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What would you say if you had the world’s attention for 10 minutes? Is fear of public speaking stopping you from sharing something valuable? Are you holding back an idea that could genuinely help others?
In this podcast episode, Joe Sanok discusses how to craft and land TEDx Talks with Adam Lewis Walker.
Podcast Sponsor: Alma

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Meet Adam Lewis Walker

Adam Lewis Walker is a TEDx speaker, international speaking coach, and author who helps entrepreneurs, leaders, and private practitioners craft compelling talks that create real impact. As the author of The TalkX Effect, he specializes in guiding individuals to clarify their core message, overcome the fear of public speaking, and secure high-value speaking opportunities. Through his coaching and training, Adam equips clients with the tools to confidently share their ideas on stages like TEDx and beyond.
Visit Adam’s website and connect on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
In This Podcast
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Why people are nervous to start public speaking
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Crafting your message
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How to find speaking gigs
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Adam’s advice to private practitioners
Why people are nervous to start public speaking
[Public speaking] is one of the top fears on the planet. Some people fear public speaking more than death, so it’s an insane one, I get it … It’s the ultimate showcase … But no one’s going to make you get up on stage and talk about something you don’t have a clue about. (Adam Lewis Walker)
For some people, public speaking is the scariest thing that they could ever do, and it’s a valid reaction. You would be standing up in front of a wide audience and have to be prepared.
The lights, the story, the silence, and with you at the center of it.
While this is daunting, it is also an incredible opportunity, and something that you shouldn’t turn away from simply because you feel fear.
You’re not faking it, you’re not talking about something you’re not authentic about, so I think that takes the pressure off. You’ve just got to do the work to clarify what it is you’re a bit of a legend at, or your area of genius, and then to package it so people understand what the hell you’re talking about, and make it interesting. (Adam Lewis Walker)
Sure, you may make a mistake, and it’s likely that if the talk goes south, perhaps you were talking to the wrong crowd, or you hadn’t prepared enough.
Once you’ve tried it, don’t let the initial setbacks keep you from continuing because remember, with public speaking, the rewards far outweigh the risks.
Crafting your message
When you are crafting your message for the talk, sift through your areas of expertise, including any relevant life experiences, to bring in valuable and helpful pieces of information to your audience.
Think about this: if you had the world’s ear for 10 minutes, what would you talk about?
If you could get everyone to listen and you have an impact, what would you actually tell someone of value? Take it down to the individual, and not what you think might look good on LinkedIn … It boils down to: “How can you help?” And, “What’s the one thing you’ve got to say of value?” (Adam Lewis Walker)
Secondly, use a unique idea, then separate yourself from it. The idea should be the star, and you are the one delivering it.
It then stands on its own merit, and once it becomes so strong, it almost becomes selfish to sit on it! You are then obligated to get out there, overcome your fear, and share.
How to find speaking gigs
Now, you’re looking for speaking gigs. Here are Adam’s main pieces of advice:
- Don’t have verbal diarrhea with the event organizer
- Bring in your personal story if it is relevant or a pivotal moment for the story
- However, if you can, keep your story separate from your core message
- Apply to TEDx talks often, because it is common for it to take a few applications before you are brought in
Adam’s advice to private practitioners
You’ve got the goods. You are enough, and you have enough to share! Don’t be selfish and sit on the powerful knowledge that you have; overcome your fears, and get out there, because it will help others, and it will help you too.
Books mentioned in this episode:
Adam Lewis Walker – The TalkX Effect: Insider Secrets To Secure & Smash #1 Talk To Skyrocket Your Impact
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Visit Adam’s website and connect on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Meet Joe Sanok

Joe Sanok helps counselors to create thriving practices that are the envy of other counselors. He has helped counselors to grow their businesses by 50-500% and is proud of all the private practice owners who are growing their income, influence, and impact on the world. Click here to explore consulting with Joe.
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