What if the secret to unforgettable keynote speaking—and deeper audience engagement—comes down to the spaces between your words?
In this electrifying episode of Path to the Main Stage, Grammy-nominated musician and keynote maestro Freddie Ravel joins host Li Hayes to reveal the hidden rhythms of communication that elevate ordinary presentations into transformative experiences.
You’ll discover why 80% of communication is non-verbal—and how music’s principles of melody, harmony, and rhythm apply directly to business, leadership, and speaking. Freddie Ravel shares captivating stories, like leading nuns to dance in Louisiana, channeling the energy of Beethoven and Lady Gaga in seconds, and turning company values into unforgettable hooks your audience will remember for years.
Whether it’s understanding the “pregnant pause,” crafting alliterative hooks, or tuning into the emotional temperature of a room, Freddie Ravel breaks down his creative methodology. He shares actionable tips for speakers of all levels—including why walk-up music matters, the importance of relentless rehearsal, and how true connection happens when you make your keynote about the audience, not yourself.
Listen to this episode for powerful insights, practical advice, and a backstage look at how world-class communication works—plus, hear why disco still makes your feet tap and your heart beat in sync.
Episode Overview
Ready to level up your keynote, boost your influence, and get insiders’ tips from the stage and studio? Hit play and step into the groove.
What if getting on a TEDx stage could skyrocket your speaking career—but only if you play by the secret rules and avoid the #1 mistake that dooms 80% of applicants before they even get noticed?
In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with John Bates, founder of Executive Speaking Success and TEDx coach to astronauts, top executives, and bestselling authors. Together, they peel back the curtain on the real mechanics, myths, and must-dos to land, crush, and leverage your TEDx talk.
From the true differences between TED and TEDx (hint: it's not just brand—it's community, volunteerism, and purpose), to why TEDx is virtually never about selling your book—and what will instantly disqualify you—this episode gives emerging and seasoned speakers alike the blueprint for approaching these high-impact platforms. John reveals his personal story of bombing a TED stage, the painful lessons learned, and why following simple instructions is a make-or-break step. You'll hear how to find your own "idea worth spreading," why the most powerful talks go beyond selling and instead serve the audience, and the single best way to prepare for a TEDx appearance (spoiler: it takes six months or more!).
Whether you’re wondering how to get noticed among thousands of TEDx applications, what themes and locations matter, or how to turn your TEDx moment into a marketing win, this interview is packed with practical strategies, fresh insights, and honest advice. Plus, Li and John share real stories from inside the selection process, the secret "TED Commandments," and how to be yourself—without falling into the awkward valley of over-practiced delivery.
Episode highlights:
Timestamped Overview:
Ready to learn the TEDx secrets most speakers miss—and how to actually make an impact on one of the world’s most recognized stages? Hit play!
Could an AI-powered booking system really score you 3 to 8 paid speaking gigs every single month—even if you don’t have a massive following?
In this kickoff episode of Path to the Main Stage Season 2, host Li Hayes and the dynamic tech expert & speaker Ramon Ray pull back the curtain on the promises (and pitfalls) of AI in the world of professional speaking—and reveal why the secret to getting booked still lies in genuine human connection.
From outlandish claims hitting LinkedIn inboxes to behind-the-scenes tactics that event planners actually use, Li and Ramon dissect the hype around AI booking tools. You’ll hear why Ramon believes a handshake still beats any algorithm, how personal follow-ups secure long-term relationships and stages, and why sometimes, it’s showing up in person that seals the deal.
Key highlights include:
If you want actionable, street-smart wisdom for breaking into bigger and better stages (with tech AND heart), this episode is a must-listen!
Episode Overview & Timestamps:
Listen in for practical advice, memorable anecdotes, and the energizing chemistry between Li and Ramon that'll inspire you to level up your speaking career—with a human touch.
Subscribe and watch the full episode on YouTube, or learn more at pathtothemainstage.com.
What if everything you believe about your worth as a speaker is wrong?
Imagine learning that your standing ovations, glowing feedback, and pats on the back may not actually mean your keynote is truly great—or even commercially viable. On this episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with legendary speaker, author, and founder of Heroic Public Speaking, Michael Port, to shatter some of the biggest myths in the speaking industry.
