100 episodes
Command Performances with Cheryl Knowlton Cheryl Knowlton
-
- Business
-
-
5.0 • 15 Ratings
-
Welcome to "Command Performances," your weekly infusion of high-octane conversations, where the real art and science of professional public speaking ascend to extraordinary heights – reminiscent of a performance worthy of royalty.
I'm Cheryl Knowlton, your dynamite host, bringing over 20 years of expertise in captivating audiences. As a Certified Speaking Professional, I've journeyed through the exhilarating highs and challenging lows of public speaking. I'm here to share these experiences with you – the triumphs, the stumbles, and everything in between
Join me and my array of incredible guests, including many revered Certified Speaking Professionals and Hall of Fame Speakers from the National Speakers Association. Each episode of "Command Performances" transcends the ordinary podcast format. It's a vibrant, REAL conversation, an expedition exploring every facet of the art and the science of professional public speaking.
Just like the esteemed "Command Performances" of old, demanded by royalty for their exceptional standard, we delve into techniques, strategies, and personal stories with the same level of excellence and grandeur. Our mission is to kindle a fire within you, to empower you to seize the stage with a confidence so compelling, it could command the attention of monarchs.
Whether you're a veteran speaker or just starting your journey in the spotlight, "Command Performances" is a treasure chest brimming with insights. Insights that don't just unlock, but also help you to monetize the unique magic in your voice.
But our vision goes beyond the podcast. "Command Performances" is a global movement, a rallying cry for speakers worldwide to discover and amplify their unique voices. Join us on this exhilarating adventure as we help you unlock the power of your voice.
Listeners will learn not just to own their stage, but to command it – in their professional lives, personal interactions, and even long after the curtain falls.
So let's set the stage ablaze with Mastery, Authenticity, Growth, Impact, and Confidence!
Welcome aboard "Command Performances" – where your speaking journey transforms into a command performance that captivates and inspires, just as it would in the halls of royalty. Your speaking magic isn’t just about taking flight; it's about soaring to new heights!
-
Rich Hopkins: Overcoming Challenges and Winning Anyway
Join me, your host Cheryl Knowlton, as I dive into the awe-inspiring journeys of individuals who have faced immense challenges yet chose to win anyway! Witness the incredible story of Rich Hopkins, who turned a birth defect into a strength with a robotic leg. Join me and my inspiring guests as we discuss overcoming challenges, igniting your speaking potential, and choosing to win anyway! Tune in to Command Performances now and learn how to unmute yourself and create an impact!
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Rich Hopkins discuss:
Rich’s awe-inspiring story of overcoming a birth defect by upgrading to a robotic leg, exemplifying the concept of giving up something to gain something better.
The heart-wrenching story of Jeff's daughter Bailey and her battle with neurofibromatosis, and how she chose to win anyway despite her challenging circumstances
Cheryl Knowlton’s journey from graphic design to speaker coaching, highlighting the importance of supportive environments like Toastmasters in helping individuals overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators
Rich’s experiences, from participating in Toastmasters' World Championship of Public Speaking to delivering a TEDx talk
Key Takeaways:
Discover how to unmute yourself and ignite your speaking potential for change and impact
Understand the concept of winning anyway by pushing forward, celebrating progress, and defining your own victories
Learn about Toastmasters, a program that helps individuals overcome their fear of public speaking
Be encouraged to push your boundaries, create new ones, and find the magic in doing so
Rich motivates us to find our own versions of success in a world often too quick to judge, reminding us of the magic that lies in pushing and expanding our own boundaries.
“I chose to win anyway. I chose to upgrade my left leg with a super deluxe robot leg, as my kids called it.”
-Rich Hopkins
About the guest, Rich Hopkins:
Rich believes in the ‘WinAnyway! Life’ — Winning Anyway, Leading Anyway, Speaking Anyway — and more. He brings his audiences to both tears and laughter — teaching them through his own experiences as a father of six, an elective amputee, and more than 30 years in sales and marketing. His competitive streak is evident in his professional and personal life – being forever documented in SPEAK: The Movie.
He’s spent over 20 years in front of audiences of every size, from one-on-one to groups of 500+, sharing motivational stories, leading sales presentations, and coaching award-winning – and audience winning – speakers. No matter your audience age or background — including private companies, entrepreneurs, or students — learning to Win Anyway will be crucial to their success — and yours!
