Episode #85

How to Use a Speaking Rider

With The Speaker Lab

Have you ever heard those crazy stories about musicians who would include ridiculous requests in their riders, like Van Halen and their brown M&M clause? Ever wonder exactly what a rider is and if you need one?

While you don’t need to go the Van Halen brown M&M route, a speaking rider is still a good idea. On today’s solo episode I explain what a rider is, why you should have one, and why sometimes those ridiculous requests have a good reason behind them!

You’ll hear about all of that and much more on the 85th edition of The Speaker Lab.

THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW:

  • The important reason Van Halen didn’t want brown M&Ms backstage.
  • What I include in my rider, and what you should you include in yours.
  • Can you request a specific seating style at your speaking gig?
  • Should you include your rider as part of the contract, or separate?
  • How to walk the fine line between making requests and being demanding.
  • What is the point of having a rider?
  • Do most clients read and remember riders?
  • And so much more!

Want to know exactly how to find and book more paid speaking gigs?

Download our 18-page guide to the 6 proven steps you can use to book more paid speaking gigs in 2024!

About The Speaker Lab

Episode Resources

Share This Episode 

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Email
Reddit

Explore Recent Episodes

#549: How to Find Your Niche and Your Voice with Jason Raitz
“Client communication just doesn’t cut it anymore. In 2025 we have so many generations working together, we want to rush right to the product, but we have to learn how to use these people first communication...
#548: The #1 Skill You Need to Build a 6-Figure Speaking Business with Clinton Young
“Ultimately, you don’t need to have any certification. You need to have some level of experience where you can speak authentically and congruent. It’s gotta be congruent with how you feel about your knowledge.”...
#547: How to Transform Your Passion Into a Speaking Career with Amy Burton
“When we’re intentional about pursuing our dreams, that’s when we can see things more clearly. Because most of the time we get so busy in the everyday that we don’t take time for those things. And those...