How to Make the Most of Your TSL Coaching Program to Kick-Start Your Speaking Business with Emily Arnold [Transcript]

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Today, I have Emily Arnold, our Elite concierge, joining us. Today, we’re discussing a really important topic, especially for our new and potential students. We have this amazing, robust program, but there is a proper way to approach the program to get the most out of it. So today, we’re delving deep into that. And that’s one of the areas you specialize in as the concierge – helping people onboard efficiently so that they can set themselves up for success. I think it’s a great topic for us to explore with you.

How to Start a TSL Program Strong

So, let’s talk about starting strong, shall we? You’ve just invested in the program. You’ve invested in yourself and made the commitment to finally kickstart this business. How can someone begin the program on a strong note? What are some key tips and strategies?

Emily Arnold 

I think, first and foremost, let’s begin with the mindset. I believe that when we sign up for things, our mental and emotional state can significantly influence our journey. It’s important to ensure that your mindset is aligned when undertaking an investment like this. This is internal work, and only you can do it. It’s about calibrating and setting intentions. Even a small step like designating a start date and committing to establishing a system around this endeavor can be pivotal. Sometimes, we’re drawn into something out of excitement and curiosity, but life’s demands can make us lose focus. Taking a few moments to center yourself, jot down your vision and reasons behind your pursuit, can make a substantial difference. This kind of preparation tends to be overlooked, but I believe it can greatly benefit our students in preparing them for success before they immerse themselves.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Absolutely, I couldn’t agree more. Setting an intention is paramount. In fact, when I conduct group coaching or one-on-one sessions, the first thing I ask is, “What’s your intention? What do you want to gain from this call or group session?” It helps drown out the noise of comparisons or distractions, keeping you aligned with your path. When you’re focused on your intention, it clears your mindset and keeps you on track. I love that.

Tips to help you get in the zone

Emily Arnold 

And I’d like to add that visualization exercises have been quite impactful for me. Over the past year, I ventured into new territories and experienced intentional growth. I read the book “Atomic Habits” at the start of last year, and it transformed my perspective. Envisioning yourself as a successful speaker on a stage you aspire to stand on or visualizing the profound impact you’ll have can solidify your goals. Creating a vivid mental picture and making it your reality can be the driving force that propels you forward.

So yes, while the mindset is crucial, there are also several practical steps that can greatly contribute to success.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Moving on to the early stages of the program, what are two or three practical tips that, when followed, tend to lead to the most success for students?

What are the practical tips for success in the program?

Emily Arnold

I frequently emphasize the importance of setting aside time initially to organize everything. Getting a clear understanding of all the scheduled calls, their corresponding links, and such is key. Initiating your journey on a strong note can make a significant difference.

So, my advice would be to begin on a solid footing. After orientation, consider allocating around 30 minutes to complete the introductory checklist we’ve provided in multiple places. Ensure that you save the calls to your calendar, confirm important dates, and have easy access to the dashboard. Think of it like setting the table before a meal. You wouldn’t want to rush and be flustered during dinner, not knowing where the utensils are. Similarly, establish a well-organized starting point that allows you to ease into the program. This preparation will enable you to navigate confidently and make the most of your experience. When you have everything in place, you won’t feel overwhelmed or lost. You’ll know how to connect with the community, engage with coaches, communicate with us, and access the support network we provide – all of which are vital for thriving in the course.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Absolutely, that resonates with me. Even our Coach Michelle can vouch for this. Downloading the roadmap and having it readily accessible to refer to throughout the program can be incredibly helpful. As you mentioned, dedicating just 30 minutes after orientation to organize your schedule, links, and calendar, along with the roadmap, can significantly boost your chances of success. It’s hard not to thrive when you approach it in that manner. Your practical tips are spot-on.

Moving on, another aspect that we introduce to our wonderful students at the program’s start – and we’re candid about it during orientation – is the plethora of information we provide. We acknowledge that it’s a lot, but we also equip you with the tools to keep it organized. Another aspect we introduce is our thriving community. Let’s talk about the significance of the community and share some tips on how to actively engage and maximize both your contributions and gains. It’s a dynamic of mutual exchange.

