Speaker Dynamics | Leadership, Communication & Public Speaking

EP41: Using GenAI for Presentations: Sharper Idea Generation, Storytelling & Practice Tools

Curious about using GenAI for presentations but not sure where to start? In this episode of Speaker Dynamics, Karin Reed sits down with communication coach and tech specialist Maggie Miller to explore how using GenAI for presentations can make you a stronger, more confident speaker rather than a robotic one.
 
Maggie shares how she moved from skepticism to strategy. She first experimented with AI for travel planning before recognizing the real opportunity for presenters. When it comes to using GenAI for presentations, the biggest advantages are speed, sharper idea generation, and better practice tools. That means faster outlines, stronger opening hooks, tighter storytelling, and platforms that provide delivery feedback and help eliminate filler words.
 
They also address a concern many leaders have. Will AI strip away authenticity? Maggie’s perspective is clear. AI should support your thinking, not replace it. When you are using GenAI for presentations, it works like a behind the scenes assistant. It helps with structuring a presentation, brainstorming stories, and refining language, while you bring the voice, judgment, and emotional intelligence.
 
You will also hear practical guidance on writing better prompts, protecting data privacy, fact checking AI outputs, and choosing the right tools for speakers. For leaders focused on presentation skills and authentic leadership communication, this conversation offers a realistic and grounded path forward.
 
If you have been hesitant, this episode will show you how to start small and build confidence quickly.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction to Using GenAI for Presentations
04:23 Three Benefits of AI Tools for Speakers
07:52 Protecting Authentic Leadership Communication When Using AI
10:40 Data Privacy and Fact Checking When Using GenAI
13:11 Best AI Tools for Speakers Including ChatGPT and Grammarly
19:13 How to Write Better Prompts for Structuring a Presentation
20:41 Where to Start Using GenAI for Presentations
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Visit Speaker Dynamics
Explore Speaker Dynamics University
Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP40: Strategically Real on Socials

Authentic leadership online means showing up as yourself rather than hiding behind corporate polish.
 
Karin Reed sits down with Jess Jensen, the founder of Co-Pilot Communications, to talk about what it really takes for executives to build a digital presence that feels genuine and earns trust. After two decades leading digital strategy for global brands like Microsoft, Nestlé, Qualcomm, and Adidas, Jess has seen firsthand how the landscape has shifted. People no longer want polished brand statements - they want to hear from leaders directly. So how do you decide who you’re really speaking to? What values do you want to be known for? And how can you use your story to spark connection in a way that feels true to you?
 
Jess shares a framework that helps leaders find clarity on their audience, their voice, and the platforms where they can make the most impact. She also explains why the comments section is where relationships are actually built and why leaning into your own experiences is the key to lasting influence. This conversation is an invitation to think differently about your presence online and to step into it with honesty, confidence, and purpose.
 
For Speaker Dynamics podcast listeners, Jess is offering a free 25-minute LinkedIn audit. Quick, practical reviews for business owners and senior executives who think their profile might be holding them back. Go to copilotcommunications.com and under contact, book time with me. Mention this podcast and you’ll get a real-time audit, and a handful of actionable next steps.
 
No cost. No catch. Just clarity. And a thank you for listening to the show.
 
Book here: https://calendly.com/jessjensen-copilotcommunications/25min 
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Authenticity Over Perfection in Leadership
01:39 The Mission Behind Co-Pilot Communications
05:52 From Corporate Brands to Human Voices on Social Media
10:06 Five Steps to Building an Authentic Digital Brand
21:27 Why Relationships Are Built in the Comments
27:38 Your Story as the Most Powerful Differentiator
 
Connect with Jess Jensen:
Subscribe to Jess’ Newsletter
Connect with Jess on LinkedIn
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Speaker Dynamics
Speaker Dynamics University
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP39: Leading Virtual Teams: What Changes When Your Team Is Global

Leading Virtual Teams requires more than replicating office habits on a digital platform. What looks aligned on the surface can quickly fracture when distance, culture, and trust are not intentionally addressed. For leaders focused on Speaking Like a Leader in a global environment, communication choices carry even greater weight.
 
