How do you go from giving short, tip-focused talks to inspiring audiences with a full keynote?
That’s exactly the journey our guest has taken and it’s one so many of us can learn from.
Our lead speaking coach Diane Diaz talks with Elaine Schomburg-LaFleur, a senior project engineer who has spent over 20 years in the theme park industry, including at Disney.
Elaine thought of herself as “the tip girl” - packing her presentations with lots of helpful advice. But when she was invited to give her first keynote, she realized she needed a new approach.
With the help of a VIP Day and our in-person Speaking Accelerator workshop, Elaine discovered how to weave stories into her talks, connect emotionally with her audience, and step into her authentic speaking style.
The result? Not only did she deliver a powerful keynote to a room of young women engineers, she also caught the “speaking bug” and has continued landing and delivering talks that inspire.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Elaine’s story is proof that you don’t have to change who you are to be a great speaker - you just need to unlock the authentic voice that’s already within you.
Links:
Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/439/
Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/
Attend our next 1-day Speaking Accelerator workshop in Orlando: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/
Create your signature talk with us: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/coaching/
Connect on LinkedIn:
Related Podcast Episodes:
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/.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!