Mastering the Art of Startup Storytelling with Will Greenblatt

Mastering the Art of Startup Storytelling with Will Greenblatt

In this episode of "Who Are These Startups?" your host, The Startup Coach, sits down with Will Greenblatt, a former actor turned public speaking coach and co-founder of OutLoud Speakers School. Recorded live at the Collision Conference, this conversation delves into the world of startup storytelling, public speaking, and the unique challenges that founders face when pitching their ideas in crowded, competitive environments.

About Our Guest: Will Greenblatt

Will Greenblatt is the co-founder of OutLoud Speakers School, where he uses his background in acting and teaching to help startup founders and entrepreneurs become confident, authentic speakers. With years of experience on stage and in classrooms across the globe, Will has honed his skills in storytelling and communication. His journey from a child actor to a public speaking coach offers a unique perspective on how performance skills can be leveraged in the business world.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. From Acting to Public Speaking:

• Will shares his journey from being a child actor to becoming a public speaking coach. His early experiences in acting taught him the importance of performance, but it was his time as a teacher in Spain and China that helped him realize the value of authenticity in communication. This realization led him to co-found OutLoud Speakers School, where he now helps founders tell their stories with confidence and clarity.

1. The Importance of Authenticity:

• In a world where startup founders are constantly pitching their ideas, authenticity can set you apart. Will emphasizes the power of being genuine and relatable when communicating your message. Whether you're on stage at a pitch competition or networking at a conference, being yourself and connecting with others on a human level is crucial.

1. Tips for Pitching in Crowded Environments:

• Pitching in environments like the Collision Conference can be daunting. Will offers practical advice for startup founders on how to capture and maintain an audience’s attention amidst the noise. He suggests keeping your pitch simple, your slides clean, and your delivery powerful and engaging. He also highlights the importance of handling Q&A sessions with confidence, as this can make or break a pitch.

1. Networking with Intention:

• Networking at large events can be exhausting. Will advises founders to pace themselves, take breaks, and approach networking with the intention of making genuine connections rather than just seeking opportunities. Asking thoughtful questions and offering to help others can create meaningful interactions that benefit both parties.

1. Crafting a Memorable Pitch:

• Will discusses the common mistakes founders make when pitching, such as failing to make eye contact, turning their back on the audience during Q&A, and ending their pitch weakly. He stresses the importance of ending with a strong call to action that ties back to your core message, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

1. The Role of Public Speaking in Startup Success:

• For startup founders, public s