On the latest episode of Backstage Pass, Gail Davis and Judi Holler have a high energy conversation about the significance of creativity in the future of work, embracing a broader vision of what is possible, and the power of improv in life and business. Tune in to hear how Judi empowers audiences to think big, feel seen, and express themselves fully.

Show Notes
In this episode of Backstage Pass, host Gail Davis interviews Judi Holler, a keynote speaker and improv-trained emcee, about her experiences and insights in event planning and audience engagement. They discuss the importance of openness, building relationships, and the role of an emcee in creating a successful event. Judi shares her approach to learning about the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and how she uses improv techniques to engage audiences during her keynotes. The conversation highlights the significance of trust between clients and creatives, as well as the power of improvisation in navigating uncertainty. In this engaging conversation, Judi Holler shares her experiences with improv and its transformative power in both personal and professional settings. She discusses the ABC game, a unique improv exercise that fosters connection and creativity. Holler introduces her new keynote, 'The Transformational Art of Self-Expressionism,' emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and creativity in leadership. She outlines her Holla Framework, which includes six laws of self-expression, and highlights the significance of recreation in self-discovery. The discussion culminates in the impact of her keynotes on audiences, leaving them energized and with a broader vision of what's possible.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Judi Holler emphasizes the importance of openness in building relationships with clients.
• Engagement and energy are crucial for keeping audiences connected during events.
• Trust between the emcee and the client is essential for a successful partnership.
• Understanding the client's needs and culture is vital for an effective emcee.
• Improv techniques can be powerful tools for audience engagement in keynotes.
• Judi's experience with EOS has transformed her approach to events.
• Building a personal connection with the audience enhances the overall experience.
• The role of an emcee is to be an extension of the client's team.
• Judi's unique blend of keynote speaking and MCing creates a dynamic experience for attendees. Improv can help individuals realize they can do hard things.
• Self-expression is crucial for effective leadership.
• Creativity is becoming a top skill needed in the future of work.
• People need to feel safe to express themselves.
• Recreation is essential for self-discovery and joy.
• Happy, self-aware people contribute positively to organizations.
• The Holla Framework provides structure for self-expression.
• Engaging audiences requires energy and authenticity.
• Keynotes should inspire a bigger vision for attendees.
• Leadership should focus on the becoming, not just the doing.

Visit gdaspeakers.com to learn more about bringing Judi Holler to your next event!

On this episode of Backstage Pass, Gail Davis sits down with Tara Renze to explore how emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, and pursuing fulfillment over happiness can transform lives. Hear how Tara helps audiences “Be Who You Came To Be” and why her work is resonating now more than ever.

Show Notes
In this engaging conversation, host Gail Davis speaks with Tara Renze, an award-winning keynote speaker and emotional intelligence expert. Tara shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a sought-after speaker, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and mental fitness in personal and professional development. The discussion covers Tara's impactful message of 'Be Who You Came To Be,' her various keynote topics, and the significance of workshops in transforming lives. Listeners gain insights into how emotional intelligence can enhance workplace success and the necessity of self-acceptance for both adults and children. In this conversation, Tara Renze discusses her journey as a speaker, focusing on the importance of igniting purpose in audiences through relatable messages. She shares her experiences speaking at various events, including women's conferences and corporate settings, emphasizing the impact of personal development and self-acceptance. Tara highlights the significance of vulnerability in connecting with audiences and the tools she uses for self-assessment. She also addresses the growing mental health crisis and her commitment to advocating for mental health awareness through her speaking engagements.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace.
• Emotional intelligence accounts for 58% of success in the workforce.
• How Tara’s 'Be Who You Came To Be' message is relatable and impactful.
• Mental fitness helps individuals manage negative thoughts effectively.
• Fulfillment is more valuable than constant happiness.
• Tara's journey illustrates the power of personal storytelling.
• Teaching self-acceptance can change lives.
• Owning one's success stories is crucial for personal growth.
• The Be Who You Came To Be methodology to live the life you desire and deserve.
• Honoring each other's authenticity.
• You are not your thoughts.
• Relating through human connections.

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 energizing and insightful episode, bestselling author, change and resilience strategist, and keynote speaker Kim Becking shares how to build sustainable resilience and create Unstoppable Momentum during times of nonstop change and uncertainty. Drawing from her personal experiences and work with thousands of leaders and teams, Kim introduces her powerful framework—Stop, Shift, Reframe—and explores what’s busting our momentum and what can boost it. You'll walk away with actionable tools, and the reminder that you are allowed to feel, lead, and grow in the “so muchness” of life and work.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Change is constant and requires adaptability.
• The new definition of resilience and why traditional change management no longer works.
• Resilience and adaptability are no longer “soft skills” in this rapidly changing world -they are REQUIRED.
• Today’s leaders must learn to adapt in real time and thrive in the gray.
• Resilience isn’t about pushing and grinding no matter what. It’s about refueling yourself and your team so you can bounce forward, not just back.
• Resilience is no longer about bouncing back—it's about bouncing forward with intention.
• 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.
• Kim shares her proprietary Unstoppable Momentum Framework - rooted in positive psychology, emotional intelligence and years or research. Her framework empowers leaders and teams to embrace change as a catalyst- so that instead of holding them back, it becomes the rocket fuel that propels them forward - by learning to Stop. Shift. And Reframe the Change and Challenge so they can become more adaptable, more resilient and are able to grow in powerful, unexpected ways.
• Overview of Kim's Unstoppable Momentum Framework: STOP – Pause, assess, and give yourself and those around you to feel what you need to feel during change. SHIFT – Grit up, don’t give up. Turn obstacles into opportunity and fear into fuel. REFRAME – Take the next best step to move forward - even if you don’t have all the answers.
• Key momentum busters: negativity bias, fear, uncertainty, change fatigue, inner critic
• Momentum boosters: emotional intelligence, psychological safety, connection, daily Momentum Micro-Moves to refuel
• The importance of finding your five—five to fifteen minutes a day to recharge. To take strategic breaks during your day. Our bodies and our brains were not made for the world we are in.
• Kim’s daily momentum ritual and how it fuels her work and mindset
• We live in a world of “so muchness”—constant change, noise, and demands—requiring real-time adaptability.
• Hope alone is not a strategy—action is what builds momentum.
• Sustainable resilience blends grit + grace—you need both to lead effectively.
• You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just take the next best step.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.