Confident Speaker: Build Your Public Speaking Confidence and Platform

Carol Cox

Get quick, practical advice to help you speak with clarity, presence, confidence, and impact, whether you're presenting in a meeting, on stage, or on camera. This show delivers bite-sized episodes that answer the most common questions about public speaking and presentations, based on the Speaking Your Brand® podcast and narrated by host Carol Cox's professionally cloned AI voice. If you want to feel more confident and sound more compelling every time you speak, you're in the right place.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    How to Pitch Yourself as a Podcast Guest and Share Your Message with Confidence

    Thinking about being a guest on podcasts but not sure where to start—or what to say once you're invited? In this episode of the Confident Speaker podcast, I walk you through exactly how to clarify your message and confidently pitch yourself as a podcast guest. Podcast guesting is a powerful way to build your thought leadership, amplify your voice, and attract aligned clients and collaborators. But it doesn’t require having a huge audience, a bestselling book, or the perfect elevator pitch. What it *does* require is clarity, authenticity, and a few key stories that reveal who you are and how you help. Here’s what we talk about in this episode:- Why podcast guesting is one of the fastest ways to grow your visibility- How to identify your “spark” topics—those ideas that light you up and challenge the status quo- The importance of sharing *transformational* stories (yes, even the messy ones)- What you want your audience to do next—and how to craft a clear call to action- Simple steps to research, pitch, and land interviews on shows your ideal listeners are already tuning into I also share a personal story from one of my early podcast appearances and how I used my real-life experience—not a polished script—to create meaningful impact and spark conversations that led to more opportunities. Remember: you don’t have to wait until you “have it all figured out” to start showing up. You already have a message worth sharing. Now is the time to put it into words and use your voice to reach the people who need to hear it most. To learn how we can help you craft your unique message and land high-quality speaking and podcast guesting opportunities, visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance — in her own voice — delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  2. 8 OCT

    What to Wear When Speaking: Dress for Impact, Presence, and Your Personal Brand

    What should you wear for a speaking engagement? This short and powerful episode is your style strategy guide for taking the stage with confidence. Whether you’re stepping onto a keynote stage, joining a panel, or leading a meeting, your outfit is more than just clothing—it’s a message all its own. The question isn’t just “What should I wear?” but rather, “How can my clothing support the way I want to show up and be seen?” In this episode, I share:- The #1 mindset shift for choosing what to wear: Dress for your message, not just your environment- Personal insights on how the wrong outfit muted my energy—and what I changed- 3 core tips to align your style with your speaking goals - How comfort, consistency, and personality play a key role in your presence You’ll learn how to build a signature speaking wardrobe that reflects who you are and the message you’re here to deliver—without having to sacrifice professionalism or presence. It's not about dress codes. It’s about *your* code: confident, clear, and authentic. Want help refining your visual brand and presence for your next speaking opportunity? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can support you. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  3. 1 OCT

    How to Discover Your Unique Thought Leadership Message

    Struggle to put into words what you're *really* about? In this episode, I (AI Carol) walk you through how to uncover and articulate your unique thought leadership message.  This isn’t about rewording your elevator pitch or dressing up your services in fancier language.  We’re digging deeper into the *why* behind your work: the change you want to see and how your lived experience shapes the solutions you offer.  You’ll explore three reflection points to help you:- Identify the ideas and issues that ignite you (positively or negatively) in your industry- Mine your personal and professional journey for key insights and turning points- Envision the transformation you want to create in the minds and lives of those you reach  This process doesn’t just make your content and presentations more powerful. It positions you as a thought leader *people want to listen to* — because you bring heart, conviction, and clarity. If you’ve ever felt that something was missing in how you talk about your work, or if you’re ready to own your message more boldly, this episode is your spark. For guidance on how to develop your unique message and create your Signature Talk, come visit us at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. We’ve helped hundreds of women find their voice — and share it powerfully. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    3 min
  4. 24 SEPT

    Get More Stage-Side Referrals with These Proven Strategies

    You’ve just wrapped a presentation. The audience is buzzing, a few people compliment you…and then what? How do you turn that excitement in the room into a steady stream of bookings and paid speaking gigs? In this episode of the Confident Speaker podcast, I’m diving into a powerful and often overlooked strategy: stage-side referrals. Getting booked from the stage—by someone who saw you speak and wants to bring you into their company or event—is one of the most organic and effective ways to grow your visibility *and* your revenue as a speaker. It’s how so many of our clients gain momentum, get paid engagements, and turn one opportunity into an entire pipeline.  I share a story from my early days of speaking and give you the exact three strategies you can use to maximize your visibility and referrals *right in the room* while the impact of your talk is still fresh. You’ll learn:- How to **design your talk to attract referrals** without sounding pitchy- Exactly what to put on a **feedback form** to generate warm leads- Why being **referral-ready** with a polished speaker page and materials creates a lasting impression  This episode is perfect for business owners, coaches, corporate professionals, and anyone ready to transform their expertise into a speaking platform that attracts the right clients—right from the stage.  You don’t have to cross your fingers and hope someone messages you later. You can plan for it, prepare for it, and make it easy for people to say, “We need her.”  Want support developing your standout signature talk and creating a strategy to get booked and paid as a speaker? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn more about how we can work together.  Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  5. 17 SEPT

