Backstage Pass With Gail Davis podcast

38:41

On this episode of Backstage Pass, Gail Davis is joined by Kim Becking who shares what it takes to lead with resilience and build unstoppable momentum. From embracing failure to fostering emotional intelligence, Kim explores practical ways to help teams thrive in times of change and uncertainty. Show Notes In this conversation, Gail Davis and Kim Becking explore the critical themes of navigating change and building resilience in today's fast-paced world. Kim shares her insights on the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the concept of 'unstoppable momentum' as a means to thrive amidst uncertainty. They discuss practical strategies for leaders to foster resilience within their teams and organizations, including the use of the 'You Are Allowed' card, which encourages individuals to acknowledge their feelings during times of change. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care and the integration of personal experiences into leadership practices. Key topics in this episode include: Change is constant and requires adaptability. Resilience is about bouncing forward, not just back. Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership. The 'You Are Allowed' card helps normalize feelings during change. Building a resilient culture involves open communication and support. Daily habits and rituals can sustain momentum. Leaders must give themselves grace during challenging times. Failure is a part of growth and should be embraced. Strategic breaks during the workday enhance productivity and well-being. Personal experiences shape our perspectives and leadership styles.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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The Power of Values: Unlocking Connection with David Allison 41:23

20 days ago41:23

41:23

Gail Davis is joined by David Allison who dives into why understanding what people care about leads to better leadership, stronger client relationships, and more impactful strategies. Show Notes David Allison, an expert in engagement and human values, discusses the importance of understanding values over demographics in various fields such as sales, leadership, and organizational culture. He emphasizes that aligning strategies with people's values can lead to more effective engagement and influence. The discussion also highlights the limitations of demographic labels and how they fail to capture the complexity of individual motivations. David shares insights on how organizations can leverage values to improve client relationships and enhance leadership effectiveness. In this conversation, David Allison discusses the significance of understanding values through assessment tools, the importance of engaging audiences, and how data-driven insights can transform various industries. He emphasizes the need to unite diverse groups and the role of universal values in fostering connections. The discussion also covers the customization of presentations for specific audiences and the emotional impact of his talks, highlighting the transformative power of values in changing perspectives. Key topics in this episode include: Everything in an organization is about getting people to do something. Understanding values is crucial for effective engagement. Demographics provide limited insight into individual motivations. Values are more accurate than demographic labels. Sales strategies should focus on values alignment. Understanding client values enhances communication and engagement. Leaders can resolve conflicts by identifying shared values. Values-based insights improve workplace culture. Research on values can transform organizational strategies. Effective leadership requires understanding team motivations. Values identification tools help individuals understand their motivations. Segmenting the workforce by values leads to better engagement strategies. Data-driven insights resonate well with industries focused on numbers. Generational stereotypes are often inaccurate and unhelpful. Shared values can unite diverse groups and foster collaboration. Transforming events by aligning them with attendees' values enhances experiences. Universal values like belonging and community transcend cultural boundaries. Customizing presentations based on audience values increases impact. Emotional connections are key to audience engagement after presentations. Changing perspectives on values can address social issues effectively.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Everyday Innovation with Josh Linkner 32:55

