Speaker Dynamics - Own The Room

Karin Reed

Have you ever been captivated by a great speaker and wondered how they make it look so effortless? Trust me, while it may look effortless, it likely took a lot of effort to get there. How do I know? Because I’ve helped thousands of coaching clients take their speaking skills from bland to “bravo!”, and I’m ready to help you too. In this twice monthly podcast, I’ll teach you how to deliver a message with impact – whether you are pitching an idea to investors, charging up your team at sales kickoff, or seeking to influence a decision by your board. In 30 minutes or less, you’ll hear actionable tips from me and my expert guests on how to close that deal, inspire your team to excellence, and own any room.

  1. JUN 3

    EP37: Inspiring through Storytelling

    Most business presentations are packed with data no one remembers. Stories are what actually stick.   Karin Reed is joined by senior communication coach Andrea Brody for a conversation that redefines what storytelling looks like in a business setting. What makes someone pause, lean in, and actually remember what you said? Well, it’s probably not your bullet points.   Andrea shares insights from her Inspiring Through Storytelling workshop, including the science behind why our brains respond so strongly to stories, and why even simple, everyday moments can leave a lasting impression. She breaks down common misconceptions about what counts as a “real” story and explains how value stories, founder stories, and customer stories can all be used strategically, depending on your audience.   For anyone who’s tired of being forgettable in meetings, pitches, or presentations, Karin and Andrea’s conversation offers a smarter way to connect, and a clearer reason to start sharing stories that actually mean something.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Business Storytelling and Why It Matters 02:51 Inside the “Inspiring Through Storytelling” Workshop 05:04 The Science Behind Why Stories Stick 07:59 What Makes a Story Effective 10:54 “I’m Not a Storyteller” and Other Common Myths 11:18 How to Find Meaningful Stories in Everyday Life 13:35 Participant Breakthroughs and Story Wins 19:40 NFL Combine Example: Quiet Leadership Through Story 22:07 Leading Through Storytelling in Tough Times   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    26 min
  2. MAY 20

    EP36: Pitch Perfect - Becoming a Media Expert with Paula Rizzo

    Becoming a go-to media expert doesn’t happen by chance. There are multiple factors that make you the guest who is on speed dial. But what are those factors?    Karin Reed talks with Paula Rizzo, an Emmy-winning producer, author and media trainer, about what it really takes to get booked by the media and asked back. Why do some experts become regulars while others never hear a word? What makes a producer stop scrolling and actually open your pitch?   Paula shares what she looked for when booking guests during her years in TV news and how she used those same strategies to build her own media presence. She explains the importance of showing up online, pitching with a clear hook and takeaway, and creating content that reflects your expertise. She also unpacks what it means to be “good on camera” and why clarity always matters more than charisma.   This episode offers guidance for authors, entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts who want to raise their visibility and be taken seriously by the media. If you’re ready to be seen as the expert, this is where to begin.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Becoming a Media Expert 01:13 Paula Rizzo’s Media Journey 03:20 How to Start: Blogging, Pitching, and Visibility 05:00 What Makes a Great Media Guest 06:10 Why Availability Matters 08:19 How to Pitch the Media Effectively 10:54 Follow-Up and Relationship Building 13:11 Understanding What Producers Actually Need 14:55 Being Good on Camera 19:11 Speaking in Soundbites 21:23 Where to Begin as an Aspiring Expert 23:57 Common Misconceptions About Media 26:04 When to Start Media Training 27:50 Be Visible to Be Found   Links Connect with Paula Rizzo: For listeners – anyone who is interested in applying for a free strategy session with me can go to SpeakWithPaula.com to apply. There are limited spots available. For anyone interested in lists and productivity, here’s a list-making starter kit at paularizzo.com/lists To connect via LinkedIn please go here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paularizzo1/   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    30 min
  3. MAY 6

    EP35: Will You Let Me Finish?

    Controlling a room full of senior leaders starts with knowing your mission and refusing to let interruptions derail it. So what happens when you walk into a meeting ready to present and the executives start cutting you off before you even reach slide two? Karin Reed knows the feeling, and she offers a smarter way to handle it without losing control or losing your nerve.   In this episode, Karin breaks down five practical strategies for staying in charge when senior leaders steer the conversation off course. She shares why setting expectations early can help you hold the room, how trimming your content down to what matters most can work in your favor, and why you should never make a busy executive wait for the point you’re trying to make. Would your presentation land differently if you led with the ‘ask’ instead of saving it for the end? Karin explains why it would and how it changes the way people listen. You’ll also hear smart ways to handle interruptions without giving away control and how to design your slides to flex with the conversation instead of boxing you in.   Karin drives home a simple truth: your voice matters, no matter where you sit on the org chart. When you stay intentional, respectful, and focused, you help leaders make better decisions. And that is exactly why you are in the room.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 01:04 Mission and Importance of Presentation 02:32 Understanding Senior Leaders’ Intent 04:51 Five Strategies Overview 05:03 Strategy 1: Setting Expectations 07:10 Strategy 2: Be Realistic with Content 10:18 Strategy 3: Don’t Bury the Lead 14:00 Strategy 4: Handling Questions 18:46 Strategy 5: Be Flexible   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    26 min
  4. APR 22

