Beyond The Keynote Show

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Jane LangofWebsite: fengshuiconcepts.com.au LinkedIn: Jane Langof Instagram: @fengshuiconcepts Book: Feng Shui: A Homeowner's Guide to AbundanceJane Langof: From Accountant to Feng Shui Master on a Mission to Fix Your EnergyEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Jane Langof, award-winning Feng Shui master, keynote speaker, and author of Feng Shui: A Homeowner's Guide to Abundance. Jane was the only child who read books aloud to her neighbours from her bedroom window. Her dad wanted her to become a teacher and marry a doctor. She became an accountant, married an accountant, then visited a psychic who told her to study interior design and Feng Shui. She has been practising since 2008, working with homeowners, property developers, architects, and global brands including HelloFresh and Roche Bobois. Carmen and Jane dig into the myths around Feng Shui, why your front entrance is the gateway to wealth, where not to put your stove, and how the energy in your surroundings affects you, whether you believe in it or not.Key MomentsReading books aloud to her neighbours from her bedroom window as a childLeaving a 15-year accounting career after a psychic told her to study interior design and Feng ShuiBeing told by her psychic friend that her first big talk wasn't very good and she needed to join ToastmastersGetting her first expo speaking slot through a friend who gave her five minutes inside her own presentationDiscovering the "killing husband section" in her own kitchen plans and moving the stoveBrand collaborations with HelloFresh, Roche Bobois, and Castlebury in SingaporeQuotes to Remember"Speaking is a muscle that needs to be exercised. Communication is the number one skill to elevate in all aspects of your life.""Feng Shui is about your relationship with your environment and how that impacts you on a mental, physical and spiritual level."Jane's JourneyGrew up in Sydney as an only child. Followed her friends into accounting and spent 15 years in the profession before a psychic redirected her toward interior design and Feng Shui. Founded Feng Shui Concepts in 2008. Accredited by the International Feng Shui Association in Singapore and the Design Institute of Australia. Her work has earned recognition from the Master Builders Association and the Design Institute of Australia. Speaks at expos and conferences across Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Cambodia. Author of the award-winning Feng Shui: A Homeowner's Guide to Abundance.Advice for SpeakersTreat speaking like going to the gym. You never feel like doing it beforehand, but you always feel great after. Lean in and practise at every opportunity. Use footage from smaller gigs to pitch yourself for bigger stages. And don't hide behind the lectern; step out and let the audience see you.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Dr. Amy Gershkoff BollesLinkedIn: Amy Gershkoff Bolles New Venture: aurelialifestylebrands.com Instagram: @spaviamarinDr. Amy Gershkoff Bolles: From Calling Grandma for a Cabbage Patch Doll to Architecting Obama's Analytics StrategyEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Dr. Amy Gershkoff Bolles, a technology executive, founder, board director, and keynote speaker who has held C-suite roles as CEO, COO, CFO, and Chief Data Officer at companies including eBay, Zynga, and Levi Strauss & Co. Amy was the three-year-old who taught herself to dial the telephone so she could call her grandmother and plead her case for a Cabbage Patch doll. That determination carried her from Cornell to Princeton, where she earned a PhD in quantitative methods, into Silicon Valley, and eventually onto the Obama 2012 re-election campaign as the architect of the advertising and analytics strategy. Carmen and Amy dig into how she crossed from technical roles into broader operating leadership, why she initially spoke for free before a woman at a speakers bureau gave her a talking to, and her new venture investing in luxury brick-and-mortar businesses that give back to their communities.Key MomentsTeaching herself to dial the phone at three years old to call her grandmother for a Cabbage Patch dollSending so many letters to the dean at Cornell that she became the first undergraduate to receive a research grant in the social sciencesGetting a survey response rate ten times the norm and having to rent a truck to retrieve thousands of replies from the post officeBeing called by David Axelrod's team and having her software company acquired by the Obama campaignSpeaking for free at her first major engagements until a woman at a speakers bureau told her to charge at least $10,000Launching Aurelia Lifestyle Brands, her new investment venture focused on luxury community businessesQuotes to Remember"If you are quite determined and you're willing to work hard, you can achieve almost anything if you really are willing to put in that effort.""Anytime a woman anywhere takes the stage to talk about anything, it hopefully will inspire some other women to say that this is possible."Amy's JourneyGrew up determined, studied economics and government at Cornell, then earned a master's and PhD in quantitative methods at Princeton. Built a software startup from a single $50,000 cheque into a company with millions in revenue. Was recruited onto the Obama 2012 re-election campaign to lead media planning and analytics. Held executive roles at eBay, Zynga, Bitly, Ancestry.com, Levi Strauss & Co., and others. Named Top 15 Women in AI by Forbes and to Who's Who in America. Recently launched Aurelia Lifestyle Brands, investing in luxury lifestyle consumer services businesses.Advice for SpeakersValue yourself from the start. Don't speak for free when you should be charging. Just go for it, because once you step onto a stage the first time, it gets easier to picture yourself doing it again. And for women, especially, raise your hand, because the world needs more women on stages.Free ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with JD MillerWebsite: jdmillerphd.com LinkedIn: JD MillerBook: The CRO's Guide to Winning in Private EquityEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with JD Miller, go-to-market Operating Advisor for Five Arrows Capital Partners, TEDx speaker, author, and 2024 CRO of the Year. JD grew up performing in theatre and competing on his high school forensics team. He studied speech communication and philosophy at the University of Illinois, interned in the Bill Clinton White House, then stayed on for a PhD in organisational communication, studying