Week of Speaker Love - February 10:
Your Introduction is Not Your Bio: How to Connect with Your Audience Before You Even Take the Stage
Speaker: Joel Weldon
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM ET
Live via Zoom (Zoom link to be sent after registration)
Most speakers obsess over their content, delivery, and closing, yet overlook the most powerful moment of all: the introduction. Long bios packed with credentials do not build connection or excitement, and when the introduction misses the mark, the speaker starts at a disadvantage before saying a single word.
In this highly interactive session, Hall of Fame Speaker Joel Weldon reveals why your bio is not your introduction and how a strategically crafted intro can instantly engage your audience and set the stage for success. Through live “before and after” examples, Joel demonstrates how a few intentional adjustments can completely transform the way audiences perceive and receive a speaker. You will learn a proven, step by step approach to creating introductions that spark curiosity, build anticipation, and make audiences eager to hear what comes next.
If you want to connect with your audience before you ever take the stage, this session will show you how to turn an overlooked moment into a powerful advantage.
Key Takeaways
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Understand the critical difference between a speaker bio and an effective introduction
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Learn a proven formula to create introductions that build anticipation and engagement
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Experience real time examples that show how small changes create big impact
About the Speaker
Joel Weldon is a Hall of Fame speaker, founding member of the National Speakers Association, and one of the most respected authorities on professional speaking. With more than 3,000 paid speaking engagements and over 10,000 speakers personally coached, Joel has dedicated his career to helping speakers turn their messages into unforgettable experiences.
He is the creator of the Ultimate Speaking System, an online program used by professionals across industries to elevate their communication skills. Known for his rare ability to both teach and perform at the highest level, Joel brings practical wisdom, clarity, and decades of real world experience to every session.
Joining Joel is his speaking partner and daughter, Jenny Locklin, creator of The Undercover Speaker, a unique concept where she is introduced as a serious expert, client, or industry professional before the unexpected reveal delivers laughter, insight, and powerful perspective.
