From Turntables to Podiums: How 20 Years of DJing Made Me a Better Speaker

Years ago I was a DJ who worked everything from wild club nights to intimate weddings. I had my share of highs, like being voted one of Australia's Top DJs, and lows, like those times when the dance floor was practically empty. But here’s something you might not know: all those years behind the turntables and the mic have actually helped me become a better speaker. Let me share how my DJ days have given me some serious skills for the speaking stage.

As a DJ, figuring out what the crowd wants is half the battle. Whether I’m playing for a sea of people or just a handful of die-hard dancers, I’ve learned to read the room and switch things up on the fly. This same skill helps me when I’m speaking. I pay close attention to how my audience is reacting and adjust my talk accordingly. Just like in a club, my goal is to keep everyone engaged and having a great time.

One of the best parts of being a DJ is creating those unforgettable moments. Winning Best DJ wasn’t just about spinning tracks; it was about making every event special. Now, when I’m up on stage speaking, I use the same tricks. I make sure my talks are packed with stories, visuals, and interactive moments that stick with people long after they leave.

DJing has taught me to handle surprises—like when your gear decides to quit mid-set or when only a few people show up for your gig. These experiences have come in handy during my speeches too. Whether I’m dealing with a tech hiccup or a tough crowd, I stay cool and adapt to whatever comes my way. It’s all about keeping things smooth and keeping the audience’s attention.

Years in radio and voiceovers have given me some expertise in vocalising too. I’ve learned how to modulate my voice, keep it clear, and really connect with listeners. These skills come in super handy when I’m speaking. I use what I’ve learned to keep my talks lively and engaging, making sure my audience stays hooked from start to finish.

Building a connection with people has always been a big part of DJing. Whether I’m playing the perfect track or just chatting with someone at the bar, it’s about creating a vibe and making people feel involved. I take that same approach when speaking. I share personal stories, interact with the audience, and respond to their reactions to build a genuine connection.

Looking back on my DJ career, the biggest takeaways—like being adaptable, creating memorable moments, and communicating well—have all made me a better speaker. Each of these experiences has helped me connect with audiences in a real way.

So, that’s how two decades of DJing two?decades ago has?shaped my public speaking. It’s all about using the skills I’ve picked up over the years to make my talks more engaging and impactful. I encourage you to think about how your own experiences can boost your communication skills, whether you’re speaking in public or just chatting with a friend.

Lou Schillaci is a seasoned CEO and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience leading and scaling tech companies across Australia, the USA, and Europe. An award-winning marketer and DJ, Lou specializes in driving growth, building high-performing teams, and guiding startups from inception to successful exits. He is also passionate about helping corporations with open innovation and mentoring the next generation of leaders, leveraging his extensive background in strategic management, marketing, and business development.