This is a very different episode, and I'll be honest...I've been putting off recording this because it is a tough one. I can't believe we've gone through 179 episodes together. From the beginning, the goal has been to encourage and equip you on your speaking journey, and it's been a privilege to witness the growth and impact of this community. It's been an absolute joy to serve you.Don't worry - I'm not going anywhere! In this episode, you will:Understand the reason why the podcast is going on pause for a seasonLearn what I'm doing during this season of pause. Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:ACTIVATE LIVE Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

I know you might think we've talked about this topic quite a few times on the podcast, but stick with me. Are you ready to explore what it means to be called to do the work you love? Or, maybe you're not sure how to navigate the twists and turns in your journey. Today, I'm sharing insights on understanding and embracing your unique calling. It's not about fame or accolades but about serving the one you're meant to serve. In this episode, you will:Gain insights into what it means to be called to a specific purpose Reflect on the idea that the calling is not about the individual but about serving the purpose and the people they are called to.Learn the key lessons I learned throughout my journey Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

I was recently asked - "Mary, you always have a story. Why do you always have a story about everything?" My first thought was it's because I'm a storyteller, but it's more than that. I look at life differently, and I want you to do the same. Do you ever feel like you don't have any interesting stories to share? Maybe you think your life is too mundane to inspire others. In this episode, I'm diving into the art of finding captivating stories in life's everyday moments. This episode is for you if you want to discover the power of your own unique experiences and their potential to impact and connect with others.In this episode, you will:Understand the importance of finding and sharing stories in everyday life.Discover how stories can be found in the simple, mundane moments and exciting and funny experiences.Recognize the significance of being intentional and slowing down to pay attention to the people placed in your pathFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Alright, so we all know that building a speaking business can be lonely, right? Do you ever feel like you're on this journey alone, craving a community of like-minded individuals who understand and support your passion for speaking and storytelling? You're in luck because, in this episode, I'm sharing the importance of finding your community and sharing insights on where and how to connect with like-minded individuals. In this episode, you will: Learn about the importance of finding a communityFigure out how to find like-minded people Discover the significance of having and building supportive relationshipsFull show notes here! Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you struggle to get a response from event planners? Maybe you've experienced the frustration of being ghosted after reaching out via email or DM. In this episode, we will cover crafting an email that elicits a response and shares a powerful method for re-engaging prospects. This episode is for you if you want to learn how to effectively communicate with event planners to get the response you're looking for.In this episode, you will: Learn about the importance of following up consistently with event planners.Gain insights into effective communication strategies when reaching out.Find practical tips for re-engaging with individuals who have gone unresponsive.Full show notes here! Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you have a powerful keynote message that you're not sure how to repurpose for a workshop or social media content? Maybe you want to learn how to engage your audience in an interactive and impactful way. We'll explore how to repurpose your message for various platforms and audiences. If you want to expand the reach of your message and connect with your audience on a deeper level, listen now!In this episode, you will: Learn how to repurpose a keynote message into a workshop format.Discover how to incorporate activities and audience participation into a workshop setting.Be inspired to expand the reach and impact of your message through repurposing.Full show notes here! Links & Mentioned Resources:Activate Live! CourseTake the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you want to learn how to invest in yourself and your speaking journey? Maybe you're feeling stuck and need some understanding on why your message really matters. In this episode, I discuss the importance of investing in yourself as a speaker and how it directly impacts your audience. If you are ready to invest in your gift and story in the same way God has invested in you, tune in!In this episode, you will: Learn the importance of investing time, energy, and possibly money into sharing your message with others.Find out how to shift the focus of your message from you to those who need to hear it.Be encouraged to take the steps forward and find support in getting your message to the audience God has prepared for you. Full show notes here! Links & Mentioned Resources:Activate Live! CourseTake the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you have a message burning inside you, and you're waiting to share it with the world? Maybe you've been dreaming of stepping onto the speaking stage, but you're not sure where to start. In this episode, I'll dive into the essential steps you need to take to make 2024 your year as a speaker. In this episode, you will: Reflect on your speaking goals for 2024 and how to achieve them.Understand the importance of setting specific and time-bound goals for your speaking career.Embrace the process of crafting a powerful message, honing your speaking skills, and actively seeking speaking opportunities to fulfill your calling.Full show notes here! Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you want to create a speaker one-sheet that grabs attention and gets you noticed by event planners? Maybe you've struggled to figure out what to include and how to make your one sheet stand out. In this episode, I'm diving into the essential elements of a speaker one sheet and how to make it a powerful tool for getting booked. This episode is for you if you're a speaker looking to elevate your marketing materials and increase your chances of landing speaking engagements.In this episode, you will: Learn the key elements of a speaker one-sheetUnderstand the importance of a speaker one sheet as a sales tool to get booked for speaking engagements.Gain insights on how to effectively showcase your message, social proof, and contact information on your speaker one sheet.Full Show Notes HereConnect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Welcome back to "5 Minutes with Mary." In this episode, I discuss the intricacies of asking an event planner to book you as a speaker. I'll share my personal experiences and offer valuable insights on approaching this challenging conversation. We'll cover the importance of being spiritually attuned to discern if the opportunity aligns with God's plan. Providing practical tips on preparing for the meeting, asking the right questions, and initiating the booking process without being pushy. Tune in to learn how to navigate this nerve-wracking but crucial aspect of being a sought-after speaker.In this episode, you will:Discover the importance of praying and seeking clarity from the Lord about whether a speaking opportunity is the right fit for you. Learn how to ask plenty of questions about the event, the audience, and their speaker preferences. Understand the importance of no directly asking an event planner to book you, rather inquire about the next steps of becoming the speaker at their event. Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

