@Lucas Reuterstig Big shoes to fill. I had so many great conversations with Stipe! I really miss him and all the interactions I had in this community, with him and other members. I hope we can bring that feeling back. 🙏

@Ben Sherry sure, Stipe was VERY active in starting conversations and new topics on a very broad and deep level. Not just on public speaking, but also on personal development. How to become a better version of yourself in many different areas of your life. Also, the things we run into while we pursue becoming a better version. Does this help?

Last week I had to give a talk in Lisbon, and for the first time ever I decided not to prepare anything. Just go on stage and see what happens. I was speaking out my thoughts and my feelings. It felt very uncomfortable at first, but it was also the most liberating feeling I experienced in a long time! You will always have thoughts and feelings, so there is always something to say. You just need a bit of courage, and not care about what other people MIGHT think!

@Amir Salemi Yes, I will repeat again. But more on an improvisational level. How about you? What would you like to introduce in one of your talks but feel uncomfortable doing?

@Belle Gayer basic compatibilities change over time. We still share some, but they certainly have diminished. You're right, it's a lot harder! I'm not sure if I want to throw in the towel and get a divorce. We decided to give each other more freedom to explore our personal journey.

@Belle Gayer sounds good, can you please post the link?

I'm curious about the topic of your talk. What makes it 'heavy'? You mention you would like other people's input. Have you thought about a short feedback form at the end of your talk? I use it often for my events. Even better: ask for video testimonials. What tools do you use to captivated your audience and engage them throughout so that they leave with a positive feeling and a sense of empowerment?

@Linda Berg, congratulations on your participation with SpeakerX. Sounds like a fantastic opportunity to craft the perfect talk! I can't tell you what to do to create the energy you're looking for. I usually go to stories around the topic and get inspiration and ideas from that. My weapon of choice is movies. In your case I would watch movies about your topic. A few come to mind: American Beauty (explores a man’s mid-life burnout and desire to escape his conventional life). Office Space (a classic comedy about a software engineer who stops caring about his soul-killing job) and Glengarry Glen Ross (highlights the intense pressure and toxic environment of high-stakes sales). Inspiring, educational, and entertaining. Those are the 3 key ingredients I use in my talks. Good luck, and (more importantly) have fun!

Yes, absolutely use personal storytelling. There is a difference between personal stories and private stories. Storytelling releases emotions, and emotion is the glue that makes the memory (of your talk) stick. Of course the story you're sharing needs to have context with your message. Why would you consider NOT using personal stories?