5 weeks ago32:55

32:55

On the latest Backstage Pass episode, Gail Davis is joined by Josh Linkner who shares insights on the transformative power of everyday innovation, turning disruption into opportunity, and embracing creativity. Show Notes Josh Linkner, a five-time tech entrepreneur and expert in innovation and leadership. The conversation explores the parallels between jazz music and business leadership, emphasizing the importance of creativity and innovation in today's rapidly changing landscape. Josh shares insights on overcoming misconceptions about innovation, the significance of everyday innovation, and real-world examples of companies that have successfully embraced creative approaches. The discussion also highlights the importance of tailoring messages for diverse audiences and engaging them effectively during presentations. In this engaging conversation, Gail and Josh delve into the themes of innovation, disruption, and the art of keynote speaking. They explore the concept of the 'judo flip' as a method for embracing change, the importance of audience-centric keynotes, and how to turn disruption into opportunity. The discussion also highlights the significance of micro innovations and the transformative potential of AI. Additionally, they touch on the role of ImpactEleven in elevating speaker standards and share behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the speaking world. Key topics in this episode include: Jazz musicians operate like effective business leaders. Today's leaders must embrace creativity and innovation. AI is automating traditional skills, leaving creativity as a key human asset. Companies often overestimate the risks of innovation and underestimate the risks of stagnation. An experimentation mindset can de-risk innovation efforts. Everyday innovations can lead to significant results. Real-world examples illustrate the power of creative thinking. Sales roles require creativity and adaptability. Tailoring presentations to the audience enhances engagement. Creating a fear-free environment fosters creativity. The 'judo flip' is a powerful tactic for embracing change. Keynotes should focus on the audience, not just the speaker. Disruption can be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat. Micro innovations are a practical approach to managing change. AI is a transformative force, comparable to the internet. Great speeches can have a lasting impact on audiences. Professional speakers must adapt to unexpected challenges. The quality of speakers can be elevated through training and development. Collaboration among speakers can lead to greater impact. Inspiration often comes from engaging conversations.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Embracing the Pioneer Spirit with Gaby Natale 38:15

7 weeks ago38:15

38:15

On the latest Backstage Pass episode, Gaby Natale joins Gail Davis as she shares how to embrace a pioneer spirit through innovation, resilience, and breaking barriers. Show Notes As the first Latina to win three Daytime Emmys® back-to-back, Gaby Natale has consistently demonstrated her ability to innovate and lead in diverse spaces. And now - as a speaker and emcee - she uses her signature frameworks to encourage people from all walks of life to break barriers and awaken the PIONEER spirit in each of us. Key topics in this episode include: Where Gaby’s professional career began and how she embraced her unique perspective. What discomfort actually is and what that means. Gaby’s advice for avoiding joining a race to the bottom in your career. An impressive example of innovation and the ability to think differently. Tips for stepping into what makes you unique and truly embracing it. The message that gets everyone together and why it matters. What Gaby learned after decades of interviewing high achievers. What the virtuous circle is and how it works. The types of events and industries Gaby is most asked to speak in. How the speaker you choose can change the energy in the room. The common elements of feedback Gaby often gets after she speaks. Why so many people can relate to Gaby’s speaking content. The elements missing in traditional discussions about leadership. What people, generally, trust the most today and why. How she inspires action in her audiences (instead of just telling a story). Why Gaby decided to share something personal with the world.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Zero Gravity, Maximum Impact: Lessons from Space with Mike Massimino 45:14

10 weeks ago45:14

45:14

On the latest Backstage Pass episode, Gail Davis sits down with former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino to explore the out-of-this-world lessons he learned in space. From teamwork and communication to overcoming obstacles, Mike shares invaluable insights that apply far beyond the cosmos. Show Notes Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut and celebrated space walker who repaired the Hubble Space Telescope, is our guest today. As a keynote speaker, he brings authenticity and inspiration to every stage he steps on. Mike shares the biggest lessons he’s learned during his career in this conversation, as well as the strengths he brings to his speaking events. Key topics in this episode include: What inspired Mike to become an astronaut, and who he brought to space. One of Mike’s biggest fears and why he didn’t let it stop him. How many times he applied to NASA before he actually got accepted. Why your goals are worth trying for, even if they seem out of reach. Why it’s better to speak up than stay silent, especially when it comes to ideas. What happens when a whole team focuses on one mission and goal. The value of adaptability in the workplace. Mike’s biggest lessons from his visits to space. What Mike did in space that no one else had ever done before. One of the best things you can do to support your team as a leader. The topics Mike covers in his speaking events and how he entertains the audience. How Mike can fulfill the specific needs of event planners. Why he loves doing Q&As and meet-and-greets with the audience. Tips for event planners who aren’t sure about setting up a Q&A. The view of space programs internationally and how those talks are received.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Energy Management: Breaking Down the Wall Between Work & Wellness with Suneel Gupta 43:03