On today's episode, we dive into the art of connecting with your audience. I emphasize the importance of approaching public speaking as a two-way conversation and share practical tips for creating a deep and meaningful connection with your listeners. From the power of using inclusive language to the impact of speaking directly to individuals, these insights will transform the way you deliver your message. In this episode, you will:Discover how using "you" fosters inclusive and powerful connection.Understand how to connect deeply with your audience by engaging in personal conversations, leading to a strong connection and impact.Learn to emphasize the importance of connection and sign off.Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Are you looking to enhance your presentation skills and captivate your audience? Look no further! In this week's episode of the new series, 5 Minutes with Mary, I'm diving into practical tips on how to deliver a powerful message. In this episode, you will: Learn how to deliver a message effectively. Understand the importance of presentation skills.Discover the power of using pauses in your deliver.Full show notes here! Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you want to find your message and make a powerful impact when you speak? Maybe you have a story to share but aren't sure how to turn it into a meaningful message. In what I'm calling "5 minutes with Mary" - I'm diving into the importance of finding your message and discovering what problem it solves. Ready to learn how to communicate your story effectively and make a difference in the lives of your audience? Tune in and unlock the power of your message today!In this episode, you will: Understand the importance of defining your messageFind the problem your message solves Discover how to take time to reflectFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you struggle to confidently articulate what you do as a speaker? Maybe you stumble over your words when someone asks, "So, what do you do?" If so, don't worry, I've got you! Today, we will dive into crafting a persuasive pitch story that will captivate our audience and open doors to exciting opportunities. This episode is for you if you're ready to confidently share your message and positively impact the world through your speaking. Join us as we unlock the secrets to crafting a powerful and persuasive pitch.In this episode, you will: Discover the significance of a convincing introduction Learn about the persuasive pitch story Understand how to showcase your expertise Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Finally, the big announcement I've been hinting at has arrived: learn about the premiere in-person coaching event, Activate Live, where I will coach you with my powerful Activate program, but live and in-person, so you can grow your speaking skills and connect with other like-minded Christian communicators!In this episode, learn about the Activate Live event slated for May 2024 in Franklin, TN. Listen as I share the invaluable skills participants will gain and the exciting networking opportunities for those who attend. Packed with enthusiasm and a strong sense of community, this small, exclusive event is a must-attend for anyone seeking to refine their speaking talents and find their people in the world of Christian communicators.In this episode, you will be able to:Learn the value of in-person training events and the way they meet a unique need among speakersDiscover how Activate Live will help you craft and refine your unique message and presentationGain insight into the community Activate Live will encourage those passionate about Christian speakingFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Activate Live! Information and registrationTake the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Are you afraid to admit your big, audacious dreams out loud? Do you realize that those big dreams are God-given and there’s tremendous power in embracing and pursuing them?  In this episode, you’ll be encouraged as I share examples and biblical encouragement through my own journey of living out my dream of coaching people to tell their stories.  Listen as I share the importance of aligning our dreams with the calling God places on our lives and realizing that it is God who brings them both to fruition.In this episode, you will:Learn how to identify and acknowledge your big dreamsOvercome your fears and doubts, and take action towards your dreamsUnderstand that your purpose and calling is to make a lasting impactDiscover how to step out in faith and trust God’s perfect timingFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:1 Peter 2:9Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Have you considered transforming your keynote message into an interactive workshop? In this episode, let's explore the process of turning a keynote message into an interactive workshop and gaining practical tips for engaging with audiences in a workshop setting. Learn to identify clear takeaways from your message and reverse engineer the content to make your material interactive. These expert tips and more are key to learning how to create impactful workshops based on your keynote messages and will help you expand your reach and impact as a Christian speaker.In this episode, you will:Learn how to structure your workshop and make it interactiveFind time for the interactive portion of the workshopDiscover why incorporating interactive activities and exercises are importantPerfect your closing and share opportunities for further engagementFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