how groups build trust online. That research led to a dot-com career where he joined a 26-person startup that was acquired by Vignette and grew to 6,000 employees with a $9 billion valuation. Carmen and JD dig into why great sales and great speaking are built on the same foundation of empathy and human connection, how AI is changing the sales profession without replacing its most human elements, and why time management on stage is one of the most underrated skills a speaker can have.Key MomentsGetting renamed JD after accidentally receiving every employee's salary on his third day at workPlaying young Patrick in Mame at 11 years old and falling in love with performingInterning in the Bill Clinton White House and learning the power of preparationJoining a 26-person startup that grew to a $9 billion public company in six yearsTrying to demo software in Spanish in Mexico City and realising he had never learned the technical vocabularyCreating a "Make Some Noise" sales kickoff complete with drumming circles, flamenco dancers, and fireworksQuotes to Remember"Being successful in sales has really been about minimising me and thinking so much about you and your needs and how we can help you achieve your goals.""AI is good at a lot of things, but none of the innately human things we do in relationship building, trust building, and inspiring other people."JD's JourneyGrew up in the Chicago suburbs performing in theatre and competing in speech. Studied communication and philosophy at the University of Illinois, interned at the White House, then earned a PhD studying how groups build trust online. Joined a dot-com startup that was acquired by Vignette and grew to a $9 billion valuation. Built a career in progressive sales leadership roles across PE-backed companies before becoming a board member and operating advisor. Named CRO of the Year in 2024. Author of The CRO's Guide to Winning in Private Equity and The AI Handbook for Sales Professionals. Recently delivered a TEDx talk called Reclaiming Our Humanity in the Age of the Algorithm.Advice for SpeakersKnow your audience and what they need before you write a single word. Practise obsessively so you can deliver to any time limit. Respect the clock because going over time steals from every speaker and audience member after you. Create a theme that weaves through the entire event, not just your talk. And always lead with humanity, because that is the one thing no algorithm can replicate.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Saul EslakeWebsite: saul-eslake.com LinkedIn: Saul EslakeSaul Eslake: From Shy Adopted Kid in Tasmania to One of Australia's Most Trusted Economic VoicesEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Saul Eslake, one of Australia's most recognised independent economists, a keynote speaker, consultant, and Vice-Chancellor's Fellow at the University of Tasmania. Saul was born in England, relinquished for adoption, and raised by Australian parents who moved the family to Tasmania when he was eight. He was shy, wore glasses, had a funny name, and was no good at sport at an all-boys school where sport was everything. He stumbled into economics through a process of elimination, landed a cadetship with the Federal Treasury, and spent over 40 years as Chief Economist at some of Australia's most prominent financial institutions including ANZ Bank and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Carmen and Saul talk about how he learned to speak in public through the Young Liberals, why he left the safety of corporate life to protect his credibility, and the business of speaking as an independent consultant in a post-COVID landscape.Key MomentsBeing relinquished for adoption in England and raised by Australian parents who chose TasmaniaFailing his first public speaking attempt at a youth parliament and not getting selectedLearning to speak, debate, and engage with media through the Young Liberals at universityChoosing economics over accounting after finding first-year economic subjects far more interestingLeaving corporate life because employers were trying to control what he could say and writeNavigating the shift to virtual speaking during COVID and pushing back on discounted feesQuotes to Remember"What you know is important, but how you communicate it to your audience is no less important and in many ways more important.""If it's not fun, it almost doesn't matter how much you get paid for doing it. It doesn't feel as good."Saul's JourneyBorn in England, adopted by Australian parents who moved the family to Tasmania. Attended school in Hobart, studied economics at the University of Tasmania, and began his career at the Federal Treasury. Served as Chief Economist at McIntosh Securities, National Mutual Funds Management, ANZ Bank, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Founded Corinna Economic Advisory in 2009 and has been an independent economist based in Hobart since 2015. Holds an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Tasmania.Advice for SpeakersFind a mentor or coach early. Know your subject deeply, but invest just as much in learning to communicate it to people who are not experts. Don't discount your value for virtual presentations. And always stay true to what you actually think, even when it's uncomfortable, because credibility is the foundation of everything.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Jennifer K. HillWebsite: jenniferkhill.com LinkedIn: Jennifer K. Hill Instagram: @jenhillspeaker YouTube: Jennifer K HillJennifer K. Hill: From Hiding Her Light to Cracking the Code of Human ConnectionEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Jennifer K. Hill, CEO and co-founder of OptiMatch, executive coach, keynote speaker, and member of Deepak Chopra's Evolutionary Leaders Circle. At five years old, Jennifer told a five-star general she was going to be the first woman president of the United States. By 13, after being publicly humiliated for singing in front of 200 schoolmates, she went silent. What followed was years of dimming her light, a late autism diagnosis, and a long road back to herself. Jennifer built and sold a staffing company, co-founded a tech company, and now speaks on stages worldwide about human connection, resilience, and the inner work that makes all of it possible. Carmen and Jennifer go deep on how her performing arts roots feed her keynotes, the HeartMath breathing technique she teaches every client, and the moment she finally sang in public again after decades of silence.Key MomentsTelling a five-star general at age five that she wanted to be the