Franchise systems are built on shared vision, but keeping that vision alive across multiple owners, teams, and locations is a real challenge. Even strong brands hit moments when enthusiasm dips or communication feels scattered. Franchisees may start running the business more like independent units than connected parts of a larger mission.

This is where a business keynote speaker makes a difference, as they can help reconnect every part of the system to a common purpose and spark momentum that keeps people moving in the same direction.

In this blog, you’ll we will talk about how the right keynote can influence alignment, leadership, motivation, and adaptability inside franchise networks and help them grow through clarity and energy.

How Can a Business Keynote Speaker Drive Franchise Growth?

A good business keynote speaker brings that connection back to life. Through storytelling, humor, and relatable insights, they remind franchisees and teams what ties them together. Below are some of the ways a business keynote speaker can drive franchise growth.

1. Creating Alignment Across Franchise Units

Growth doesn’t happen when everyone works hard in different directions. It happens when everyone understands and believes in the same purpose. Alignment means franchisees see themselves not as separate operators but as contributors to a larger mission.

When communication from leadership becomes too operational, it’s easy to lose sight of that bigger picture. A keynote offers space to refocus. It’s not about telling people what to do but helping them remember why they’re doing it. That sense of shared vision spreads through teams, making decisions easier and service more consistent.

Alignment also builds trust. When every unit speaks the same language and shares the same energy, customers notice the difference. A speaker helps plant that consistency by reshaping how teams think about their connection to the brand.

2. Strengthening Leadership Within the Franchise System

Franchise owners often start out with operational skill, not leadership experience. They’re used to running processes, managing staff, and handling logistics, but leading through people requires a different skill set.

A keynote designed for franchise systems focuses on this very gap. Through stories, examples, and practical takeaways, it shows franchisees how leadership affects everything from team engagement to local results. The message usually sticks because it’s not abstract theory but about the daily challenges they face on the floor or with their teams.

3.  Reigniting Motivation and Energy Across Teams

Every franchise network reaches a stage where the excitement of growth settles into routine. Daily operations start running on autopilot, and team motivation begins to fade. That’s not a reflection of poor management but the natural rhythm of any business.

A skilled business keynote speaker brings a jolt of energy that reminds people why their work matters. They share new ways to look at familiar challenges and help teams see opportunities in the same environment. That shift in mindset can revive enthusiasm across the system.

Motivation is contagious. When franchise owners and managers return to their locations with renewed confidence, their teams pick up on it.

4. Connecting Strategy with Human Experience

Franchise plans often focus on structure and targets. But people don’t respond to charts or spreadsheets; they respond to meaning. Growth depends on how well the strategy translates into the daily experiences of those carrying it out.

A keynote connects logic to feeling. It turns a business plan into a story about people, purpose, and outcomes. When teams understand how their actions tie to something bigger, they commit differently. That’s what makes the message stick long after the applause fades.

The best speakers show that numbers matter, but meaning drives numbers. They help bridge the gap between corporate language and what motivates franchisees and staff on the ground.

5. Inspiring Adaptability During Change

Franchises live in a world of constant shifts with new competitors, changing customer habits, and evolving technology. For some, change sparks resistance; for others, it sparks innovation. The difference often lies in mindset.

A good keynote doesn’t deny the stress of change. It acknowledges it and offers perspective. It helps people see that adaptability isn’t about abandoning what works but staying alert to what could work better. When franchisees and teams approach change as a skill, not a threat, the whole system becomes more agile.

How Vince Poscente Helps Franchises Build Speed and Consistency

Vince Poscente understands the franchise world from the inside. He’s worked with major brands across North America, helping them rediscover focus, energy, and purpose. His talks combine research on performance psychology with humor and relatable storytelling that speaks directly to real business challenges.

On his Franchise Speaker page, he explains how he prepares for each event by studying the brand closely. He doesn’t arrive with a one-size-fits-all speech. Instead, he learns what’s happening in the business, how franchisees are performing, and what’s standing in their way. That insight allows him to deliver a message that feels custom-built for that audience.

Vince often talks about “speed” as a business advantage. He defines it not as rushing decisions but as moving with clarity. When people understand where they’re heading and why, their pace increases naturally. That’s what he helps franchise teams rediscover — clarity that fuels action.