    EP34: Tales from the Trenches of the Speakers Circuit

    Most people think polish makes a speaker great. Authenticity is what makes an audience listen.   In this episode, Karin Reed talks with international keynote speaker and bestselling author Ryan Vet about what it really takes to build a professional speaking business. From a non-linear journey shaped by entrepreneurship and early Twitter fame to a moment of clarity sparked by unexpected feedback, Ryan shares how authenticity, not polish, is the quality that sets great speakers apart.   Ryan and Karin discuss common misconceptions about the speaking world, including the myth that success happens quickly or that all impactful talks happen on massive stages. Ryan offers practical insight into building a sustainable speaking business, from understanding who’s in the room to customizing talks without compromising your voice. He also explains why things like AV etiquette, recording your talks, and building multiple revenue streams are part of the job, not just extras.   Whether you’re aiming for the main stage or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this conversation pulls back the curtain on professional speaking with honesty, humor, and a healthy dose of real talk.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Ryan’s Path to Professional Speaking 04:30 Lessons from Writing Speak Goodr 06:00 Handling On-Stage Mishaps 09:24 Respecting the AV Team 10:04 Building a Speaking Business 12:43 Setting and Explaining Your Fee 16:37 Creating Multiple Revenue Streams 17:05 Preparing for Your Audience 20:14 Why Recording Your Talks Matters 22:19 How the Speaking Industry is Changing 23:32 Impacting Audiences of Any Size 25:55 Stick With It   Links Connect with Ryan Vet: www.RyanVet.com  www.SpeakGoodr.com   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    28 min
  5. APR 8

    EP33: An Executive Presence Toolkit

    Executive presence isn’t something you’re just born with. It’s built through intention, visibility, and the willingness to quiet your inner critic. These are some of the key takeaways from Karin Reed’s talk produced by e-learning titan, Madecraft, as part of their &Then speakers’ series.   Karin returns to a topic she’s known for—owning the room—but this time through a more personal lens. What does it take to show up with confidence when your inner voice is questioning every move? How do you project leadership when imposter syndrome is creeping into your psyche?   Through stories from her early days as a young reporter and lessons learned from years coaching professionals on camera and in the room, Karin outlines what executive presence really requires. She breaks it down into three areas: how others see you, how you see yourself, and how you stay true to who you are while still making an impact.   You’ll hear tips for making stronger digital impressions, learn why solo episodes almost didn’t happen on her podcast, and get a reminder that your value isn’t tied to how well you match someone else’s mold. This episode is a smart, honest look at how to show up clearly, confidently, and fully yourself.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  02:08 Defining Executive Presence 05:12 The Importance of First Impressions 07:00 Elements of Strong Presence 09:17 Improving Your Virtual Presence 12:48 Maximizing Your Screen Space 13:10 Owning Your Expertise 16:02 The Value of Authenticity 17:27 The Importance of Executive Presence   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    21 min
  6. MAR 25

    EP32: Speak to Lead through Uncertainty with Kevin Eikenberry

    Rigid leadership is a thing of the past. In today’s unpredictable world, leaders who adapt are the ones who thrive. But what does true flexibility look like?   Karin Reed sits down with leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry to talk about the ideas in his latest book, “Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence.” He challenges the belief that leadership styles should stay fixed, arguing that clinging to one approach can limit effectiveness. Instead, he shares how leaders can stay rooted in their values while adjusting their methods to fit the moment.   How do you break free from habits that no longer serve you? When should you step in with direction, and when should you hold back and listen? Kevin shares examples, strategies, and a framework for developing the mindset, skillset, and habit set needed to lead with confidence, no matter what comes next.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Flexible Leadership 06:37 Flexibility Beyond Remote Work 09:01 Real-World Example: Asking vs. Telling 13:23 Importance of Listening in Leadership 15:34 Framework: Mindset, Skill Set, and Habit Set 18:30 Balancing Empathy with Organizational Goals 20:26 Challenges in Adopting Flexible Leadership 24:35 Future of Flexible Leadership 25:44 One Big Takeaway: Context Matters   Links Connect with Kevin Eikenberry: https://kevineikenberry.com http://KevinEikenberry.com/flexible KevinEikenberry.com/gift https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevineikenberry/ https://twitter.com/kevineikenberry https://www.youtube.com/user/KevinEikenberryGroup   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    30 min
  7. MAR 11