Michael pulls back the curtain on what really separates breakout room “experts” from sought-after keynote visionaries, and why mastering the craft—not chasing bureaus or customizing endlessly—leads to stages that keep multiplying. You’ll hear the truth about “stateside leads,” how compound interest applies to booking gigs, and why rehearsal (done right) is the secret sauce top performers swear by—even if you fear sounding stiff.
If you’re ready to move out of “Expertville” and into “Visionary Town,” this episode is your roadmap. Discover why 98% of the best speeches never change, how surprise-and-delight speakers win repeat bookings, and exactly what professional meeting planners really want (and fear!) when hiring talent.
Key highlights:
Timestamped episode overview:
Ready to break out of the breakout room and step into the spotlight? Hit play and find the missing link to your speaking success.
Listen to the full episode and subscribe for more insights into building an unforgettable speaking career!
Are you sabotaging your speaking career by believing these common industry myths?
In this solo episode of the Path to the Main Stage Podcast, Li Hayes flips the script on everything you thought you knew about becoming a successful professional speaker. From the truth about writing a book to the real impact of bestseller status, from website complexity to immediate email replies—prepare to have your assumptions challenged and your strategies sharpened.
Li Hayes draws on a decade of speaker management experience to bust the biggest myths holding speakers back. She reveals why writing a book alone won’t catapult your speaking career, why “Amazon bestseller” isn’t as impressive as it sounds, and why a simple website often beats one jam-packed with SEO tricks. You’ll also hear the honest truth about outreach—why fast responses win gigs, why you should (and how you can safely) post your email and phone on your website, and why more video is always better, not something that undercuts your value.
Key episode highlights include:
Ready to upgrade your speaker toolkit, ditch outdated advice, and get honest industry insight? This episode is your practical, myth-busting guide straight from someone who books and manages real speakers every single day.
Timestamped Episode Overview:
00:00:00 –Li Hayes
introduces the Mythbusters episode
00:01:27 – Myth: You need a book to be a successful speaker
00:05:36 – Myth: Bestseller status matters most
00:07:04 – Myth: You need a complex website for SEO
00:11:19 – Myth: Responding quickly to inquiries looks desperate
00:14:28 – Myth: Posting your email/phone means too much spam
00:17:28 – Myth: Posting more videos makes you less needed
00:19:06 – Myth: One sheets and LinkedIn are outdated
00:22:34 – Myth: Practice makes you unnatural on stage
00:24:54 – Myth: You have to change topics for trends
00:27:54 – Pricing myths: Do you need to raise your fee every year?
00:30:16 – Myth: You should itemize your speaking fees
00:32:27 – Myth: Rebranding and headshots will land you more gigs
00:34:13 – Myth: Only a fancy sizzle reel gets you booked
00:35:35 – Myth: An agent will jumpstart your speaking career
00:36:24 – Myth: No one else offers what you offer!
00:37:49 – Myth: You should earn what “less talented” celebs earn
00:39:17 – Myth: You can (and should) speak to any audience
00:40:43 – Episode wrap-up and call for more myths to bust
Listen now and discover what’s really holding you back on your Path to the Main Stage!
What if your photos are the reason event planners are not booking you?
In this episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked secrets to a thriving speaking career: your visual brand isn’t about you—it’s about them! Forget everything you thought you knew about headshots. Li sits down with acclaimed photographer John DeMato, whose images don’t just capture a face, but the soul and brand behind the speaker. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got years on the stage, this conversation reveals the essential ways your photos can either propel you into the spotlight or leave you invisible in a crowded market.
Key highlights include:
Whether you want to stand out at a glance or build lasting relationships with decision makers, this episode delivers the goods on how to visually show up with credibility, authority, and authenticity.
Timestamped Overview:
[00:00:00] – Li Hayes introduces the importance of visual branding for speakers
[00:02:38] – John DeMato shares his journey from TV producer to speaker photographer
[00:06:17] – The power of “it’s about them, not you” in photography and branding
[00:09:04] – What makes up a speaker’s essential visual portfolio
[00:11:32] – How to build (and evolve) your portfolio over time
[00:16:22] – Tips for getting headshots that capture your true essence—and common mistakes
[00:21:31] – Red flags to watch out for when hiring a photographer
[00:24:43] – Turning one branding session into months of marketing content
[00:28:15] – Incorporating color, style, and personality into your branding photos
[00:31:03] – The importance of capturing pre/during/post-event images
[00:33:41] – Leveraging candid smartphone photos to create authentic connection
[00:36:15] – DIY hacks for getting your first decent headshot
[00:38:22] – John’s advice to his younger self—and the importance of making it about the client
[00:40:00] – Where to find and contact John DeMato
Ready to finally let your photos open doors to bigger stages? Tune in, take notes, and step up your visual game!
