The A&S FrontRow Podcast

FrontRow Team

The A&S FrontRow Podcast is where professional speakers, thought leaders, and industry shapers come to stay future-ready, share their journey and stories. Hosted by the team behind the Speaker Summit, Speaker Awards, and a growing global speaker network, each episode explores what it really takes to build a speaking business with substance, strategy, and staying power. We go beyond performance, we interview people in the industry, to talk about positioning, platform, partnerships, trends and the mindset required to lead in today’s ever-evolving speaking landscape. Expect honest conversations, practical insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews with those redefining what it means to speak with impact. If you are scaling a global speaking brand, this podcast is your seat at the table. Welcome to FrontRow Podcast!

  1. Jun 19

    What Award-Winning Speakers Do Differently with Charlott Fagergard

    What separates memorable speakers from those who are quickly forgotten? In this episode, speaker, coach, and Speaker Awards judge Charlott Fagergard shares her perspective on what makes speakers stand out, the trends shaping the industry, and why authenticity remains one of the most powerful tools on stage. From storytelling and visibility to community and continuous learning, Charlott offers practical insights for speakers looking to grow their impact and stay relevant in an evolving industry. 🔑 Key TakeawaysAuthenticity and storytelling drive audience connectionSpeaker Awards can accelerate growth and developmentStrong communities help raise industry standardsVideo content and showreels increase visibilitySharing failures and lessons builds trust and credibility📚 Resources MentionedSpeaker Awards https://thespeakerwards.com Speaker Summit https://thespeakersummit.co Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy https://tinylink.net/4eh7K 🔗 Connect with Charlott Fagergård🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottfagergard/ 📧 Email fagergardcharlott@gmail.com 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode sparked a new idea for your speaking journey, share it with a fellow speaker and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #PublicSpeaking #Storytelling #SpeakerGrowth #Authenticity #CommunicationSkills #ThoughtLeadership #ProfessionalSpeaking #PersonalDevelopment

    What Award-Winning Speakers Do Differently with Charlott Fagergard
  2. May 1

    Why Listening is a Speaker’s Greatest Skill with Mary Tillson-Wharton

    What do judges really look for in a standout speaker? In this episode, speaker coach and judge Mary Tillson-Wharton shares her insights on the Speaker Awards, what defines an outstanding speaker, and how to create impact both on and off the stage. From crafting thoughtful submissions to understanding audience connection, Mary explores what helps speakers succeed. The conversation also touches on diversity, legacy, and the power of listening in both business and life. 🔑 Key TakeawaysThe importance of strong, engaging Speaker Awards submissionsWhat defines an outstanding and impactful speakerWhy content strategy and preparation matterThe importance of gender diversity in the speaking industryListening as a key skill for connection and influence🧠 Key TopicsJudging criteria and what stands out to judgesCrafting effective and thoughtful speaker submissionsAudience perspective and presentation impactGrowth of the speaking industryGender diversity and representationBuilding connection through listeningPersonal stories, legacy, and meaningful work📚 Resources MentionedSpeaker Awards https://thespeakersawards.com/ 🔗 Connect with Mary Tillson-Wharton🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marytillsonwharton/ 🌐 Website mariafranzoni.me (Company) 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode made you rethink your approach to speaking, share it with someone on the same journey and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #PublicSpeaking #Storytelling #Leadership #CommunicationSkills #DiversityInLeadership #SpeakerGrowth

    Why Listening is a Speaker’s Greatest Skill with Mary Tillson-Wharton
  3. Apr 24

    Inside 5 Years of The Speaker Awards: What’s Changed and What Wins with Deenita Pattni

