A LIVE coaching show about dropping ideas. It’s podcast meets TED Talk meet talk show. Hosted by champion speaker and coach Marc Williams and TED coach Cathey Armillas.
“When you are looking for the wrong thing, it is hard to find Big Love.” - Traci Rossi, Executive Director of Friends of the Children, the Portland Chapter (one of the 36 chapters that mentors youth). Marc and Cathey talk with Traci about the concept of Big Love, what makes it challenging, and how to make it work. They explore how storytelling can reveal what makes your idea important to you and to others. They also discuss how the components of an idea like Big Love can make the “practice” of it more applicable and universal. There are many ways to experience Big Love. By the end, you will learn how to apply Big Love to counteract pain and unite people. To learn more about Traci Rossi and Friends of the Children, go to https://friendspdx.org/ .
“Being obnoxiously flairy with your authenticity, you can be just who you need to be, and it’s okay’. That is gold.” - Chris Smith, a dude from the Res, living his best Res life. Marc and Cathey talk with Chris about his concept of “fuckery and flair”. They explore how to transition your idea from theoretical to specific, from level 1 to level 2 of implementation, from authentic language to stage-friendly appeal without conforming. They also discuss the power of incorporating a good line and new vocabulary to help your idea go wide and memorable. By the end, you will learn how to go from fuckery to flair. To learn more about Chris Smith, look for him on social media, wherever you can find unicorns.
”Be ready for it, be bold, and take action.” - Penny Wood, business leadership success coach. Marc and Cathey talk with Penny about her tre P’s for success: Pause. Pivot. Push forward. They explore how to explain the action steps of an idea by using metaphors, storytelling, and specific instances of people who have implemented these actions. They also discuss how to pose questions in a particular way to build interest in an idea. During this conversation, they pinpoint the problems people face that require a need for this idea: procrastination, imposter syndrome, communicating ineffectively, and the behaviors that are not working for you. By the end, you will learn how to pause, pivot, and push forward so that you can take bold action. To learn more about Penny Wood, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennywoodtalks/
“Living through the lens of joy always puts you in a world of discovery.” - Dr. Laura LaJoie, chiropractor and doctor of joy. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Laura about the idea of identifying the 12 common threads of joyful people. They explore how to break down your idea into multiple parts, the power of creating metaphors for your concept, the significance of determining an order for the parts of your idea, and the possibility of hosting an idea experience. During this conversation, they use stories and gamification to highlight the pillars of joy. By the end, you may be compelled to list 12 things that bring you joy and a plan to do something joyful each hour of your day. will learn how to access your energetic sensations to become conscious of what you already have to succeed. To learn more about the Dr. Joy Experience, go to https://open.spotify.com/show/0tRixE6VYnaATvm0GyBJ9V
“Make the unconscious conscious.” - Darren Fleming, author of Mindset Mastery. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Darren about the idea that we all have everything we need; therefore we can drop habits and disciplined behaviors. They explore the impact of using simplicity to convey an idea (such as: Be at choice), transforming a concept into a question that becomes a checklist for the audience (i.e. Am I at choice right now? Am I operating at choice?); and challenging norms (i.e. develop habits). During this conversation, they discuss the examples of everyday application to illustrate the validity of the idea. By the end, you will learn how to access your energetic sensations to become conscious of what you already have to succeed. To take 5-day Mindset Mastery Challenge, go to www.MinsetMastery.Online
“There’s no shot clock with transitions.” - Kristeena Alexander, WNBA veteran, transformational coach, and storyteller.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Kristeena about how to grow from your continuous transitions. They explore the process of how to help audiences to change their lens on a topic, one quarter at a time,so that they can receive your message. During this idea-conversation, they reveal the power of storytelling, gradual influence, and the significance of the other people in your life. By the end, you will reflect on your current transitions and what your transitions have done for you and others. To learn more about Kristeena Alexander, go to https://kristeenaalexander.com/
“The innovation-practice needs innovation.” - Marcus Hollinger and Josh Ruff, the co-founders of Stoked and the concept of Idea Science.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Marcus and Josh about combining music, neuroscience, and practical tools to solve business problems. They explore the process of challenging conventional practices, thinking in solitude, releasing preconceived notions, and playing with your own ideas. During this idea-science experiment, they discuss negative ions, inclusive playgrounds, and design challenges. By the end of this conversation, you will break free of obvious ideas and innovate your own innovation. find a way to overcome the obstacles of creatlike Ian, you'll be able to figure out why you need community and how to express your complex ideas in a simpler way. To learn more about Stocked, go to https://stokedproject.com/ideascience
“It’s important not to have the judgment for those of us who chose not to do that.” - Lauren Williams, school counselor and wife. In this episode, Cathey talks with Marc and his wife Lauren about the importance of diversity. They explore the complexities of growing up in one community while being curious about other identities. The discussion attempts to figure out how to address and express the balance within a sensitive topic that has no easy answer. By the end of this conversation, you’ll understand how different people from worlds apart can develop a deeper appreciation for their own people while finding the joy in being together.