CONNECT WITH RICH:
Website: https://www.richhopkins.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richhopkins/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/rich.hopkins?_rdc=1&_rdr
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzvNbWSONhsgki0z-pCdWUg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winanywayguy/
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/RichHopkins
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. -
Dr. Michael Hudson: Serving Your Audience Through Authentic Storytelling
In this transformative episode of Command Performances, we are thrilled to have Dr. Michael Hudson share his wisdom on adapting to change and thriving in the real estate industry. Discover how focusing on relationships, education, and personal growth can help you navigate challenges and achieve success.
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Dr. Michael Hudson discuss how to:
Explore techniques from acting and theater to deliver powerful performances that serve your audience
Hear personal stories of overcoming trauma and finding purpose in helping others think differently and take action
Understand how aligning yourself can attract the right people and create stunning differences in your interactions
Discover the importance of taking care of yourself first before sharing your story in a way that serves your audience
Key Takeaways:
Impact of COVID-19
As the world faced the challenges of the COVID pandemic, the speaker community had to adapt quickly, finding new ways to connect with and inspire their audiences.
The Backstory Initiative
The Backstory Initiative, a two-day in-person workshop, guides participants through the process of reframing their personal stories in a safe and approachable manner.
Working on Trauma
Dr. Michael Hudson encourages listeners to acknowledge and work through their trauma, emphasizing that life is much different on the other side after doing the necessary work.
“Let's talk about the three-sentence story for a minute… Storytelling is basically about exposition. What are the basic facts? It's about conflict. What's happening that makes something else have to happen? And it's about a resolution.”
-Dr. Michael Hudson
About the guest, Dr. Michael Hudson:
Recovering College Professor. Speaker. Consultant. Coach. Michael Hudson was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug at an early age—starting his first business when he was just seven years old. He went on to start a disc jockey business in his teens, and a cabinet and countertop business with his father while in college, before running away from home to become a college professor. During his tenure in academia, he spearheaded two nationally recognized business programs, one at Cornell University and the other at the University of Illinois, before leaving the academic world to turn to his entrepreneurial passions.
Since then he has worked with the leaders of over 3,000 businesses, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations, and government agencies helping them define their visions, develop their leaders, and design their cultures. After growing up petrified to speak in public, Michael committed to helping people develop their ability to communicate their messages to those who need to hear them. He regularly speaks at conferences and conventions sharing his personal story—revealing the power of personal experiences to lead audiences to take action—and has delivered over 8,000 paid presentations across the past 34 years. Michael recently partnered with a long-time client to build a transformational development program for aspiring leaders.
CONNECT WITH DR. MICHAEL:
Website: https://www.thebackstoryinitiative.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaelhudson
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. -
Marelle Brewer: Finding Strength in Our Differences
Marelle Brewer shares her personal experiences as a mother of children with disabilities, discussing the challenges faced and the lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of treating children with disabilities like everyone else, being creative in finding solutions, and focusing on the most urgent needs. Discover how books helped Marelle's son with autism overcome obstacles and the heartwarming story behind her book "100 Shiny Pennies." Learn the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent, finding joy in life, and seeing the best in others.
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Marelle Brewer discuss how to:
Learn strategies for overcoming the fear of public speaking and building confidence as a speaker
Discover how personal experiences with disabilities can lead to becoming an advocate for others in the disability community
Understand the significant role books can play in helping children with autism overcome obstacles and become highly functional
Hear the inspiring story behind the book "100 Shiny Pennies" and its message about strengths and weaknesses
Learn essential tips for helping children with disabilities live a beautiful life, such as treating them like everyone else and being creative in finding solutions
Understand the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent and finding medical professionals who truly care when dealing with unusual medical conditions
Discover the value of allowing children with disabilities to explore their passions and find joy in life, even if their conditions may not improve.
“Get support when you need it. Take breaks when you need it. Recognize your own limitations when you need to, and just give yourself grace wherever you are on your journey and recognize.”
-Marelle Brewer
About the guest, Marelle Brewer:
Marelle Brewer is a prominent figure in disability parenting, known for her advocacy for inclusivity and resilience. Through her podcast and authored work, she shares insights into raising children with disabilities, emphasizing equality and the importance of parental intuition. Her commitment to celebrating strengths and offering practical advice continues to empower families facing similar challenges.
Drawing from her personal experiences, particularly her daughter's journey with a rare seizure disorder, Marelle highlights the significance of trusting parental instincts and fostering environments where children with disabilities can thrive. Her upcoming picture book and authored work, "100 Shiny Pennies," further showcase her dedication to inspiring hope and resilience in the disability community.