What about the community and the program content?

Emily Arnold

Absolutely, I think if we reflect on impactful times in our lives or transformative chapters, they often involve people. Occasionally, it might be a period of solitude, but more often than not, it’s linked to human connections. Think about being part of a sports team or participating in a church community. Our most fulfilling experiences, the ones that propel us forward, usually occur when we’re part of a collective effort. That’s why our online community is truly remarkable. It provides a platform where individuals, even if they’re miles apart like a student in Florida and another in California, can connect. Thousands of individuals share the same passion, drive, and commitment to invest in their goals, themselves, and the message they hold dear.

There’s a beautiful thread connecting all the speakers who come to us – a desire to create a positive impact. It’s an incredible community to be a part of. Engaging with fellow members is an amazing opportunity.

Indeed, there are practical ways to engage. We observe students who dive in wholeheartedly from the very beginning. From the moment they enroll, I notice their active participation in Circle almost daily. I’m truly amazed by this dedication and commitment to the community. I sometimes wish I could ask them, “How did you establish such a rhythm?” These individuals consistently contribute by liking, commenting, and making substantial investments in the community.

As a member of our team, I deeply respect their willingness to give and make others feel acknowledged. Their active involvement fosters a thriving environment and enriches the community. As more people embrace this approach, the community flourishes, providing more value to all its members. I’m excited to witness its continued growth. With a diverse range of skills and a shared passion for helping others, we have a vast pool of expertise to tap into. By actively participating, you’re tapping into a community of 2000 individuals with a wealth of knowledge and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Certainly, and it’s essential to remember that surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals has been advised for ages. Even in the classic book “Think and Grow Rich,” this principle is emphasized. Despite being written years ago, it still holds true – connecting with people who share your goals and aspirations can be incredibly influential. Our community serves this purpose. It not only lets you relate to others on the same path but also allows you to envision your future self in someone who has achieved milestones like completing a TEDx Talk or reaching six figures in their speaking business. This kind of inspiration and motivation can be powerful drivers to persevere. Building a speaking business and being an entrepreneur isn’t always easy, and being part of a community that shares your drive while also pushing you to reach new heights is invaluable.

Emily Arnold 

Absolutely, I couldn’t agree more. I think it’s essential to appreciate spaces that encourage us to reflect on our journey’s progress. Even I use my own social media as a time capsule. Looking back a year, I can see my growth and change. Similarly, Circle allows you to mark the moment you entered the community, such as in May 2023.

As you progress, you can look back a year or two from now and see the transformation. You’ll remember how you started, possibly nervous and unsure, and then observe the strides you’ve made since then. It’s quite rewarding to witness your own journey unfold. Additionally, as you grow within the community, you can give back to newcomers, just as others helped you when you began. This creates a cycle of support, showing your progress and contributing to the community’s continuous growth. It’s a wonderful way to see how far you’ve come since embarking on this journey.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Absolutely, I truly appreciate that insight. It’s intriguing how each coach resonates with different aspects of our program. You and Katie, as the lead concierge and the concierge respectively, find value in distinct modules. Module three, which you find significant to discuss in terms of best practices and establishing a solid foundation for success, focuses on an intriguing facet. Can you elaborate on why you believe this module holds such importance for our students?

What do you love most about the branding / marketing module?

Emily Arnold

Certainly, I’ve always had a natural inclination toward visual aesthetics and design. Ever since high school, I’ve been fascinated by layout, design, and visual clarity. Sharing information and expressing oneself through visuals is a powerful means of communication. Module three delves into this realm, guiding individuals on how to present themselves effectively on a website and in demo videos. It’s about accentuating your strengths and showcasing your identity to the world.