11 weeks ago43:03

43:03

Gail Davis is joined by Suneel Gupta who discusses how to practically manage energy and bolster emotional resilience in order to unite our wellbeing and performance at work. Show Notes Today we’re joined by Suneel Gupta, an expert on how well-being impacts performance. He’s a healthcare entrepreneur, best-selling author, and visiting scholar at Harvard Medical School. He helps people bolster their emotional resilience so they can reset, reignite, and find meaning in their work. Suneel shares tips for increasing your daily productivity, resilience, and energy levels no matter what stage of life you’re in. Key topics in this episode include: The difference between people who reach their potential and those who don’t. A common misconception about burnout (and what the truth really is). Why you don’t need a long vacation to recuperate and reset. How little moments of rest can change your capacity to take on life. What the science of human performance has shown about rest. Why your best years are yet to come, no matter how old you are now. The human energy crisis of our time and how it impacts us at work. How cutting back on your schedule can increase your output and energy. How using rhythmic renewal in your daily life enhances your resilience. How to monitor your energy level and know when it’s time for a break. The experience Suneel had with his dad that inspired his vision. The surprising person who has a significant influence on your mental health. How the legacy of a great leader lives on and the small things that make a big difference. Where Suneel is investing his time right now and why he’s passionate about it. The many applications of energy management and who it can help now.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Owning & Accelerating Transformation with Peter Sheahan 36:49

12 weeks ago36:49

36:49

Gail Davis is joined by Peter Sheahan who shares the importance of taking ownership of change to accelerate transformation on teams. Show Notes Peter Sheahan is an entrepreneur, strategist, C-suite advisor, and in-demand speaker. After writing Generation Y, his first book, he quickly found himself in boardrooms speaking about understanding and connecting with the next generation. Since then, Peter has written several books and has headlined countless speaking events. During the episode, Peter shares the importance of owning change to accelerate transformation on teams. Key topics in this episode include: Where Peter’s career started and the trajectory it took from there. Why Peter wanted to write about the value shifts of young people. How he ended up teaching about change and disruption globally. How he got the nickname “CEO whisperer,” and his method for pushing people. Peter’s process for preparing for a keynote speech and the interview he must have first. What it takes to be a great leader in today’s organizations. Why he decided to sell some of his businesses and what he’s focusing on instead. Peter’s ideal audience and who he loves speaking to the most. What happened when he crossed paths with Brené Brown and why he’s a big fan. What ImpactEleven is and how it uplifts the speakers of tomorrow. How speakers set expectations for their events and why some seem high maintenance. Why speakers are prone to depression (despite what it looks like on the outside). The advice Peter has for event planners when making speaker selections.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Amputate to Amplify: Transforming Adversity Into Advantage with John Register 40:13

12 weeks ago40:13

40:13

Gail Davis is joined by John Register who discusses transforming adversity into advantage, what holds people back from moving past difficult times, and how his message provides audiences a necessary perspective shift. Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Pass we’re joined by John Register. John is a Paralympic silver medalist, army combat veteran, TedX speaker, author, and CPAE. Recently, he was named among the top global leadership speakers. John opens up about his Paralympic career, what holds people back from moving past difficult times (and how he can help), and the experiences that helped make him the speaker he is today. Key topics in this episode include: What getting the CPAE title meant to John and how he reached this milestone. How being diverted towards the Gulf War elevated his speaking ability. How he lost his leg and what it taught him about adversity. Why he was so surprised when he made the Paralympic swim team. The importance of having people in your life who won’t let you fail. How his Paralympic experience developed and expanded. The fear that holds people back from reaching their goals and how John can help. How his speaking gives him a unique perspective of leadership and the world. The calls John gets weekly and why he makes himself available to serve them. Why knowing what the Constitution is matters when protecting it. The unique aspect the US brings to athletic events, including the Paralympics. What John is focusing on right now in his career next. Why the way you show up with event planners and producers matters. The influence any interaction you have with someone, no matter how small, can have.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Eliminating Complexity Through the Power of Simplicity with Lisa Bodell 22:48