What if the secret to landing more speaking gigs isn’t just perfecting your keynote—but joining the right community?
In this power-packed episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with rockstar keynote speaker, bestselling author, and past president of NSA NYC, Robyn Hatcher, to reveal the unexpected power of community over competition in the speaking world. Together, they pull back the curtain on the National Speakers Association (NSA)—what it is, how it works, and why it could be the missing link in your growth as a speaker.
You’ll learn how Robyn made the leap from TV and acting to founder of a successful speaking business, why NSA’s culture of radical generosity is so game-changing, and exactly what emerging speakers should be focusing on if they want to book bigger (and better-paying) stages—hint: it’s not just about having a killer speech!
Tune in for eye-opening insights on:
Whether you’re brand new to speaking or looking to level up, this episode is packed with honest wisdom, practical strategies, and plenty of laughs—as well as a few hard truths about what it takes to stand out (and get booked) in the crowded world of professional speaking.
Timestamped Overview:
00:00 – Li Hayes opens with the journey of a professional speaker and introduces Robyn Hatcher
02:04 – Robyn’s unconventional path from actress to speaking coach to speaker
06:21 – What is the National Speakers Association? Its “bigger pie” mindset and structure
10:03 – The business models behind speaking: keynotes, workshops, coaching, more
14:13 – How NSA members actively refer one another and create opportunities
17:41 – The realities of getting booked: persistence, planting seeds, and the power of follow-up
20:15 – Skill-building at NSA: Speaker University, Toastmasters Clubs, and expert masterclasses
23:57 – NSA’s national conferences: Influence and Thrive, networking goldmines
26:55 – Espeakers platform, using CRMs, and the importance of tracking every lead
32:56 – The Certified Speaking Professional (CSP): what it is, and why it matters
38:43 – Robyn’s top advice to her beginner self—and how to avoid costly mistakes
41:10 – Investing wisely in your career and avoiding scams
43:25 – How to join NSA, find your chapter, and get connected
44:47 – Li wraps up with a call to community and next steps for listeners
Ready to unlock the next level of your speaking career? Dive in now—this episode just might change your path forever.
What if landing your next speaking gig isn’t just about how you perform on stage, but about what’s happening behind the scenes in the decision-maker’s inbox?
On this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes welcomes Stephanie Love, Thryv’s Content & Training Manager, for a candid look into the speaker selection process—and what speakers consistently get wrong. Stephanie pulls back the curtain, sharing exactly how she researches potential speakers, why most speaker inquiry emails go ignored, and the surprising details that get you booked (or blacklisted).
From the must-have elements your website and sizzle reel need, to why being a “niche celebrity” may be more important than having national fame, Stephanie’s practical advice will help speakers stand out in a crowded market. She also breaks down how budgets work, what value companies expect for their investment, and how following up matters more than you think. Plus, she dishes out the biggest turn-offs and red flags that instantly disqualify a speaker—and even shares savvy career advice from her years booking TV guests and corporate webinars.
Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode will leave you with actionable insights and some “a-ha” moments about what really works (and what totally backfires) on your path to bigger, better stages.
Episode Overview
Ready to get out of the inbox and onto the main stage? Tune in now and take notes!
What if the secret to landing speaking gigs has nothing to do with your keynote—or your price tag?
In this eye-opening episode of "Path to the Main Stage," host Li Hayes sits down with Pat Miller, founder of the Small Business Owners Community (SBOC) and a seasoned event planner who’s booked names like Mel Robbins, Jesse Cole, Marcus Lemonis, and Seth Godin.
Pat lifts the curtain on what really makes speakers stand out and get hired—not just for massive conferences, but for the small, high-value events that are goldmines for emerging speakers.
Key highlights from this episode:
Whether you’re new to the game or shooting for bigger stages, this episode is packed with actionable insights, candid stories, and tactical tips that go far beyond the usual speaker advice.