first woman presidentBeing humiliated singing in front of 200 schoolmates at 13 and going silent for decadesCold-calling a company president to say "you're going to hire me" and breaking every record they hadGoing from $200K a year to $5K in her first year as an entrepreneurSinging Don't Stop Believing with a live band at a party after years of silence, backed by a professional singerWalking into her first keynot expecting a panel, finding a solo 20-minute slot with nothing prepared, and bringing the house down through pure playQuotes to Remember"When we can learn to love and accept ourselves fully, that allows for deep intimacy with others and then connection to purpose.""The higher brain can't function until the lower brain feels safe."Jennifer's JourneyGrew up with high ambitions that got buried through difficult school experiences and a late-diagnosed autism. Left high school early, graduated college early, then discovered she was missing a class and had to pass an oral exam to get her degree. Fell into recruiting, built a staffing company from scratch, sold it in 2018, and co-founded OptiMatch. She is a HeartMath Certified Trainer, a member of the Evolutionary Leaders Circle, and has spoken to audiences of up to 100,000 people. Her upcoming books include The Recovering Asshole and a children's book called The Palladian Princess.Advice for SpeakersLook at yourself in the mirror every day and tell yourself "I love you." Regulate your nervous system before you step on stage using heart-focused breathing. Let play lead your presentations; the most powerful talks come when you stop performing and start connecting.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Stuart DraperWebsite: startupswithstu.com LinkedIn: Stuart Draper Instagram: @draperstu Podcast: Startups with StuStuart Draper: From Hiding Behind the Lemonade Stand to Building Businesses Worth MillionsEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Stuart Draper, serial entrepreneur, angel investor, nine-time Inc. 5000 honouree, and host of the Startups with Stu podcast. Stuart was the kid who hid behind the bushes while his brother sold lemonade. His mum pushed him into student government, where a botched recipe speech about "Stu as president" accidentally won the crowd and the election. That pattern of turning fear into momentum carried through his career. After losing three jobs early in his marriage, Stuart launched GetFoundFirst.com, grew and sold it, then founded Stukent, an education technology company that served over a million students across 80+ countries. He co-authored the bestselling higher education textbook Digital Marketing Essentials and built the annual ProfCon event. Carmen and Stuart dig into how storytelling became his most powerful business tool, why speakers should be their own biggest promoters, and the signature moments that made his presentations unforgettable years later.Key MomentsHiding behind bushes at the lemonade stand while his brother handled customersHis mum coaching him at 12 to speak from the heart instead of reading notes in churchA standing-room-only vendor session that outperformed every main stage talk at the conferenceDelivering an entire presentation while riding a hoverboard across the stageHanding out $100 bills to keep 120 audience members locked in for his full talkUsing the Under Armour origin story to rally his team and customers around a shared missionQuotes to Remember"People may forget how much money you gave or if they won or lost. But they remember you. You become the memory, not the gimmick.""If you tell a good story, you can't tell you're being sold to."Stuart's JourneyGrew up shy in a family that encouraged hard things early. Lost three jobs in quick succession after college before launching GetFoundFirst.com in 2008, selling Google Ad management to dentists. Grew and sold that business, then founded Stukent in 2013. Stukent became a three-time Inc. 5000 company serving thousands of institutions globally. Stuart co-authored Digital Marketing Essentials and sold his majority stake to a private equity group. He now runs the Startups with Stu podcast and hosts retreats bringing founders and investors together.Advice for SpeakersBe your own biggest promoter. Don't wait for event organisers to fill the room for you. Create signature moments that make you impossible to forget. Tell stories your audience can see themselves in, because a good story sells without ever feeling like a pitch. And never get tired of telling your founding story; it is brand new to every person hearing it for the first time.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Federico MarquesWebsite: moonflowerfarms.com LinkedIn: Federico Marques Instagram: @moonflowerfarmsFederico Marques: From NASA Intern to Pioneering the Future of Food on Earth and in SpaceEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Federico Marques, founder and CEO of Moonflower Farms, the first indoor vertical farm in Texas. Federico's path into hydroponics started with a chance visit to NASA's Stennis Space Center as a college intern, where he discovered how plants could clean air, water and eventually grow food in space.That experience shaped a career at Bayer, where he built a hydroponic greenhouse inside a chemical plant to clean industrial wastewater at 26, hired former NASA scientists to work alongside him, and rose to head quality and innovation. He went on to found Moonflower Farms in 2016 and now works with NASA, universities and governments worldwide. Carmen and Federico dig into the role speaking has played throughout his career, from being physically shoved onto a stage in college to presenting to boardrooms, hostile audiences and inspired high school students who now show up at his farm as interns.Key MomentsBeing an extremely introverted child who spent all his time in the library and never imagined standing on a stageA chance visit to NASA's Stennis Space Center that changed the entire direction of his careerBuilding a hydroponic greenhouse inside a Bayer chemical plant at 26 and hiring former NASA astronauts to work for himBeing pushed into acting classes by his thespian friends and performing in a four-night community playDelivering a TEDx talk at a high school that triggered a wave of interns who simply started showing up at his farmSpeaking to his team during COVID about whether the business would survive, and choosing to pivotQuotes to Remember"If you really believe in what you're talking about and you're knowledgeable in what you're talking about, it doesn't matter what type of audience. Someone's going to leave