In this episode, Karin Reed sits down with global virtual team expert and author Theresa Hollema to examine what truly drives success when leading virtual teams across borders. Theresa explains why team configuration matters, how physical proximity can unintentionally create cliques, and why some organizations found fully remote collaboration more effective than hybrid models during the pandemic.
 
The conversation highlights the subtle signals that shape global collaboration. How meetings are structured. What messages are sent when cameras are turned on or off. How a follow-up call may feel like micromanagement in one culture but genuine care in another. These nuances demand modern communication skills for leaders who want to strengthen trust rather than weaken it.
Theresa also introduces a framework from her book Virtual Teams Across Cultures that explores how culture influences teams within the group, between locations, and through outside local factors. For leaders committed to Speaking Like a Leader across time zones and languages, this framework offers practical insight into strengthening virtual communication skills and getting buy-in on ideas from diverse teams.
 
If you are responsible for leading virtual teams and want stronger collaboration, deeper trust, and more consistent results across borders, this episode provides a clear path forward. Speaking Like a Leader in a global setting is not about speaking louder. It is about communicating with cultural awareness, clarity, and intention.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction to Global Virtual Teams
01:18 Why Virtual Leadership Differs From Office Work
06:45 Hybrid Pitfalls: Proximity Bias and Cliques
08:22 Psychological Distance Across Locations
10:04 Turning Cultural Diversity Into Innovation
12:14 Practical Ways to Build Cultural Competence
17:32 Leader Readiness for Cross-Cultural Dilemmas
19:04 One-on-Ones That Build Trust
21:40 Camera Use and Signals of Trust
23:21 Post-Meeting Follow-Up: Care vs Micromanagement
 
Connect with Theresa Hollema:
Virtual Across Cultures
Theresa’s Book: Virtual Teams Across Cultures
Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Speaker Dynamics
Speaker Dynamics University
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP38: The Power of Silence

Silence can feel uncomfortable, yet it has the power to make every word count. How do pauses change the way others hear you? When does stopping at the right moment strengthen your message instead of weaken it?
 
Speaker Dynamics – Own The Room is back, and in this episode, Karin Reed explores silence as one of the most underused but transformative skills in communication. She shares how pausing before you speak can command attention and project confidence, why ending once your point is made keeps your message clear and credible, and how intentional quiet creates space for real listening. Karin reflects on lessons from her work with global leaders, her experiences moderating conversations, and even her personal relationships, showing how silence can shift both professional dynamics and personal connections.
 
These insights aren’t just theory. They come with a challenge. Can you choose one conversation where you practice full presence, resist the urge to fill every gap, and let silence do the heavy lifting? The results might surprise you.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 The Power of Silence
01:47 Pause to Ponder: Using Silence to Form Your Thoughts
05:21 Silence Commands Attention and Builds Confidence
07:07 Stop Talking Once You’ve Made Your Point
12:05 Using Silence to Actively Listen
20:58 Key Takeaways on the Power of Silence
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Speaker Dynamics
Speaker Dynamics University
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP37: Inspiring through Storytelling

Most business presentations are packed with data no one remembers. Stories are what actually stick.
 
Karin Reed is joined by senior communication coach Andrea Brody for a conversation that redefines what storytelling looks like in a business setting. What makes someone pause, lean in, and actually remember what you said? Well, it’s probably not your bullet points.
 
Andrea shares insights from her Inspiring Through Storytelling workshop, including the science behind why our brains respond so strongly to stories, and why even simple, everyday moments can leave a lasting impression. She breaks down common misconceptions about what counts as a “real” story and explains how value stories, founder stories, and customer stories can all be used strategically, depending on your audience.
 
For anyone who’s tired of being forgettable in meetings, pitches, or presentations, Karin and Andrea’s conversation offers a smarter way to connect, and a clearer reason to start sharing stories that actually mean something.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Business Storytelling and Why It Matters
02:51 Inside the “Inspiring Through Storytelling” Workshop
05:04 The Science Behind Why Stories Stick
07:59 What Makes a Story Effective
10:54 “I’m Not a Storyteller” and Other Common Myths
11:18 How to Find Meaningful Stories in Everyday Life
13:35 Participant Breakthroughs and Story Wins
19:40 NFL Combine Example: Quiet Leadership Through Story
22:07 Leading Through Storytelling in Tough Times
 
Links
Connect with Karin Reed:
Website: www.speakerdynamics.com
Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/
Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP36: Pitch Perfect - Becoming a Media Expert with Paula Rizzo

Becoming a go-to media expert doesn’t happen by chance. There are multiple factors that make you the guest who is on speed dial. But what are those factors? 
 
