Speaker Coaching with Tom Hicks | Episode 21

Finding the Right Speaking Markets with keynote speaker Tom HicksOn Mic Drop Mindset, host Jenn interviews keynote speaker Tom Hicks about identifying target markets for his keynote on fear of failure, where he teaches audiences to juggle in 45–75 minutes to practice embracing failure in a safe, low-stakes way. They discuss logistical considerations like room setup (tables and space vs. auditorium seating), Tom’s preference to travel within a day’s drive from Iowa, his current speaking fee goal,, and his reliance on referrals while building a speaker reel. Tom shares that educators (K–12 staff/faculty and higher ed) and HR-related groups have resonated most, with most bookings originating from women. Jenn suggests expanding into associations, nonprofits and galas, corporate employee resource groups and women’s leadership groups, and chambers of commerce, plus improving follow-up and testimonial collection using tools like spreadsheets and Talkadot or Google Forms.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:46 Tom’s Talk Overview02:19 Room Setup and Logistics04:32 Pricing Goals and Assets05:18 Best Audiences So Far07:34 Multiply What’s Working11:57 New Markets to Target15:19 Choosing Next 6 Months16:48 Follow Up Systems20:58 Mindset for OutreachResources mentioned:Rejection Proof by Jia Jiang https://www.rejectiontherapy.com/bookGo for No by Andrea Waltz and Richard Fenton https://www.goforno.com/Places to Find Speaking Engagements resource (organized by markets): Email me at [email protected] for audience feedback (affiliate): https://share.talkadot.com/jennespinosa-goswamiAbout Tom:Tom Hicks is a keynote speaker and former college Dean who helps people transform fear of failure into fuel for growth by literally teaching them how to juggle. Inspired by a life-changing lesson that began with a gift of juggling balls from his grandmother, Tom has helped thousands of students, leaders, and teams build resilience, embrace mistakes, and rediscover the power of curiosity and play. Connect with Tom:www.linkedin.com/in/hickstrwww.tom-hicks.comHave a question or suggestion for a future episode topic? Email me [email protected] to deliver mic drop moments in your next presentation? Schedule a call to learn more about coaching www.calendly.com/jennchatLooking to book a speaker for your corporate or association event on topics including leadership and communication? View my programs at www.jennspingo.com