with something.""Rockets get you there. Hydroponics will keep you alive."Federico's JourneyGrew up shy and introverted, originally on track for a tennis career. A college internship at Bayer led to a visit to NASA's Stennis Space Center, where he learned about bioregenerative life support systems. He built his first hydroponic greenhouse inside a Bayer chemical plant, cleaning industrial wastewater with plants. That project launched his rise to NAFTA Head of Quality and Innovation. In 2016 he founded Moonflower Farms, creating the first indoor vertical farm in Texas. His mission: enable anyone to grow anything, anywhere, all the time. He now works with NASA, universities and delegations from countries including Mozambique, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Estonia and Azerbaijan.Advice for SpeakersBelieve in what you are talking about and be deeply knowledgeable. When those two things are present, speaking becomes almost effortless. Warm up your body and voice before you go on stage. Use props, video and real people to make your message tangible rather than relying on slides alone.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Gillian MuessigWebsite: masters.vcLinkedIn: Gillian MuessigPodcast: VC ConfidentialGillian Muessig: From Co-founding Moz to Funding the Women Venture Capital IgnoresEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Gillian Muessig, co-founder of Moz, Managing Director of the Mastersfund, and a global speaker and investor who has helped thousands of companies launch and grow over three decades. Gillian built one of the most recognised brands in digital marketing alongside her son Rand Fishkin, travelling 250+ days a year as the company's brand ambassador. Over 1.5 million people still know her as SEO Mom. After leaving Moz, she turned her attention to the staggering imbalance in venture capital, where women receive just 2% of funding despite returning 35% higher ROI. She co-founded the Mastersfund to prove that investing in women is an outsized financial opportunity.Key MomentsCo-founding Moz with Rand Fishkin and becoming the company's global brand ambassadorBuilding personal brands for every team member at Moz and watching it attract top talent and amplify the company brandA government speaker in Trinidad putting away his notes to speak from the heart after watching Gillian's keynoteFounding the Mastersfund to prove investing in women delivers outsized returnsThe data: women raise 44% of what men raise, exit one to two years sooner, and return 35% higher ROIQuotes to Remember"Speak with conviction. If you don't speak with conviction, you're not speaking about the right subject.""Non-performing capital is useless. It has to be at work."Gillian's JourneyCo-founded SEO Moz (now Moz) with her son Rand Fishkin as search engine optimisation took shape in the late 1990s. Served as brand ambassador, speaking at conferences worldwide. After leaving Moz, she launched the Mastersfund with Anne Kennedy, a gender-lens venture capital fund backing women-led companies. She has served as a tech advisor to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the U.S. State Department, and government programs across multiple continents.On Speaking and Brand BuildingSpeaking is a powerful shortcut for building personal and company brands. Getting on stage gives you access to decision-makers and relationships that compound over time. Every team member at Moz was encouraged to speak publicly. Whether you pay to speak, speak for free, or get paid, the audience deserves your A game every time. It is a privilege to stand in front of people who have invested their most precious resource: their time.On Venture Capital and WomenWomen receive 2% of venture capital funding, a number unchanged since 1947. Women are capital efficient, raising 44% of what men raise to exit at the same number. Women exit sooner, reducing risk. Women return 35% higher ROI on an annualised basis. The Mastersfund was built to prove investing in women is not a concession; it is an outsized financial opportunity.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the Host Carmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Jennifer BrownWebsite: jenniferbrownspeaks.comLinkedIn: Jennifer BrownInstagram: @jenniferbrownspeaksPodcast: The Will to ChangeEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Jennifer Brown, bestselling author, internationally recognised keynote speaker, and one of the most trusted voices in diversity, equity and inclusion. Jennifer trained as an opera singer before vocal surgery forced her to reimagine everything. What followed was a master's in organisational leadership, years delivering corporate training, and the founding of her own consulting firm. They go deep on building a keynote that lands, how performing skills translate to speaking, and where the future of keynote speaking is headed.Key MomentsSinging a Bernstein solo at eight years old with a full orchestra and feeling completely at home on stagePursuing an opera career in New York, then needing two vocal surgeries that ended her singing careerA mentor pushing her to deliver a TEDx, which became the turning point for her speaking careerModerating industry panels as a strategy to build relationships and land clientsUsing Mentimeter live polling to create psychological safety and vulnerability in keynotesPlaying a clip of herself singing as she walks on stage, then opening with the story of losing her voiceQuotes to Remember"I was meant to use my voice, just not as a singer. I was meant to uplift the voices of the voiceless.""Good design and a great facilitator can take a group anywhere."Jennifer's JourneyGrew up in a family of musicians. Earned a master's in opera and moved to New York. After two vocal surgeries, she pivoted into organisational leadership and adult learning, completing a second master's. She founded Jennifer Brown Consulting and shifted her focus into DEI. She has delivered hundreds of keynotes for Google, NASA, Toyota, LinkedIn and more. Jennifer is the author of Inclusion, How to Be an Inclusive Leader, Beyond Diversity, and The Shape of Change.Speaking Career HighlightsHas delivered 200 to 300 keynotes for Fortune 500 companies and global organisations. Uses live polling to create vulnerable moments with large audiences. Built her early reputation moderating panels at industry events. Bundles her assessment tool and books with engagements to create a full ecosystem of value.Advice for SpeakersYour keynote needs more than your story. You need a point of view, data to back it up, and a framework people can