His approach leaves a lasting impression on audiences. As Omar Roman, Manager at Burger King, shared after one of Vince’s franchise conventions: “I truly enjoyed Vince Poscente’s motivational franchise speech at our convention. He certainly touched my heart and awoke my competitive fire. With his information, I can inspire my team to be more engaged and have fun on the job.”

Comments like this reflect the energy many franchise leaders experience. Vince’s sessions do more than motivate.

Conclusion

Franchise growth doesn’t depend on luck or even strategy alone. It depends on people who are motivated, aligned, and confident in what they do every day. When those elements fade, the best way to bring them back is often through a shared moment of clarity—a keynote that reminds everyone what they’re working toward.

A business keynote speaker offers that spark. They reconnect purpose to performance and set the tone for steady growth. Vince Poscente’s work with franchise brands proves how powerful that can be. His talks leave teams moving faster, thinking clearly, and feeling connected again.

To learn how Vince’s franchise keynotes can help your next event bring energy and focus to your brand, visit vinceposcente.com.

FAQs

Q1. What does a business keynote speaker do for franchises?

They inspire and align franchise teams, helping them work toward shared goals with stronger purpose and energy.

Q2. Why is alignment so important in franchise systems?

It keeps every location consistent in service, messaging, and motivation, which strengthens customer trust and brand reputation.

Q3. How does Vince Poscente tailor his presentations?

He researches each brand beforehand, turning specific challenges and goals into relatable stories that connect with audiences.

Q4. How long does a keynote session usually last?

Most keynotes run for about an hour, though Vince often includes follow-up sessions or Q&A to deepen engagement.

Q5. Can a keynote really impact business growth?

Yes. When people leave with renewed belief and clear direction, it often leads to better teamwork, stronger sales, and lasting momentum.

Some speeches pass through a room and vanish. On the other hand, there are those who stay even after the applause, after the conference is over. You recollect a phrase, a story, a moment that made you experience something real. This is what separates a speech from a keynote that drives real engagement and lasting impact.

In this blog, we will discuss what contributes to a keynote being remembered throughout the entire event. We will also talk about how a top motivational speaker for financial service audiences creates such a deep emotional experience with his unique ‍‌method.

How Does a Keynote Speaker Capture and Keep Attention?

Great​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ keynotes do not lead with facts or slides but with a connection instead. The audience has to care first before they can take in anything.

In professional settings, especially in industries like finance, people arrive with full minds. They've been thinking about quarterly results, compliance, and client calls. Today's financial professionals face real pressures: regulatory burnout, ongoing remote team disengagement, and rapid fintech disruption reshaping their roles. To connect here, the first minute matters most. Some​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ of the effective ways of opening can be a thought-provoking question, a well-known story, or a strong statement that changes the energy of the room.

Attention is also about rhythm. When a speaker speaks too fast, the audience races to catch up. When the pace drags, minds drift. The trick lies in giving space for reflection while keeping curiosity alive. Humor helps, too. It lowers resistance and brings warmth to technical topics.

In financial services, where numbers dominate, emotion often takes a back seat. Yet emotion is the glue that makes information stick and inspires action. A well-crafted keynote speaker speech balances logic with feeling. It turns ideas into experiences you can remember, not just notes you write down.

What Are the Core Parts of a Winning Keynote Speaker Speech?

Every strong keynote has a rhythm with a clear beginning, an engaging middle, and a finish that stays in the air even when the speaker leaves the stage.

Opening – Framing the Why

The first few minutes set the tone for everything that follows. The audience should instantly know why this talk matters. This could mean framing a shared challenge, revealing an overlooked truth, or posing a question that hangs in the room. The speaker's goal is to invite attention, not demand it.

A simple opening story works best when it mirrors what the audience faces daily. For a group of financial advisors, that might mean a story about risk, timing, or decisions under pressure. It signals that the speaker understands their world apart from just their industry.

Middle – Building the Connection

This is where the keynote breathes. Here, storytelling carries the message forward. Facts come alive when they're linked to human experience. Instead of quoting statistics about performance or engagement, a good speaker tells what those numbers mean through people and their choices.

The middle section often balances information with feeling. It can include humor, relatable challenges, and moments of reflection. The goal isn't to impress the audience with knowledge but to invite them to see their own story in the message. When that happens, a room full of individuals starts thinking as one team.

