Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Penny Nilsen, a speaker, facilitator, and communication expert who helps people move beyond “talking at” an audience and into true engagement and transformation. Penny shares her journey from returning to university later in life, to teaching, to discovering facilitation through Toastmasters — where she went on to train over 80 facilitators and develop interactive, high-impact learning environments. If you’re a speaker who wants to: ✔️ Keep audiences engaged ✔️ Create real “aha” moments ✔️ Lead rooms with confidence and clarity ✔️ Expand into workshops, facilitation, or training — this episode will give you practical insight you can apply immediately. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: 👉 https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Penny → Website: https://pennynilsen.com → Email: contact@pennynilsen.com If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. 👉 Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers.Every episode brings real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from people who found their voice and chose to use it. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Souligna, a speaker, brand strategist, and entrepreneur who didn’t plan to become a speaker — she became one by saying yes before she felt ready. Souligna shares her raw, unforgettable story of leaving corporate, stepping onto her very first big stage with everything going wrong, and discovering that authenticity beats perfection every time.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers.Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from people who are using their voice to create impact, influence, and opportunity. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Tiffany to explore what it really means to speak from alignment — and how clarity, purpose, and lived experience translate into powerful stages.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Advik, a young author, financial literacy advocate, and speaker selected for the November 16th TEDxLikeMary stage. This conversation highlights why youth voices matter on stage and how speaking can be a powerful tool at any age. Advik shares how a 5th-grade stock market competition sparked his love for finance, eventually leading him to write his book Become an Investor in an Hour — a simple, easy-to-understand guide designed to help kids (and adults) get an early start in financial literacy. 🎤 In this episode, you’ll hear: How a school competition turned into a passion for finance Why Advik decided to write a book to help others get a head start How speaking at nonprofit, community, and religious gatherings built confidence Why public speaking doesn’t have to start as a “career” to make an impact What excites him most about stepping onto a big stage for the first time Why youth representation brings fresh perspectives audiences need to hear This episode is a powerful reminder that great speakers aren’t defined by age — they’re defined by clarity, curiosity, and courage. If you’re a speaker, parent, educator, or organizer who believes in nurturing the next generation of voices, this conversation will inspire you. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: 👉 https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Advik → Young Author & Financial Literacy Speaker If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. 👉 Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Marissa, a licensed mental health therapist specializing in new mothers, to explore why honest conversations about motherhood are long overdue — and why this message deserves a public stage. Marissa shares how her own experience becoming a mother shattered the “perfect mom” narrative and led her to question the way society labels, diagnoses, and silently pressures women during one of the most vulnerable seasons of life. What started as personal confusion became a powerful calling to normalize the hardships of motherhood, remove shame, and help women reclaim themselves. 🎤 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why so many new mothers feel lost, ashamed, or isolated — and rarely say it out loud How unrealistic social and cultural expectations deepen anxiety and guilt Why comparison (especially on social media) quietly erodes mental health How normalizing struggle creates healing and connection What it means to help women find balance, identity, and self-care again Why this “edgy but necessary” topic belongs on a big stage How persistence (even after 200+ applications) leads to breakthrough opportunities Marissa also opens up about her year-and-a-half application journey, the emotional toll of rejection, and what it felt like to finally receive her acceptance — a powerful reminder that meaningful ideas are often worth fighting for. If you’re a speaker with a message that feels vulnerable, bold, or long ignored — this episode will remind you that truth resonates, persistence matters, and your voice can change lives. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Marissa → Licensed Mental Health Therapist (New Mothers & Postpartum Support) If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Latisha Howard — a law enforcement leader, nonprofit founder, author, and first-time major-stage speaker — to explore how reinvention, courage, and lived experience become a powerful foundation for speaking. Latisha shares her journey from a teenage mother to a captain in law enforcement, nonprofit founder, and newly published author. She opens up about overcoming a fear of public speaking, returning to school, and learning to embrace her story — not as something to hide, but as something that could change lives. 🎤 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your past does not disqualify you from becoming a speaker How reinvention starts with mindset, education, and self-belief What it looks like to face a fear of public speaking head-on How speakers can turn personal adversity into community impact Why becoming a student again accelerates personal and professional growth How sharing your story helps others see what’s possible for themselves Latisha also shares insights from her book ROAR: Rising Over Adversity Resiliently, breaking down the steps of recognizing your potential, organizing your vision, cultivating ambition, and fully reinventing yourself. If you’re a speaker (or aspiring speaker) who feels held back by fear, doubt, or your past — this episode is proof that your story matters and your voice belongs on stage. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: 👉 https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Latisha Howard → Author, nonprofit founder & community leader If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. 👉 Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Tanja, a speaker coach and strategist who has worked closely with speakers and organizers to help messages land clearly, powerfully, and memorably on stage. Tanja shares why most speakers don’t struggle with confidence — they struggle with clarity. Too many ideas, too much information, and too little focus can dilute even the most meaningful message. In this conversation, she breaks down how speakers can refine their message into one clear idea that audiences remember and event organizers trust. 🎤 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why trying to say everything makes your message land nowhere How speakers can simplify without “dumbing down” their expertise What makes an idea feel fresh, relevant, and stage-ready How to speak to who you used to be instead of “everyone” Why clarity is the fastest path to more speaking opportunities How simplicity builds credibility with organizers and audiences alike If you’re a speaker who wants more stages, a clearer message, and talks that actually resonate, this episode will give you practical insight you can apply immediately. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, speaker strategy, and resources: 👉 https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Tanja Diamond → Speaker Coach & Strategist If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. 👉 Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Aaron “SgtQ” Quinonez — entrepreneur, speaker, mental resilience coach, and judge on The Blocks — to explore how speakers can build confidence, credibility, and consistent bookings by rewiring their mindset and leading with authenticity. Aaron shares his powerful journey from growing up in poverty, serving in the military, battling anxiety and depression, to building a multi-million-dollar business and becoming a highly sought-after speaker. His approach blends neuroscience, discipline, faith, and practical frameworks to help speakers perform at a high level — on and off the stage. 🎤 In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why mindset alone isn’t enough — and how neuroscience actually drives confidence on stage - How speakers can turn personal pain and trauma into meaningful, impactful talks - The danger of over-promising results as a speaker or coach (and how it destroys credibility) - Why authenticity is the fastest path to trust, influence, and long-term speaking success - Aaron’s simple but powerful Educate → Empower → Encourage framework for speakers - How disciplined routines create safety, clarity, and confidence for speakers If you’re a speaker who wants more stages, stronger authority, and a message that truly resonates, this episode will challenge how you think — and elevate how you show up. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips to get booked 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support & speaker resources: 👉 https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Aaron “SgtQ” Quinonez → Speaker, Entrepreneur & Mental Resilience Coach → sgtquinonez.com If you’re serious about becoming a credible, confident, and booked speaker, you’re in the right place. 👉 Hit Subscribe and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Silvana Pimentel — an immigrant entrepreneur, Chief AI Officer, sales leader, and TEDx speaker — to explore how AI, identity, and lived experience can become powerful tools for speakers and leaders. Silvana shares how she went from radio and television in Peru to rebuilding her voice in the U.S., overcoming fear around her accent, and ultimately turning what once felt like a limitation into her greatest speaking advantage. She also breaks down how AI can help overwhelmed professionals, speakers, and business owners reclaim time, clarity, and confidence. This episode is a powerful reminder that you don’t need to sound like everyone else to belong on stage — your voice, your background, and your perspective are exactly what audiences are looking for. If you’re a speaker who wants to stand out, use AI intentionally, and communicate with confidence — this conversation will inspire you. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Silvana Pimentel → LinkedIn: (best way to see what she’s building and reach out)

