EPISODE · Jul 14, 2026 · 41 MIN
Before the First Word Is Spoken
from The Presentation Whisperer Show · host Rob Jolles
In this episode of The Presentation Whisperer Show, you'll learn: • How to design presentations for different cognitive styles without making delivery overly complicated. • Why some facilitators delay introductions and audience participation until later in the workshop. • What presenters do that unintentionally creates cognitive load before delivering value. • The hidden psychological mistakes trainers make before they ever begin speaking. • How room setup influences participation, energy, and learning outcomes. • What today's audiences expect from learning experiences and where many trainers still miss the mark. • Whether there is an ideal way to greet participants before a workshop begins. • How to know when connecting with participants during breaks is helpful versus intrusive. • The advantages and disadvantages of using a U-shape seating configuration. • The warning signs that a training room setup may be working against the facilitator. • How psychology and content expertise work together to create effective learning experiences. • What keynote speakers can learn from professional trainers about audience engagement and room awareness. • One simple change facilitators can make immediately to improve workshop effectiveness. To learn more about this guest: Contact Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unlabelledandlimitless/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lois-baynham/ Website: https://www.unlabelledandlimitless.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unlabelledandlimitless/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnlabelledandLimitless/ Hosted by Rob Jolles; professional speaker, bestselling author, and four-decade veteran of the stage and training room.Learn more about Rob’s books, training programs, and keynote work at ThePresentationWhisperer.com, or Jolles.com.Connect with Rob on LinkedIn or follow Rob’s LinkedIn Newsletter, When Every Word Matters
What this episode covers
What if the success of your workshop is determined before you ever begin speaking? From room setup and seating arrangements to the way participants are greeted, small decisions can have a surprisingly large impact on engagement, participation, and learning outcomes. Lois Baynham sits down with Rob to explore the hidden psychology behind effective training and facilitation. As Founder of Unlabelled & Limitless, a former HR leader, and a psychology-informed strategist, Lois shares practical insights on reducing cognitive overload, designing for different cognitive styles, and creating learning environments where people are more likely to engage, learn, and retain information.
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Before the First Word Is Spoken
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