    What does it take to stay relevant as the speaking industry evolves? In this episode, speaker and judge Deenita Pattni shares insights from five years of the Speaker Awards, revealing how standards, expectations, and opportunities have shifted. From authenticity and preparation to embracing platforms like TikTok, Deenita breaks down what helps speakers stand out and build long-term success. 🔑 Key TakeawaysHow the Speaker Awards have evolved over timeWhat judges look for in today’s speakersWhy preparation and authenticity matterThe rise of new platforms like TikTokThe long-term impact of awards on speaker careers📚 Resources MentionedThe Speaker Awards https://thespeakersawards.com/ Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman’s OpenAI https://www.amazon.com/Empire-AI-Dreams-Nightmares-Altmans/dp/0593657500 Speaker Awards Winning Application Deep Dive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9Am7HjgjRw 🔗 Connect with Deenita Pattni🌐 Website https://deenitapattni.com 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/deenita-pattni-speaker/ 📅 Book a Call https://go.oncehub.com 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode gave you a new perspective, share it with a fellow speaker and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #PublicSpeaking #SpeakerGrowth #CommunicationSkills #DigitalPresence #Storytelling #SpeakingTips

    Inside 5 Years of The Speaker Awards: What’s Changed and What Wins with Deenita Pattni
  4. Apr 22

    The Truth About Standing Out on Stage with Sarah Archer

    In this episode, speaker, coach, and judge Sarah Archer shares practical insights on what separates average speakers from those who truly connect and win. From authenticity and storytelling to avoiding common application mistakes, Sarah breaks down what judges look for and why human connection matters more than ever in a digital world. 🔑 Key TakeawaysWhat makes a speaker stand outWhy authenticity and commitment matterStorytelling techniques that engage audiencesCommon mistakes in speaker applicationsThe importance of human connection📚 Resources MentionedSpeaker Awards https://thespeakersawards.com/ Elsie Lincoln Benedict Book https://a.co/d/0jefS0vh 🔗 Connect with Sarah Archer🌐 Website https://lemon-squeeze.co.uk 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraharcher15/ 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode helped you sharpen your speaking, share it with someone preparing for their next stage and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #PublicSpeaking #Storytelling #CommunicationSkills #Leadership #SpeakingTips #AudienceEngagement

    The Truth About Standing Out on Stage with Sarah Archer
  5. Apr 10

    Beyond the Finish Line: Turning Grit into Influence with Frederick Afrifa

    What happens when elite performance meets the world of speaking? In this episode, former Olympian turned speaker and judge Frederick Afrifa shares how he transformed discipline, resilience, and focus from sport into a powerful speaking career. From navigating speaker awards to mastering authentic storytelling, Frederick unpacks what it really takes to connect, influence, and stand out. 🔑 Key TakeawaysTransitioning from elite sport to professional speakingWhy resilience is essential for long-term successLessons from entering speaker awardsUsing storytelling to engage and influenceThe importance of representation and social mobility📚 Resources MentionedSpeaker Awards https://thespeakerawards.com The Apprentice UK https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006m8dq 🔗 Connect with Frederick Afrifa🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/frederick-afrifa-publicspeakingcoach/ 📅 Book a Call http://calendly.com/frederick-lcg/15-mins-1-1?back=1&month=2026-04 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode resonated, share it with someone building their voice and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #PublicSpeaking #Storytelling #Resilience #Leadership #CommunicationSkills #SocialMobility #SpeakerLife

    Beyond the Finish Line: Turning Grit into Influence with Frederick Afrifa
  6. Apr 8

    What It Really Takes to Stand Out as a Speaker with Dominic Eldred Earl

    On The A&S FrontRow Podcast, Elliot Kay sits down with speaker and Speaker Awards judge Dominic Eldred Earl to explore what it really takes to stand out in the speaking industry. Dominic shares insights from both sides of the stage, offering practical advice on judging criteria, crafting strong award entries, and why authenticity and emotional connection matter. He also highlights the importance of diversity and building meaningful relationships with bureaus and clients. 🔑 Key Takeaways -What judges look for in speaker award entries -The importance of authenticity and emotional connection -How to craft a compelling speaker submission -The role of diversity and inclusion in speaking -Building relationships with bureaus and clients 📚 Resources Mentioned The Speaker Awards https://thespeakersawards.com/ Wendy Wolfson https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Wendy+Wolfson Polysecure https://www.amazon.com/Polysecure-attachment-emotions-relationships-therapy/dp/1937708714 🔗 Connect with Dominic Eldred Earl 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominicee/ 🌐Website https://londonspeakerbureau.com/ 🎧 Listen & Watch ▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE

    What It Really Takes to Stand Out as a Speaker with Dominic Eldred Earl
  7. Apr 3

    From Speaker to Lifetime Achievement: Lessons from Rikki Arundel

    Joining Elliot Kay on The A&S FrontRow Podcast is Rikki Arundel, sharing lessons from their journey to becoming a speaker, judge, and Lifetime Achievement Award Winner. Rikki shares practical insights on storytelling, the importance of diversity in the speaking industry, and how AI is shaping communication. He also offers guidance for aspiring speakers looking to develop their voice and impact. 🔑 Key Takeaways - Storytelling techniques and structure for impactful speaking - The importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry - How AI is influencing communication and storytelling 📚 Resources Mentioned Rikki's Website speakersecademy.com Professional Speaking Association (UK) https://www.thepsa.co.uk TEDx https://www.ted.com/tedx Diary of a CEO Podcast open.spotify.com/show/7iQXmUT7XGuZSzAMjoNWlX Jabberwocky Poem www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/42916/jabberwocky 🔗 Connect with Rikki Arundel 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikkiarundel/ 🌐 Linktree https://linktr.ee/rikkiarundel 🎧 Listen & Watch ▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow speaker and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #Storytelling #LGBTQInclusion #PublicSpeaking #LeadershipCommunication #SpeakingWithImpact

    From Speaker to Lifetime Achievement: Lessons from Rikki Arundel
  8. Mar 25

    Judging Criteria and Diversity in the Speaker Industry with Michelle Raymond

    In this episode of The A&S FrontRow Podcast, Elliot Kay speaks with speaker, judge, and LinkedIn expert Michelle Raymond about what it really takes to stand out in the Speaker Awards and beyond. Michelle shares insights on judging criteria, what separates good speakers from great ones, and why authenticity, simplicity, and storytelling matter. She also explores pricing, value perception, and the importance of diversity and community in the speaking industry. 🔑 Key TakeawaysWhat judges look for in award-winning speakersThe importance of storytelling, simplicity, and authenticityHow pricing reflects value in professional speakingThe role of diversity and inclusivity in judgingWhy community matters in building a speaking career📚 Resources MentionedSpeaker Awards https://thespeakerawards.com TEDx Talk by Michelle Raymond https://youtube.com/watch?v=example Maria Franzoni on Pricing https://amazon.com/example Daniel Priestley on Entrepreneurship https://amazon.com/example 🔗 Connect with Michelle Raymond🔗 LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/in/michelleraymond 🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTube www.youtube.com/@TheASFrontRowPodcast 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3o4dWglksZaHqVpUHSpTx9?si=f4f3ce8a3d0e4f12 🎙️ Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956 🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-nice License code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VRE If this episode helped you, share it with a fellow speaker and tag us with your biggest takeaway. #TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit #LeadershipStrategy #TalentRetention #FutureOfWork #HRLeadership #SpeakingWithImpact

    Judging Criteria and Diversity in the Speaker Industry with Michelle Raymond

About

The A&S FrontRow Podcast is where professional speakers, thought leaders, and industry shapers come to stay future-ready, share their journey and stories. Hosted by the team behind the Speaker Summit, Speaker Awards, and a growing global speaker network, each episode explores what it really takes to build a speaking business with substance, strategy, and staying power. We go beyond performance, we interview people in the industry, to talk about positioning, platform, partnerships, trends and the mindset required to lead in today’s ever-evolving speaking landscape. Expect honest conversations, practical insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews with those redefining what it means to speak with impact. If you are scaling a global speaking brand, this podcast is your seat at the table. Welcome to FrontRow Podcast!