Closing – Turning Energy into Action

An ending should be more than a summary. It's the part where energy shifts from listening to doing. Great closings bring clarity and conviction together. They often circle back to the opening idea, but with a new meaning. The final words should leave people ready to move, not just satisfied.

A line, a call to action, or a reminder of purpose can stay with people for weeks. That's how you know the speech worked, when it changes what happens after the applause.

How Vince Poscente Brings This Structure to Life

Vince Poscente understands this rhythm deeply. As a former Olympian and New York Times bestselling author, he has lived through pressure, teamwork, and fast decisions, experiences that shape the way he speaks to business audiences.

In his financial services keynotes, Vince connects industry challenges such as regulatory complexity and rapid market change with practical strategies for speed, clarity, and alignment. He blends humor, story, and energy not as buzzwords, but as tools to make ideas feel personal and relatable. His talks create moments when listeners see how their daily work moves a bigger goal forward.

Carol Batzli Barkley, VP of Marketing & Communications at U.S. Bank, reflects this impact: A note of thanks regarding your presentation at the CPS Business Conference. Our attendees greatly enjoyed your speech and the exceptional energy you brought to our event.

Why Does a Strong Speech Matter More Than Ever in Financial Services?

In financial services, pressure never stops. Markets shift continuously, regulations evolve, and expectations rise. Over time, these conditions can dull motivation and engagement.

According to Culture Amp's January 2025 Financial Services Benchmark Report, while 72% of financial services employees report being engaged, 18% are actively looking for new jobs, and 23% feel their compensation is unfair, all of these are clear friction points that threaten retention and morale. A keynote speech is a strategic opportunity to address such challenges and reset how teams see their work amid ongoing disruption and fatigue.

A great keynote reconnects teams with purpose. It reminds them that success isn't just about numbers but about meaning and shared effort. For leadership teams, it can reignite vision. For front-line staff, it can renew confidence.

From banks to insurance firms, clients report cultural shifts after keynote speaker speech sessions. By translating organizational goals into simple, relatable stories, these kinds of presentations provide clarity and focus when change scatters attention.

Conclusion

A winning keynote speaker speech is both about art and preparation. The structure guides, the story connects, and the delivery brings it to life. Together, they shape how people think and act long after the event.

When planning your next conference or team meeting, focus on the role your message plays in driving clarity, connection, and motivation. The right words, delivered with conviction, can shift energy and alignment across an entire organization.

Vince Poscente’s keynotes demonstrate how speed without direction leads to chaos, while direction with speed creates success, which is a valuable lesson for financial services leaders steering constant change.

FAQs

Q1: How long should a keynote speaker's speech last?

Most impactful keynotes run between 45 and 60 minutes, long enough to build a connection but short enough to stay focused.

Q2: What makes a keynote different from a presentation?

A presentation informs. A keynote inspires, connecting strategy with emotion to move people toward a goal.

Q3: How important is storytelling in a keynote?

Storytelling gives context to facts. It helps people remember and relate to the message.

Q4: Can a keynote speaker's speech fit a regulated industry like finance?

Yes. The best speakers tailor messages to compliance and culture without losing spark.

Q5: How does Vince Poscente customize his speeches?

He studies each organization's priorities, audience makeup, and tone, building a message that fits their goals and challenges.

Corporate life is fast-paced. People are constantly shifting from one deadline to another, and in that hurry, the purpose of the work is getting lost. As per Gallup's research, merely 31% of American employees are engaged at their work, while 17% are highly ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌disengaged. That kind of disconnect doesn’t just lower energy but also spreads quietly through teams and departments.

Corporate events can act as a reset button. It can help everyone catch their breath, reconnect with purpose, and remember why the work matters. But an event only makes that impact when someone gives it direction. An inspirational keynote speaker does exactly that.

In this blog, we will explore why keynote speaking is so important for corporate gatherings, how it connects people to a purpose, and what to look for when selecting the right speaker.

What Makes Keynote Speaking Essential for Corporate Events?

A​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ keynote speech is a major element that provides a sense of orientation and value to the whole event. It is the speech that emotionally connects the audience, directs their focus, and gives them something that they can remember and take with them.

Corporate events can sometimes feel like a long list of sessions and statistics. What often changes that dynamic is a voice that captures attention, simplifies big goals, and connects those goals with emotion. That's what great keynote speaking does. It turns strategy into a story people can relate to.

