Embracing the Nomadic Mindset: Presence and Connection on Stage

In this episode of Present Influence, host John Ball discusses the nomadic mindset with international speaker and author Kevin Cottam. They explore how ancient nomadic wisdom can enhance modern speakers' adaptability, presence, and connection with their audiences. Through stories from Mongolia to Morocco, Kevin shares insights on the importance of unity, flow, and curiosity for effective communication. This philosophical conversation encourages speakers to transcend traditional methods, fostering deeper and more meaningful engagement with their audiences.

What does a nomadic warrior know about stage presence that most speakers never learn?

In this powerful and philosophical episode, I’m joined by Kevin Cottam, international speaker, former world-class choreographer, and author of The Nomadic Mindset: Never Settle for Too Long.

Together, we explore how ancient nomadic wisdom, drawn from cultures in Mongolia, Kenya, Morocco, and Namibia, can help modern speakers develop deeper presence, authentic connection, and resonant leadership.

💡 Discover how presence is more than just performance; it’s unity with your space, your audience, and yourself.

🔍 Topics we explore:

• The surprising meaning of the word “nomad”

• How speakers can ground themselves through breath, silence, and space

• What stillness, curiosity, and adaptability have to do with your stagecraft

• Why sameness kills growth—and how to rediscover flow

Whether you're a keynote speaker, coach, or creative leader, this episode will challenge and inspire you to speak with more depth, awareness, and humanity.

🎁 Free Resource from Kevin:

Join The Nomadic Mindset Awakening – a free 6-part masterclass

📖 Get Kevin’s Book: The Nomadic Mindset: Never Settle for Too Long

🔗 Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-cottam

00:00 Introduction to Nomadic Mindset

00:15 Meet Kevin Cottam: From Choreographer to Speaker

01:34 Exploring Presence and Unity

02:06 Lessons from Nomadic Cultures

03:39 The Importance of Connection in Speaking

06:55 Adapting and Growing as a Speaker

17:01 Understanding the Nomadic Mindset

25:06 Applying Nomadic Principles to Life

28:39 Practical Steps to Embrace Nomadic Thinking

32:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Go to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedIn

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