Have you ever had an idea that tugged at you, asking to be brought to life? In this episode, I share why I believe so strongly that you are the exact messenger for your idea and your audience. Not someone else. You. Yes, your topic may be similar to what others are talking about. But ,your idea, your lens, your story, and your experiences are what make it yours. And your audience? They’re waiting for you to say it in the way only you can. We dig into: The difference between having a topic versus having an idea (this is a game-changer for standing out!) Why thought leadership is more than just expertise—it’s about the courage to show up with your unique take The two ways ideas tend to come to us (and what stops us from activating them) Why fear and perfectionism are such sneaky dream stealers (and how to move through them) What Lin-Manuel Miranda, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Greta Gerwig can teach us about being the messenger for your idea I even share a behind-the-scenes moment from preparing my 2016 TEDx talk when I realized I needed something more than a “good” talk - I needed to say something only I could say. If you’re feeling that nudge that there’s an idea stirring inside you - or one that’s been sitting dormant - it’s time to give it voice. Remmber: Your audience is waiting for you. This episide originally aired as episode 343 on August 21, 2023. Links: Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/343/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/ Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox Mentioned: Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert Elizabeth Gilbert on the On Being podcast KLF: Chaos Magic Music Money by JMR Higgs “Who says big ideas are rare?” by Malcom Gladwell Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 341: Unearthing Your Unique Message: Discovering What Makes You Stand Out with Judy Carlson Episode 337: Sharing Your Story as a Catalyst for Transformation with Karen Keene Episode 262: The Four Layers of Thought Leadership with Carol Cox Episode 92: Deconstructing My TEDx Talk: Why We’re Uncomfortable with Women in Power with Carol Cox JOIN US: Our in-person Speaking Accelerator Workshop is coming up in Downtown Orlando on October 30, 2025. Create and practice your signature talk in one day using our proven framework, so you can confidently share your message and attract more opportunities. It's a fun, supportive environment where you get personalized feedback, professional photos, and more. Limited to 15 attendees. Get the details and secure your spot at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.