12 weeks ago22:48

22:48

Gail Davis is joined by Lisa Bodell who dissects the difference between productivity and simplicity, how workplace culture influences the complexity of our work, and using simplicity as an employee retention strategy. Show Notes Today our guest is the founder and CEO of FutureThink, Lisa Bodell. Lisa is a futurist and a global leader on collaboration and innovation. She ranks in the top 50 speakers worldwide, and she is also a two-time best-selling author. She’s an expert in helping people discover how to eliminate complexity through the power of simplicity. In today’s conversation, she shares why emphasizing productivity doesn’t work, and why simplifying your work is the way to go. Key topics in this episode include: Why so many people are at a breaking point right now. How being organized differs from being simplified. The benefits of simplifying your work and your life. A better way to say no (that actually feels good). The importance of leaning into saying “yes, if” statements. Why people want their time back and how being selfish with it helps. How your work culture influences the complexity of your work. What makes Lisa a more sought-after speaker and why. Why Lisa says simplicity is agnostic and who her main audience is. Why productivity isn’t the answer in the workplace (and what matters more). How Lisa applies the things she speaks about to her own life. How killing stupid ideas has made Lisa’s team even better. The secrets to making a speaking event a home run. What the best rooms are to find yourself in and what makes the best group. The surprising thing Lisa learned about herself as a speaker.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Behind The Scenes With Seasoned Event Strategist Heather Davis 38:25

12 weeks ago38:25

38:25

Gail Davis is joined by seasoned event strategist Heather Davis who shares what makes an event a home run, factors that play into speaker selection, and the challenges she faces behind the scenes. Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Pass we’re joined by events strategist Heather Davis, Corporate Vice President with New York Life. She drives high-impact outcomes through oversight of three domains: marketing, meetings, and training and development. This conversation has Heather share what makes a speaking event successful, why some speakers are invited back, and the biggest hurdles she faces as an events strategist. She also spills about what a recent speaker did that surprised her—and what she expects to see in the event and speaking space next. Key topics in this episode include: The services Heather provides and the individuals who look for these services. The overall objective of the annual meeting that Heather coordinates. How having a small event team influences the planning process. Signs of a successful annual meeting (and why measuring it matters). How many contracts Heather has facilitated. What encourages Heather to book a speaker again (or never again). Why you should book speakers as far in advance as possible. Whether a speaker’s video is actually helpful in decision making or not. The biggest challenges Heather has in strategizing events. Why speaker customization is so important. How she approaches booking speakers and who she trusts with the heavy lifting. The type of speaker that Heather needs right now who are also hard to find. What a recent speaker did that surprised Heather. Heather’s predictions for future events and what’s already changing now. Recent speakers that stood out for Heather in a positive way.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Broadway Edu-tainment with Sandra Joseph & Ron Bohmer 37:08

12 weeks ago37:08

37:08

Gail Davis is joined by Sandra Joseph & Ron Bohmer who discuss finding success by removing our masks to be our authentic selves and how they uniquely blend their captivating Broadway talent with impactful storytelling at each event. Show Notes In this episode of Backstage Pass, we’re joined by Sandra Joseph & Ron Bohmer. Often referred to as Broadway royalty, this couple fell in love both on and off stage in 1997. They’ve been married for over 20 years and have formed a beautiful business partnership. The speaking events they do together are often about overcoming fear and rejection, following your heart, and the importance of dropping your mask and being your authentic self. Key topics in this episode include: The role that made Sandra the longest leading lady on the longest running play. A gift that helped Sandra keep her edge after a decade into performing. How a shift in underlying motivations can recharge you. Why it’s important to be who you are, flaws and all. Why Sandra said she’s the least likely Broadway star you’d ever meet. How being vulnerable can actually help you achieve your dreams. What made Ron and Sandra’s first conversation unique. The pressure people feel to show up a certain way and how it burdens them. How having a deep dive with a client before a speaking event improves the event. Sandra’s motivation for becoming an author and speaker. How a theater background has equipped them to make events especially engaging. The role their daughter landed and how it’s been a bonding experience for their family. How Ron and Sandra give back to the community and why they are passionate about it. Their favorite parts of what they do and why their audience gets lit up from them.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Memory Mastery: The Key to Winning in Business and Life with Ron White 41:51