Timestamped episode overview:
00:00 – Introduction & why small events are powerful for emerging speakers
01:48 – Pat Miller shares his community building journey and experience booking top speakers
03:53 – Big name speaker shoutouts and the reality of speaker deals
04:15 – Virtual events: what actually brings value (and why canned keynotes are a no-go)
07:49 – Creative approaches to virtual presentations and audio quality essentials
09:35 – Tough love on virtual rates and why in-person is a different beast
12:32 – How speakers can customize their virtual vs. stage content
13:44 – The surprising impact of the right format in virtual sessions
15:11 – What made in-person experiences with speakers like Carl Gould a home run
18:00 – VIP sessions, books, and how speakers can boost both their value and planner ROI
19:06 – Why being gracious, flexible, and sponsor-savvy matters
21:46 – What planners look for in speaker collateral and red flags to avoid
25:49 – The importance of public video content for speaker credibility
29:01 – Booking decisions: attendee ticket math, tentpole speakers, and planner pain points
30:39 – Customer support, going the “extra mile,” and small wins that get you asked back
32:01 – How connecting with sponsors can be your golden ticket
33:47 – Pat’s perspective as an emerging speaker: message clarity and lessons learned
36:55 – Final tips on authenticity, specificity, and what really stands out for event planners
37:26 – Wrap-up and actionable takeaways for speakers hungry for the main stage
Would you believe that “celebrity” is the #1 shortcut to getting paid speaking gigs—even before expertise or experience?
In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with Mark Albert, a Peabody and Emmy-winning journalist turned media mastery expert, to spill the untold truths about how the media really works for speakers—and why most are doing it all wrong.
You’ll learn:
If you want real strategies to amplify your influence and land those main stage moments—while sidestepping every media pitfall—this episode is your masterclass.
Timestamped Episode Overview:
00:00:00 – Why a little bit of “celebrity” goes a long way in the speaking world
00:01:42 – Introducing Mark Albert’s impressive journalistic bona fides
00:02:36 – Mark’s media obsession from childhood: news, elections, and storytelling
00:04:55 – How Mark helps speakers master their message and amplify their influence
00:07:43 – What makes a killer 30-second soundbite—and why the usual “author/stage” resume doesn’t cut it
00:11:06 – The real value that event planners and journalists are searching for
00:13:32 – Tools and tactics to get your expertise noticed by the right reporters
00:17:49 – Writing the perfect pitch: structure, length, urgency, value, and what NOT to do
00:20:16 – Landing (and nailing) your media opportunity: prep tips, makeup secrets, and more
00:25:21 – Being written about versus self-publishing: what carries more credibility?
00:28:00 – Pay-to-play media: red flags, money traps, and ego stroking exposés
00:32:37 – The three biggest speaker mistakes—and Mark’s #1 secret for becoming the “go-to” media expert
00:35:30 – Why the very best speakers always rise above—and how you can join them
Don’t miss this episode if you’re serious about taking your speaking career to the next level!
What if everything you think you know about speaker bureaus—and how to get on their radar—is wrong?
In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with industry insider Ben Anshutz, President of Entertainment at Gotham Artists, to pull back the curtain on the real workings of speaker bureaus, agents, and how emerging speakers actually get booked. From the myths of exclusivity to the nitty-gritty of how speaker commissions really work, Ben shares hard-earned wisdom from 13 years at Gotham and his own journey as a lifelong performer.
Are you shocked to discover that an agent’s job isn’t to book gigs for you? Or that sending your hard-earned leads to an agent might be the most profitable move for your career? This episode will challenge your assumptions and help you find the clearest path to getting booked on bigger and better stages.
Key highlights include:
If you’re an emerging speaker longing for the inside track, this is your must-listen episode—the advice here could save you years on your journey to the main stage.
Episode Overview & Timestamps
00:00 – Li Hayes introduces Ben Anshutz, Gotham Artists, and today’s agenda: busting myths about bureaus, agents, and getting booked
01:49 – Ben’s background: Entertainment division, speaker agent experience, and performer roots
03:15 – What is a bureau? Talent buyers, brokers, creative matchmakers—debunking industry jargon
05:59 – Exclusive vs. non-exclusive speakers explained; speaker management vs. bureaus
09:23 – How bureaus get paid: gross vs. net commission models, transparency, and pricing drama
13:27 – The realities of travel buyouts—why a fixed fee saves hassles (and hilarious receipts stories!)
