Speaking opportunities don't magically appear—you create them by actively looking for them.

In this episode, we explore one of the most practical skills every speaker, coach, author, healer, and entrepreneur needs: building your own Ultimate Stage Finder.

Many people dream of getting paid to speak, but the reality is that speaking opportunities come in different forms:

• Sometimes you'll pay to speak.
• Sometimes you'll speak for free.
• Sometimes you'll get paid to speak.

The Three Paths to More Speaking Opportunities

1. Pay to Speak

Some festivals, expos, and events charge speaker fees. While this may seem unusual at first, it can be a strategic investment if it places you in front of your ideal audience and helps you grow your visibility, leads, and business.

2. Speak for Free

Many podcasts, summits, community events, and online shows offer exposure rather than payment. These opportunities can help you build credibility, relationships, and momentum.

3. Get Paid to Speak

Organizations, conferences, associations, and companies often pay speakers for their expertise. The more visible and experienced you become, the more these opportunities can open up.

Create Your Own Stage-Finding System

Instead of waiting for invitations, start researching opportunities intentionally.

Use AI or search tools to discover:

• Conferences
• Festivals
• Wellness fairs
• Health expos
• Community events
• Symposiums
• Markets
• Retreats
• Industry conferences
• Women's events
• Professional associations

Search both online opportunities and local events within a two- to three-hour travel radius.

Search by Your Topic

Ask AI questions such as:

"What women's empowerment conferences can I apply to speak at?"

"What wellness festivals happen annually in my region?"

"What conferences focus on grief, healing, mental health, spirituality, or personal development?"

The more specific your niche, the better your results.

Build Your Speaker Pipeline

Once you find opportunities, don't leave them scattered across emails and browser tabs.

Create a simple spreadsheet or document that tracks:

• Event name
• Website
• Application deadline
• Event dates
• Contact information
• Follow-up status
• Speaking outcome

This becomes your personal speaking database and helps you stay organized year after year.

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