The Power Table with Taylor Smith Speaker Hot Takes: What Event Hosts and Speakers Won't Tell You
Nov 6, 2025
This conversation dives into the dual roles of event hosting and speaking. It challenges the idea that polished content alone secures gigs, emphasizing the need for transformative experiences. Customizing speaking applications isn’t just a trend—it’s crucial! Timeliness and communication can enhance a speaker’s reputation, while understanding event goals is key. Interestingly, speakers often prioritize meaningful engagements over audience size. Ultimately, it’s all about partnership between hosts and speakers, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
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Transformation Trumps Information
- Successful events prioritize attendee transformation over slide polish or raw information.
- Taylor Smith says hosts seek shifts in thinking and memorable moments, not just content delivery.
Customize Your Speaking Application
- Customize every speaking application to the event and weave in your personal brand and story.
- Taylor Smith warns generic topics like "LinkedIn basics" get passed over for tailored, themed pitches.
Be Low-Maintenance, High-Impact
- Be easy to work with by meeting deadlines, communicating, and promoting the event beyond the minimum.
- Taylor Smith says professionalism and low maintenance behavior become your backstage reputation and marketing.