Mic Drop Mindset

How to Write an Expert Speaker Biography (Without Imposter Syndrome)Jenn explains how to develop an expert speaker biography by first giving yourself permission to be an expert, even if you work adjacent to a credentialed industry and feel imposter syndrome. She recommends reviewing and editing existing bios (website About Me page or social profiles) to ensure they clearly state who you are, what you do, who you help, and how you help, while removing unnecessary length and clutter. She discusses balancing education, certifications, and training with experience and personal connection to the topic, noting you don’t owe audiences anything you’re not ready to share. She advises adding one human “factoid” to make the bio personable, creating both long and short versions (ideally 150 words or less), and keeping biographies consistent across platforms to avoid confusion and improve hireability.00:00 Expert Enough Mindset02:05 Adjacent Industry Imposter Syndrome03:16 Two Bio Types Explained03:54 Edit Your Long Bio05:07 Education Versus Experience08:28 Share Only What Serves09:26 Add Human Factoid11:25 Short Bio Speaker Kit13:05 Consistency Across Platforms13:53 Closing And Next StepsHave 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

Finding a Call to Action That Feels Authentic for Keynote SpeakersOn Mic Drop Mindset, Jenn coaches keynote speaker and bestselling author Steve Fredlund, a former actuary, on how to include a call to action without feeling like he’s “selling from the stage” or shifting the spotlight onto himself. Steve shares discomfort with QR codes, newsletters, and book pitches, partly driven by sensitivity to seeming arrogant or manipulative, and he wants audiences primarily to apply what they learned. Jenn helps him explore what he wants people to do, why a call to action matters, and the difference between success (getting booked) and validation (spinoff business and deeper impact). As they discuss options, Steve becomes most energized by hosting retreats as a congruent next step, and he commits to reflecting on that and not adding new offers unless he feels genuinely good about them.About Steve:Steve Fredlund is an award-winning keynote speaker, two-time TEDx presenter, and bestselling author of Do the Unright Thing. After more than 30 years as an actuary, executive, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder, including leading humanitarian efforts in East Africa, Steve gained a unique perspective on leadership in uncertain conditions.Today, Steve helps leaders keep moving forward through change and uncertainty. Through engaging stories, humor, and practical tools drawn from African safaris, leadership research, and high-pressure decision environments, he equips audiences to build engagement, make confident decisions with limited information, and lead effectively when the path isn’t clear.Visit his website at https://stevefredlund.com/00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:39 The CTA Struggle on Stage02:45 Why Selling Feels Icky04:06 Defining the Real Outcome05:26 Calls to Action and Conviction06:31 Are the Resources Compelling07:55 Audience Impact and Feedback10:01 Validation Versus Success11:19 Brainstorming the Next Step12:02 Call To Action Gap12:47 Retreats Spark Excitement14:02 Fears And Pricing Doubts15:37 Reframing The CTA17:07 Inviting On Stage19:31 Chasing Inner Knowing20:17 Action Steps And Boundaries22:35 Closing ReflectionsHave 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

Write a Signature Talk Outline without Memorizing the Whole Thing!In this episode of Mic Drop Mindset, Jenn challenges listeners to write a business speech in 15 minutes by using a practical framework rather than traditional school speech rules. She defines a business presentation as any talk that leads to a program or service and says the framework works for formats from short breakouts to half-day trainings. Jenn starts with defining success and “beginning with the ending in mind,” emphasizing that audiences remember how you close and that the conclusion should deliver a deliberate emotional impact. She advises against memorizing entire speeches, recommending memorizing only the introduction, key transitions (especially into the call to action), and the conclusion. For the main content, she teaches a 3-2-1 method (e.g., three points, two examples each, one takeaway or question) to stay structured and avoid rambling, and notes she provides templates and modular structures in her coaching.Resources mentioned:Signature Speech structure: https://bit.ly/signaturespeakHow to Use the 3-2-1 Method3 Main Points: Select three key arguments, steps, or ideas for your speech.2 Sentences Per Point: Elaborate on each point with two examples/case studies/stories to force clarity, prevent rambling, and keep the content concise.1 Core Conclusion: Close with one clear transition, pause and audience engagement question00:00 15 Minute Speech Challenge00:12 Business Speech Rulebook01:22 Define Success and Purpose01:57 End With Emotional Impact04:20 What to Memorize05:43 Consistency Over Control06:39 The 3 2 1 Method08:45 Templates and Coaching Support09:36 Recap and Next Steps10:16 Wrap Up and Call to ShareHave 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