take away. Moderate panels to get on stage and build relationships. Follow up with everyone you meet. Write thought papers, share insights, and give people a reason to stay in your ecosystem.Free Resource Beyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Kate ChristieWebsite: katechristie.com.auLinkedIn: Kate ChristieInstagram: @katechristielovesKate Christie: From Aspiring Journalist to Australia's Leading Time Investment ExpertEpisode DescriptionCarmen Sederino sits down with Kate Christie, bestselling author, international speaker, and Australia's leading time management expert. Kate traces her path from a childhood dream of working for the United Nations, through a 12-year law career she never loved, to the moment life as a corporate executive and mother of three became unsustainable. What followed was a total reinvention: a business helping people stop managing their time and start investing it. She's since spoken on stages around the world, including a 30-engagement tour of China at the invitation of the Australian Government. They also dig into the real mechanics of building a speaking business, from a first gig at a cricket club with seven people to negotiating international fees.Key MomentsWriting a letter to the United Nations at 14, encouraged by her dad who told her she could have anything if she was willing to work for itHer first corporate speaking moment in front of 800 angry dock workers as a 27-year-old lawyerLeaving corporate after being forced to choose between being a great mum or having a great careerHer first speaking gig at a cricket club for seven people, where she forgot to bring her bookBeing invited by the Australian Government to do 30 speaking engagements across China in nine working daysQuotes to Remember"We need to start thinking about our time the way we think about our money, as a very limited, very precious resource that has to be invested for the greatest return.""Everyone has fantastic stories to tell. The world needs more stories."Kate's JourneyGrew up with a father she describes as the first feminist she ever met. Wanted to be a journalist, was told at 16 to get the best degree she could first. Spent about 12 years practising law across firms and in-house. Had three babies in three and a half years while working as a senior executive, and the juggle became impossible. Left corporate, and discovered her real expertise was in how people invest their time. Wrote her first book, Me Time, at 40, which became a bestseller and opened the door to speaking.Speaking Career HighlightsFirst gig was a free talk at a cricket club for seven people. Built a full speaking ecosystem: books, keynotes, coaching, consulting, and social media, all feeding into each other. Has spoken across Australia, the US, Asia, and China. Completed a 30-engagement China tour over nine working days for the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.Advice for SpeakersStart with free gigs to test your content, but know when to start charging. Build an ecosystem at different price points so every part of your business feeds the others. Your keynote needs to leave people with practical tools, not just inspiration that fades. Back yourself. What feels obvious to you can be transformative for someone else.Free ResourcesBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Warren BinghamWebsite: medtechinternational.com.auLinkedIn: Warren BinghamWarren Bingham: From a Minister's Son to Medical Technology Pioneer and Purpose-Driven LeaderEpisode DescriptionIn this episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Warren Bingham, founder and Executive Chairman of MedTech International, board director, and values-driven leader with over 30 years at the forefront of medical technology innovation. Warren traces his path from being adopted at two weeks old into a Scottish-Irish-English family, to leaving school at 15, to launching the Australian operations for the company that pioneered the world's first swallowable camera. Along the way, he reveals how his father, a minister, unknowingly gave him his first stage training by having him introduce himself to a new congregation every two to three years from the age of four. This is a conversation about leadership, purpose, the power of storytelling, and why nervousness on stage is something to harness, not hide from.Key MomentsGrowing up adopted, moving towns every two to three years, and learning to speak in front of strangers from the age of fourLeaving school at 15 to sell cameras and living independently at 16 on $113 a weekLaunching the Australian subsidiary of Given Imaging and helping list the company's IPO on the US stock exchange just weeks after September 11, 2001Why he turned down a free speaking engagement that didn't align with his valuesHis current keynote focus on purpose-driven leadership and the life lessons behind itQuotes to Remember"If you were to die tomorrow, would you be happy with your life and what you've achieved? Most people would probably say no.""You can bury yourself in mud, or you can shower yourself in glitter."Warren's JourneyAdopted at two weeks old, left school at 15, moved out at 16, and started selling cameras before joining Pentax in his early twentiesSpent 12 years at Pentax building 74% market share in endoscopy, then became the founding Australian and New Zealand President for Given Imaging, the Israeli company behind PillCamNow serves as Executive Chairman of MedTech International alongside board roles at OmnisOva, Agscent, and the Medical Technology Association of AustraliaSpeaking Career HighlightsPublic speaking has been woven through his career for over 20 years, from medical industry conferences to leadership keynotesOver the past five years, paid speaking on purpose-driven leadership has become an additional focus, including a recent keynote at CSIRO's ON Accelerate programStill gets nervous before every talk and considers that a good thing, because it keeps the delivery sharp and authenticAdvice for SpeakersBring your passion to whatever you're talking about. If you don't own the content, it will come across flatIf an opportunity doesn't align with your values, protect your boundaries and say noFree ResourcesBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Jules BrookeWebsite: julesbrooke.com LinkedIn: Jules BrookeJules Brooke: Championing Women's Voices From the Stage to the SpotlightEpisode DescriptionIn this powerful episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Jules Brooke, a serial entrepreneur, PR expert, MC, and passionate advocate for getting more women onto stages and into the