Often, people’s initial impression is formed through your online presence, especially in today’s digital landscape. This is an area that might seem daunting, but when you break it down, it becomes manageable. It’s an artistic process that you can master step by step, whether it’s choosing colors, fonts, enhancing video quality, selecting appropriate photos, or crafting compelling website copy. Each of these elements contributes to the larger picture and enhances your brand’s visibility. Excelling in these aspects can have a profound impact on how you are perceived by the world.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Your perspective is enlightening. Module three indeed carries a crucial message. It’s interesting to note that some students encounter discomfort with their appearance or voice when viewing videos or images of themselves. In essence, critiquing the visuals translates to self-critique. Overcoming this is pivotal for the sake of one’s brand. We emphasize the importance of meticulous image and video selection, and here’s why. When you share your image on the vast expanse of the internet, it often marks the initial interaction people have with you. Therefore, the content you choose to showcase becomes significant. Can you provide some advice on how our students can navigate this challenge and optimize their visual representation?

How can speakers navigate the challenge of getting comfortable online?

Emily Arnold

Absolutely. Repeated practice can lead to desensitization, making the process more manageable. Regularly filming yourself or viewing images of yourself can help overcome this initial discomfort. Drawing from my own experience on social media, consistently posting stories was initially challenging. However, I gradually became at ease as I continually practiced. It’s like a muscle you develop over time. I treat the camera as though I’m conversing with a friend, which has now become second nature. Similarly, scrolling through your camera roll and becoming accustomed to seeing your own image can be beneficial. It’s crucial to remember that our modern world is inundated with images, and taking a lighthearted approach to your own visuals can aid in diminishing unease. Furthermore, recognizing that people tend to view media quickly can alleviate the pressure. Understand that others won’t scrutinize you as intensely as you might scrutinize yourself.

However, while the pace of consumption is swift, it’s also vital to infuse intention into your visual content. High-resolution images are pivotal. Although the term may appear technical, resources are available to help demystify concepts like pixels and resolution. Utilizing low-quality images on your website can inadvertently undermine your credibility. We believe in your potential as a speaker with an impactful message. Your visuals should reflect and enhance your excellence, not detract from it. You don’t want your visual elements to hinder the impression you aim to create.

It’s important to remember that you need not immediately hire a professional photographer. Starting with the basics, such as optimizing your smartphone camera settings, can significantly elevate the quality of your visuals. If you’re a current or potential student in our program, don’t hesitate to lean on our expertise. Our team is well-versed in these intricacies and can guide you through the process, making it less daunting.

Maryalice Goldsmith

Absolutely, your insights are invaluable. I recall the height of the COVID pandemic when many students produced staged demo videos and images from their smartphones. The remarkable outcomes demonstrated that extraordinary results can be achieved using cost-effective solutions. Here at our program, especially in module three, we specialize in providing various approaches and innovative strategies. We offer numerous workarounds that are often far more affordable than anticipated. Could you elaborate on some of the practical tips and methods that we encourage our students to embrace within this module?

What are the tactical tips we have for students to get comfortable online?

Emily Arnold

It’s crucial to realize that resources abound, and you have a vast learning opportunity within your grasp. A practical starting point is to gradually become comfortable in front of a camera. Repetitive filming can lessen the initial unease. Personally, I’ve adopted a natural presence on social media by treating the camera as a conversation partner. Regular practice has made it second nature. Similarly, scrolling through your camera roll can acclimate you to your own image, reducing discomfort.

Furthermore, recognizing the vast landscape of resources, including YouTube tutorials, can be incredibly beneficial. You can easily find videos on editing photos using your smartphone, for example. These quick, easy steps can equip you with new skills that significantly enhance your brand. Oftentimes, the challenge lies in our perception, where we view certain aspects as all-encompassing, insurmountable tasks. Yet, progress unfolds step by step, lesson by lesson, and knowledge by knowledge. With time and practice, what initially seems overwhelming can become a familiar and manageable territory.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Absolutely, you’ve touched on a significant point. Credibility does indeed hinge on such matters, as you rightly mentioned. Your insight into social media and how it has evolved into a natural facet of your business is commendable.

Regarding a social media presence, some speakers opt to abstain from it, while specific industries may permit such a choice. It’s important to acknowledge these nuances. Generally, a considerable majority of our speakers actively engage on platforms like LinkedIn, and other channels such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. When discussing the utilization of social media for your business, could you elaborate on a key objective or the foremost goal of employing social media?