CONNECT WITH MARELLE:
Book: https://www.amazon.com/100-Shiny-Pennies-Shining-Disabilities/dp/0997812710
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. -
Heidi DeGraffenried: The Goddess Code: Redefining Success and Power for Modern Women
Heidi DeGraffenried, the founder of the She Rise Center and author of 'The Goddess Code', unveils the secrets of commanding your space through mindful communication and sinking into your divine feminine energy. Are you ready to redefine success, embrace your core strengths, and enhance your personal and professional relationships? Learn how gender intelligence can boost your bottom line by 35% and why a blend of masculine and feminine energies is essential for harmony and growth.
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Heidi DeGraffenried discuss how to:
Understand how gender intelligence and utilizing the strengths of both men and women can increase a company's bottom line by 35%
Explore the significance of finding the balance between masculine and feminine energy in business partnerships and personal growth
Gain insights on how women can sink into their feminine energy and creative power to share their gifts with the world
Recognize the power of self-compassion as a tool for women to find safety and love within themselves
Learn how living a 'both end' life, balancing the masculine and feminine, leads to a fulfilling and meaningful existence.
Key Takeaways:
The Goddess Code
"The Goddess Code" goes further, delineating the GODDESS acronym that stands for guiding principles like self-compassion, connection, trust, embracing shadows, empowerment, and spiritual sexuality—all facets designed to help women reclaim their power and redefine success on their terms.
Finding your voice
Heidi's final call to action is an empowering declaration: women finding their voice and claiming their power can lead to a paradigm shift in society. Her belief, radiating hope and conviction, is that if good men and women hold the reins of power, we will witness transformative shifts in our world.
“[As women], we feel less worthy to receive. And so [we must be] able to open ourselves to receive what comes, open ourselves to receive those beautiful gifts that are put into our lives.” - Heidi DeGraffenried
About the guest, Heidi DeGraffenried:
Heidi DeGraffenried is a women’s development expert with more than 25 years of experience teaching women to gain self-awareness, trust inner guidance and maximize their greatest traits. Her goal is to unlock the best in women to unlock the best in society. She is the author of "The Goddess Code" and host of "The Goddess Code" Podcast. She has been married to her husband Jimmy for 30 years and is the mother of six plus three in-law kids and grandma "Cookie" to two, almost four adorable grandkids. She loves hiking, yoga, travel, art, and attempting Pinterest projects.
CONNECT WITH HEIDI:
Website: https://www.sherisecenter.com/
Email: theGoddessCode1@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidi.degraffenried/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherisecenter/
Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sherisecenter
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Goddess-Code-Heidi-Degraffenried/dp/1958626406
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. -
Becky Kemp: The Word Effect: Crafting a Life of Impact and Empowerment
Get ready to transform your voice into a superpower with the latest episode of Command Performances! Join host Cheryl Knowlton and the inspiring Becky Kemp as they dive deep into The Word Effect. Discover Becky's personal journey from feeling stuck to becoming a sought-after speaker and author. Learn how the words we choose shape our reality, influencing our path to success or deterring us from our dreams.
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Becky Kemp discuss how to:
Learn about the power of words and their positive or negative impact on your life
Understand the importance of acknowledging your dreams, asking better questions, and having an abundance mindset
Gain insights into the journey of writing a book and the significance of consistently showing up for your dreams
Discover the value of celebrating accomplishments, focusing on the good, and embracing the journey of progression
Understand the role of making decisions, learning from failures, and seeking solutions in achieving your dreams
Learn how to cultivate your vision by being intentional with your language and focusing on what you can do
Key Takeaways:
The Word Effect
Becky's book on ”The Word Effect" is a pivotal part of her discussion, as it unravels the immense influence our words have. Positive language can propel us forward, while negative terminology can hold us back.
Consistency and discipline
Consistency in nurturing our goals, as Becky points out, is critical. She talks about the discipline required to show up for your dreams and the need for self-investment. In doing so, she extols the virtues of patience and curiosity in the journey of book-writing, echoing her positive experience with Leadership Books in publishing her manuscript.
Celebrating small triumphs
The conversation also touches upon the value of celebrating our triumphs rather than rushing past them. Acknowledging our strides helps in training our minds to focus on the positive and appreciate the beauty of growth.
“Words are powerful and they really do matter. And you have the power to choose those words you put in your life. That's what's so awesome. You have the power to decide and to become intentional with them. And as you do that, you can cultivate and create the life that you've always wanted.”
-Becky Kemp
About the guest, Becky Kemp:
Becky Kemp's life took a turn in 2005 when faced with the unexpected arrival of another son, challenging her carefully laid plans. In this moment of turmoil, she unearthed the transformative power of words, leading to the creation of "The Word Effect," a philosophy distilled into seven simple yet profound words that serve as a guiding light for individuals and organizations alike, empowering them to rewrite their narratives and shape lives of authenticity and fulfillment. Through her book, coaching, and speaking engagements, Becky inspires others to embrace the profound impact of language, becoming architects of their own destinies.
