Public Speaking for Fun & Profit | with Colin Ryan

Bad presentations can be incredibly useful, especially when you know what to look for. Seasoned public speaker and public speaking coach Colin Ryan breaks down two common decisions he’s seen presenters make that unintentionally alienate their audiences. More importantly, he looks at how easily those moments could have created connection instead, and elevated the experience for the presenter and their audience. This isn’t about making fun of bad presenters. It’s about recognizing that even experienced speakers can make choices that create distance between themselves and their audience. And the good news is that those choices are usually fixable. Colin shares two examples that can help you connect more naturally, communicate your message more effectively, and become the kind of presenter people actually want to listen to. ---- Thanks for listening! Want tailored support? Colin Ryan trains leaders and teams in the financial psychology of their clients and on building trust with colleagues, so they can drive the results they want most. He also coaches professionals to give dynamic presentations so they have more fun and make more impact when public speaking. Free resources and more at ⁠⁠colinryanspeaks.com

The Trust Toolkit helps professionals become better influential communicators who get results. In this episode, host Colin Ryan shares what happened when his presentation remote died mid-speech, in front of 100 people, during a talk about... public speaking. What could've been a disaster became one of the most talked-about moments of the day, and a masterclass in what really builds trust with clients, teams, and audiences. In this episode: Why a tech failure mid-keynote turned into the most memorable part of the talk The exact thought that got Colin through 60+ seconds of dead air in front of a live room Why "don't be perfect, be present" is a proven strategy What happens to your listener when they see you sweat. The surprising link between building trust with others and building trust in yourself If you've ever felt like you had to be flawless to be credible, this episode will reframe how you think about the moments that go wrong. Thanks for listening! Want tailored support? Colin Ryan trains leaders and teams in the financial psychology of their clients and on building trust with colleagues, so they can drive the results they want most. He also coaches professionals to give dynamic presentations so they have more fun and make more impact when public speaking. Free resources and more at ⁠colinryanspeaks.com

In this episode of The Trust Toolkit , Colin Ryan explores a simple but uncomfortable truth: you deserve to disappoint others. Inspired by a powerful audience moment in his keynote at a leadership summit for financial professionals, Colin talks about the impossible standards many high performers carry, the pressure to never let anyone down, and why self-trust begins with making peace with being imperfect. Through honest stories, humor, and reflections on mental health, he explores how self-kindness doesn’t make us weaker leaders — it makes us safer, more human, and ultimately more effective ones. Thanks for listening! Want tailored support? Colin Ryan trains leaders and teams in the financial psychology of their clients and on building trust with colleagues, so they can drive the results they want most. Free resources and more at colinryanspeaks.com

We all mess up with clients. The difference between advisors who lose trust and those who deepen it often comes down to what happens in the moments after the mistake. In this episode, Colin shares a relatable, personal story about a family miscommunication — and how he almost responded with the exact wrong kind of apology. Colin breaks down three ways to respond when you get something wrong: the reaction that damages trust, the one that repairs it, and the one that actually strengthens trust and restores the relationship. If you've ever had to say "I'm sorry" to a client or customer (or loved one), and wondered if you said it right, this one's for you. ------------------ If this episode resonated, there are more ways Colin can help. When it comes to the people-side of work—with clients, colleagues, and teams—results depend on your ability to create trust. If you want to increase performance within your team, or you achieve more sales, more referrals, and stronger client relationships, Colin offers engaging keynotes, interactive trainings, and one-on-one coaching designed to help professionals communicate more clearly and connect more deeply. To learn more or start a conversation, reach out at colin@colinryanspeaks.com Or download Colin’s free guide and explore resources for your next team event or sales meeting at: www.colinryanspeaks.com/resources

Colin Ryan has spent his entire career telling stories—and not in the vague, “everyone’s a storyteller” kind of way. He’s performed on The Moth, NPR, and PBS, and had his work featured in Reader’s Digest "The Best Stories in America" Collection. But his real work has lived in the business world—where storytelling has recently become trendy… and often misunderstood. In this episode, Colin breaks down what most professionals get wrong about storytelling at work. Too often, stories are long, self-focused, and unclear—leaving audiences disengaged instead of inspired. What’s missing? A simple, repeatable way to tell short, powerful stories that connect your experience to your client’s reality. But here’s the twist: Colin argues that the real value of storytelling isn’t actually about telling better stories. It’s about something far more important—something that drives trust, buy-in, and meaningful action in every conversation you have. If you’ve ever felt like your ideas aren’t landing, your clients aren’t fully engaged, or your message isn’t sticking—this episode will change how you think about storytelling entirely. ---------------------------------- If this episode resonated, there are more ways Colin can help. When it comes to the people-side of work—with clients, colleagues, and teams—results depend on your ability to create trust. If you’re looking for more sales, more referrals, and stronger client relationships, Colin offers engaging keynotes, interactive trainings, and one-on-one coaching designed to help professionals communicate more clearly and connect more deeply. To learn more or start a conversation, reach out at colin@colinryanspeaks.com Or download Colin’s free guide and explore resources for your next team event or sales meeting at: www.colinryanspeaks.com/resources