Karin Reed talks with Paula Rizzo, an Emmy-winning producer, author and media trainer, about what it really takes to get booked by the media and asked back. Why do some experts become regulars while others never hear a word? What makes a producer stop scrolling and actually open your pitch?
 
Paula shares what she looked for when booking guests during her years in TV news and how she used those same strategies to build her own media presence. She explains the importance of showing up online, pitching with a clear hook and takeaway, and creating content that reflects your expertise. She also unpacks what it means to be “good on camera” and why clarity always matters more than charisma.
 
This episode offers guidance for authors, entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts who want to raise their visibility and be taken seriously by the media. If you’re ready to be seen as the expert, this is where to begin.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Becoming a Media Expert
01:13 Paula Rizzo’s Media Journey
03:20 How to Start: Blogging, Pitching, and Visibility
05:00 What Makes a Great Media Guest
06:10 Why Availability Matters
08:19 How to Pitch the Media Effectively
10:54 Follow-Up and Relationship Building
13:11 Understanding What Producers Actually Need
14:55 Being Good on Camera
19:11 Speaking in Soundbites
21:23 Where to Begin as an Aspiring Expert
23:57 Common Misconceptions About Media
26:04 When to Start Media Training
27:50 Be Visible to Be Found
 
Links
Connect with Paula Rizzo:
For listeners – anyone who is interested in applying for a free strategy session with me can go to SpeakWithPaula.com to apply. There are limited spots available.
For anyone interested in lists and productivity, here’s a list-making starter kit at paularizzo.com/lists
To connect via LinkedIn please go here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paularizzo1/
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Website: www.speakerdynamics.com
Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/
Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP35: Will You Let Me Finish?

Controlling a room full of senior leaders starts with knowing your mission and refusing to let interruptions derail it. So what happens when you walk into a meeting ready to present and the executives start cutting you off before you even reach slide two? Karin Reed knows the feeling, and she offers a smarter way to handle it without losing control or losing your nerve.
 
In this episode, Karin breaks down five practical strategies for staying in charge when senior leaders steer the conversation off course. She shares why setting expectations early can help you hold the room, how trimming your content down to what matters most can work in your favor, and why you should never make a busy executive wait for the point you’re trying to make. Would your presentation land differently if you led with the ‘ask’ instead of saving it for the end? Karin explains why it would and how it changes the way people listen. You’ll also hear smart ways to handle interruptions without giving away control and how to design your slides to flex with the conversation instead of boxing you in.
 
Karin drives home a simple truth: your voice matters, no matter where you sit on the org chart. When you stay intentional, respectful, and focused, you help leaders make better decisions. And that is exactly why you are in the room.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction
01:04 Mission and Importance of Presentation
02:32 Understanding Senior Leaders’ Intent
04:51 Five Strategies Overview
05:03 Strategy 1: Setting Expectations
07:10 Strategy 2: Be Realistic with Content
10:18 Strategy 3: Don’t Bury the Lead
14:00 Strategy 4: Handling Questions
18:46 Strategy 5: Be Flexible
 
Links
Connect with Karin Reed:
Website: www.speakerdynamics.com
Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/
Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP34: Tales from the Trenches of the Speakers Circuit

Most people think polish makes a speaker great. Authenticity is what makes an audience listen.
 
In this episode, Karin Reed talks with international keynote speaker and bestselling author Ryan Vet about what it really takes to build a professional speaking business. From a non-linear journey shaped by entrepreneurship and early Twitter fame to a moment of clarity sparked by unexpected feedback, Ryan shares how authenticity, not polish, is the quality that sets great speakers apart.
 
Ryan and Karin discuss common misconceptions about the speaking world, including the myth that success happens quickly or that all impactful talks happen on massive stages. Ryan offers practical insight into building a sustainable speaking business, from understanding who’s in the room to customizing talks without compromising your voice. He also explains why things like AV etiquette, recording your talks, and building multiple revenue streams are part of the job, not just extras.
 