When a keynote speaker opens an event, they create a shared starting point for everyone in the room. Through stories and examples, they build anticipation and focus.

Good keynote speakers have a gift for translating corporate goals into personal lessons. They use humor, emotion, and lived experience to make ideas stick. Vince Poscente, for example, builds his keynotes around energy and clarity. His "Full Speed Ahead" talk helps audiences find ways to move past hesitation and commit to bold decisions.

One of the clients, Dave Miller, Sr. Mgr. Strategic Communications, McKESSON shares his experience about Vince Poscente: Vince nailed it! Our executives universally commented, 'Vince was the best outside speaker we've had in years.

How Does an Inspirational Keynote Speaker Shape Company Culture and Engagement?

An effective keynote speech reaches beyond motivation. It helps people see themselves as part of something bigger, like a shared mission instead of just a workplace.

Corporate culture is a collection of stories people tell about where they work. A keynote speaker contributes a new story, one that reinforces purpose and possibility.

Reflects Company Values

When people listen to a keynote speaker, they aren't just hearing words. They're interpreting those words through the lens of their company's culture. That's why alignment matters. The best speakers don't impose ideas. They draw out the values already present within the organization.

Vince Poscente often weaves company missions into his presentations. In his "Winning Mindset" keynote, for instance, he connects Olympic-level focus with the daily push for growth that teams experience. It's relatable because he's lived through pressure and performance himself. He talks about competing in the Olympics not as a personal victory but as an example of what focus and teamwork can achieve.

That kind of authenticity builds credibility. People listen differently when they sense that a story comes from experience rather than theory. They start to see how their challenges mirror those of the speaker. The result is empathy and motivation that lasts beyond the event.

Keeps People Engaged Long After the Applause

The true test of keynote speaking isn't in the moment. It's in what happens after. A great keynote leaves echoes with phrases or ideas people repeat in meetings or bring up months later.

Vince's clients often describe this ripple effect. They notice that teams still refer to his metaphors or key points long after the event has ended. That's because his presentations are built on principles of retention. Humor, clear imagery, and relatable analogies stick in people's minds.

When employees leave a conference feeling energized and focused, they carry that feeling back to their desks. It influences how they communicate and approach challenges. Over time, that energy becomes part of the company's culture.

What Should Organizations Consider When Choosing the Right Keynote Speaker?

The right speaker can lift the spirit of an event. The wrong one can make it feel forgettable. Selecting a keynote speaker is about finding the right voice for your message.

Knowing The Audience

A great keynote speaker understands who they're talking to. Every group is different. A sales team, a safety department, or an executive board will respond to different stories and tones. Speakers who take time to understand this create an instant connection.

Authenticity

Audience​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ can feel when a speaker is coming from the bottom of his/her heart. Real-life stories help to build trust and to get the audience involved. The realness of Vince Poscente is because of his one-of-a-kind combination of the two worlds, i.e., being an Olympian and a business leader. His teachings are not vague; they are taken from his own experience of doing well when there is ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌pressure.

Energy And Adaptability

A corporate event needs energy. It keeps people alert and emotionally present. At the same time, delivery style matters; some events call for humor, others for quiet strength. Vince adjusts his style to fit the moment, whether it's a high-energy conference or a reflective leadership retreat.

Customization

Every organization has its own priorities. A speaker who tailors their content shows respect for that uniqueness. Vince Poscente spends time understanding his clients' goals so that every keynote fits seamlessly into the event theme. His presentations are written for the audience in front of him.

Conclusion

Corporate​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ events are opportunities to revitalize a company's spirit and make people realize again the value of their work. One of the most important elements of these events has thus become keynote speaking, which is now the means of turning a business message into a shared inspirational experience.

Personal connection is the main factor in keynote speaking. Companies will seek a speaker who not only energizes but also understands the reality of their people. Through his energetic keynotes that combine storytelling, humor, and a sense of mission, Vince Poscente keeps demonstrating that equilibrium.

If you're planning your next event, take a look at his keynote topics. Book Vince or check his availability here.

FAQs

Q1. What is the main purpose of keynote speaking at a corporate event?

It sets the tone, inspires the audience, and helps align everyone with the company's goals and vision.

Q2. How long should a keynote session last for the best impact?

Between 45 and 60 minutes usually works best. It gives enough time to connect without losing momentum.

Q3. How does Vince Poscente prepare his keynotes for clients?