“Don’t just think smart. Think with a vision.” - Yasin Ehsan, CEO of Headstarter and 10x Hackathon winner. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Yasin about his concept of career capital. They take a deep dive into the idea to unpack its many layers, including how to become an M-shaped individual, how to maintain a competitive edge with less experience and how to choose wisely the people in your network. They discuss the significance of identifying a target audience for your idea while also uncovering its universal appeal. By the end of this conversation, you’ll understand how to pitch your idea in a high stakes environment, and how to build your career capital in the fastest and most enjoyable way possible. To learn more about Yasin and Headstarter, go to https://theheadstarter.com/
“What would you do if you didn’t have to work? Five years from now, things are going to look very different than they are today.” - Steve Brown, futurist and expert in all things AI. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Steve about his idea about how to build a better future through a partnership with AI/AGI technology. They explore how to get your audience beyond the fear of implementing the change that your idea presents. Along the way, they talk about the importance of dispelling myths, sparking curiosity, and maintaining relevance. Furthermore, they discuss the speaker’s task of painting a vivid picture of the future and show people themselves in that picture. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be able to use technology to amplify humanity. To learn more about Steve Brown, go to https://www.stevebrownfuturist.com/
“Change is a door that you have to open from the inside.” - Jimbo Clark, BOX Creator and co-founder of Brains on the Beach. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Jimbo about his idea for changing the world by changing your box/by changing yourself from within. They explore how to transform a 2-hour training into a 17-minute TED Talk; how to turn a metaphorical concept into a concrete habit for self-reflection and decision-making. Along the way, they discuss how to get the audience to experience your idea viscerally, how to use everyday examples to expand the reach of your message, and how to go beyond the small-story-stuff to establish why you are the one who needs to deliver your message. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be able to change the world while experiencing more freedom. To learn more about Jimbo and the BOX experience, go to https://box.innogreat.com/?q=box
“This came from my inability to create content. I needed the stimulation of other people.” - Dan Strum, founder of the Fight Club for Public Speaking. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Dan about his idea for taking the individuality out of public speaking, by using the stimulation of others to craft a talk. Dan refers to it as “socializing your idea”. Along the way, they explore what to name the concept, emphasizing that a name is just a name until you put a story behind it. Then they talk about how to bring/pitch your idea to the world. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be encouraged to test your ideas within a community of people and/or to find the next fight club to join. To learn more about Dan, go to fightclub@nysmarts.com
“If there is something you are legitimately interested in, for whatever reason, you should try. And you don’t need to justify that interest to anybody else other than yourself.” - John Lund, speaking and alternative sports champion - In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with John about the need to pursue terrible ideas, or rather unconventional things that might seem like a terrible idea. They discuss a range of activities from sitting in a 100 degree sauna to pursuing a PhD, all in an effort to learn unanswered things about yourself. They land on the concept of incrementalism to prepare yourself for the moment of doing something unconventional. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be encouraged to try something unimaginable and yet satisfying. To learn more about John, go to https://www.instagram.com/vikingjohann/
“That’s just the nature of my creative process. Until it ripens, it’s not supposed to come out.” - Mario Lewis, speaker, speaker coach, and finalist from the World Championship of Public Speaking.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Mario about different approaches to content creation. They introduced the Bon Jovi approach, the Jay-Z/Lil’ Wayne method, and the Idea Map. Though their creative processes are all different, what they discovered is that each is based on intentionality, authenticity, and adaptability. They land on the importance of surrounding yourself with a “diversity of creativity” to produce our best content. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be encouraged to challenge yourself to experiment with different creative approaches. To learn more about Mario, go to https://www.omniprosb.com/
“We’re all beautiful, but it’s the belief that we’re not that is the problem.” - John McSherry, real stake broker and investor.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with John about how to use your pain to power success. John shares his personal journey from being homeless to investing in multiple properties. They explore how a personal experience, one particular analogy, and several asset-based questions can lead to a relatable concept for mindshifting success. By the end of this conversation, they ponder on the consideration of shifting your original idea to a new focus. To learn more about John and how you can use his formula for daily asset-based thinking, go to https://www.instagram.com/john.mcsherry/
“People need people.” - Ian Williams, founder and owner of Deadstock Coffee.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Ian about defining and building community. They explore how to angle an idea, saying it in a way that people understand while also challenging their thinking. During their play a game of semantics, they end with the notion that one of the keys to finding your unique perspective is asking yourself questions that are not easy for you to answer. By the end of this conversation, like Ian, you'll be able to figure out why you need community and how to express your complex ideas in a simpler way. To learn more about Deadstock, go to https://deadstockcoffee.com/
“We love the art of talking about good ideas and storytelling and teaching people.” - It's About to Go Down with Marc & Cathey. In this “rap-up” episode, Marc and Cathey highlight the ideas that were shared during season 7. They shared updates from different guests, talked about how they lived out these concepts in their own lives, and recapped strategies you can use to build out your own ideas. Special shout out to the the Season #7 community: Nina Byrd, El Seremaga, Shima Miabadi, Dr. Gary Sanchez, Margarita Estrada, Kaig Lightner, John Glozek, Roxy Azari, Brian Robinson, and Yasmin Nguyen. Learn more at https://www.itsabouttogodownshow.com/
“What you resist, persists. Shift your relationship with an energy so that it may still exist but it does not hold power over you” - Yasmin Nguyen, joy ambassador and author of The Game of Joy. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Yasmin about how to create moments of joy in your life. The conversation explores the process of breaking down the principles, defining key terms, and gamifying an idea. Then, they spoke about the power of adding levels to your idea from a version 1.0 to a version 4.0. How do you go from “doing joy” to “becoming joy”? By the end of this discussion, you will be able to identify what activates joy for you and what it will take for you to have a joyful day. Learn more about the Joyful Living Project at https://joyfullivingproject.com/.
“You don’t know what can happen by just running with an idea.” - Brian Robinson, speaker and author. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Brian about how to help an audience to successfully implement your idea. At which level of the problem can you get people to take action? The conversation starts with the story of Brian’s skyrocket success with what was once a comical idea. Then, they discuss his newest idea about fixing problems by facing them. They discover that to influence people’s behaviors, rather than starting your idea from a place of “backs against the wall”, begin with empowering people through smaller level victories. By the end of this discussion, you will be able to make your ideas more relatable through Level 1 implementation. Learn more about Brian Robinson from his upcoming website faceittofixit.com.
