How Business Owners Can Empower Their Message to Leverage Their Visibility 10x and Demand in Media Appearances

The first time I was invited to speak on a podcast, I panicked. Should I sound like Oprah? Should I throw in a TED Talk-worthy quote? Should I use big words to sound important? I spent an embarrassing amount of time rehearsing my “media voice” until I played it back and realized I sounded like a corporate voicemail system. “Hello, and thank you for joining today’s enlightening discussion.” Ugh. Who was this robot? Certainly not me.

That’s when it hit me—people don’t want perfect. They want real. They want to hear from you, not a rehearsed, polished-to-death version of you. And that’s the secret sauce to standing out in media, on podcasts, in magazines, and even in everyday networking: authenticity.

So, how do you show up as you while commanding attention and getting booked for more media opportunities? Let’s break it down.

1. Stop Trying to Sound Like Someone Else

News flash: You’re not Oprah, Brené Brown, or The Rock (unless you are The Rock, in which case, hey!). Trying to sound like someone else is the fastest way to blend in and be forgettable. The moment you embrace your quirks—whether it's your dry humor, your storytelling style, or your “I make up words, deal with it” energy—is the moment people start paying attention.

Real-life proof: I once did a live interview where I fumbled my words and blurted out, “Well, that was a hot mess express.” The host laughed, the audience loved it, and guess what? I got invited back. Why? Because I was real, not robotic.

2. Tell Stories, Not Just Facts

If you want to make an impact, stop regurgitating industry jargon and start telling stories. People remember stories, not stats. Instead of saying, “I help entrepreneurs scale their businesses with strategic marketing techniques,” try:

“I once had a client who was throwing money at ads like they were confetti at a wedding, getting zero results. We tweaked one simple thing, and boom—she doubled her revenue. The kicker? She was about to quit before that.”

See the difference? One sounds like a textbook. The other makes you lean in and want to hear more.

3. Own the Awkward

Have you ever stumbled over your words in an interview? Or had an unexpected tech glitch during a live? Congratulations—you’re human! Instead of panicking, lean into it. Laugh it off. When you show up as someone who rolls with the punches, it makes you more relatable and more likable.

Once, during a virtual panel, my cat decided to launch himself onto my laptop. Instead of pretending it didn’t happen, I introduced him as my “Chief Chaos Officer.” The audience loved it, and the host later told me that moment made me stand out.

4. Be Bold About What You Stand For

Want to be memorable? Take a stance. Nothing makes someone forgettable faster than playing it safe. Whether it’s your approach to business, your life philosophy, or the hill you’re willing to metaphorically die on (pineapple does belong on pizza, by the way), make it clear. People want to connect with those who have a voice, not those who try to appeal to everyone.

5. Show Up Like You Belong There

Here’s a little secret: The people who get booked for media appearances over and over? They act like they should be there. They don’t wait for permission to take up space. They share their insights confidently, they engage with the audience, and they treat every appearance like a conversation with a friend.

Even if you feel like an imposter, don’t let it show. Walk in (or login) like you own the room. Speak like you believe in your message—because if you don’t, why should anyone else?

Ready to Get Media-Ready?

Sharing your story effectively doesn’t stop at being authentic. To truly make an impact, you need to be ready to share your journey in a way that captivates audiences, whether it’s on a podcast, a TV interview, or a magazine feature. That’s where the I Am. Media Ready Guide comes in.

This free resource is designed to help you:?

? Refine your story and craft a captivating opening.

? Prepare for interviews and media appearances.

? Share your message confidently and authentically.

How to Get Your Guide: Comment “Ready” below, and we’ll send you the link to download the I Am. Media Ready Guide.