In this Mic Drop Mindset episode on presentation skills, speaking coach Jenn coaches client Jamie Ryan.Jamie shares her signature talk, “Swag to Swagger” (SWAG: Scientific Wild Ass Guess), using a Toyota Supra break-in metaphor and a COVID test company example to show how founders can overfocus on “cool tech” without proving differentiation and value. She advises doing competitor landscape analysis via patents, PitchBook/Crunchbase, and startup news, tracking findings in a spreadsheet, and validating whether buyers will pay for added cost/complexity. Jenn praises Jamie’s storytelling, clear structure, memorable opening/closing, and strong time management, then offers coaching on clarifying “landscape analysis,” reducing filler words like “so,” and using purposeful stage movement.Want a copy of the Speaker Feedback Form Jenn mentioned on this episode? Email her at [email protected] Jamie Ryan:Jamie Ryan spent nearly 15 years in Silicon Valley as an in vitro diagnostics innovator and technology scout, addressing the world’s most pressing problems.  From creating tests for diseases from swine flu and COVID pandemics to drug-resistant “superbugs,” she learned the path from prototype to market is full of surprises.  Evaluating 100+ medical device startups as a subject matter expert in strategic business development, mentoring, and pitch judging showed her that many of  these “surprises” can be anticipated - and addressed - if you know where to look.She started JL Ryan Consulting LLC to improve medical device startup success rates by identifying and addressing risks early, before costly pivots are needed.Jamie offers advisory sessions and pitch reviews to MedTech startup founders, and speaks at accelerators, incubators, and industry conferences.Visit Jamie at https://www.jlryanconsulting.com/00:00 Welcome and Topic00:14 Meet Jamie Ryan01:44 Talk Title and Audience02:58 Supra Story Hook03:55 Cool Tech Cautionary Tale05:23 Founder Action Steps07:05 Coach Feedback Storytelling08:26 Structure and Strong Ending10:14 Timing and Clarity Notes15:22 Stage Presence and Movement16:56 Racetrack Focus Strategy17:54 Final Thanks and WrapHave 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

Rehearse Like a $10,000 Speaker: The 7-Step Process for Confident, Professional TalksThe episode explains how to rehearse like a “$10,000 speaker,” emphasizing that rehearsal effort should be consistent whether a talk is paid or free because every stage builds reputation, from small unpaid events and podcasts to larger engagements. Jenn discusses speaking fees as an ideal number and notes advice to avoid starting pricing conversations too early. On rehearsal frequency, she cites guidance ranging from at least 10 run-throughs to TED/TEDx’s often-quoted 100 practices, then shares her own approach: Rehearse until you can clearly begin, end, and deliver the full middle. Drawing from Heroic Public Speaking (Michael and Amy Port), she outlines a seven-step rehearsal process (including table read, content mapping, staging/blocking, improv and rewrite, plus several rounds of rehearsal), plus a modular talk structure that helps speakers stay on time and adapt when time is cut.Resources mentioned: Mic Drop Moments program (enrollment open through May 30) https://calendly.com/jennchatVideo on 7 step rehearsal process from Amy Port https://youtu.be/vuUXrqfMSxE?si=m3d1v8H5q0s-XZ4pJoin Jenn at her next event: https://linktr.ee/jennspingo00:00 Rehearse Like a Pro00:17 Reputation Over Fees01:06 Small Stages Matter02:05 Pricing Talk Timing02:50 How Much Rehearsal04:28 Mic Drop Program Invite05:30 TED Talk Rehearsal Myth07:08 No Magic Number07:30 Heroic Seven Steps10:12 Internalize and Modularize12:13 Comfortable Shoes Mindset12:54 Seven Steps Breakdown14:43 Memorize Key Parts15:27 Craft a 10K Experience15:38 Wrap Up and SubscribeHave 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

