Speak Like a Pro: Insider Tips from Former CTV News Anchor Carmen Leibel

The Business Development Podcast

In episode 160 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy engages in an insightful discussion with former CTV News Anchor Carmen Leibel, who shares her expertise on effective public speaking and her journey into entrepreneurship. Carmen reflects on her transition from journalism to founding Project Five, a program designed to enhance public speaking skills among students, entrepreneurs, and executives. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, including crafting key talking points and being adaptable during presentations, which helps speakers connect authentically with their audience. Carmen also highlights the significance of pacing and the need for an attention reset every ten minutes to maintain audience engagement.

Throughout the episode, Carmen provides practical tips for overcoming the fear of public speaking, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique experiences as valuable contributions to their communication style. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the fear of failure and the learning curve that comes with starting a new venture. By sharing her personal journey and actionable advice, Carmen inspires individuals to communicate with confidence and effectively convey their messages, ultimately fostering stronger connections in both personal and professional settings.

Key Takeaways:

1. Preparation is crucial; a strong opening and closing can make or break your presentation.

2. Practice regularly to build confidence and refine your delivery.

3. Pacing your speech helps maintain audience engagement and clarity.

4. Use body language effectively to reinforce your message and connect with your audience.

5. Embrace your unique experiences; they add authenticity to your speaking style.

6. Adaptability is key; be ready to adjust your message based on audience reactions.

7. Overcoming the fear of public speaking is a learned skill that takes time and effort.

8. Incorporate humor and personal anecdotes to make your presentation relatable.

9. Seek feedback to identify areas for improvement and enhance your skills.

10. Remember that effective communication is essential for building strong personal and professional relationships.