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Dr. Millie Lytle — a licensed naturopathic doctor with over 20 years of experience — to explore how deep expertise, lived experience, and clarity of message can translate into meaningful speaking opportunities. Dr. Millie shares how her journey through women’s health, functional medicine, and mental-emotional clarity shaped her evolution as a speaker — and why topics like hormones, menopause, fertility, and mental health are not “niche,” but essential conversations audiences are craving. This episode is a powerful reminder that speakers don’t need hype — they need substance, clarity, and care for their audience. If you’re an expert who wants to bring education, healing, and impact to the stage, this conversation will resonate deeply. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Cathy Heighter — a Gold Star mother, advocate, and changemaker — to share an extraordinary story of courage, resilience, and purpose. After losing her 22-year-old son in Iraq in 2003, Cathy made a decision that would change her life — and the lives of thousands of military families. Instead of staying broken by grief, she chose to ask questions, challenge the system, and fight for change. If you’re a speaker (or future speaker) who wants to turn pain into purpose, ideas into impact, and stories into meaningful change — this conversation will move you deeply. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Daniel Glazier — a certified personal property appraiser with nearly 25 years of experience — to unpack why you don’t need to be a professional motivational speaker to belong on a TEDx stage. Daniel shares how his work appraising estates, uncovering hidden value, and helping families navigate difficult transitions led him to realize there’s a better, more human way to approach legacy, loss, and preparedness — and why that message deserves to be shared publicly. You’ll hear how Daniel: Built a career valuing personal property, estates, antiques, and collectibles Discovered powerful, recurring patterns while working with families during estate transitions Learned why sentimental value and real value are often very different Overcame the belief that “TEDx is only for professional speakers” Turned lived experience into a meaningful TEDx idea focused on reducing pain for families Embraced the TEDx journey despite fear, nerves, and stepping into something new If you’re a speaker — or someone who’s never considered themselves a “speaker” — but you know you have an idea worth sharing, this episode will show you how real-world expertise can become a powerful stage-worthy message. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Tom Puketza — a theater-trained event producer, speaker coach, and founder of Finale Events — to unpack how speakers can use events as a powerful tool to build authority, credibility, and momentum without waiting for permission or massive budgets. With a background in theater, stage management, and production, Tom brings a rare behind-the-scenes perspective that helps speakers understand how events really work, how organizers think, and how speakers can position themselves to stand out both onstage and offstage. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Tom → LinkedIn: Connect and ask questions about events, speaking, and production → Finale Events: https://finaleevents.com (Event production, speaker support, and creating proof-of-concept stages) If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Namrata — a former management consultant and “corporate junkie” turned community strategist and founder whisperer — to unpack how speakers and founders can build real impact by creating human-centered communities (instead of burning out inside corporate systems). You’ll hear how Namrata: - Left the traditional career path and traveled to 30+ countries to study communities “where people fall through the cracks” - Discovered her own neurodivergence (ADHD) and built sustainable strategies for neurodivergent leaders - Helps founders (especially women founders) find clarity, reduce burnout, and build community as a true growth engine - Plans high-impact visibility in 2026 (including Dubai and the World Economic Forum) - Shares a powerful speaker takeaway: create one crisp, simple line the audience will write down — her example: “I found a container for my chaos.” If you’re a speaker who wants more stages, a clearer message, and a stronger community around your work — this episode will give you practical insight and inspiration. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching, TEDx support, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi ⭐ Connect with Namrata → LinkedIn: (best way to see what she’s building and reach out) https://www.linkedin.com/in/namratasinghabrol/ If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

