The Speaker's Edge

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, Roddy Galbraith interviews Dr. Robert Cialdini to explore the key differences between ethical influence and manipulation. Dr. Cialdini shares practical insights on how presenters and speakers can use the universal principles of influence responsibly, ensuring that persuasion remains honest and trustworthy. They discuss real-world examples illustrating how scarcity, likability, social proof, and reciprocity shape audience decisions, and why credibility rooted in knowledge and trustworthiness matters most. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to master their message, foster genuine connections, and inspire audiences ethically every time they speak. 

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, Roddy and Susan Galbraith talk with bestselling author and speaker Bob Goff about the real meaning of adding value. Bob shares how his experiences, including building schools around the globe and living with intentionality, shape his approach to storytelling and influence. He offers practical ways listeners can show up authentically, initiate relationships, and bring joy to others by being present and available. The conversation inspires anyone looking to master their message and make a lasting impact both on stage and in everyday life. 

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  Conquer complacency with Chris Robinson’s new book, From Drift to Drive. Click here to pre-order your copy today!  In this episode, Roddy Galbraith welcomes Chris Robinson to discuss the dangers of complacency and how it impacts even high achievers. Chris shares insights from his new book From Drift to Drive, illustrating how settling for “good enough” can hinder personal and professional growth. Listeners will learn practical steps for recognizing signs of drift and actionable strategies to reignite their drive. Together, Roddy and Chris also explore the challenges of imposter syndrome and the importance of embracing continual learning as a speaker and leader.   

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, Roddy Galbraith shares the number one tip that professional speakers use to massively increase the value they deliver: integrating humor into their presentations. He explains how humor helps speakers capture and sustain audience attention, foster deeper connections, and make learning more enjoyable. Roddy provides practical strategies for effectively using humor, from collecting funny stories to refining and reusing your best material without alienating your audience. Listeners will walk away with actionable steps to boost their speaking impact and create memorable experiences for their audiences. 

In this episode, Bonnie St. John, a Paralympian and seasoned speaker, delves into the art of audience connection. She discusses the importance of continuous learning and shares personal growth strategies, including unique training methods. Bonnie highlights the significance of connecting through relatable stories and emphasizes the heroism found in everyday roles. She provides actionable tips for conducting pre-event research and crafting presentations that resonate deeply, ensuring speakers can create lasting impacts and meaningful engagements.

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, host Roddy Galbraith interviews renowned cellular biologist Dr. Bruce Lipton to explore the real impact of fear and stress on speakers and communicators. Dr. Lipton breaks down how fear triggers stress responses that shift the body from growth to protection mode, affecting everything from immune function to mental clarity. The conversation reveals why even the most prepared speakers can go blank under pressure and offers practical insights for overcoming stage fright. Listeners gain a scientific perspective along with actionable strategies to master their message and inspire every audience, no matter the nerves. 

Leadership expert John C. Maxwell shares his insights on powerful communication that transforms leadership. He emphasizes the importance of making genuine connections and continually learning to stay relevant. Maxwell offers practical strategies for engaging with audiences and fostering trust. He discusses how effective communication enhances team dynamics and personal growth. Listeners gain actionable advice to strengthen their speaking skills and cultivate deeper relationships, ultimately boosting their leadership effectiveness in every aspect of life.

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, Roddy Galbraith explores the quickest path to success in speaking: focusing on what matters most and avoiding getting lost in distractions. He shares insights from John Maxwell and the Pareto principle, illustrating how channeling energy into the most impactful activities leads to greater results. Roddy provides practical strategies for crafting an exceptional keynote by outlining both top-down and bottom-up approaches to developing a keynote. You will walk away with actionable steps to prioritize your time, get to a first draft, and continually improve your message for maximum impact on any audience. 

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode of The Speaker’s Edge podcast, host Roddy Galbraith shares seven powerful techniques to help speakers create lasting impact every time they present. He outlines the importance of choosing key points to stand out, using tools like storytelling, repetition, emotion, and visuals to make messages memorable. Roddy encourages speakers to collect their “best bits” and gives practical strategies for ensuring audiences remember the most important parts of a speech. Listeners will walk away with actionable tips to enhance their delivery and inspire their audiences more effectively. 

Visit MaxwellLeadership.com/Speak to learn more about the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!  In this episode, Roddy Galbraith outlines the five essential elements every effective speaker includes in a powerful speech opening. Discover research-backed insights on the impact of first impressions, ways to affirm and connect with the audience, and strategies for grabbing attention with a compelling hook. Roddy also shares the importance of positioning yourself as a confident, likable expert and explains how and when to introduce a sales pitch. Listeners will walk away with clear, actionable steps to master their speech openings and inspire their audiences from the very first moment.