spotlight.Key MomentsGrowing up across multiple countries as a military child and how it shaped her entrepreneurial spiritHer lifelong passion for performance and theatreThe challenges women face in public speaking and male-dominated industriesWhy more women need to step into the spotlight and share their storiesThe power of podcasting as a networking and visibility toolQuotes to Remember"If you can see it, you can be it.""Be that woman that will mention another woman's name in a room full of opportunities."Jules' Incredible JourneyBorn in Ireland, grew up in Germany, Cyprus, and England before moving to Australia at age 12 due to her father's military careerA passion for theatre and performance from a young ageFounded Handle Your Own PR, teaching business owners how to get their own media coverageCreated She's The Boss, a platform highlighting female founders through events, podcasts, and interviewsLaunched Australian Women Speakers, a directory elevating women in the speaking industryNamed a Top 50 Small Business Leader in 2024Speaking Career HighlightsOver 20 years of experience as a topic expert, motivational speaker, and MCHosts over 40 events per year, both online and in personAdvocates for equal representation of women on stages globallyBrings a practical, entertaining delivery style that leaves audiences energizedAdvice for SpeakersOvercoming speaking anxiety is a skill that can be developedWomen need to stop underestimating the value of their own storiesBuilding a supportive community of women speakers creates momentum for everyonePodcasting is one of the fastest ways to build your network and your profileMC work can be a powerful entry point for aspiring speakersAuthenticity in your message will become even more valuable in a tech-driven worldFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Megan Dalla-CaminaPre-order Megan's new book, She Who Remembers: AmazonWebsite: megandallacamina.comWomen Rising: womenrisingco.comLinkedIn: Megan Dalla-CaminaInstagram: @megandallacaminaMegan Dalla-Camina: From Performing Arts to Empowering 10,500 Women Across 68 CountriesEpisode DescriptionIn this deeply personal episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Megan Dalla-Camina, founder and CEO of Women Rising, bestselling author and globally recognised women's leadership expert. What unfolds is a rare, honest conversation between two women who share strikingly similar journeys, from performing arts childhoods to accidental corporate careers, and ultimately to building businesses rooted in purpose and service. Megan opens up about burnout, the paradoxes of power that hold women back, and why presence on stage matters more than performance. She also shares an exclusive first reveal of her upcoming fifth book, She Who Remembers: Awakening Feminine Wisdom in a World Ready for Her Return, launching April 13, 2026.Key MomentsThe childhood dream of becoming an actress and the crossroads that led to an 18-year corporate career at GE, PwC, and IBMBurning out as a young executive and single mother, and the conversation with her CEO that changed everythingBuilding Women Rising into a movement supporting over 10,500 women in 68 countriesThe exclusive reveal of her fifth book, She Who RemembersA candid conversation about what it really means to hold the energy of a room as a speakerQuotes to Remember"Find what's true. What am I really here for? What am I here to share and who needs to hear it?""Once women realise it's not just them and they're not the problem, everything shifts. That's when we start to feel truly empowered."Megan's JourneyGrew up performing and writing from age three, trained at performing arts school and NIDA, and planned to become an actress before a car accident redirected her into corporateSpent 18 years across GE, PwC, and IBM, rising through marketing and strategy leadership while juggling single motherhood and postgraduate studyLeft corporate 13 years ago to focus full-time on women's leadership, and has since authored four bestselling books with a fifth on the waySpeaking Career HighlightsHas been on stages since her mid-twenties, with paid keynotes becoming a core revenue stream for the first eight years of her businessNow gravitates toward intimate settings where she can go deeper with audiencesFilters every speaking decision through one question: "How will me showing up at this event be of service?"Advice for SpeakersFind what is true for you rather than building your speaking career around what other people are doingThink strategically about timing, free vs. paid, and whether the message, the moment, and the audience actually alignFree ResourcesBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Michael CrosslandWebsite: michaelcrossland.com LinkedIn: Michael CrosslandMichael Crossland: From Childhood Cancer Survivor to One of Australia's Most In-Demand SpeakersEpisode DescriptionIn this deeply moving episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Michael Crossland, an inspirational speaker, bestselling author, and humanitarian who has turned a life defined by adversity into one devoted to helping others find resilience, perspective, and purpose.Key MomentsDiagnosed with life-threatening cancer before his first birthday, and spending nearly a quarter of his life in hospitalThe sole survivor of a devastating cancer drug trial that took the lives of 24 other childrenTransitioning from a high-flying corporate career to full-time speakingLessons learned from sharing stages with Richard Branson and the Dalai LamaThe role of ego, authenticity, and emotional storytelling in connecting with audiencesQuotes to Remember"It's not the adversity that defines us, but how we deal with it.""Life is about choices, and my mom chose hope."Michael's Incredible JourneyDiagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma before his first birthdayThe only survivor of a 25-child cancer drug trialSurvived a cardiac arrest before age 12Represented Australia in his chosen sportHeld an executive corporate position by the age of 23International bestselling author in six countriesFounded a children's orphanage and school in HaitiFeatured on ABC's Australian Story, viewed by over 4 million peopleA speaking video from Los Angeles has been viewed by more than 84 million peopleAustralian of the Year finalist, Australia Day Ambassador, and International Hall of Fame inducteeSpeaking Career HighlightsInspired over 900,000 people worldwide through live presentationsShared stages with Sir Richard Branson and the Dalai LamaSpoken to corporate audiences, professional sporting teams, schools, and September 