In this episode of Getting Speakers Booked, Vaishali shares her journey from a corporate executive to the founder of ORA Human, a company focused on mindfulness and human skill development. She discusses the importance of understanding mindfulness beyond meditation, the birth of her company, her transition into public speaking, and offers valuable advice for aspiring speakers. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi Join the Global Speakers Circle Network - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1ZoNHULAiA/ Join us in person on November 14th and 15th - https://mbaxi.com/speakerevent

Welcome back to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Warren Schuitema — “The AI Dad” and founder of Matchless Marketing — to unpack how he built a business from home using artificial intelligence while raising a family, staying present with his kids, and helping parents use technology to create more time, not lose it. Warren shares how he became known for his family-focused AI approach, how speaking naturally grew into his business, and what new speakers can do to emotionally connect with audiences on their journey. He also gives a preview of his talk at the Goal Achievers Summit, where he’ll reveal his KIDSAFE prompting method — a framework that helps parents and kids use AI safely, creatively, and confidently in 2026. If you’re a speaker who wants to grow your authority, deepen your message, and understand how AI can amplify your impact, this episode is for you. ⭐ Join the community Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → TEDx support, coaching, and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

Welcome to Getting Speakers Booked — the podcast by speakers, for speakers. Every episode brings you real stories, real strategies, and real experiences from speakers who are actively building their impact, influence, and income. In today’s episode, Macy Baxi sits down with Debbie Simmons — “The Legacy Architect” — to unpack how she turned unimaginable loss into a life of significance, purpose, and global impact. Debbie shares how she built her nonprofit, writes books that change lives, and helps others live a legacy now instead of later. ⭐ Join the community: → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy: → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources at https://linktr.ee/macybaxi If you're a speaker who wants more stages, more confidence, and more opportunities — you’re in the right place. Hit Subscribe, and let’s get you booked.

In this conversation, Chris Schuring discusses the challenges of leadership, using the metaphor of canoe racing to illustrate the journey from uncertainty to effective leadership. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and personal commitment in navigating the complexities of leadership roles. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi

In this episode of Getting Speakers Book, host Macy interviews Caleb, who shares his journey into public speaking through Toastmasters. They discuss the importance of effective communication, building authentic connections, and the challenges of networking in today's digitally connected yet socially disconnected world. Caleb emphasizes the need for vulnerability in networking and the significance of surrounding oneself with honest, supportive individuals for personal growth. The conversation concludes with actionable steps for new speakers to enhance their skills and confidence. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi

In this episode of Getting Speakers Booked, Sheryl Green discusses her journey from being a people pleaser to becoming a boundary strategist, author, and speaker. She emphasizes the importance of setting healthy boundaries for personal well-being and professional success. Sheryl shares insights on transitioning from the nonprofit sector to a speaking career, offering valuable advice for new and returning speakers. The conversation highlights the significance of addressing audience needs and solving problems through effective communication. Sheryl also provides resources for listeners looking to improve their boundary-setting skills and enhance workplace culture. ⭐ Join the community → Global Speakers Circle (Free Facebook Group): Connect with speakers, network, and get weekly tips. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/globalspeakercircle ⭐ Connect with Macy → Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn: @MacyBaxi → Coaching and speaker resources: https://linktr.ee/macybaxi