How many slides should you use for a 30-minute presentation? It’s one of the most common questions I get—and it makes sense!

You want your talk to be impactful, engaging, and delivered with confidence, not feel like a race through a deck or a textbook on screen.

In this short and actionable episode, I share three key tips to help you decide how many slides to use, how to design them effectively, and how to keep your energy focused on connecting with your audience.

You’ll learn:

- A smart rule of thumb for slide count (without feeling boxed in)
- The most important design principle for visuals that actually support your message
- How giving your content space and breathing room leads to better engagement

Whether you tend to overpack your slides or you’re not sure when to use them at all, this episode will help you strike the right balance so your next presentation lands with clarity and purpose.

You’ve got something powerful to share—let’s make sure your slides work for you, not against you.

Want help developing your signature talk? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

What exactly makes a keynote different from your typical business presentation or breakout session?

In this episode, I’m diving into the real distinctions between delivering a keynote and giving a regular talk—and how you can show up powerfully for either one.

Whether you're eyeing the main stage or preparing for your next training, understanding the purpose and structure of your talk will boost your impact.

I share the moment I realized a keynote demands more than just information—it calls for an emotional connection and a lasting impression.

And I walk you through three key differences to help you step into your role with confidence:

**1. Experience vs. Education** A keynote is about transformation—it inspires and moves your audience. A regular talk is about application—it delivers actionable knowledge. Learn how to tell which role you’re in and how to tailor your message accordingly.

**2. Story vs. Structure** Keynotes revolve around storytelling and big ideas, while breakout sessions benefit from strategic frameworks and clear takeaways. I reveal how to blend story and structure no matter what format you’re in.

**3. Performance vs. Instruction** On the keynote stage, you’re leading with presence and energy. In regular sessions, you’re guiding through interaction and insight. I talk about embracing both roles with authenticity and intention.

Whether you're creating your first keynote, refining your workshop, or simply looking to connect deeper with your audience, this episode will give you the clarity you need—and the encouragement to own your voice.

Want help developing your signature talk or keynote? Visit https://www.speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.

Dreaming of landing more speaking gigs but feeling stuck on how to get the invites?

In this empowering episode, I dive into how to build a personal brand that naturally attracts speaking opportunities—again and again.

It’s not just about your headshot or your elevator pitch. It’s about how people experience you, the stories you tell, and the connection you create with your audience and community.

I share the decision that changed everything for me and helped me build lasting relationships that continue to lead to speaking engagements, even two decades later.

You'll learn three actionable steps to get yourself on more stages:

**1. Show Up Where You Want to Get Hired** Start local and get involved in the communities and events where your ideal audience gathers. Before you pitch, participate. Be generous and build genuine relationships with organizers and attendees.

**2. Clarify Your Signature Message** Narrow down what you want to be known for—and make it memorable. Your personal brand should radiate your mission, values, and spark. That’s what makes an audience lean in and remember you long after the talk is over.

**3. Be Visible. Consistently.** From podcast guesting to thoughtful posts on LinkedIn to short-form videos, your consistent online presence helps build familiarity, credibility, and demand for what you offer.

If you want event organizers to say, “She’s exactly who we need,” this episode is your starting point.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.