CONNECT WITH BECKY:
Website: https://becomingwithbecky.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becomingwithbecky/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becomingwithbecky/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingwithbecky/
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. -
Dr. Candy Campbell: Acting, Nursing, and the Flight Path Back to Performance
In this week's episode of "Command Performances," host Cheryl Knowlton welcomes Dr. Candy Campbell to explore the themes of creativity and connectivity in the realm of communication and public speaking. Dr. Campbell shares her unique journey from an initial bachelor’s degree in acting to becoming a flight attendant and transitioning into nursing, eventually returning to her passion for acting and creating her one-woman show, "Full Frontal, A Comedy with Dark Spots."
In this episode, Cheryl Knowlton and Dr. Candy Campbell discuss how to:
Dive into the world of applied improv in healthcare with us! Candy shares her journey from acting to nursing, and back to her passion for performing.
Learn how the power of *yes and* in improv can build relationships, enhance teamwork, and unleash a wellspring of creativity for speakers and professionals alike.
Hear fascinating stories from her unique educational background, including her first solo show and the digitization of historic Florence Nightingale’s books.
Key Takeaways:
Evidence-based practice comes to light
Dr. Campbell's groundbreaking work alongside Stanford Children's Hospital proved the significance of research-backed practices in healthcare. A monumental step in integrating creative approaches to patient care.
The flight path from acting to nursing
Discover the unique story of how a hiatus from acting and a passion for helping others led Dr. Campbell from the skies to the nursing field, and back to her love for the stage.
Solo ventures in the spotlight
Hear her compelling story about her show "Full Frontal, a comedy with dark spots," and her work on digitizing Florence Nightingale's legacy.
The silver screen calls
After five years, countless interviews, and a journey through film school, Dr. Campbell's 44-minute documentary sheds light on the challenges of prematurity, showcasing her dedication and versatility.
“Ultimately, the things I have found that the things that I most want in life are not things that come to me easily, [it’s those] things that are hard-fought, hard-won and things that I can look back [to].”
- Dr. Candy Campbell
About the guest, Dr. Candy Campbell:
Candy Campbell is a dynamic figure, celebrated for her achievements as an award-winning actor, author, and filmmaker. Yet, her contributions extend beyond the entertainment industry. A devoted nurse and mother, Candy's diverse pursuits reflect her unwavering dedication to making a difference in people's lives.
Despite the demands of her intensive care nursing career, Candy found joy in her "side-hustle" as a commercial actor and later explored stand-up and improv comedy, co-founding The Barely Insane Players. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she began teaching applied improv skills to Silicon Valley start-ups, later conducting groundbreaking research at Stanford's LPCH, showcasing the transformative power of improv in communication, team dynamics, and healthcare resilience. Today, Candy's legacy continues to inspire as she passionately advocates for innovative approaches to fostering connection and problem-solving across diverse fields.
CONNECT WITH DR. CANDY:
Website: https://www.candycampbell.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CandyCampbellRN
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candy.campbell.336/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcandycampbell/
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/CandyCampbellRN
CONNECT WITH CHERYL:
Website: www.cherylknows.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwvWKXBC6fKn1dLGY11hxIg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theknowltonteam/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylknowlton/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylknows/
Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez
Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
Customer Reviews
A must-listen to for every speaker
I have found a valuable resource in the Command the Stage Podcast. Each episode is filled with insightful advice, practical steps, and concrete takeaways that have greatly improved my speaking abilities. The podcast goes beyond just teaching the mechanics of becoming a compelling speaker; it also explores the reasons for engaging with your audience and delivering effective content. With its abundant insights and expert guidance, the Command the Stage Podcast is an essential tool for anyone who wants to make a lasting impression in keynote speaking.
Well worth the listen
The podcast I go back to more than all the rest. Every bit is so real, encouraging and straightforward!! When I listen I feel the possibility of who I am and all that I am capable of. One of my favorites that helps me truly want to be my best professionally, in relationships and all aspects of life!
YES please!!
Every single podcast of Cheryl’s that I listen to gives me so much joy! Her energy and guests give me courage to try new things, think about situations in a different light and she brings so many incredible leaders in to share their experiences. Their stories stay with me throughout the day and make my mind crackle with ideas on how to bring their teachings into my business and life. You will love the energy Cheryl brings to your ears and heart!