12 weeks ago41:51

41:51

Gail Davis is joined by Ron White who discusses the importance of memory in business, relationships, and self confidence. Show Notes Today we’re joined by two-time USA memory champion Ron White. His presentation addresses the skill of memorization and why it’s so important in business and in relationships. Not only that, but having a good memory can boost your confidence as well because it allows you to fortify what you know—whether that’s product knowledge, sales information, or a speech of your own. Being a great speaker is the sign of a great leader, and a great memory is where that begins. Key topics in this episode include: The events that fell together for Ron and Gail to meet. The person Ron met who introduced him into the world of all things memory. How Ron became a foremost memory expert and solidified it. Why Ron is making a return to competing soon. The many different situations that memorization can help you in. How learning to remember things well fosters confidence in adults and children. Why Ron is a great speaker for kicking off any event. Ron’s service history and how he’s used his gifts to honor fallen soldiers. The incredible connections he’s made through his speaking events. The program his customers kept asking him for and how well it did when he delivered. The biggest trick to remembering anything (with examples). Why most people struggle with memorizing names, and what to do instead. Ron’s interest outside of speaking and how it’s changed his life. What Ron wants planners to know before they book him (and why they should). What makes him different from other memory experts.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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More Than Heroes: The Ultimate Story of Love, Teamwork, and Trust with Nando Parrado 26:22

12 weeks ago26:22

26:22

Gail Davis is joined by Nando Parrado who shares the powerful message behind his story of survival and why it continues to resonate with generations and audiences of all ages today. Show Notes We wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for Nando Parrado, the first speaker ever booked by GDA Speakers 25 years ago. Nando is the hero of a 1972 plane crash in the Andes Mountains, which he discusses in today’s episode, and he’s lived through one of the greatest survival stories of all time. His story continues to resonate with audiences today; when he attends as a speaker, he promises to give the audience the best speaker experience they’ve ever had. We also discuss GDA Speakers' 25th anniversary and Nando's continued involvement and influence in the company. Key topics in this episode include: What audiences find so engaging and appealing about Nando’s story. How he celebrates his survival and honors those who were lost. Why Nando is visiting the podcast office today. Why Nando was chosen as the first speaker booked at GDA Speakers (and how he filled a tall order). Where he’s speaking next and why it’s such a big accomplishment. The secret to his survival and why it’s a miracle that Nando is here today. The small ways people survive every day and why it matters. What to watch for in an engaged audience and how to know if they’re all in. Nando’s experience with the movie Society of the Snow. Why he says speaking is a part of his life (and what the other important parts are). His thoughts on going to the Oscars and what it was like. How he selects speaking engagements to do (and why he says no sometimes). The reasons why Nando gets booked again and again.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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Setting New Norms in Today's Digital Culture with Erica Dhawan 38:04

12 weeks ago38:04

38:04

Gail Davis is joined by Erica Dhawan who shares her wisdom on communication in today's digital culture - including using connectional intelligence and reading digital body language in our modern workplace. Show Notes In this episode we’re joined by Erica Dhawan. Erica is a leading authority in the world of teamwork, collaboration, and innovation, as well as a Wall Street Journal best-selling author. She has been ranked as one of the top female keynote speakers and has also been referred to as “the Oprah of management thinkers.” Erica shares her wisdom on communication in today’s digital culture - including using connectional intelligence and reading digital body language in our modern workplace. Key topics in this episode include: Why Erica emphasizes the importance of being a speaker. The field she thought she would go into and why she shifted into speaking instead. What speaking has brought to her life and why she feels drawn to it. Erica’s secret for keeping her content fresh and relevant. What connectional intelligence is and why it’s so important in today’s workplace. Why understanding digital body language is so relevant to teams today. The consequences of our “always on” culture and what we need to do about it. What you can do to make your team members feel truly valued. The unique struggles that women who are direct have in the workplace. Why communication style should vary internally versus externally. What senior team members need to remember about their junior team members. The key driver of trust in teams and how to avoid creating a toxic workplace. How creating norms can help you thrive despite the distance between team members. What Erica has been told is her greatest gift and how you can use it too.…

Backstage Pass with Gail Davis

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The Interconnected Impact of Women's Issues with Leslie Morgan Steiner 39:04

12 weeks ago39:04