"Reflecting allows you to have a different ending." - Roxy Azari, storytelling coach, award-winning poet, and advocate for Gender Rights. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Roxy about how to use storytelling to create community. The conversation takes a pivot as they focus on how people can use reflection to end their stories in a different place. Where do you put the period? What are things you've done since the old ending? They also discover that an initial thought may actually be the beautiful outcome of a bigger idea. By the end of this discussion, you will consider how to break your idea down to a level so that anyone can put it into practice. Furthermore, you will listen differently to how stories end and discover that there are new chapters yet to live. Learn more about Roxy Azari at https://www.roxyazari.com/
“Different opportunities come in different ways.” - John Glozek, drummer,comedian, and publisher of NY Golf Magazine. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with John about how to turn your passion into your business. During this conversation, they explore the lessons learned from John's career path: practice your hobby endlessly, write about it, form friendships with those who are the best at it, and then make the decision to turn your hobby into business. They revealed that the idea worth sharing is in the unexpected detours you experience. By the end of the discussion, you will develop a deeper awareness of the significance of unintended interactions and activities that may lead you to your most successful business venture. Learn more about NY Golf Magazine at https://golfingmagazine.net/
"Take the barriers that exist. Look at it differently. Do it differently." - Kaig Lightner, founder and executive director of the Portland Community Football Club, as well as for Quantum Gender. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Kaig about how to use sports to achieve liberation for people of all identities. During this conversation, they discuss how to transform a local grassroots effort into a national movement that gets those with opposing views to want to be a part of a conversation that creates connections and belonging. They explore the strategies of creating a shared experience for your audience, presenting the idea in a way no one expects, coming up with a title that intrigues people to learn more, and incorporating interactive exercises that connect people to your concept. By the end of the discussion, you will be able to break barriers with newfound curiosity, empathy, and a better understanding of what makes you an outsider. Learn more about the Liberate Sports Movement at https://www.pcfc.co/
"We were all meant to be seen. And it is the not being seen that is causing the problems we see in the world." - Margarita Estrada, speaker, author, and queen of the 360 degree model. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Margarita about how to uncover your most unseen qualities so that you can make your most valuable contributions to any organization. During this conversation, they use analogies, anecdotes, and alliteration, all in the process of going deeper into the idea to create a concept that is unique to you as the speaker. By the end of the discussion, you will be able to explore the different qualities of self to understand your 360 degree value. Learn more about Margarita at https://www.estradaprospeaker.com/
“Your messaging needs to reflect your WHY OS because the better able you are to articulate what it is you believe, the more you will attract the people who believe what you believe.” - Dr. Gary Sanchez, creator of a system called Why OS. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Gary about how to make better connections faster by figuring out the real reason Why you do what you do and how you do it. During this conversation, they discover how brainstorming well-placed questions and toying with alliterations can help you to simplify and separate your idea. By the end of the discussion, you will understand why you cannot stop WHY. Learning more at https://whyinstitute.com/
“An hour of my time could mean a lifetime for someone else.” - Shima Miabadi, architect, volunteer, and best buddy. - In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Shima about why volunteering works. During the conversation, they explore how to get people to tap into an idea that might feel daunting and time consuming. They discuss the power of making personal connections to your idea to make it work for everyone who implements it. In the process, they zeroed in on word choice to help frame an idea. By the end of this discussion, you will be able to identify a cause to support as a volunteer.
“But when I relived it, I remembered those details.” - El Seremaga, NDE survivor. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with El about how to speak about her NDE (near death experience). She wanted to know how to start her stories without rambling, while also capturing the details that people most want to hear. During the conversation, they spoke about adding “thought messages”, incorporating vivid details to create out-of-the-room experiences, and addressing commonly asked questions and misquotes. By the end of the discussion, you will not only know more about NDEs, but also, you’ll be able to identify the “juicy” parts of the stories you are set to tell.
“What is the greatest accomplishment of your life, outside of your family?” - Nina Byrd, business strategist and industry agnostic. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Nina about her idea to curate your best life and discover who you really are by reviewing the most replayed moments of your life. Nina’s work has revealed the difficulty that many people have with planning out their lives. A deeper dive into the idea through a series of question prompts, not only produced several creative one-liners, but also shifted the framing of her idea.
“There’s no room for shame. Every opportunity is an opportunity to learn. And we don’t learn unless we reflect on our mistakes.” - from Season 6 of It's About to Go Down. In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with two members of the Season #6 community: Sophia Asghar and Trish Kerin. As they shared updates of their ideas, new questions popped up, new notes were taken, and new phrases were formed, like “It’s not about egos; it’s about outcomes.” Special shout out to the rest of the Season #6 community: Carlin Isles, Leo Flowers, Scott Mason, Jeff Davis, Savas Georgalis, Linda Dulye, and Kinja Dixon.
“We are all works in progress and what we may have considered our worst could be our best.” - Kinja Dixon, author, speaker, and re-creation strategist. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Kinja talk about the four pillars of your life’s purpose. The conversation begins with the statement, “Turning your life force into a progressive movement through daily creative action.” They explore how you can condense your complex idea into a message that your audience can easily digest from the start so they will be inspired to learn more. After this, you’ll be able to develop a plan to level out your four pillars, a-PHEK your life force, and re-create your purpose.start to notice and manage the platypus in your life so that you can prevent undesirable incidents. To learn more about Kinja Dixon, go to https://kinjadixon.com/
“Your goal is not to talk to people. You want to talk with people.” - Linda Dulye, leadership development consultant and conversation crusader. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Linda talk about the power of conversation, why this dynamic in our culture is essential, and how we can prevent it from escaping us every day. Their conversation reveals how to go deeper into your idea. Sometimes your audience knows the answer to the problem, but they won’t know how to execute it. This discussion explores mantras, ground rules, tips, and distinctions as tools to broaden the value and reach of your idea. After this, you’ll be able to overcome the everyday struggle of starting, carrying, and closing out greater conversations. To learn more about Dulye & Co., go to https://www.dulye.com/
“The platypus is proof that the unlikely can happen.” - Trish Kerin, author and mechanical engineer. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Trish talk about her Platypus Philosophy (how to notice the warning that can prevent incidents from happening in the future). Their conversation reveals how you can use personal experiences, metaphors, and analogies to explain your idea, connect with your audience, and create challenges that will inspire people to put your concept into practice. As a bonus, their discussion teaches how to use the five senses to bring your message alive. After this, you will start to notice and manage the platypus in your life so that you can prevent undesirable incidents. To learn more about Trish Kerin and ho to read her book, go to https://leadlikekerin.com/
“We can geek out on this stuff forever.” Marc, Cathey, and Savas (a TV documentary producer) were set to have a conversation about how to come up with creative ideas. That’s when Cathey lost power. But rather than cancel the show, they decided to keep the conversation going. During the exchange, they shared several idea-shortcuts, including what to read, how to flip details, what to cut, and how to tell stories. This is a behind-the-scenes look at what an unexpected idea conversation can produce.
“It’s a subtle shift in the presentation that can make an idea work.” - Sava Georgalis, TV documentary producer. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Savas talk about where good ideas come from and how to cultivate them. They explore how filmmakers, songwriters, speakers, and leaders use basic principles to hook an audience, frame an idea, and use feedback to best express your thoughts. Their conversation reveals the essential qualities of a good idea. After this discussion, you will realize that even though simplicity is hard, a subtle shift will make your idea go viral.”
“Someday, you’re going to talk about this and help others with [your] story.” - Jeff Davis, best-selling author, keynote speaker and the Muhammad Ali of mental health. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Jeff talk about the power of opening up because the things you are most afraid to share can most help others. They explore how to incorporate interactive emotional exchanges to get a wider audience to open up about their experiences and show empathy for what others may be going through. Their conversation reveals storytelling tips and questioning techniques that allow audiences to experience your stories from their perspectives. They also discuss how to expand a message beyond your target audience by adding another dimensional point of view. After this discussion, you will know how to touch people’s hearts and souls, so that they can shift their paradigm. Learn more at https://jeffdspeaks.com/
“People are important and we really need to care about them.The hard work is ‘the human work’.” - Sophia Asghar, CEO & Founder of True Measure, an employee well-being consultancy. In this episode, Marc, Cathey, and Sophia talk about shifting from wellness to well-being. They explore what gets people unstuck from a past way of thinking so that they can receive your new idea. Their conversation demonstrates one way to take what you teach that most people don’t think about to uncover the nuanced behavior that can shift mindsets and make your idea good enough to be impactful. After this discussion, you will examine your superficial habits and how to transform them for your own well-being. Learn more at https://mytruemeasure.com/
“How can you see light when you have forgotten what it looks like?” - Scott Mason, speaker, transformational coach, podcaster, and Myth Slayer. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Scott unravel his idea about how to monetize and magnetize your financial freedom. Through a thematic reference to mythology, Scott outlines 5 toxic myths you may be telling yourself about yourself. The conversation demonstrates one way to drill down a big concept into its simplest and most universal form: explore your choice of words and the deeper meaning behind them. After this discussion, you will learn to attract the life you want, like a mythological Olympian.
“It’s hard enough to do things when everything is falling into place.” - Redray Frazier, singer, songwriter, and recording artist. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Redray uncover the core message from within his original idea. Through a process of pulling out transformational stories about key people and unexpected moments, this idea conversation closes with a foundational phrase that can inspire a wider audience. By the end of this discussion, you may surprise yourself with who supports you and say yes to things you never thought you would. To learn more about Redray Frazier, check out www.redrayfrazier.com/
“It’s hard enough to do things when everything is falling into place.” - Redray Frazier, singer, songwriter, and recording artist. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Redray uncover the core message from within his original idea. Through a process of pulling out transformational stories about key people and unexpected moments, this idea conversation closes with a foundational phrase that can inspire a wider audience. By the end of this discussion, you may surprise yourself with who supports you and say yes to things you never thought you would. To learn more about Redray Frazier, check out www.redrayfrazier.com/
"Paint your picture how you want to paint it and don't let life paint it for you." - Carlin Isles, 2x Olympic athlete and the fastest rugby player in the world.In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Carlin create a shortcut to his idea, which is about how and why we need to understand and direct our emotions. The fastest route to your idea can reach the largest audience. This idea conversation poses the question: Are your objectives led by your emotions or are your emotions led by your objectives? Talking this through, Cathay, Carlin, and Marc explore a visualization that adds further clarity and stickiness to the idea.
“I would love to make the connection for you.” - from Season 5 of It's About to Go Down. So what happens when a pair of idea creators get together to explore the connections between their thoughts? In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with five members of the Season #5 community: Rick Ornelas, Brittany Zimmerman, Cozy Stone, Nyasha-Harmony Gutsa, and Aaron Marshall. They build a playlist for diversity, confess to what they’ve recently put in the garbage, and share what they have done with their ideas. From going to award shows to visiting schools, these experts are bringing their ideas to life.
"I don't want to give too much attention to this thing that I think about every day that other people don't even think about." - Aaron Marshal, award-winning copywriter for an ad agency and an advocate for stutterers. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Aaron turn his personal narrative of growing up with a stutter into a universal message about giving positive energy to your insecurities. They explore how to brainstorm a relatable foundational message and choose a title that captures the energy of your message. They uncover how making yourself your audience can help you create an award-winning message.
Watch Aaron award-winning PSA called SAY: https://youtu.be/mp9voC0QymU
"You can't think differently unless you are listening to different voices." - Omékongo Dibinga, expert in diversity, equity & inclusion, and race and politics. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Omékongo add two new thoughts for his idea about how to break down stereotypes. They explore the role that agnotology (culturally-induced ignorance or doubt) plays in shaping people’s opinions and their ability to receive a new perspective. And as a special treat, Omékongo opens and closes the conversation with a beastly flow of upstanding spoken word lyrics. For more information, visit www.upstanderinternational.com
"They are stealing your information. You only have to get things right 100% of the time, but they only have to do it once to cause you so much pain." - Nyasha Harmony-Gutsa, CEO of Billy. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Nyasha find a new way to intrigue people about the topic of life insurance, so that you can be prepared for when bad things happen. The conversation takes a turn when they begin talking about all the things you didn’t know about how you could get hacked, so easily. They discuss how to pull the commercialism out of your idea and how to be emotionally informative to build interest in your idea? After this talk, you may want to add one more layer of security to all your accounts. For more information, visit https://billyforinsurance.com/
"The only time that we have is right now." - Shauna-kaye Brown, transformation speaker, coach, and trainer. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Shauna-kaye transform her keynote message into her unique idea for a TED Talk. They go from setting goals for the future to manifesting greatness in the moment. This idea conversation explores how to package an idea for people who are not ready yet to receive your message by looking at the strategic placement of your stories and diversifying the evidence you use to support your idea. By the end of this episode, you may have your answer to the question: “What is my great now?”
Learn more at http://www.shaunakbrownspeaks.com
"The idea [for better education] is simple and right in front of your face: take a risk." - Dave Graber, educator and character of characters. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Dave explore how to convince educators to take creative risks so that they can assess children authentically. They discuss why ideas that might be simple and obvious are sometimes tough to implement, and how to get around that implementation-obstacle. During the conversation, they even solve a real-world math problem to show how interactive tasks are a great learning tool for getting your point across to an audience. After this episode, you may think twice about how you can take risks with your own teaching and learning.
"Happiness is a lifestyle. "There's a lot you cannot laugh at but you can still make humor out of it." - Cozy Stone, HumorVational speaker and pickleball fanatic. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Cozy unveil concepts related to her topic of the Happiness Bandwagon. They discuss the marketing power of the right title for a talk, the act of sensationalizing a positive idea, the unconventional association of different words, the use of a polarizing question, and the impact of closing with a responsibility statement, all in the effort to get an audience to remember you and your message. After this episode, you will cozy up, pay attention, and might be able to find humor in just about anything. Learn more about Cozy Stone at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-zimmerman/
"Painting [green] solutions as if there are solutions is the most dangerous thing we can do to our youth." - Brittany Zimmerman, space industry expert who is working on how to habitat on Earth and other planets.In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Brittany communicate her expert knowledge about decarbonization in a way that makes a general audience understand and care. Together, they explore how to incorporate an action item and a “right now” effect to get people to implement your idea. After this episode, you might consider putting the word “climate” in front of your job title and then asking yourself two important questions that Brittany reveals at the end. Learn more about Brittany Zimmerman at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-zimmerman/
"Anybody can be a role model but can you be a real-model?" - Corey Pegues, law enforcement expert, community leader, and real model. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Corey build a bridge between two ideas: the need for everyone to go through an extreme transformation and the concept of finding/becoming a real role model. Together, they explore how to create a quadrant from your idea to resemble the stages of transformation your audience can experience when they implement your idea. After this episode, you might consider who unintentionally helped you to become better. Learn more about Corey Pegues at www.coreypegues.com
"We're more powerful and impactful as a group than we are as individuals, but we all have our individual work to do." - Alexis Braly James, EDI consultant/leader and founder of Construct the Present. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Alexis find a different and unique way to frame her idea of how to help people find the joy in anti-racism. It turns out that the answer was found in her use of one word, one question, and a combination of two interests. The conversation explores what works and what does not work in professional development trainings and uses that discovery to engage audiences in a much more creative way. After this episode, you may think about how you connected with someone you never thought you would.
"For every single little action that we make, there is a ripple effect that goes far beyond the initial act." - Rick Ornelas, founder of iSpark Change and best selling success author. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Rick come up with a name for his idea that will connect with audiences. The conversation addresses how to compel audiences to put your idea into practice. They exchange stories and play three idea games to build on the thought that every person can do something to impact a positive change on others. After this episode, you may start tracking the ripple effect on your portion of the planet.
“Get out there and figure out what you don’t want to do before you figure out what you do want to do.” - from Season 4 of It's About to Go Down. So what happens when a pair of idea creators get together to exchange thoughts and ambitions? In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with two members of the Season #4 community: Reland Logan and Dr. Rukiya Ware Jeffers. They discuss how to speak on bigger stages, how to figure out if you want to be a keynoter or trainer, and how to partner up with other speakers. After this conversation, you will discover how to combine your “it’s not too late to be great” with the “power of your smile”. Stay tuned for details about an event that Reland and Rukiya will co-host on August 20th, 2022.
"I felt so young looking at the future." - Dr. Rukiya Jeffers Ware, world-class runner, educator, and speaker. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Rukiya about the idea of how not to be too late to be great at the things you wanted to do when you were younger. In the process, they explore how to reframe the impact of your idea with just one word and how to use your vulnerability strategically to break the invisible wall between you and your audience. By the end, you may ditch your retirement plan for something entirely new and reinvigorating.
"When we have faith, there is a security inside of us that no one can take away from us." - Fleriser Bello, creative events and marketing strategist from BelloFashinistas. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Fleriser about how to become your authentic self in order to bring out your natural spark. In the process, they explore how to tower your idea by starting with something that no one is used to hearing. By the end, you may discover how to use your faith, create your own four pillars, and become untouchable.
"A million grains of sand really is a mountain. And you only see the mountain after it is made. You don't see it when it's grains of sand at a time." - Stephen Green, small business advocate who is everything from spreadsheets to sneakers. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Stephen about cheating on large businesses to support small businesses. In the process, they explore how to create a ripple effect with your message so that the people who are not in the room for your talk will be affected by the conversations that happen afterwards. By the end, your stories will become data, your hashtags will become action steps, and will find two more small black businesses to support.
"We subtract to add. Get crystal clear on what you want in your life outside of the material things.” - Craig Stanland, motivational speaker, author, and reinvention architect.In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Craig about being on a golden treadmill: having a desire for happiness but chasing the wrong things in pursuit of that happiness. In the process, they explore how to help a wider audience see their connection to your idea and how to find creative ways to help people put your concept into practice. By the end, you will learn how to get off the golden treadmill and find the blueprint for your meaning, fulfillment, and purpose in life.
"Let people know what makes you different so that they can tell your story when you are not present.” - Stephan Dyer, bilingual comedian, keynote speaker, and lifestyle entrepreneur. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Stephan about escaping competition by bringing forth your authenticity. In the process, they explore how to take the many ideas you may have gathered from other people to uncover your own unique concept. By the end, you will learn how to identify your authentic combination of weirdness that may open you up to a world of opportunities.
To become yourself, you have to forget everything you learned in the past.” - Lennox Jeffrey, financial consultant who mentors young men in the areas of life, wealth, and emotional intelligence. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Lennox about substituting the chase for wealth for the chase for life. In this idea conversation, they explore how to use TV, youtube, and podcasts to duplicate an idea and put it on a bigger platform in order to impact people’s lives. By the end, you will learn how to develop and pitch a system that will “change the frequency” of your target audience.
"Your Plan B is to work on your Plan A. So find the thing you know that you were meant to do.” - Kai Martinez, professional dancer, choreographer, and animation consultant. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Kai about her journey from Jackson Heights, Queens to a Disney feature film. In the process, her idea of seeking out who you are and what you were meant to and being brave enough to follow it is transformed into one concise and clarifying call to action. In this idea conversation, you will learn how to make your story a backdrop and a big social proof for a keynote you can deliver to audiences.
"Create an abundance in your life so that saying 'no' feels sexy.” - Rajiv Harry, health & wellness coach and the secret sauce behind Plant Bomb. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Rajiv about reframing his idea about investing in oneself into a new concept about “unavailability”. In this idea conversation, they explore how to create your own unique intellectual property. By the end of this discussion, you may find yourself saying "no" more often to reach, influence, and empower a larger audience.
"It’s not about being the best at something; it’s about doing something new and different and finding someone else to reproduce it.” - Farhad Ghafarzade, founder of Green Drop Garage. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Farhad about intersecting two ideas that are least connected. In the process, they explore how to oscillate between a crazy idea and a different idea being crazy or different. This conversation will show you how to get your audience to buy-in to the idea of doing something different from what they are used to.
"I learned how to smile and say 'F-you' at the same time." - Reland Logan, marketing magician and anti-Whohoo girl. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Reland discover ways to hit audiences with something they won't expect to hear. The power of a smile is not just about happiness; it's about resilience and getting stuff done. This conversation will show you how to use research to reframe your idea and make it uniquely different. After this episode, you may change the way you smile, strategically.
“How do you, how can you, and how will you contribute to this community?” - from Season 3 of It's About to Go Down. So what happens when a bunch of idea creators get together in the same zoom? In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with the members of the Season #3 community: J.T. Compeau, Bo Babenko, Emily Purry, Jaclyn Lee, Diane Nathaniel, Chad Phillips, and Virginia Morris. Ideas are exchanged, deep connections are made, and they let us know what has transpired with their ideas since they last spoke with Marc & Cathey. This is not just a cliffsnotes version of season #3, but also a coming together of ways of making the world a better place. After this conversation, you might discover how to go from speaking about your idea to executing your idea.
"Your impact can be momentary, whereas your imprint is like you left, you’ve touched it lightly. How do [you] contribute in a way that has a lasting, positive flow to it?” - Virginia Morris, an idea creator, curator, and implementer. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Virginia about how to develop an idea that you can actually execute. In the process, Virginia shares her system for generating ideas and demonstrates how to use her method by thinking through two of her newest ideas. By the end, you may be NSPIR’d to take your idea through a MILE, hashtag your concepts, and assemble an advisory circle.
"You cannot achieve your greatest vitality by always seeking comfort. you have to be challenged with a healthy level of stress” - Chad Phillips, a small business owner and the co-founder of Circle Anywhere, a platform for relational meditation. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Chad about what happens when you remove yourself from the trappings and comfortability of your modern home and re-decide how to survive. In the process of condensing the wording of the idea, they explore why it’s important to distinguish a fundamental idea from the vehicle of an idea. They even make a new 30 day challenge and a new vocabulary word: discomfortable. By the end, you may be inspired to find your hard, not impossible. Learn more about Chad’s proactive discomfort at https://lifetolive.one/
"How long can you go without help before you lose your mind?” - Diane Nathaniel, the founder and executive director of BeatStage3. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Diane about how to improve healthcare by making it a truly collaborative experience beyond just the doctors, nurses, and patients. To build on the idea, they discuss looking at both sides of the research, playing rounds of “the opening line”, and completing the t-chart of logical and emotional appeals. By the end, you will learn what it means to “find your Sue.” https://beatstagethree.org/
"By 2045, we will be the new majority. It’s going to be a huge change down the road. Is our next generation ready for that?” - Jaclyn Lee, a community auntie and advocate for Generation Z. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Jaclyn about how becoming a community auntie or uncle can help future generations build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive allyship for all to embrace. They explore how to create a clear definition of what you want people to do with your idea. Learn more about Jaclyn’s Call for Allyship at https://www.ihubd-i-c-e.org/
"We talk about giving people the benefit of the doubt, but sometimes we need to doubt the benefit."- Marcus Carter, a knowledge gatherer and warrior for liberation projects, who is dedicated to transforming culture. In this episode, Marc and Cathey talk with Marcus about how to challenge the way society is having conversations about racism, oppression, and liberation. They put aside the notion of delivering a talk to share a solution for sparking a dialogue around the diverse definitions of a problem. "Solutions are often shaped by the way problems are defined. So who gets to define what the problem is?"
"You live in this body today. You’ll never know what body you’ll live in tomorrow." - Emily Purry, disability advocate, business owner, and non-profit founder of Rapid. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Emily prepare for a TED Talk on the idea of getting people to understand disabilities from a positive lens. They put her through a one-sentence test, cypher through various analogies, and explore ways to engage an audience immediately to assess their experiences while raising their awareness of the issue. After the discussion, you may ask, “What would you do the day before…?”
"You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." - Kary Youman, mental health advocate. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Kary build upon his TED Talk by formulating repeatable practices that could de-magnitize mental health setbacks. During the discussion, they explore how startling statistics, questioning, and analogies can reframe an idea while encouraging audiences to engage in courageous conversations.
"Do we stop dancing because we age or do we age because we stop dancing?" - Dr. Bo Babenko, long-term health specialist. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Dr. Bo sift through a "million" expert ideas related to redefining fitness to create a simplified and accessible message. They explore the formula of creating a hook, a system, and one tip to make your message memorable and influential. By the end, Dr. Bo challenges Cathey and Marc to a fitness test. Afterwards, you may ask yourself, “What is your movement practice?"
"Find things in your stories you would never think of." - J.T. Compeau, speechwriter, content interpreter, and presentation consultant. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help J.T. transform his idea about embracing the stories that we don’t tell. They touch upon collaborations, questions, and embarrassing stories. This conversation introduces the concept that your idea becomes greater when your idea does not need you; when your audience can implement your idea in their lives even in your absence. Afterwards, you may ask yourself, “What can you learn from the stories you are afraid to tell?”
"Positivity isn't always productive and negativity isn't always productive. Wisdom is knowing the difference." - Lauren Johnson, mental performance coach, speaker, and aspiring TED Talker. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Lauren dig deeper into her idea about finding the good in the bad to uncover a uniq ue perspective about productivity being greater than positivity. This conversation shows how you can reframe an idea that is unique to you to make it sound different from the way others speak about the topic. Afterwards, you may ask yourself, “What meaning can I create [in any situation] that can propel me forward?”
“What all of us are doing is about getting people back to home base, which is back to themselves.” - from Season 2 of It's About to Go Down. So what happens when a bunch of idea creators get together in the same zoom? In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with the members of the Season #2 community: Victoria Grinman, Crystal Bonds, Naftali Tessler, Amelia Marican, Beach Pace, and John Waller. Ideas are exchanged, deep connections are made, and they let us know what has transpired with their ideas since they last spoke with Marc & Cathey. This is not just a cliffsnotes version of season #2, but also a “no ordinary moment” that opens up extraordinary possibilities. After this conversation, you might discover how to go from speaking about your idea to living your idea.
"I was letting people drive my relationships; letting them tell me what I needed to be successful." - Cinthia Manuel, first-generation Latina, TEDx Talker, and Latina-preneur. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Cinthia rebrand the idea she shared in her TED Talk where she challenged the way people think about the mentor/mentee relationship. They explore the other side of the perspective to help mentors understand how they too can benefit from the “exchange”. This conversation shows how you can challenge a traditional idea and then create a space for your audience to digest your idea. Afterwards, the expert in you may be asking, “How would I define the mentee in me?”
"Can you imagine being on a planet where everyone is cared for, in a basic sense. The thought makes me emotional. And I believe that is possible." - Beach Pace, CEO of the Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliate in Portland, Oregon. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Beach turn an idealistic thought of creating a public service academy into a tangible idea about making service the center of a paradigm shift towards global achievement. They explore the psychology behind getting people to care and to take action. This episode shows how finding what makes you excited about your idea will give you the language and concepts you need to share your idea across audiences. After this, you may be compelled to ask yourself, "Where did I serve today?" #Globalachievement
"If they are not standing up for that, then it would probably be more of a cost than the cost of a sidewalk." - Paisley Elliot, 8 year old social activist and nominee for the International Children's Peace Prize. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Paisley explore how to prepare for counterarguments to her idea and how to convince her audience to take action. She shares a thought about how children and adults can become change makers. After this discussion, you’ll be inspired to think about what makes your heart sad and how you can take action in your own backyard.
"Knowing something is not good enough. Find the opportunities among the chaos." - Amelia Marican, the 7-Figure Branding Coach. In this episode, Marc and Cathey help Amelia explore how to boil down a big picture idea. She drops a thought about developing your “superpower” skill. After this discussion, you’ll understand how exploring all the directions of your idea and “replacing” one word with another can give your concept specificity, clarity, and brevity.
"It’s not how many, nor how much, but how deeply you connect." - Naftali Tessler, Chief of Staff at Hamaspik and business/personal development coach. In this episode, Naftali wants to create a “movement” to help you deepen your connections. Marc and Cathey challenge him to explore how to first help people realize that they need to act on an idea and then how to give your audience the space to receive your concept. After this discussion, you’ll know how to deepen your connections one conversation at a time.
"There's so much that we all have to do more of. How can you be at peace?" - Crystal Bonds, school principal, thought leader, and the founder of Changing Norms. An idea gets dropped about how to solve a problem that has plagued disadvantaged schools and neighborhoods for decades. In this coaching session, Marc and Cathey stopped writing notes and started drawing images so they can help Crystal simplify a big picture idea to get more people involved in her solution. Then they landed on the concept of an essential question to drive home Crystal’s idea. Maybe your idea could also use a picture and an essential idea.
"Those who become great are the ones who know how to take the energy from their supervillain side and turn it into an heroic attribute." - Tristan Harvin, brand marketer, ideator, conduit of community, and a pizza-lovin', people-huggin Yankees fan. A discussion about self exploration led us to ask: How do you reverse engineer your thoughts to get an audience all in on your idea? In this coaching session with Tristan Harvin, Marc and Cathey ask him loads of questions that lead him to the one essential question he is asking you to answer. We explored how to "put a label on your secret sauce". That's the short phrase your audiences will forever link to you and your message. After this conversation, his question will have you doing your own self-spring cleaning and showing up fresh for your purpose in life.
"There's a huge distinction between struggling and suffering. We all suffer, but to struggle is an artform." - Victoria Grinman, integrated therapist, speaker, & transformation agent. Sometimes the experts need to be challenged. How do you redefine what industry insiders are saying and create a new way of thinking? In this coaching session with Victoria Grinman, Marc and Cathey help her break new ground with an idea that she says might make her colleagues mad. This discussion explores the approach transforming a niche idea into a global concept. After this conversation, you might discover something about yourself that will make your relationships better.