Whether you’re aiming for the main stage or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this conversation pulls back the curtain on professional speaking with honesty, humor, and a healthy dose of real talk.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Ryan’s Path to Professional Speaking
04:30 Lessons from Writing Speak Goodr
06:00 Handling On-Stage Mishaps
09:24 Respecting the AV Team
10:04 Building a Speaking Business
12:43 Setting and Explaining Your Fee
16:37 Creating Multiple Revenue Streams
17:05 Preparing for Your Audience
20:14 Why Recording Your Talks Matters
22:19 How the Speaking Industry is Changing
23:32 Impacting Audiences of Any Size
25:55 Stick With It
 
Links
Connect with Ryan Vet:
www.RyanVet.com 
www.SpeakGoodr.com
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Website: www.speakerdynamics.com
Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/
Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP33: An Executive Presence Toolkit

Executive presence isn’t something you’re just born with. It’s built through intention, visibility, and the willingness to quiet your inner critic. These are some of the key takeaways from Karin Reed’s talk produced by e-learning titan, Madecraft, as part of their &Then speakers’ series.
 
Karin returns to a topic she’s known for—owning the room—but this time through a more personal lens. What does it take to show up with confidence when your inner voice is questioning every move? How do you project leadership when imposter syndrome is creeping into your psyche?
 
Through stories from her early days as a young reporter and lessons learned from years coaching professionals on camera and in the room, Karin outlines what executive presence really requires. She breaks it down into three areas: how others see you, how you see yourself, and how you stay true to who you are while still making an impact.
 
You’ll hear tips for making stronger digital impressions, learn why solo episodes almost didn’t happen on her podcast, and get a reminder that your value isn’t tied to how well you match someone else’s mold. This episode is a smart, honest look at how to show up clearly, confidently, and fully yourself.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction 
02:08 Defining Executive Presence
05:12 The Importance of First Impressions
07:00 Elements of Strong Presence
09:17 Improving Your Virtual Presence
12:48 Maximizing Your Screen Space
13:10 Owning Your Expertise
16:02 The Value of Authenticity
17:27 The Importance of Executive Presence
 
Links
Connect with Karin Reed:
Website: www.speakerdynamics.com
Speaker Dynamics University: https://university.speakerdynamics.com/
Speaker Dynamics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakerdynamics/
Karin Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-reed/
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

EP32: Leadership Communication: Flexible Leadership in Uncertain Times (with Kevin Eikenberry)

 
In a world where change is constant, leadership communication can no longer rely on habit or personality type. If you lead a team, present to stakeholders, or guide strategy, the way you communicate directly shapes results. Rigid leadership communication simply does not work anymore.
 
In this episode, Kevin Eikenberry joins Karin Reed to challenge the idea that leaders should stick to one style. He introduces a practical framework for becoming more adaptable without losing your values. You will hear how strong leadership communication is rooted in principles and flexible in execution. That shift builds executive presence and drives confident communication, even in uncertain moments.
 
Kevin walks through real workplace scenarios that many leaders face. You ask for input and get silence. You feel pressure to respond quickly. You default to your usual approach. He explains how to pause, assess the context, and decide whether to ask, tell, listen, or direct. That intentional choice strengthens your influence when speaking and helps you communicate with influence instead of reacting on autopilot.
 
They also explore the connection between empathy and performance and how leaders can balance both without sacrificing results. For anyone focused on public speaking for leaders, this conversation offers a grounded and actionable path forward.
 
If you want your leadership communication to match the demands of today’s workplace, this episode gives you the mindset and tools to make it happen.
 
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Why Leadership Communication Must Be Flexible in Uncertain Times09:01 Ask vs. Tell — A Practical Leadership Communication Shift16:11 Mindset, Skillset, and Habit Set Framework for Leaders18:17 Balancing Empathy and Results Without Losing Performance26:01 The “It Depends” Rule for Better Leadership Decisions
 
Connect with Kevin Eikenberry:
Visit Kevin's website
Learn more about Flexible Leadership
Claim your free gift
Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn
Follow Kevin on X
Subscribe to Kevin Eikenberry Group YouTube Channel
 
Connect with Karin Reed:
Visit Speaker Dynamics
Explore Speaker Dynamics University
Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm