Mastering Speaking, Storytelling, and Stage Presence with PodMatch Founder Alex Sanfilippo

This week, I had the absolute joy of chatting with my friend, my true “podmatch,” Alex Sanfilippo. From running one of the most respected platforms in podcasting to conquering everything from tech conferences to lightning-fast Pecha Kucha talks, Alex is a powerhouse in both podcasting and public speaking. If you’ve ever wondered how to own your quirks on stage, or how authenticity can actually give you an edge, you’re not going to want to miss this episode. Alex Sanfilippo is a podcaster and the founder of PodMatch, a platform that automatically matches podcast hosts and guests for interviews. Through PodMatch and his podcast titled Podcasting Made Simple, Alex helps independent podcasters grow their influence and revenue so they can better serve their listeners! Here’s what Alex and I talked about in this conversation: From Conference Puns to First Stages: How we met (and how I embarrassed myself), and Alex’s unexpectedly stressful (but life-changing) debut on a WordPress stage. Miscommunication, Imposter Syndrome, and What Happens When Your Talk Gets “Bumped”: The story behind my near-trash-can-moment and what really happened with my “lost” keynote. Pecha Kucha Panic: Why the five-minute, auto-advancing-slide format is secretly the hardest stage around—and our mutual respect (and terror) for anyone who nails it. Finding Your Room: How to know if a stage or conference is really the right fit for your personality, business, and style—and why it’s okay to say no to the wrong audience. Authenticity Beats Perfection: The moments that reinforced why showing up 100% as yourself can be your best asset—even if your slides are covered in sparkles instead of stats. Selling Without the Ick: Alex’s approach to sharing your offer from the stage so it feels like a gift—not a pitch. The Power of Stories, Using Your Hands, and Being “Too Much”: We unpack tips from Carnegie training, ADHD over-explaining, and why neither of us can resist tangents (or pink slides). Lead With Value: The core of Alex’s philosophy for growing a speaking business that actually helps people—and keeps the lights on. The Soggy Sandwich Principle: Why generosity on stage (and off) pays off in unexpected ways, even if you don’t get your payoff right away. Did Alex’s story inspire you to find your own stage (and own your quirks while you’re at it)? Here’s what you can do next: Connect with Alex – Head to podmatch.com/ep/207 to check out my training that Alex referenced, plus resources and everything PodMatch related. Subscribe, Rate & Review – If you loved this episode, hit subscribe, share with a fellow podcaster or speaker, and leave a review on your favorite app. Choose Your Room – This week, reflect on where you show up best. Say yes to your people, and don’t be afraid to say no where you can’t be your truest self. Lead with Value – Before you speak, pod, or pitch, ask yourself: am I here to give or to get? Start with generosity and watch what comes back (maybe, in the form of a “soggy sandwich”). Thanks so much for joining Alex and me this episode. I can’t wait to bring you more stories, strategies, and real talk on My First Stage! Timestamps: 00:00 Embarrassing first impressions 04:56 Speaking about using WordPress 09:12 Turning down Pecha Kucha spot 12:20 Improving public speaking skills 15:14 Demonstration and audience reaction 18:46 Using hand gestures in communication 20:46 Being true to my style 25:43 Evaluating event opportunities quickly 27:27 Authenticity in presentation choices 32:01 Leading with Value in Sales Pitches 33:51 Finding confidence in public speaking 38:38 Selling Techniques Without Being Salesy 39:43 Connecting Personally on Podmatch