    How to Write a Winning Speaker Proposal: Stand Out and Get Booked for More Speaking Opportunities

    Pitching yourself for speaking opportunities can feel nerve-wracking — but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I (AI Carol) walk you through exactly what to include in your speaker pitch or proposal so it resonates with organizers and increases your chances of getting booked.  Whether you're submitting directly to a conference or posting your speaker info on your website, you'll learn how to position your talk and experience in a way that highlights your value — not just your resume.  You’ll discover:- How to craft a captivating title and talk description that stands out- What to include in your speaker bio to establish credibility without sounding boastful- The often-overlooked section that shows event organizers you truly understand their audience- What to include on your website’s speaker page to make it easier for organizers to say “yes”  Plus, I share a story of a pitch I sent to a major marketing and AI event—and how strategic writing made the difference.  Your pitch is more than a formality. It’s your first opportunity to connect, inspire, and demonstrate the transformation you can deliver from the stage. Your message matters—this episode will help you pitch it with clarity and confidence.  We’d love to help you take your speaking to the next level. Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn more about working with us. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  6. 10 SEPT

    Should You Pay to Speak? The Answer May Surprise You

    You’ve probably come across speaking opportunities where the event organizer expects *you* to pay a fee or buy a ticket just to be on stage. It feels off, doesn’t it? After all, you’ve honed your expertise and crafted your message—shouldn’t they be paying *you*? In this episode of the Confident Speaker Podcast, I dig into the nuances of when it *can* make sense to speak for free—or even pay to speak—and when it’s time to say no (or charge your worth). I share personal insights from my own early speaking days, along with three powerful strategies to help you make thoughtful, strategic decisions about unpaid opportunities: **1. Know What You're Getting in Return** Not all free or pay-to-play talks are created equal. Visibility, great video footage, and connections with your ideal audience *can* make it worth your while. **2. Set a Limit on Free Speaking** Create and stick to a personal policy: How many unpaid talks will you say yes to per year? Having a clear boundary not only keeps you focused, but it also makes turning down less-aligned gigs that much easier. **3. Position Yourself as a Paid Speaker** From your website to your pitch emails, small tweaks in how you present yourself can send clear signals that you’re a professional who gets paid to speak. Being strategic doesn’t mean being rigid—it means honoring the value of your time, your message, and your goals. You have the power to decide which stages deserve your voice—and which ones don’t. For more support and to work with us to grow your speaking business, head over to speakingyourbrand.com. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.  For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast. The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  7. 3 SEPT

    What Event Organizers Really Want in a Speaker (And How to Get Invited Back)

    What do event organizers *really* want in a speaker - and how can you position yourself to be the one they rave about (and invite back)? In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what truly matters to event organizers. Yes, being a dynamic speaker on stage is important, but it's only part of the equation. The rest? It happens behind the scenes. Drawing from years of working directly with events and conferences, I share the top three qualities organizers consistently look for in speakers and how you can embody them: **1. Be a Dream to Work With Behind the Scenes**   Professionalism isn't just appreciated; it's expected. From submitting your materials on time, to showing up early for tech checks, to being responsive throughout the planning process - small actions build your reputation as someone organizers trust and recommend. **2. Customize Your Talk for Their Audience**   A great talk isn't a one-size-fits-all. The best speakers tailor their message to the specific audience in the room. I give you practical tips for adapting your topic so it aligns with the goals and challenges of attendees and stands out in the speaker selection process. **3. Lead with Value—Not a Sales Pitch**   Yes, you can grow your business through speaking, but you have to do it the right way. Learn how to be seen as a generous expert who leaves the audience inspired, not sold to (and leaves the organizer relieved and impressed). The key takeaway? If you want to be the kind of speaker who gets booked again and again, it’s about more than just what you *say* - it’s about who you are throughout the entire process. If you're ready to elevate your message and become that speaker, you can find ways to work with us at speakingyourbrand.com. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.  For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.  The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min
  8. 27 AUG

    Overcome Stage Fright: Proven Strategies to Calm Nerves and Speak with Confidence

    Feeling the flutter of stage fright before stepping onto a stage—or even into a Zoom room—is more common than you think. But those nerves? They’re not a sign of weakness; they’re a sign that you care. In this episode, I share a personal story from my TEDxWomen talk that didn’t go exactly as planned—and how that moment sparked some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned about managing nerves before speaking. You’ll learn:- Why preparation goes beyond memorizing your content—and the exact steps to practice the right way- How mental rehearsal (yes, visualization really works!) can turn fear into familiarity- Simple, science-backed ways to reconnect with your body and bring your most grounded, confident self to the stage Whether you're stepping up for a keynote, webinar, team meeting, or podcast interview, these strategies will help you channel your nervous energy into a powerful, connected delivery. If you’d like coaching support to feel more confident and prepared on stage and in any speaking situation, check out ways to work with us at speakingyourbrand.com. Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you. For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.  The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

    4 min

About

Get quick, practical advice to help you speak with clarity, presence, confidence, and impact, whether you're presenting in a meeting, on stage, or on camera. This show delivers bite-sized episodes that answer the most common questions about public speaking and presentations, based on the Speaking Your Brand® podcast and narrated by host Carol Cox's professionally cloned AI voice. If you want to feel more confident and sound more compelling every time you speak, you're in the right place.

You Might Also Like