Podcast Answer Man

In this episode, I'm thrilled to share a proven method for quickly and effectively outlining presentations, talks, webinars, or any form of communication. At the core of this approach are nine focusing questions I learned from my public speaking mentor.

Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode will equip you with the tools to create clear, impactful presentations on the fly. So, let's dive in and transform the way you prepare for your next speaking engagement!

Overview of the Nine Focusing Questions

• Cliff explains each of the nine questions, using examples to clarify their purpose:
  1. Who is the Target Audience?
     • Identifying the specific audience helps tailor the talk to their needs.
  2. Is the Talk Persuasive or Enabling?
     • Determines if the goal is to persuade or to enable by teaching steps.
  3. What is the Objective of the Talk?
     • Focuses on the main purpose of the talk (e.g., enabling people to outline a presentation quickly).
  4. What Keyword Will I Use?
     • Using a consistent keyword, like “questions,” provides a thematic anchor.
  5. What is the Pregnant Sentence?
     • A single, clear sentence summarizing the talk's purpose to ensure clarity.
  6. What are the Rationales?
     • The main points or reasons supporting the objective, forming the talk’s structure.
  7. What Resources Support Your Rationales?
     • Examples, anecdotes, research, or visuals that reinforce key points.
  8. How Will You Open and Transition into the Talk?
     • I discuss different engaging opening techniques, like storytelling or painting a vivid picture.
  9. How Will You Transition and Close the Talk?
     • Strategies for impactful closing, including restating objectives or linking back to the opening.

Links Mentioned In This Episode

In this episode, I take you on a thrilling journey from my days as a nervous wreck to becoming a confident public speaker. It's a tale of transformation that many can relate to, filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and valuable lessons learned along the way.

I'll reveal four game-changing strategies that not only revolutionized my approach to public speaking but also helped me overcome my fears and anxiety. These aren't just theoretical concepts - they're battle-tested techniques that I've personally used to go from shaky starts to standing ovations.

Whether you're a seasoned speaker looking to refine your skills or someone who breaks into a cold sweat at the mere thought of addressing an audience, this episode promises insights that could transform your public speaking experience.

The four key strategies that made all the difference:

Strategy #1 - Developing a Reproducible Outline

Strategy #2 - Audience-Centered Mindset

Strategy #3 - Master Your Bookends

Strategy #4 - Out-Loud Rehearsal

Links Mentioned In This Episode

In this episode, I introduce the inaugural installment of the newly relaunched Building A Life And Business Together podcast! I host this show with my wife, Stephanie Ravenscraft, and we're excited to revive the podcast we started a few years ago. We've returned with fresh perspectives, valuable lessons learned, and a clear vision for the direction we want to take with this show.

In this episode, we share our journey of navigating life and business as a married couple. We recount our entrepreneurial beginnings, our personal growth, and how we've learned to support each other in our marriage, especially during times when our paths weren't always perfectly aligned.

We also share the origin story of this podcast, including how our initial attempt, though imperfect, yielded valuable insights. Now, with a renewed focus, we've crafted this description for our show:

Building A Life And Business Together is our podcast dedicated to entrepreneurial couples navigating the complexities of business and marriage. We provide a blend of personal stories, practical advice, and lessons learned from our long-term journey as a married couple working together. Whether you're the entrepreneur in the relationship or the spouse who's feeling anxious about the financial security of your family, our goal is to guide you in getting back to "building your life together."

We focus on helping couples align on a shared vision, moving from fear and doubt about leaving the "responsible path" of a guaranteed paycheck to embracing the freedom of building a business. Each episode tackles the realities of entrepreneurship, balancing personal and professional growth, and navigating the ups and downs that come with pursuing success as a couple. Tune in for our honest conversations about creating a unified vision for your life, and learn how to get on the same page with your spouse as you build both your life and business together.

Find and subscribe to "Building A Life And Business Together"

In this episode, I share an insightful response to a question presented in a recent session of my Next Level Coaching program. A participant asked for advice on how to handle it when others don't understand, and perhaps even question or doubt the unique vision you have for your business or entrepreneurial ventures.

I open up about my own experience with my mastermind group questioning my decision to leave Podcast Answer Man behind and pursue my current coaching and mindset work. I emphasize the importance of being your own number one cheerleader, and how seeking encouragement within yourself through journaling, prayer, and meditation is crucial.

I also discuss the role of a supportive spouse, if married, and the value of having a peer group that believes in you, even if they provide constructive feedback. Navigating the motivations behind others' doubts is key - some may fear your success or feel threatened by your ambition.

Ultimately, I share that if you can't be talked out of your vision, even by your closest advisors, it's a testament to how vital that vision is for your future. Your number one cheerleader must be you.

Takeaways and Action Items:

• Consider others' feedback carefully, evaluating it for new perspectives and potential pitfalls you might have overlooked. If, after reflection, you still believe your vision is worth the inherent risks, others' skepticism will likely strengthen your commitment to your desired outcome.
• You must be your own best cheerleader and source of encouragement.
• If married, foster a supportive partnership with your spouse.
• Surround yourself with a peer group that believes in you and your vision.
• Understand the motivations behind others' doubts and feedback.

An unbelievable offer related to the Next Level Coaching Program

In this episode, I reveal the complete 11-step formula I recommend for building an online business. This valuable content—which people have paid thousands of dollars to receive in my in-person workshops—is now being shared with a wider audience.

I start by sharing my own entrepreneurial journey, which began with launching a podcast as a hobby. Over time, I discovered a desire to turn my passion for content creation into a full-time business.

However, I quickly realized that most people attempting to create an online business were failing because they started by creating content without first laying the necessary groundwork. Instead of following a strategic sequence, they jumped straight into content creation.

As a result, I developed an 11-step formula for building a successful online business:

1. Determine your destination - What do you want your life and business to look like?
2. Identify where you already add value - What are your gifts, talents, and areas of expertise?
3. Determine your ideal customer - Who has the money, problems, and willingness to pay for your solutions?
4. Learn about your ideal customers' problems - Conduct research to deeply understand their struggles.
5. Determine your products and services - Align your offerings with your customers' needs.
6. Create a value proposition statement - Clearly communicate who you are and how you help.
7. Validate your business model - Get paid customers before creating content.
8. Create Content - Create environments for people to discover who you are and what you have to offer.
9. Attract Your Ideal Customer - AKA Grow Your Audience
10. Market your products and services - Develop your sales and marketing skills.
11. Test new products and services - Continuously innovate and improve.