In this episode, Kaywanda interviews Brian J. Olds of Black Speakers Network. Brian shares why he felt there was a need to create Black Speakers Network, how he got the idea, and why this network exists. Brian goes on to share his 5 step framework from BSN which is the 5 M’s: Mission, Message, Marketing, Monetize, and Management. He also explains what you need to learn right now to get started speaking for free.

This episode is FULL of nuggets about how to get started speaking and how to build a long-lasting speaker brand, what you need to have in place, and where you can go for support. Listen to this episode with a pen and paper, sis. So many good nuggets for new and experienced speakers. Even if you’re not black, this episode is super valuable.

He then breaks down how to know what you can talk about for the next ten years. Hint: 3 things: passion, expertise, and marketing demand. He shares this process so you can figure out your special speaker brand sauce using a Venn diagram. He calls the intersection of these 3 your “Speaker Sweet Spot.”

This conversation was so good. Be sure to check Brian out at BlackSpeakersNetwork.com Join the BSN Facebook group and look up the book, Speak Up! I have a copy of it and it is LIFE! I’m also a silver member and I paid for the annual membership after this interview. I cannot believe the value I get for the price he charges. The community is awesome. 

Note: This episode was recorded in 2019 pre-COVID. Be sure to follow Brian and BSN to keep up with future live and virtual events and join his free community. He gives every member the opportunity to speak.

Links to Things we mentioned to help you:

1. Join the Black Speakers Network Facebook group
2. BSN Website
3. Grab your copy of “Speak Up! The Ultimate Guide to Dominate in the Speaking Industry” with the foreword from Dr. George Fraser and Afterword by Les Brown.

Brian’s tip for speakers:
“If you think you can do better than the speakers you’re listening to, do it.”

Whatever you do, just get started.