An international magazine article is being written on the topic on: “What great speakers do before they ever write a word.”
I was invited to provide "the top 2-3 things you do as part of your speech writing and preparation process when preparing for a talk" ... My reply may also be applicable to you:
Whether I am sharing a message with a Toastmaster audience, or for a paid client, preparation is key. Knowing the audience! I ask a lot of questions, get to know who the listeners/participants will be, and tailor everything to them, their immediate take-always, and their ideal outcomes. After the research, I then visualize the audience, from both my speaking area, but more so — as if seated in that audience — listening to and participating. This visualization process enables a stronger connection with the audience, deeper relevance, significance, and impact. Consistently meeting planners and leaders compliment that degree of tailoring, connection, and authenticity.
- Sheryl Roush, CEO, Sparkle Presentations, Inc.
Speak and Market Like A Pro
Improve your speaking skills and learn how to market your speaking business from pro-bono to paid!
Jump-start or fast-track your way to becoming a paid professional speaker. Discover time-tested speaking techniques to deliver powerful presentations that get you invited back time and time again. Learn proven marketing strategies that you can put to use IMMEDIATELY to get booked. Coaching and Training Events Will Teach You How To:
* Find an area of expertise from which you can speak, train and ma
05/29/2026
Want to write a book that builds your influence…not one that collects dust in your garage?
Most people think impact comes from craft, prose, and literary excellence. They're playing the wrong game.
My friend Randy Gage has written 16 books:
2 hit the NY Times Bestseller List.
2sold more than a MILLION copies.
(but they're not the same 2...)
In this YouTube episode: how to develop a bold point of view, build signal, create market gravity, and challenge beliefs that need challenging. Plus the deadliest mistakes authors make…and the ONLY three reasons to write a book.
How I Wrote 16 Bestsellers (Here's What Matters) ► Ready to go deeper and work with Randy directly:https://randygage.com/breakthroughu/► Prefer audio? Get the podcast (and exclusive content):https://randyga...
TRADEMARK: Been busy designing marketing pieces to be used as official "evidence" for a client to secure a fabulous "identification of goods and services." (It helps that I've been through the trademark process for my own works, learning from expert attorneys I've hired.) So thrilled for my client!
05/23/2026
The difference between being nice and kind… parallels
Trevor Noah made a sharp distinction between being nice and being kind. The difference shows up everywhere. Nice protects comfort. Kind protects people. That's why kindness gets mistaken for… | Leonardo Freixas | 527 comments Trevor Noah made a sharp distinction between being nice and being kind. The difference shows up everywhere. Nice protects comfort. Kind protects people. That's why kindness gets mistaken for softness. It isn't. Nice avoids the hard conversation. Kind has it before the damage spreads. Nice protects t...
05/14/2026
Business Travel …
05/10/2026
Toastmasters .... the video recording of the Power Panel (session held 4/22/2026) and links are now posted on my blog! Thank you Professional Speakers for hosting FOUR to share insights on becoming a professional presenter AND earning the credential!
Accredited Speaker POWER PANEL Presentation - Sheryl Roush | Business Communication Speaker Are you already paid to present? Do you speak outside of Toastmasters? You may be eligible to apply for the Accredited Speaker Program! Toastmasters Accredited […]
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