I'm doubling down on the success of this podcast's first focus: public speaking, networking, pitching, and selling. I'm going to focus on the element beneath all of that: trust. I’ve given roughly 1,000 speeches, often talking about money, a subject most people don’t openly discuss. And I know I’m doing my job well when something shifts in the room. People open up. They engage. They become a little more honest, a little more vulnerable. And later, they tell me they actually made a change—because of one conversation, one talk, one moment. And when I step back and look at that, I realize… that only happens when there’s trust. Over the years, I’ve also worked with a lot of financial professionals—on communication, on client relationships, on how to better understand the people they’re trying to help. And there’s a gap I see again and again: There are people who need help… and people who genuinely want to help… but something doesn’t connect. And more and more, I believe that the bridge across that gap is trust. Going forward, this is The Trust Toolkit . I’m still going to share practical communication tools—things you can use in your next conversation, your next presentation, your next important moment. But everything is going to be grounded in this idea of: How do we communicate in a way that builds trust and actually moves people to action?

In this episode, Colin Ryan explores why trust is the real differentiator for financial professionals in today’s skeptical environment. Drawing on his experiences with accountants, advisors, students, and industry leaders, Colin delves into the historical baggage that plagues the financial services industry -- from movie-inspired stereotypes to past misconducts -- and the challenges that make honest financial conversations difficult, but so important. You will gain insights into: The roots of distrust in the financial industry and how media and culture fuel these perceptions. Real-life stories from college campuses illustrating the disconnect between consumers and financial experts. Proven strategies to break negative stereotypes, such as focusing on empathy, transparency, and active listening. Practical tips to stand out as a trusted advisor, including championing clients, being non-judgmental, and bringing genuine care to every conversation. Data-driven benefits of trust-building, from better client engagement to long-term loyalty and advocacy. Why trust is not just a “soft skill,” but a measurable, observable outcome that directly impacts your professional results. Tune in to learn how to become the kind of financial professional people remember—and refer—by prioritizing trust over transactions. ------ Want to Bring This to Your Team? If you're nodding along thinking "my team needs to hear this," let's make it happen. I deliver the Trust Advantage keynote for financial services organizations that want their professionals to stand out, connect authentically, and build client relationships that last. Your team will learn: Why trust beats tactics every time How to turn skeptical prospects into engaged clients The neuroscience behind conversations that actually work Practical tools they can use in their very next meeting Ready to talk? Visit ColinRyanSpeaks.com/keynote-trust-advantage to learn more. Let's turn your next event into something your team actually remembers—and uses.

🎙️ What can five years of stand-up comedy teach you about storytelling? A lot ! In this episode, Colin deconstructs his stand-up comedy journey to show you how to craft stories that don't just inform, but truly connect. He'll reveal key ways comedians turn everyday moments into unforgettable narratives—and how you can too. You’ll learn: The Relatability Hack: How even a mundane moment can become everyone’s shared truth Narrative Alchemy: Use a simple structure to tap into suspense-building power The Brevity Muscle: Why brevity isn’t just polite—it’s magnetic From identical twin mix-ups to cutting the fluff, this episode delivers storytelling tools that help you connect, captivate, and stay memorable. Perfect for speakers, presenters, and anyone ready to turn stories into strategic assets. 🎤 Pro Tip: Don’t “tell a story.” Share a strategic example .

Networking can feel like an anxiety-inducing performance, but what if it didn’t have to? In this episode of Memorable Public Speaking , we dive into a real conversation with a client who struggles with overthinking, self-doubt, and the fear of making a bad impression while networking. Their words: “I’m usually kind of thinking like, what do I say? What do I say? What do I say?” If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But what if networking wasn’t about saying the perfect thing? I’ll share simple mindset shifts and strategies that make networking feel more natural, including: 💬 How to break the ice without pressure 💡 Why a quick sip of water can reset your confidence 👂 The power of listening instead of planning your next line 🎭 The surprising truth that there’s no such thing as failure in networking If networking stresses you out, this episode will help you approach it with confidence and ease, and watch as you get more of the results you want! ---------------------- You'll love our brand new guide, The Business Storytelling Blueprint. For a copy, email Colin at colin@colinryanspeaks.com to learn more. Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Want to learn how to grow your business and make an impact through public speaking? Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.speaknextweek.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to download our free guide or get recommendations from Colin on how you can become a memorable and influential public speaker.