19:41 – Travel costs: tiers for emerging, first-class, and celebrity speakers (+ when private jets enter the picture)
22:55 – Are travel fees commissionable? Standard deal structures and hidden bundling
23:43 – How emerging speakers should price themselves and why market research (and humility) matter
29:28 – Sizzle reel vs. speaking reel: What videos are must-haves for getting booked
32:24 – Do you need an agent? When to look for representation, what bureaus look for, and how to get their attention
36:04 – The one thing every speaker should do to get on a bureau’s radar—give them your leads
39:25 – The upside of working with agents: higher fees, better deals, and the long game
41:08 – The realities of event cycles, vendor systems, and why some clients ONLY book through bureaus
43:47 – Ben’s hard-earned wisdom: The power of “no,” maintaining boundaries, and avoiding burnout in showbiz
46:41 – “Enjoy the journey!” Advice for anyone wanting a sustainable, successful speaking career
Ready for the unvarnished truth about what it really takes to get on the main stage? Tune in now for the tactics, tips, and real talk that could change your trajectory!
What if charging less makes you LOSE gigs?
On this episode of the Path to the Main Stage podcast, host Li Hayes delivers a no-nonsense, pull-back-the-curtain masterclass on one of the biggest mysteries in the speaking industry: how much should you actually charge as a speaker? Whether you’re a total newcomer or you’re ready to reach for the elite stages (and paydays), Li breaks down the complex, unspoken truth about speaker pricing that hardly anyone admits: the wrong rate—too high OR too low—can quickly kill your opportunities.
Forget vague advice and self-inflated “rate cards.” Li digs into:
Packed with insider stories, actual fee ranges, negotiation must-knows, and Li’s candid, actionable advice—this episode is a goldmine for anyone serious about earning a living from professional speaking.
Key Highlights:
Whether you’re setting your very first fee or wondering how to climb the pricing ladder, this episode will leave you armed with honest, practical strategies and the confidence to command your worth.
Timestamped Overview
Don’t miss this unfiltered, info-packed solo episode that could radically change how you charge (and earn) as a speaker!
What if the fastest way to book more speaking gigs is not what you think?
In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, podcast powerhouse Lou Diamond pulls back the curtain on why podcasting—not just speaking from a stage—is the most powerful “connect-working” tool for today’s speakers and thought leaders. Whether you want to become a podcast guest, launch your own show, or finally figure out how to monetize your podcast appearances, this episode is packed with the practical wisdom you’ve been missing.
Lou and co-host Li Hayes dive into essential questions like:
Key Highlights:
Whether you’re a seasoned keynoter or just stepping onto your first stage, Lou and Li’s candid conversation will help you rethink your podcast strategy and tap into new opportunities to grow your brand, business, and audience.
Episode Overview (Timestamps)
00:00 – Intro and setting the stage: why podcasts matter for speakers
02:28 – Lou’s background: nine years, 1,100+ episodes, and the art of connecting
06:10 – From guest to producer: launching Thrive Loud Productions
08:54 – How speakers get on podcasts—and why a lazy pitch won’t cut it
10:35 – The “why” and ROI behind guesting on podcasts regularly
13:01 – How to target and identify the right podcast lanes for your expertise
14:58 – Crafting a great pitch and presenting yourself as an in-demand guest
18:53 – Maximizing your value as a guest (and why overdelivering matters)
21:09 – Key equipment and setup tips for hosts and guests
27:08 – Solo vs. guest format: what works best for content and growth
31:10 – Production, branding, and achieving a professional quality show
37:33 – Distributing podcasts: platforms, hosting, and the importance of imagery
43:48 – How a good production company lets speakers focus on what they do best
47:07 – Lou’s big advice to his beginner self—and to you
48:57 – How to connect with the show and wrap-up
Ready to take the next leap as a speaker? This is the episode you didn’t know you needed.
What if the “big break” you think you need as a speaker is actually holding you back?
On this episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with Kevin O’Connor—longtime host of “This Old House” and a recognized TV personality who never set out to be in the spotlight. In a jaw-droppingly frank conversation, Kevin reveals why being represented by a major talent agency nearly ended his speaking career before it began—and why “celebrity” status isn't the golden ticket most believe it is.
With decades of national TV experience but humble beginnings in banking, Kevin shares his roundabout journey from accidental TV star to in-demand keynote speaker. He pulls back the curtain on what truly matters for landing mainstage gigs, the hidden pitfalls of big agencies (including the unsettling reality of “back-pocketing”), and how your values—and your ability to say “yes”—can open doors you never knew existed.