What’s key when it comes to thinking about social media?

Emily Arnold 

The essence of social media lies in its name – to socialize and share media. For me, running my own business for the past decade, it’s been a no-brainer due to the aspect of free marketing. Despite algorithm changes that lean towards paid promotion, the fundamental idea remains – you can market yourself at no cost. Traditionally, marketing incurred substantial expenses, whereas now, content creation provides an avenue to reach audiences without breaking the bank. Nonetheless, knowing your audience is paramount. Don’t squander your efforts on platforms where your target demographic isn’t present.

If Instagram doesn’t resonate with your audience, investing time in cultivating an Instagram brand might be unproductive. Instead, platforms like LinkedIn or TikTok might be better suited. Recognizing your niche is crucial. Extensive research can guide your decision. Additionally, introspection regarding your own usage of social media can provide insights into how your potential audience engages. Aligning your social media strategy with your target demographic’s behavior can yield fruitful results. It’s possible to be strategic, focused, and efficient in leveraging social media, ensuring it enhances rather than hinders your goals.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Precisely, identifying the platforms where your audience congregates is pivotal. For instance, a corporate-oriented individual might find more value on LinkedIn than TikTok. Similarly, catering to teenagers would warrant a presence on TikTok. The crux lies in understanding your audience’s preferences. Furthermore, the importance of curating content cannot be overstated. Often, individuals make the mistake of exhaustively creating new content every day, leading to burnout. Developing an effective content management system is essential. By repurposing and creatively leveraging a single piece of content, you can maintain consistency throughout the week. The misconception that every aspect of social media content must be distinct – stories separate from the news feed and the latter distinct from highlights – can be energy-draining. Instead, strategic creativity can conserve your energy for other essential aspects of your business.

Emily Arnold 

Absolutely, I wholeheartedly agree. A simple strategy I advocate is frequently sharing your existing posts on your story. In my experience of sharing photos on the internet, there are times when I haven’t posted for a while. In such instances, I’ve resorted to reposting one of my previous posts to my story. This simple action populates my story with content. It doesn’t necessitate getting camera-ready or capturing a new picture. By reposting, I maintain visibility in the algorithm and before the eyes of my audience. The process is surprisingly straightforward. I concur with your perspective. We often complicate matters unnecessarily due to idealistic tendencies. It’s worth noting that people are not as meticulous in tracking content as we might assume. They are more attuned to what surfaces in their feed. Therefore, reusing content can be advantageous, harnessing the abundance of material available.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Indeed, a valuable insight. Additionally, it’s crucial, within the framework of best practices for our program, to communicate key milestones. For instance, crafting your expert positioning statement is an achievement worthy of sharing. Announcing that you’ve defined your expertise, identified your target audience, and clarified your mission has resonance. When individuals realize you’re undertaking a speaking course to enhance your skills and build a better speaking business, their engagement is heightened. Often, the personal dimension of social media is overlooked. People are inherently curious about what transpires behind the scenes. By divulging your progress—such as crafting a third keynote or finalizing a workshop title—you build anticipation and connection. This narrative should begin early in your journey through The Speaker Lab. As you share it with us, we’ll reciprocate by featuring your accomplishments on our stories.

Emily Arnold

Indeed, it’s essentially free marketing.

Maryalice Goldsmith

Precisely. However, this often eludes even intelligent individuals. One of the primary oversights involves neglecting to inform their industry peers about their endeavors. If you’re elevating your speaking capabilities to serve your industry better, it’s imperative to communicate this advancement. This aspect carries significant weight.