In this value-packed episode, storytelling expert Colin Ryan pulls back the curtain on 2 powerful techniques that took a real client’s keynote story to new heights. You’ll learn how to craft an irresistible hook that grabs your audience's attention from the very first line. Plus, learn the secret to infusing your narratives with genuine emotional stakes that forge deep connections. Whether you're looking to level up your public speaking, nail your next big pitch, or get paid to speak, these storytelling hacks are game-changers, and will help you take your communication skills to the next level! -------------------- Are you interested in our brand new guide, The Business Storytelling Blueprint? If so, email Colin at colin@colinryanspeaks.com to learn more. Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Want to learn how to grow your business and make an impact through public speaking? Go to ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.speaknextweek.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to download our free guide or to get recommendations from Colin on how you can become a memorable and influential public speaker.

Ever been tempted to “wing it” when speaking? Think again. While improvisation can seem natural and authentic, it’s also a risky move that can leave you stumbling, rambling, or losing your audience entirely. In this episode, Colin explores three major reasons why speaking off-the-cuff can derail your talk—and what to do instead to feel prepared and confident. You’ll learn how to avoid common pitfalls, connect with your audience, and deliver a presentation that truly leaves an impact. Whether you’re preparing for a keynote, a pitch, or a team meeting, this episode is packed with practical advice to take your speaking skills to the next level. Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Want to learn how to grow your business and make an impact through public speaking? Go to ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.speaknextweek.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to download our free guide or to get recommendations from Colin on how you can become a memorable and influential public speaker.

In this episode, I tackle a question from a listener: How can I share serious stories while keeping my presentation positive and NOT losing the audience? So I tested out an answer: drawing from my personal experiences crafting a powerful story about navigating the American healthcare system around my own health challenges (see what I mean? SERIOUS!), I share three key strategies to create emotional balance in your talks and keep it light, engaging, and inspiring no matter the content area you are sharing: Pick Your Moments : Build lightness and humor around heavy topics to connect with your audience before diving deep. Confident Vulnerability : Show authenticity without overwhelming your audience, ensuring they stay engaged and inspired. Test It Out : Hone your story with practice audiences to craft a powerful, resonant message. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode will help you transform serious stories into impactful presentations that leave your audience feeling inspired—not overwhelmed. ---------- Do you have a speaking opportunity coming up? Would you like to feel amazing after your next talk? Download our free guide at ⁠⁠⁠ speaknextweek.com ⁠⁠⁠ or speak to Colin personally to get a free recommendation on what you can do next to become a stronger public speaker.

In this episode of "Memorable Public Speaking and Storytelling," Colin shares a personal experience from a recent storytelling event where everything seemed to go wrong—yet the crowd loved it. Drawing lessons from that night, Colin reveals two powerful tips for any speaker: 1) Pay close attention to your environment—it can fuel your connection with the audience. 2) Embrace imperfection—allow yourself to make mistakes. Through a hilarious story about running with the bulls (or not), Colin shows how authenticity, even in moments of stress, can make you more relatable and memorable. Tune in to hear how to turn fear and failure into connection and engagement in your public speaking. ------------- Do you have a speaking opportunity coming up? Would you like to feel amazing after your next talk? Download our free guide at ⁠⁠speaknextweek.com⁠⁠ or speak to Colin personally to get a free recommendation on what you can do next to become a stronger public speaker.

In this episode we dive into the art of using humor effectively in your presentations. Humor can turn a dry, forgettable talk into something memorable and engaging, but it’s a tool that requires balance. Colin walks you through why humor is such a powerful connection tool, how to craft jokes and funny stories, and—most importantly—how to avoid offending your audience. We’ll cover practical tips on testing humor, steering clear of disrespectful jokes, and even a bonus tip on getting audience feedback. Tune in to learn how to make your audience laugh for all the right reasons! ------------- Do you have a speaking opportunity coming up? Would you like to feel amazing after your next talk? Download our free guide at ⁠speaknextweek.com⁠ or speak to Colin personally to get a free recommendation on what you can do next to become a stronger public speaker.