Key highlights include:
Whether you’re an emerging speaker or a seasoned pro, this episode cracks open the myths of the industry and offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to own the main stage.
Episode Overview
Ready to skip the myths and make your own path to the main stage? Listen now!
What if the key to landing more speaking gigs wasn’t your expertise—but the very first line of your bio?
In this episode of "Path to the Main Stage" podcast, host Li Hayes teams up with LinkedIn expert Donna Serdula to dramatically rethink what makes speakers stand out. From Li's jaw-dropping story of being "discovered" by the National Speakers Association just three weeks after Donna revamped her LinkedIn profile, to practical tips on why most bios actually repel clients, this episode is a masterclass in positioning yourself for bigger and better stages.
You'll discover:
Get ready for actionable advice you can implement today—plus some honest career confessions and cringe-worthy moments every professional speaker can relate to.
Episode Overview:
If you want to hack your next stage opportunity, this episode gives you the tools, strategy, and mindset to make it happen.
What if the one thing holding back your speaking career isn’t your stage presence—but your actual keynote?
In this episode of the Path to the Main Stage podcast, your beliefs about what makes a world-class speech might get turned upside down. Legendary speaker coach John Bates joins host Li Hayes to pull back the curtain on how truly great (and highly paid) speakers craft their signature presentations. He shares the hard truth that being “comfortable on stage” isn’t enough—and that even accomplished experts often deliver underwhelming keynotes that leave money and impact on the table.
John reveals the step-by-step process he uses to turn decent talks into the kind of speeches that generate referrals and land $50k+ speaking gigs. He’ll show you why you need one unforgettable speech (not a hundred different ones), why most people get their “big idea” wrong, and how to stop giving stale book reports and start taking your audience on a genuine journey. You’ll learn why your origin story matters, how emotional credibility trumps mere credentials, and why practicing your keynote is essential—even if you think you’re already “good.”
Plus: Find out the #1 mistake speakers make with Q&A, the simple two-minute tweak to instantly level up your closing, and why the biggest impact you’ll ever have comes down to truly honoring your audience’s time.
Key Highlights:
Timestamped Overview:
If you want to move up the ladder as a professional speaker—or avoid the biggest mistakes that keep so many on the sidelines—don’t miss this episode!
What if we told you that your lack of social media presence could be the one thing keeping you off the stage of your dreams?
On this episode of Path to the Main Stage, Li Hayes teams up with social media authority Amber Vilhauer for a revealing and actionable conversation that every aspiring (and seasoned) speaker needs to hear. Find out why event planners are secretly researching your social profiles—and how your social numbers (or the lack thereof) might cause you to lose a keynote slot to a pop artist with a million followers, regardless of your expertise.
Amber shares her no-nonsense strategies for building an authentic and powerful digital presence, even if you think you “hate” social media. You’ll get step-by-step advice for setting up your profiles from scratch, discover why posting matters more than perfection, and learn how to pick the best platform for your brand (spoiler: LinkedIn and YouTube are non-negotiables!). Li and Amber tackle the rampant myths about buying followers, reveal what social numbers truly matter to event planners and publishers, and even debate if (and when) it’s smart to hire help for your social accounts.
Key highlights you won’t want to miss:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to take their speaking business (and personal brand) to the next level—without burning out or losing your sanity to the algorithms.
Timestamped Overview:
00:00:00 – Introduction: Why social media matters for speakers
00:02:12 – Real-world examples of how social presence affects speaker bookings
00:06:36 – Event planners’ obsession with follower counts
00:07:35 – Meet guest expert Amber Vilhauer
00:09:59 – The role of social as your “everyday stage”
00:11:06 – The importance of engagement (not just follower numbers)
00:13:03 – Step-by-step: Creating and optimizing your profiles
00:16:40 – Which platforms matter most? (LinkedIn, YouTube & more)
00:23:07 – Beginners, posting schedules, and fighting “productive procrastination”
00:23:45 – How to create a content through-line and avatar for your social strategy
00:28:35 – The “family tree” approach to content planning & batching videos
00:37:13 – Posting frequency & the power of consistency
00:39:43 – Follower numbers vs. engagement: What truly matters
00:44:12 – Buying followers, boosting posts, and advanced tips
00:49:05 – Hiring help: Smart or risky?
00:52:42 – Amber’s #1 advice for her younger self (and for all speakers)
00:55:15 – Li’s wrap up and how to take your path to the main stage
Ready to stand out, get booked, and show up as your best self—online and off? Press play now.
