Crafting Influence A Speakers Journey from Struggle to Success

Ever wonder what it's like to learn from the legends of public speaking? In this episode, I sit down with Chris Widener, a powerhouse in the world of motivational speaking and leadership. Chris shares his incredible journey from a troubled youth to becoming one of the top 50 speakers in the world, mentored by icons like John Maxwell, Zig Ziglar, and Jim Rohn. Chris pulls back the curtain on his experiences working alongside these speaking giants, offering insights that will fascinate both aspiring speakers and event planners alike. He reveals how he transitioned from pastoring to professional speaking, and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. Key highlights from our conversation:Chris's unconventional path to becoming a world-renowned speakerThe art of crafting speeches that keep audiences engagedHow to tailor your message for different audiences, from corporate executives to politiciansThe importance of authenticity and humility in public speakingStrategies for building influence and persuasion skills Chris also shares a powerful technique he calls the "emotional roller coaster," designed to captivate audiences and drive home key messages. This approach is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their public speaking skills. Nuggets of wisdom you won't want to miss:Why becoming an expert in a specific niche is more valuable than being a jack-of-all-trades speakerThe surprising connection between laughter and persuasion in public speakingHow to avoid common pitfalls when meeting your heroesThe three crucial jobs every speaker must fulfill to be successful Whether you're an event planner seeking to book impactful speakers or a budding orator looking to hone your craft, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories. Chris's journey from troubled teen to speaking alongside legends is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of mentorship. "You have three jobs as a speaker. None of them have to do with your satisfaction. You want the audience to love you, you want to make the meeting planner look great, and you want to communicate the senior leadership's primary message." Tune in for an episode that will not only entertain but also equip you with the tools to become a more influential and engaging speaker. Get ready to be inspired and challenged to elevate your communication game!