🎤 **Feeling Nervous About Networking? You're Not Alone!** At its core, networking is about making that first connection and seeing if there's a vibe, mutual interest, or curiosity. But what if you don't feel confident? What if you're in your head about it? 🤔 Here's a truth: everyone feels awkward sometimes. I've been the confident networker and the one wanting to go home. Recently I found a way to go from nervous-wallflower to networker-extraordinaire. Here's a story about an initial moment of honesty that led to a meaningful connection. ----------------- Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Check out free resources at https://speaknextweek.com or get a free recommendation from me on becoming a stronger public speaker. In less time than you think, you can transform public speaking from something you dread into something you love! 🎙️ #Networking #PublicSpeaking #Authenticity #CareerGrowth

You will never more of your audience's attention than you do in the first 30 seconds. There are all kinds of fun and creative things you can do to hook them immediately, keep them engaged, and get them to say Yes. Unfortunately, the real-life tips in this video things are NOT intuitive, NO ONE does them automatically, and they take a little bit of creativity. The great news? They WILL increase your rate of success in pitches, presentations and conversations with clients.The Golden Window concept comes from "Go Big or Go Home: 5 Ways to Create a Customer Experience That Will Close the Deal" by Diana Kander and Tucker Trotter." ------------- Do you have a speaking opportunity coming up? Would you like to feel amazing after your next talk? Download our free guide at https://www.speaknextweek.com or speak to Colin personally to get a free recommendation on what you can do next to become a stronger public speaker. FREE GUIDE: How to Make Your Next Talk Your Best Talk | 15 ways to engage your audience, enhance your message, and make lasting change. https://www.speaknextweek.com #publicspeaking #presentationskills #storytelling #courage #connection #communication #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #comedy #humor #personaldevelopment #professionaldevelopment

A true story to remind you that we’re all pretending! Key Ideas: What will be your next “15 feet of courage?” Public speaking is not about being perfect, it’s about creating a connection with your audience. The skill of connection belongs in our work, on our teams, in our relationships and in our relationship with ourselves. Next time you speak, don’t focus on getting every word right. Focus on understanding your audience and saying something that will create a genuine connection with them. ------------- Do you have a speaking opportunity coming up? Would you like to feel amazing after your next talk? Download our free guide at speaknextweek.com or speak to Colin personally to get a free recommendation on what you can do next to become a stronger public speaker.

Did you know that MOST people are used to NEVER being listened to. There's a reason for this: most of us never took a class or training on HOW to listen well. Well I took a 2-day listening training, and I'll sum it up for you in a few minutes (saving you a lot of time, you're welcome!)As you become a better listener, your world and your career opens up in a really remarkable ways, you learn a lot more, and you make other people feel amazing so then they listen better too! ---------------- Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Check out free resources at ⁠https://speaknextweek.com⁠ or get a free recommendation from me on becoming a stronger public speaker. In less time than you think, you can transform public speaking from something you dread into something you love! 🎙️

For me, doing stand-up comedy 10 years was a great tool to be a better communicator. And it also taught me a trick that's great for you to help boost your confidence. I call it "open mic-ing." Whether the thing that's intimidating you is public speaking, speaking up in meetings, raising your profile, or recording yourself on video to send with emails, this trick will help you get more comfortable FAST! This will help you say yes to more speaking opportunities, even when it feels scary. And speed up your progress using a trick I call "open mic-ing" as a way to practice and improve. ⁠I still use this trick to get confident at new things (like posting videos on social media), because I still struggle with perfectionism and self-doubt, and I always will. So you're not alone! And why should that stop you from reaching your goals and amplifying your voice? It shouldn't! ----------------- Want to feel amazing after your next talk? Check out free resources at ⁠https://speaknextweek.com⁠ or get a free recommendation from me on becoming a stronger public speaker. In less time than you think, you can transform public speaking from something you dread into something you love! 🎙️

Did you know that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a deep struggle with depression and suicidal tendencies throughout his life? I did not. I want to share this with you, including an amazing clip from his final speech, and share what I've learned about how our mental health challenges make us better leaders and public speakers! From the episode: "As a leader, in your life there are people who you lead, people who you serve, people who you love; those people need all parts of you. Not just your confidence but your vulnerability too. They need you to manage your own mental health so you can show up for them. And you need that too. And more importantly, you deserve that!" Article Link: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: The Depression and Empathy That Contributed to His Humanity MLK's final Speech: "I Have Been the Mountaintop" 3-minute video clip