What if your brand is holding you back from the main stage—and you don’t even know it?
In this episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes teams up with branding powerhouse Ramon Ray, author of “Celebrity CEO,” for a deep (and sometimes hilarious) masterclass on what really makes a speaker's brand stand out—and sell out. They bust the biggest myths about branding (spoiler: your color palette isn’t your brand), reveal why “celebrity” is key—no matter how big your stage—and get brutally honest about branding fails and how to fix them. Expect unexpected analogies (speakers as burgers and pop rocks!), tactical advice for building credibility and engagement, and real talk about what event planners are actually looking for when they book speakers.
Key highlights include:
Join Li and Ramon for this fun, fast-paced episode packed with actionable ideas, personal stories, and memorable moments—whether you’re just stepping into the spotlight or working your way to the main stage.
Timestamped Overview:
00:00 — Introduction: The Speaker’s Branding Journey
00:42 — Meet Ramon Ray: Branding Credentials and Stories
02:06 — What Is Branding, Really? Li & Ramon’s Favorite Examples
05:40 — Branding as Food: A Tasty Exercise for Speakers
07:54 — Color vs. Brand: How to Build Authenticity and Impact
12:33 — The Elements of Brand: Beyond Logos and Color
15:20 — The Power (and Risk) of Imagery in Branding
19:39 — Headshots, Photography, and the “Money Shot”
24:30 — Celebrity and Credibility: What Meeting Planners Want
28:22 — Action Steps: Getting Your Name in the Right Places
32:26 — The Grind: Building Celebrity, Media Placement & Relationship Capital
35:01 — Overexposure: Myth or Real Concern?
38:21 — Engagement vs. Numbers: Why Authentic Fans Matter
40:54 — Content Strategy that Attracts Bookings
44:09 — Platform Choice: Where Your Brand Should Live
45:10 — Ramon’s Branding Failures and Lessons Learned
49:50 — What Ramon Wishes He’d Known As a New Speaker
51:06 — Outro and Where to Get More Help
Ready to upgrade your brand—and your bookings? Hit play and discover your path to the main stage!
What if the secret to landing more speaking gigs has nothing to do with your story—or even your message—but everything to do with how fast you reply to emails?
In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes is joined by Olympic bobsledder, former NFL athlete, and powerhouse speaker Johnny Quinn, who pulls back the curtain on what really drives speaker bookings (hint: it’s not just about talent on the stage). If you’ve ever wondered why some speakers get repeat invitations and glowing referrals while others fade away, this episode will surprise you.
Johnny reveals his journey from getting cut in the NFL to representing Team USA at the Olympics, and how overcoming setbacks became the foundation of his speaking career. But the real gold is in Johnny’s approach to the business of speaking—covering everything from professional “interruption” tactics, to using digital tools and targeted follow-ups that thrill event planners. Discover the surprising impact of immediate response times, how to leverage promotional materials, and why your relationship with an event organizer begins long before you step on stage.
Other key highlights include:
Whether you’re an emerging speaker hungry for stages or a veteran ready to tighten up your process, this fast-paced conversation will help make you unforgettable… before and after you grab the mic.
Episode Overview:
Ready to accelerate your path to the main stage? Listen now and take your speaking business up a gear!
Professional speaking is one of the highest paying careers with the lowest barrier to entry - yet few succeed in ever making it to a main stage.
Path to the Main Stage is here to pull back the curtain on the world of professional speaking. In this debut episode, host Li Hayes reveals the real secrets to breaking in, standing out, and lasting in an industry that’s both dazzling and daunting.
Episode Highlights:
Whether you’re still dreaming of your first stage or hungry for your next big break, this kick-off episode is full of practical, actionable insight you won’t want to miss. Listen, take notes, and step forward on your own path to the main stage!
Timestamped Overview
00:00 "Emerging Speaker Coaching and Placement"
04:52 Comprehensive Guide to Speaking Business
07:52 Transitioning Job Responsibilities
09:53 Building Success Through Relationships
13:08 "Identifying Your Speaker Type"
16:45 "Motivational Speakers and Learning"
21:21 Finding a Purposeful Keynote Speaker
24:17 "Edutainers in Leadership & Motivation"
29:12 "Understanding Your Speaker Role"
30:00 "Path to Main Stage Success"