spotlight can help you show up with confidence. Tune in to this episode of Finding Purpose Beyond the Spotlight. Shab Azma is the founder of ARC Collective, a media and talent management company elevating mission-driven voices at the intersection of culture, consciousness, and impact. With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, she's guided the careers of A-list talent and leading experts while shaping purpose-driven platforms across media, publishing, and brand incubation. As an intuitive strategist and executive producer, Shab blends visionary insight with actionable strategy to help creators align passion, purpose, and profession. Through ARC Studios, she's building a home for conscious content that empowers, educates, and transforms.  Connect with Shab Azma:    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shab-azma-71826b1/  Website: https://www.arccltv.com/shabnam  arccltv on IG: https://www.instagram.com/arccltv/ Lea Woodford is the founder of Speaker Life Magazine and Luxury Media Brands helping speakers and entrepreneurs amplify their message and grow their influence. With a background as a TV host and celebrity interviewer, she brings powerful media insight to every conversation. Through her podcast, magazine, and events, Lea empowers thought leaders to speak with clarity and purpose. Her work bridges storytelling with strategy, creating space for authentic voices to be heard. At the heart of it all, Lea helps leaders turn their message into lasting impact. Website: https://luxurymediabrands.com/ Magazine Website: https://speakerlifemagazine.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakerlifemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leawoodford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leawoodford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartFem/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leawoodford

    16 min

About

Speaker Life is your behind-the-scenes pass into the world of professional speaking, luxury branding and media opportunities. Hosted by media strategist and Speaker Life Magazine founder Lea Woodford, this podcast delivers actionable insights, expert strategies, and powerful conversations with speakers who are building unforgettable brands and booking high-impact stages. Whether you're just stepping into the spotlight or scaling a multiple six-figure speaking career, Speaker Life gives you the tools, connections, and confidence to own the mic and rise as a thought leader. New episodes weekly—subscribe now and get booked, seen, and heard.