Mic Drop Mindset introduces a new episode format featuring live, on-camera coaching, welcoming Dr. Theresa B. Skaar (Dr. T), a social psychologist and mindfulness-based workplace facilitator who helps high-stress, helping professionals reduce burnout and improve communication. Dr. T delivers a brief talk on mindful listening, defining mindfulness as paying attention on purpose in the present moment, nonjudgmentally, and leads a simple breath practice plus an everyday-activity exercise (like handwashing) to build active attention before bringing it into conversations. Jenn then coaches Dr. T on strengths and improvements, praising her growing comfort, relatability, clear references, humor, and vivid language, while suggesting she deepen standout moments, show rather than tell with physical demonstration, add pauses, and use space more intentionally to avoid rocking.Resources mentioned: Email me at [email protected] for a copy of the Speaker Feedback form.Want to experience your own Mic Drop Moments? Join us in our weekly rehearsal group from April through August. https://calendly.com/jennchat/mdm?back=1&month=2026-03About Theresa:Dr. Theresa B. Skaar, also known as Dr. T, is a social psychologist, mindfulness-based speaker, and workplace facilitator who helps organizations reduce burnout and improve communication at work.With a PhD in social psychology and certification in Mind-Body Medicine, she brings research-backed tools into high-stress, real-world environments. Drawing from 35+ years across healthcare, corporate, and academia, she teaches practical strategies for mindful communication, self-awareness, and navigating grief, change, and emotionally charged conversations.Known for her humor, warmth, and no-nonsense approach, Dr. T helps leaders and teams move from reactive to intentional. Audiences leave with tools they can use immediately to listen better, speak more clearly, and build healthier workplace cultures.Based in Minnesota, she works with healthcare teams, associations, and mission-driven organizations across the country.Website: https://ccwithdrt.com/Have 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

In this interactive episode of Mic Drop Mindset, host Jenn Espinosa-Goswami welcomes a special guest into the studio for a live mini coaching session. Joined by virtual mindset decluttering coach Michelle Hoff, listeners get an inside look at how to refine a speaking message for both impact and business growth.Michelle shares her unique A.L.I.G.N. Method™ and introduces her “team decluttering” approach—a collaborative model designed to transform client outcomes while helping professional organizers expand their services and revenue.As Michelle delivers a 5 minute segment of her talk, Jenn provides real-time, strengths-based coaching, highlighting what’s working and where greater clarity, audience connection, and calls to action can elevate the message.If you’re a speaker, coach, or service-based professional looking to sharpen your presentations and clearly communicate your value, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately—plus a behind-the-scenes look at coaching in action.Want to get a copy of the Speaker Feedback form? Email Jenn at [email protected] with Subject "Feedback form".Enrollment is open for Mic Drop Moments! This is a rehearsal group for speakers with weekly practice on Tuesday mornings from 10-11:30 Central. In this small group, you’ll present a 10 minute segment of your speech with feedback from both the group and Jenn, an ICF-certified speaker coach and international speaker at corporate, association and entrepreneurial events. Enroll for 6 months or 3 months. View pricing here: https://calendly.com/jennchat/mdm?back=1&month=2026-03About Michelle Hoff:Michelle L Hoff is a Virtual Mindset Decluttering Coach. With 30 years of experience helping clients create a loved home - an owner of a cleaning business, landscape and interior designer, painter and Amazon Best Selling author. Her book “Compassionate Decluttering" and her proven framework, The A.L.I.G.N. Method™ empowers mid-life women to take control of clutter, get support, make lasting changes so she can have time and space to live with more ease and joy. Website: https://compassionatedecluttering.com/Have 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

