How to Speak Like a Leader | Executive Coach Bill Smartt

Ever feel that rush of panic before a big presentation? What if you could command any room with total confidence, not because you were "born with it," but because you learned the code? This episode is a masterclass in exactly that.

Meet Bill Smartt. After a career as a classically trained actor, he became one of the most sought-after executive coaches, fixing the #1 thing that holds leaders back: poor communication. He's the secret weapon for executives at Citibank, Deloitte, Harvard Business School, and the United Nations.

In this deep-dive conversation, Meny Hoffman sits down with Bill to uncover his playbook for turning nervous speakers into powerful communicators, building unshakeable presence, and using simple frameworks to make any message land with impact.

You'll discover:
👉 The #1 mistake 99% of people make when they present (and how to fix it instantly).
👉 An "Actor's Trick" to turn speaking FEAR into genuine, unshakable confidence.
👉 A simple 3-part framework to structure any talk perfectly, so you're never at a loss for words.
👉 The uncomfortable exercise that is the fastest path to improving your executive presence.
👉 Why being a "natural" speaker is a MYTH, and how you can learn this skill starting today.

If you're a founder trying to inspire your team, a leader tired of being misunderstood, or anyone who wants to speak with clarity and confidence, this conversation is essential listening.

👉 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations with real builders and leaders.
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🔗 Listen to the Full Episode Here: [Your Full Episode Link]
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🔗 Episode Links (Bill Smartt):
👤 Connect with Bill Smartt on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/billsmartt 
🏢 Learn More About Bill's Coaching: https://www.billsmartt.com 
🎁 Special Offer: Mention the podcast for a FREE Team Tune-Up session with Bill. 

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💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways):

1. Communication is a Teachable Skill. It's not a personality trait. Skills like pausing, controlling your tone, and managing your energy can be practiced and mastered by anyone, not just "naturals."

2. Record Yourself. The Camera Doesn't Lie. This is the fastest path to self-awareness. You’ll instantly see your filler words, nervous gestures, and energy levels, which is the quickest way to begin improving.

3. Use the "Past, Present, Future" Framework. For instant clarity in any situation, structure your communication this way: provide the Past (context), explain the Present (the current situation), and outline the Future (the desired outcome or next steps).

4. Connect Before You Present. Don't just jump into your slides. Start by listening to your audience first. When people feel heard, your message lands with far greater impact.

5. To Manage Nerves, Manage Your Breath. Your breath is the best physical tool to counteract a fight-or-flight response. Before any stressful presentation, take a moment for deep, controlled breathing to ground yourself and lead with calm control.
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Episode Timestamps: 
00:00 - Teaser: Bill Smartt's key soundbites on communication
01:21 - "Let's Talk Business" Podcast Intro
01:34 - Host Meny Hoffman introduces the episode and guest, Bill Smartt
03:04 - Meny asks Bill about his journey into communication coaching
05:12 - Bill explains his "What, How, Mindset" coaching framework
06:31 - The difference between formal presentations and general leadership communication
08:51 - The root cause of poor communication in organizations
10:32 - The importance of connecting with your audience and listening
13:41 - Ad Break: Clarity Sessions
14:44 - Topic: The difference between "Public Speaking" and "Presenting"
17:48 - How introverts can become powerful communicators
22:08 - Why you must simplify your message to be effective
25:21 - The "Past, Present, Future" Framework for structuring any talk
27:40 - The importance of practicing out loud
32:07 - Meny Hoffman's summary and takeaways begin
49:27 - Outro: "That's my conversation with Bill Smartt. My takeaways from this one..."