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Welcome to the first ever episode of the First Time Facilitator podcast.

This podcast is for those of you that are experts and want to share your knowledge and skills with others.  In my experience, it can be difficult taking that first step to become a facilitator.

Today’s guest, and our very first, Sonia McDonald, will share some amazing advice and some tips and tricks on facilitation and training.

Sonia was recently named in the top 250 influential women across the globe by Richtopia. She’s an entrepreneur, though leader, a keynote speaker, executive coach, board advisor, and author. She’s the CEO and founder of Leadership HQ and is launching her latest book ‘Just Rock It’ in February.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL FIND OUT ABOUT:

• Sonia’s response when someone asked if she knew anything about leadership.

• How she was unprepared for what was to come when founding Leadership HQ.

• Her success expectation after she created the leadership blog.

• An insightful piece of advice to people that need that extra push or courage to stand at the front of the room.

• How she’s able to fill the room with immense energy while presenting.

• Key skills you need to learn so as to engage people in a workshop.

• Skills she’s improved over the years and how she did it.

• How she’s able to communicate in different styles to different types of audiences.

• Best way to embed learning after a workshop.

• The biggest challenge in the leadership space.

• Why you should read Sonia’s new book, 'Just Rock It', and the motivation behind writing it.

• Best advice to a first time facilitator.

• Her go-to icebreaker.

RESOURCES 

• Video: Your body language may shape who you are by Amy Cuddy

• Websites: Leadership HQ and Sonia McDonald

• Book: Just Rock It by Sonia McDonald

Every day in 2025, Leanne is podcasting on her new show, Leanne on Demand.
Tune in over here!

(Otherwise, enjoy the back catalogue of First Time Facilitator episodes).

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