Why Your Story Matters to Winning an Award with Adele Bates

In this episode of The A&S FrontRow Podcast, Elliot Kay sits down with award-winning speaker and Best Storyteller recipient Adele Bates to explore her journey to recognition and the power of authentic storytelling in the speaking world.Adele reflects on what it meant to win the Best Storyteller award and the courage it takes to put yourself forward in the first place. She shares the role community plays in supporting speakers, why diversity and representation in awards truly matter, and how recognition can shine a light on the dedication and commitment behind the scenes.The conversation also offers practical insight for speakers considering applying for awards, highlighting how the process itself can be a powerful moment of reflection on your work, your impact, and your growth in the industry.🔑 Key TakeawaysThe significance of community within the speaking industryThe importance of diversity and representation in awards and recognitionPractical steps and mindset shifts when applying for speaking awards💬 Sound Bites"Statistically, I won't win, but I did anyway""I go into freeze when I win an award""The award is about the commitment, dedication, and work"📚 Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeClaire Rackham (Inspirational Speakers): https://linkedin.com/in/claire-rackhamYinka, Coach and Mentor: https://linkedin.com/in/yinkaBook: I Don't Give a Beep: https://amazon.com/dp/B0XXXXXXUpcoming Leadership Book (2026): https://yourwebsite.com/waitinglist🔗 Connect with Adele🌐 Website: https://adelebates.com🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/adele🎧 Listen & Watch▶️ YouTubewww.youtube.com/@thespeakerawards🎧 Spotifyopen.spotify.com/show/6F3LIb6KakYd75aOLXKjUc?si=1cd39f28eeb64391🎙️ Apple Podcastpodcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-a-s-frontrow-podcast/id1874937956🔗 LinkedIn (The Speaker Awards & Summit)www.linkedin.com/company/speaker-awards-summit/?viewAsMember=true🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/real-niceLicense code: JNRLONKWY0DA3VREIf this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow speaker, leave a review, and tag us with your biggest takeaway.Ready to step forward and share your story?Explore the Speaker Awards and join a community that celebrates excellence, courage, and impact.#TheASFrontRowPodcast #TheSpeakerAwards #TheSpeakerSummit