“I forgive him whether he is sorry or not.” - Rob Paylor, D1 Rugby player, inspirational storyteller, & national champion who was told he would never walk again. How do you add more power to an already powerful idea? How do you get your audience into the mental space of accepting your personal story as their own universal truth? In this coaching session with Rob Paylor, Marc and Cathey help him “pop out of his personal story” to engage audiences through a deeper level of metacognition. This discussion reveals the strategy for turning a talk into an experience. After this conversation, you might look at your “paralysis” in a way you never imagined.
"Discover your purpose. Dance with your duality. Telling stories is easier than speaking English." - quotes from Season 1 guests of It's About to Go Down. So what happens when a bunch of idea creators get together in the same zoom? In this "rap-up" episode, Marc and Cathey catch up with the members of the Season #1 community: Mark Brown, Lou Radja, Jessi Duley, Carol Barah, Jackie Cummings-Koski, Mira Kaddoura, Jennifer Gu, and Shenetta Malkia. Ideas are exchanged, new connections are made, and they let us know what has transpired with their ideas since they last spoke with Marc & Cathey. This is not just an abbreviated version of season #1, but also a "fire"side chat that opens up new possibilities of what is yet to come. After this conversation, you might discover what you can do next with your idea.
“Underneath is a gem and a jewel, and it is you.” - Shenetta Malkia, Bully Buster, President of Empowerment Essence, & CEO of The PMs of the City. How do you cut away from the complexity of an idea to create a concise, signature concept? In this coaching session with Shenetta Malkia, Marc and Cathey help her remodel her elaborate idea around empowering people to live a healthy and balanced life while building a life not imagined. This discussion reveals the strategy of pinpointing the essential words in an idea to produce a signature statement that is universal and actionable. What if you opened yourself up to a new possibility? How can society as a whole benefit from creating a personal space for public speaking? After this conversation, you might discover a look on your life that you never knew was possible.
“You don’t need to strive for perfection because you are always going to be improving.” - Jennifer Gu, 15 year-old speaker & emerging speaker coach. How do you shift the purpose of your idea to reach a wider audience? In this coaching session with Jennifer Gu, Marc and Cathey help her rethink the purpose of spreading a message about why society needs to get kids involved in public speaking at a much younger age. This discussion reveals the strategy of refocusing on the benefits of a message. How can society as a whole benefit from creating a personal space for public speaking? How can we grow as a society if children (and adults) can become more confident and better public speakers? After this conversation, you might think of new ways that you can grow from speaking in public.
“It’s okay for you to be focused on you being fulfilled first.” - Myron McFee Tucker, change agent & founder of Speak to Be Heard. How do you take an idea that works for you and create a concept/path that can be helpful to others? In this second coaching session with Myron McFee Tucker, Marc and Cathey help him build on an idea about discovering your worthiness and how you allow yourself to show up in the world. The second round of this discussion uncovers the strategy of identifying multiple entry points for audiences to receive your concept. This conversation might help you achieve fulfillment in every aspect that is you.
“[You have] found a non-evasive method that could save the lives of millions of people in the world.” - Sophie Reverdi, founder of Smart & Light. How can you take all of the knowledge you have gathered in your life and put it into one impactful message? In this coaching session with Sophie Reverdi, Marc and Cathey help her navigate through a wealth of beautiful ideas about how to change the way we diet and how to change the diet industry from the inside out. Some of the keys to delivering a sustainable idea is identifying a misconception to dispel and then determining the right purpose for your message so that you can reach and impact more people. This conversation may transform the way you feed your body and your mind.
“If we do not define our rules, we are destined to break them.” - Justin Riordin, founder of Spade & Archer. How can you turn an unconventional idea into a digestible message? In this coaching session with Justin Riordin, Marc and Cathey help him expand the reach of his idea about having open relationships. The trick is finding keywords that trigger universal themes, thus turning an idea that challenges conventional thinking into a concept that addresses a common issue. This conversation may change the way you communicate in your relationships.
"When a single moment feels like it could be insignificant..." - John Waller (founder, owner, and producer of Uncage the Soul Productions) How do you turn a common idea into an uncommon concept? In this coaching conversation with John Waller, Marc & Cathey help him explore how to recraft a cliché thought into a new and meaningful idea. It comes down to figuring out how to ask new questions, how to incorporate reoccurring phrases, and how to spark new conversations. After this, you may change the way you treat your every moment.
Marc and Cathey collaborate with Mira Kaddoura, a conceptual artist and founder of creative ad agency Red & Co. about her idea of what nature can teach us and how it can help us remember what we need to re-member.
Marc and Cathey have a heart-to-heart conversation with Jackie Cummings-Koski, who is a personal finance advisor, FIRE community member, and single mom. They talk about the concept of why every person should be more like a single mom, explore how to turn an idea into a viral challenge, and discuss how the single mom mindset can single-handedly change your world.
Marc and Cathey open the box with Carol Barash, who is the CEO of Story2. They talk about the concept of repairing humanity through storytelling, explore how to make an idea Ted Talk ready, and discuss why suspending our interpretation of the stories we share can bring people closer together.
Marc and Cathey jump into the fire with Jessi Duley, who is the CEO of Burn Cycle and a badass from a family of entrepreneurs. They talk about the concept of reckless optimism and explore how to transform an idea into a program while finding opportunities in harsh realities and taking actions that will impact the world.
Marc and Cathey get super deep with Lou Radja, who is an international speaker, Executive Director of EduCongo, and the founder of Be More, Give More. They talk about the concept of Ubuntuu, explore how to scale an idea, and talk about having the most meaningful conversations in the most unexpected way possible.
Marc and Cathey get down with Mark Brown, who is an Emmy-nominated and World Champion speaker, and also THE voice of the show opening. They talk about the unique concept and format of the show, get deep into storytelling, and talk about the impact that ideas can make on the world.
Launching a new LIVE coaching show about dropping ideas. It’s podcast meets TED Talk meet talk show. Hosted by champion speaker and coach Marc Williams and TED coach Cathey Armillas.