    EP31: Marking Communication Milestones

    Milestones often go unnoticed in the moment, but looking back, they reveal the moments that shape careers, confidence, and impact.   As Speaker Dynamics turns one, Karin Reed reflects on the moments that defined her communication journey: an unexpected assignment that led to an Emmy, a simple legal pad sketch that became a career-defining framework, and the years of preparation that positioned her to help professionals navigate the sudden shift to virtual communication. Along the way, she discovered that the most meaningful opportunities aren’t always the ones we seek out, but the ones that challenge us in ways we never expected.   What experiences have quietly reshaped your path? This episode is a reminder to recognize the lessons in past milestones, and to use them to shape what comes next.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 03:06 First Communication Milestone: Tuesday’s Child 05:37 Impact of Tuesday’s Child Assignment 06:48 Emmy Award for Special Needs Adoption Documentary 07:02 Lesson from Tuesday’s Child Experience 07:03 Second Communication Milestone: Teaching On-Camera Communication 08:58 Developing the MVPs of On-Camera Success 10:13 Expanding Workshops and Writing a Book 10:45 Lesson from Teaching On-Camera Communication 11:07 Third Communication Milestone: 2020 and Virtual Communication 12:13 Webinar with Dr. Joe Allen 13:06 Onslaught of Business in 2020 14:00 Scaling Training and Speaker Dynamics University 15:04 Lesson from 2020 Experience 16:10 Reflecting on Career Impact 17:35 This Week’s Big Takeaway 18:17 Encouragement to Reflect on Personal Milestones 18:48 Closing   Links Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    20 min
  8. FEB 25

    EP30: Commuting with a Click - An Experiment in Spatial Working... that Worked!

    Can remote teams recreate those spontaneous office moments, the quick chats and casual check-ins, without stepping into a building?   Karin Reed sits down with Lisette Sutherland, director of Collaboration Superpowers, to talk about spatial working, a fresh approach to remote work that brings a real sense of presence to virtual teams. Instead of relying on scheduled meetings, these digital office spaces create opportunities for spontaneous interactions. Teams can see who is around, drop in for quick conversations, and feel more connected throughout the day.   Lisette shares her own experience testing these tools, including Welo, and explains why they offer something that video calls and Slack messages cannot. She also digs into the biggest hurdles, why teams hesitate to try new tech, what makes adoption tricky, and how to introduce it in a way that actually sticks.   If remote work feels disconnected or overly structured, this episode offers a different way forward. Could spatial working be the key to rebuilding team culture and making virtual collaboration feel effortless?   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Spatial Working 01:06 Lisette Sutherland 02:08 Defining Spatial Working 03:55 Benefits of Spatial Working 06:20 Lisette’s Deep Dive into Spatial Working 09:10 Serendipity in Virtual Offices 10:12 Barriers to Adoption 13:13 Ideal Organization Size for Spatial Working 16:14 Solving Connectedness with Spatial Working 18:13 Experimenting with Spatial Working 19:04 Lack of Awareness and Future Trends 21:44 Ingredients for a Successful Launch 23:44 Making Networking Events Fun 24:34 Key Takeaways 26:01 Closing   Links https://www.collaborationsuperpowers.com/166-why-virtual-coworking-rocks/ Welo (a Collaboration Superpowers favorite) - https://www.welo.space Remo - https://remo.co Gathertown - https://www.gather.town Kumospace - https://www.kumospace.com   Connect with Karin Reed: Website: www.speakerdynamics.com Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/ Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/ Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

    28 min
5
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

Have you ever been captivated by a great speaker and wondered how they make it look so effortless? Trust me, while it may look effortless, it likely took a lot of effort to get there. How do I know? Because I’ve helped thousands of coaching clients take their speaking skills from bland to “bravo!”, and I’m ready to help you too. In this twice monthly podcast, I’ll teach you how to deliver a message with impact – whether you are pitching an idea to investors, charging up your team at sales kickoff, or seeking to influence a decision by your board. In 30 minutes or less, you’ll hear actionable tips from me and my expert guests on how to close that deal, inspire your team to excellence, and own any room.