In this episode, we’re exploring the true meaning of influence and how it's not just about numbers on social media. Discover the impact you can have with just one person and how to effectively share your message. Remember, influence is about how you use what God has given you to make a difference in someone's life! Listen in to gain insights on how to stir up love, encourage others, and deliver your message as God intends.In this episode, you will be able to:Redefine your understanding of influence: Embrace the power of personal connections and how to impact and engage in meaningful conversations to spread your message.Discover how true influence works for others, rather than for ourselves.Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Hebrews 10:24-25 – NIVHebrews 10:24-15 - The MessageTake the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Have you ever felt hurt or disappointed when you weren’t invited to speak at an event or after being uninvited by an event planner? Listen as I share stories of being excluded from speaking engagements and the impact it had on me. Hear my best advice on how to handle either scenario, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and self-reflection. Gain a clear understanding that being uninvited can sometimes be a form of divine redirection.  As Christian speakers, we can have faith that God's protection and guiding hand is in all the engagements, even those we don’t receive.In this episode, you will:Learn how to handle being uninvited as a speakerDiscover the reasons behind being uninvited Understand the importance of clear communicationLearn how to handle rejection gracefullyFind encouragement and supportFull Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely by Lysa TerKeurst Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

Do you ever feel like you pour out so much for others but rarely take the time to fill yourself up?  Have you ever considered going on a retreat? Discover the four things that can make a retreat powerful for Christian speakers and other creatives. Learn the benefits of recharging and leaning into your relationship with God and others. You can experience the transformative impact of taking time away to focus on yourself and your growth and this episode is a great place to start.Top reasons to listen to this episode:Gain a deeper understanding of the power of retreats and how they can positively impact your life.Learn about the importance of self-care and why you should prioritize it and fill yourself up before pouring out to others.Explore the benefits of participating in retreats within a supportive community or network.Full Show Notes Here!Links & Mentioned Resources:Take the Stage Speakers Facebook GroupJoin Mary’s email list!Activate Connect with Mary Join Mary's Facebook group!Join Mary's email list!Follow Mary on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn Thanks for joining us on the Take the Stage podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.