Emily Arnold 

Indeed, there can be apprehension about showcasing one’s learning journey. Yet, there’s a universal admiration for individuals who engage in ongoing learning and growth. The adage “leaders are learners” encapsulates this sentiment admirably. Demonstrating vulnerability and authenticity fosters respect and aspiration. Audiences seek to follow those who inspire them and display qualities they aspire to possess. The journey you undertake, marked by progress and discovery, becomes a source of inspiration for others. It’s not a requirement to be a flawless embodiment; it’s about sharing the authentic process. Learning out loud is an approach I advocate. Embrace the attitude of openly sharing your learning experiences. When I encounter new insights in my field, I often share them on my story, recognizing that others might benefit from this knowledge. The act of generosity through shared learning fosters a sense of community and connection.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

This brings us to our final question: the significance of personal growth in the entrepreneurial journey. The coaching we provide consistently underscores the importance of personal growth. As our students embark on our modules, initial excitement may be followed by minor obstacles. These stumbling blocks, often stemming from impostor syndrome or ego, challenge us when striving for growth. Progressing to the next level frequently entails confronting self-doubt or questioning our readiness. This is where personal growth becomes pivotal. The unique strength of our program lies not only in teaching tactical skills, but also in nurturing personal development. As entrepreneurs, being part of a supportive community during this growth journey is invaluable. Surrounding oneself with individuals who uplift and encourage is a cornerstone of success.

What is the key to maximizing your personal growth in the program?

Emily Arnold

You’re doing fantastic. It’s amusing to me, as I reflect, that certain personalities tend to avoid this type of introspective work. I find it intriguing because there’s a tendency to resist internal exploration, which I wouldn’t label a red flag, but it does raise some questions. This resistance to delving into personal growth is often what leads individuals to become stuck.

People often attempt to compartmentalize their personal and professional personas, believing they can maintain a clear distinction between the two. However, incongruences tend to surface eventually, affecting not only their interactions but also their overall presence. Whether it’s how you treat people backstage at an event or your online branding, these aspects can inadvertently reflect underlying issues. It’s worth acknowledging that disregarding personal growth can inadvertently seep into various aspects of your business and interactions.

Therefore, engaging in personal work is essential to develop qualities like kindness, gratitude, thoughtfulness, self-belief, and trust in others. These attributes are not only transformative on a personal level but also contribute significantly to your business success. People are drawn to those with whom they share a positive connection, amplifying the value of cultivating such qualities.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Absolutely, I’ve established a daily routine that aligns with this principle. Before bed, I immerse myself in fictional reading, allowing my mind to unwind. Conversely, in the mornings, I engage with personal growth literature to kickstart my day. This practice enables me to learn from those who have traversed further along their journey than I have and provides valuable perspectives. The significance of this routine cannot be overstated. As you mentioned at the beginning of this podcast, we can’t fundamentally change your mindset, but we can certainly equip you with tools to navigate this process.

Similarly, while we cannot compel personal growth, we create an environment that encourages and supports it. Our coaching sessions offer guidance and opportunities for introspection, but the impetus for growth ultimately lies within you. We are here to extend an invitation, to illuminate potential solutions, but the choice to embark on this journey rests with you. While we can lead you to the water, it’s your decision whether to drink. Metaphorically speaking, our students are the horses, and our role is to facilitate their path, not force it. The holistic approach we adopt in our programs emphasizes the complete development of the individual—addressing aspirations, goals, challenges, and inspiration. In the realm of entrepreneurship, ongoing personal growth remains a cornerstone of success.

Emily Arnold 

Absolutely. From my vantage point of working closely with all of you, I can genuinely attest to your authentic care for our students. It’s reassuring to know that when I guide students through orientation, they are entering an environment where the coaching team is sincerely invested in their success. This team doesn’t offer feedback or guidance for the sake of it; they are genuinely committed to aiding each student’s journey as a successful speaker. The underlying motivation is not a power trip or ego-driven. It’s rooted in a sincere concern for humanity and individual progress. The Speaker Lab exudes a palpable sense of compassion and dedication, and I hope listeners recognize that this care is at the heart of our coaching. It’s not solely about practical success but about fostering personal growth and genuine care for each individual.

Maryalice Goldsmith 

Emily, you play a crucial role in extending a warm welcome to our community at The Speaker Lab. Your dedication to setting up our students for success is deeply appreciated. The work you, Katie, and the entire team do ensures our students are well-prepared and focused as they embark on this journey. Thank you so much for this insightful conversation.

Emily Arnold

Thank you for having me. To all the listeners out there, I’m eager to connect with you and potentially welcome you to our community.