In this episode, Jenn shares some of the lessons she learned in the beginning of her speaking business, before she knew the myths and realities of the industry.The difference between a signature speech and a program, and why this makes the biggest difference between being a motivational speaker and a professional who gets paid.Different types of speaking format- from keynote to fireside chat, and a short visualization exercise to identify what the best format is for you.Lifestyle of professional speakers, including travel, pre-event planning and ability to fulfill a bigger number of speaking engagements per month.What to include in your SpeakerKit, so you get hired as a professional speaker.Do you see yourself as a keynote or breakout speaker? Email me at [email protected] and let me know.Have 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

How do you know if you're a good speaker? In this episode, Jenn shares how to become a better professional speaker using the 3 E's.Most speakers are strong in one of these, and neglect the other 2. She also shares a free guide to self-assess how well you include all of the 3 E's.Which E are you strongest in as a speaker, and which E would you like to improve upon?Great speakers take time to rehearse, ideally with feedback from other speakers. Join the new Mic Drop Moments rehearsal group for weekly rehearsal on your presentations! Runs March 17-August 11. View details and pricing: https://calendly.com/jennchat/mdm?back=1&month=2026-03Resources mentioned:Walk-up Music playlist for speakers (add your own song): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT6JMOSA-TuefdR--vQ80Cwqrm8gmpIc3&si=dtQdgancMxt0KyjRElevate your Presentation with the 3 E's (free download): https://jennspingo.com/free-guide/Talkadot for audience feedback (affiliate link) https://www.talkadot.com/s/jennespinosa-goswami/shareHave 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

How do you choose your signature speech? If you listen to Episode 2, you heard how Jenn started with her signature story. Today, let's talk about why it's important to stop telling stories and start delivering speeches that matter.First, you look at your speaking topic(s). Then, you determine the relevance of your speech through the lens of UVP. Mindset tip: you may be asking the wrong question here.This is where the turning point between motivational speaking and professional speaking lies.Remember who the hero of your speech is, and how to keep them front and center.Do you know how to turn your story into a speech that gets you booked? Share your thoughts with me.Resources: Signature Speech template download https://bit.ly/signaturespeakHave 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

The number one question people ask me is, "Jenn, how did you start speaking?" Today's episode is gonna be about how my speaking journey began. My hope is that you'll hear some insights there that will help you begin your own speaking journey. From being bullied at schoolTo emergency surgery one week before junior promTo losing a family member who showed me how to be a strong womanTo inspiring my Toastmasters mentor to change her lifeMy first signature story revolved around my experiences with being a big loser.But, there's a difference between a signature story and signature speech. This is often what separates unpaid motivational speakers from paid professional speakers.What could be your signature story? Think about something in your life that you were really proud of.Something that you achieved that maybe no one else in your family or your friends circle or your colleagues have achieved, that could be the beginning of your signature story. Liked this episode? Make sure to like and subscribe.Have 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

In this episode, Jenn shares why she decided to host a podcast after years of podcast guesting and speaking on stages.She also shares the importance of Mic Drop Moments, what mindset means to her when it comes to speaking, and the first and last Mic Drop Moments (MDM) she's experienced while on stage.Want to share your own MDM? Comment on this episode.Have 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

Welcome to Mic Drop Mindset, hosted by Jenn Espinosa-Goswami (jennspingo). This podcast is for entrepreneurs and professional speakers who want to turn their message into a movement. Listen in for biweekly episodes on mindset and mechanics to grow your speaking brand.This show is especially for those who aren't your typical keynote speakers, this includes multiracial women, BIPOC friends, the queer community and beyond. Your mic drop is as unique as you are. Let's discover your custom speaking journey through solo episodes, live coaching, and much, much more.Don't forget to subscribe and review this podcast, so you don't miss an epsiode.Have 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