11 victimsNavigated the shift from in-person to virtual speaking during COVIDWorks with audiences of all sizes, adapting his approach to each roomAdvice for SpeakersBelieve in your message before expecting the audience toSet an intention and warm up before every performanceAuthenticity disarms a room and creates genuine connectionChase impact over income for more fulfilling workProtect your energy and time as fiercely as your brandBe mindful of selling from the stage; it's an art form, not a retail pitchPractice relentlessly; emotional storytelling requires balance and careFind humour in the audience to manage emotional depth on stageFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.com LinkedIn: Carmen Sederino YouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstory Free Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with David BurkusWebsite: davidburkus.com LinkedIn: David BurkusDavid Burkus: From Aspiring Writer to One of the World's Top Business Thought LeadersEpisode DescriptionIn this compelling episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Dr. David Burkus, a bestselling author, organizational psychologist, and globally recognized keynote speaker who has built one of the most sustainable and strategically designed speaking businesses in the industry.Key MomentsHow a childhood dream of becoming a writer evolved into a global speaking careerHis first speaking experience at the Iowa Creativity FestivalThe real economics behind a thriving speaking businessWhy storytelling structure and theatrical elements separate good speakers from unforgettable onesQuotes to Remember"85% of my revenue comes from speaking engagements.""It's not just about what you say on stage. It's the ecosystem you build around it."David's Incredible JourneyAlways wanted to be a writer, which naturally led to speakingFormer business school professor turned full-time speaker and authorBestselling author of five books on leadership and businessRanked multiple times as one of the world's top business thought leaders since 2017Works with organizations including PepsiCo, Fidelity, Adobe, and NASAFeatured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, CNN, BBC, NPR, and CBS MorningsSpeaking Career HighlightsAverages 25 in-person events and 10 to 15 virtual events annually85% of revenue comes directly from live speaking engagementsAdapted to the challenges of virtual speaking during COVIDBuilt a full ecosystem around his speaking business to enhance the audience experienceAdvice for SpeakersFollow a structured narrative arc in your storytellingRehearse in small increments for consistent improvementUse theatrical elements and props to elevate audience engagementStudy other speakers and borrow techniques that resonateAlways customize your keynote to the specific audienceStay adaptable during a presentation and read the roomBalance work and family life with intentionFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Meridith Elliott-PowellWebsite: valuespeaker.comLinkedIn: Meridith Elliott-PowellMeridith Elliott-Powell: From Corporate Executive to Global Keynote SpeakerEpisode DescriptionIn this inspiring episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Meridith Elliott-Powell - a renowned business strategist, global keynote speaker, and expert on turning uncertainty into competitive advantage.Key MomentsMeridith's journey from a shy child to a powerful speakerOvercoming personal challenges and building a successful speaking careerTransforming from a corporate executive to an entrepreneurInsights into the business of professional speakingQuotes to Remember"If you worry about uncertainty, if you fear change, you move to the part of your brain that shuts down innovation and creativity.""Build your network, change your life."Meridith's Incredible JourneyGrew up in a small coal mining town in western PennsylvaniaPainfully shy as a child, but learned to connect with peopleOvercame personal challenges, including losing her first husbandStarted her career in corporate roles in healthcare and financial servicesLaunched her own business as a business strategist at age 40Developed a speaking career charging $20,000 per keynoteSpeaking Career HighlightsStarted with $500 keynotes with 60 slidesJoined the National Speakers Association and learned the art of speakingDeveloped a keynote on "Turning Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage"Speaks 70-80 times per year globallyAdapted to virtual speaking during COVID-19Advice for SpeakersTreat speaking as a businessDevelop a consistent sales and marketing approachFocus on delivering value to the audienceBe willing to adapt and learn continuouslyFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with David FairhurstWebsite: orgshakers.comLinkedIn: Org ShakersLinkedIn: David Fairhurst David Fairhurst: Reimagining Workplace Leadership and the Future of WorkEpisode DescriptionIn this profound episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with David Fairhurst, a global chief people officer, strategic advisor, and thought leader who is revolutionizing our understanding of workplace dynamics and leadership.Key MomentsEarly entrepreneurial beginnings at age 12Predicting workforce shortages a decade in advanceTransforming HR practices and performance managementInsights into skills-based employmentThe future of organizational leadershipQuotes to Remember"People don't follow a strategy. They follow a story that they can see themselves in.""Mastery is really about reinvention."David's Incredible JourneyGrew up in northern EnglandStarted entrepreneurial ventures as a young personWorked with global organizations in HR leadershipPredicted critical workforce challengesPassionate about next-generation leadership developmentCareer HighlightsGlobal chief people officer for McDonald'sCommissioner for skills in BritainStrategic advisor and organizational transformation expertVisiting professorSpeaking Career HighlightsPresenting to large corporate audiencesDeveloping insights on workforce trendsKeynote speaking on organizational transformationAdvising government and corporate leadersAdvice for SpeakersEmbrace continuous reinventionFocus on skills over traditional job rolesBuild relational equityChallenge existing workplace practicesFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated StoryInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Kate BraveryLinkedIn: Kate BraveryBook: Work Different: 10 Truths for Winning in the People AgeKate Bravery: Transforming Keynotes with Corporate Psychology and Global InsightsEpisode DescriptionIn this enlightening episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Kate Bravery, a corporate psychologist, global talent advisor, and keynote speaker who brings deep insights into the future of work, leadership, and organizational transformation.Key MomentsJourney from a multicultural childhood to becoming a global corporate psychologistOvercoming childhood challenges with dyslexiaDeveloping unique keynote strategies for engaging audiencesExploring the impact of AI and technological trends on workQuotes to Remember"Be you, because everybody else is taken.""Your stories have got to be authentic."Detailed Episode InsightsKate's Incredible JourneyGrew up in the UK with 10-14 foreign students in her homeStudied psychology from a young ageWorked across multiple countriesCurrently Head of Talent Advisory at MercerSpecializes in global talent trends and the future of work researchSpeaking Career HighlightsPresenting at international conferencesDeveloping innovative presentation techniquesUsing technology and storytelling to engage audiencesPresenting 90-minute keynotes with unique visual strategiesUnique Presentation TechniquesUsing shutter technology to showcase future glimpsesIncorporating live AI demonstrationsContextualizing global trends for specific marketsCreating memorable visual and auditory experiencesAdvice for SpeakersFind your authentic voicePrepare thoroughlyUse stories that resonate with your audienceEmbrace your unique perspectiveFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Afdhel AzizWebsite: afdhelaziz.com LinkedIn: Afdal AzizAfdhel Aziz: From Corporate Success to Purpose-Driven Global SpeakerEpisode DescriptionIn this inspiring episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Afdhel Aziz - a global speaker, author, and purpose-driven entrepreneur who has transformed his corporate career into a mission of inspiring meaningful change.Key MomentsTransitioning from multinational corporate roles to purpose-driven speakingWriting books and creating a consultancy focused on social impactOvercoming fears and challenges in the speaking industryDeveloping a unique approach to storytelling and purposeQuotes to Remember"Everybody's got a talk in them... Find that idea worth spreading, that thing you're really passionate about.""Speaking is about to become even more precious and valuable in the age of AI."Detailed Episode InsightsAfdhel's Incredible JourneyGrew up in Sri LankaWorked with global brands like Procter & Gamble, Nokia, HeinekenExperienced a life-changing moment during the 2004 Asian tsunamiFounded Conspiracy of Love consultancyWorked with major brands like Adidas, Sephora, Coca-Cola, GapSpeaking Career HighlightsOvercoming a challenging first TEDx talkDeveloping three core keynote presentationsWriting multiple booksSpeaking in 13 different countriesUnique Creative ProjectsRecorded a music album on Spotify (Artist: Saint Royale, Album: Letters)Planning to explore stand-up comedyAdvice for SpeakersBe vulnerable on stageFocus on storytellingInvest in personal developmentBe brave enough to try new thingsFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoYouTube: Illuminated Story Instagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassConnect with Eric BaileyWebsite: ericbaileyglobal.comLinkedIn: Eric BaileyInstagram: @ebglobalEric Bailey: From Overcoming Limitations to Becoming a Champion Speaker and CEOEpisode DescriptionIn this powerful episode of Beyond the Keynote, Carmen Sederino sits down with Eric Bailey - a remarkable speaker, former professional basketball player, and current CEO who has transformed businesses and inspired audiences worldwide.Key MomentsEric's incredible journey from being told he'd never walk to becoming a professional athleteGrowing a business from $10M to $30M in just 13 monthsInsights into developing a championship mindsetOvercoming rejection in the speaking industryQuotes to Remember"Success is not gonna be overnight. You're going to get a lot of rejections... At the end of the day, you have to be 100% dedicated to just getting better each and every day.""Pressure doesn't change you, it reveals you."Detailed Episode InsightsEric's Incredible JourneyGrew up in challenging circumstances in South Central Los AngelesTold he would never walk, read, or live past 14 years oldChose basketball as his path out of povertyPlayed professional basketball for 12-13 yearsSpoke in 13 different countriesCurrently CEO of a restoration company, growing the business from $10M to $30M in just 13 monthsSpeaking Career HighlightsTransforming rejection into motivationCreating memorable stage experiences (including a basketball shootout on stage)Developing a unique approach to motivational speakingAdvice for SpeakersBe clear about your purposeExpect and embrace rejectionsBe prepared for unexpected opportunitiesStay committed to your visionFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and corporate leadership, she helps leaders and experts create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.

Connect with Carmen SederinoWebsite: illuminatedstory.comLinkedIn: Carmen SederinoInstagram: @illuminatedstoryFree Masterclass: Beyond the Keynote MasterclassBeyond the Keynote: Introducing a Podcast About Transforming Presentations into PerformancesEpisode DescriptionWelcome to Beyond the Keynote, a podcast dedicated to exploring the art of creating unforgettable speaking experiences that go far beyond traditional presentations.Why Beyond the Keynote?Traditional speaking is dyingAudiences crave immersive, memorable experiencesSpeakers need to evolve beyond standard presentationsBlend of performance, storytelling, and strategic communicationWho Should ListenAspiring and professional speakersBusiness leadersEntrepreneursThought leadersAnyone looking to communicate more effectivelyCreatives seeking to elevate their presentation skillsAbout the HostCarmen Sederino is the founder of Illuminated Story, a revolutionary approach to transforming high-stakes presentations into unforgettable performances. With a background in theatre and two decades of business leadership, she helps experts and leaders create impactful, memorable speaking experiences.What to ExpectIn-depth interviews with world-class speakersBehind-the-scenes insights into creating extraordinary presentationsPractical techniques for elevating your speakingStories of transformation and impactActionable strategies for becoming a performance masterFree ResourceBeyond the Keynote MasterclassDisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and host, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Illuminated Story.