He works with each organization to understand their audience and event purpose, then builds a talk that fits those goals.

Q4. Can a keynote speech keep teams motivated after the event?

Yes. A strong keynote creates lasting phrases and ideas that teams keep referring to in their daily work.

Q5. What makes Vince Poscente different from other keynote speakers?

His background as an Olympian brings authenticity and energy, along with lessons that link performance, speed, and teamwork.

Corporate success depends on momentum, and leadership sets that pace. Yet even strong teams lose rhythm sometimes. Conversations shrink to targets and metrics. People show up, but their spark fades. They start moving faster but feel less connected to the work itself.

This is a kind of friction that builds quietly over time. Recognizing it early can make all the difference. That’s where a leadership keynote speaker helps, helping to regain the lost clarity and the energy that people were not aware ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌of.

This blog walks you through five signs that tell you it might be time to bring in a speaker who specializes in leadership inspiration.

5 Signs You Need a Leadership Keynote Speaker

When an organization starts losing its rhythm, it doesn’t always look like a crisis. You might still hit deadlines, still reach numbers, but something feels heavier. These signs often appear quietly before they start showing up in results. A leadership keynote speaker helps you spot those signals, make sense of them, and turn them into opportunities to reconnect your team.

Here are five signs that it may be time to bring one in.

1.    Your Team Has Lost Sight of the “Why” Behind Their Work

At times, the reason behind the work fades, where people still care, but they lose the link between effort and purpose. You might notice fewer ideas coming forward or more talk about tasks instead of goals.

Leaders often assume the team knows the company’s mission, but knowing and feeling are different things. The “why” has to be more than a statement on a wall. It needs to sound personal. When people can see how their daily work connects to something meaningful, they begin to show up differently.

A keynote speaker can help remind your team of that connection. They reframe familiar ideas in a new language, giving the company story a fresh heartbeat.

2.    Leadership Turnover Is Creating Uncertainty

Leadership changes are normal, but they shake stability. When a new leader steps in, even confident teams can start second-guessing direction. They wonder what will change or how decisions will shift. That unease can spread faster than expected.

During transitions, teams need a sense of continuity in the middle of change to hold onto. A leadership keynote speaker offers that bridge. They bring everyone into the same conversation, making it clear what stays, what evolves, and what’s next.

Hearing an honest, inspiring message at that point can restore confidence across the organization. It helps people focus on what matters instead of what’s uncertain.

3.    Your Culture Feels Busy but Not Aligned

A team can be productive and still not be aligned. You see people working long hours, attending meetings, sending updates, yet results feel scattered. Projects overlap, and departments start solving the same problem in different ways. The organization becomes active but directionless. That kind of busyness can look healthy from a distance, but it quietly burns out teams.

A leadership keynote speaker helps realign focus by reminding teams what matters most. They highlight how communication shapes collaboration and how clarity in vision reduces noise. Sometimes, a simple shared story can help everyone see where the real bottleneck lies, not in effort, but in understanding.

4.    Growth Has Stalled Even Though Talent Is Strong

Growth plateaus happen to even the most talented teams. It is not skills that are missing, but enthusiasm. When a team gets used to success, it can quietly start avoiding risk. People repeat what worked before instead of reaching for something new. The culture becomes careful instead of creative.

A leadership keynote speaker breaks that comfort zone. By bringing in new perspectives and stories of perseverance, they help teams rediscover a sense of challenge. The goal isn’t to pressure people but to remind them what progress feels like.

5.    Energy And Optimism Are Running Low Across Departments

You can feel low energy long before it’s visible in results. Meetings sound flatter. Laughter becomes rare. Even small wins pass by quietly. When that mood sets in, performance starts to follow it down.

Sometimes the reason is simple: people are tired. After years of deadlines, change, and pressure, enthusiasm runs thin. But it’s not permanent. It just needs a spark that reminds everyone what they’re capable of.

That’s one of the strongest reasons organizations bring in keynote speakers. A good speaker helps teams lift their eyes again, to see something beyond the next project or report. They bring people back together through emotion, story, and shared experience.

How Vince Poscente Turns Leadership Challenges into Momentum

Every organization hits moments when motivation dips and direction blurs. Vince Poscente has built his career helping companies use those moments as a turning point. His keynotes don’t just talk about leadership but also show what it looks like under pressure.

Drawing from his Olympic background and years in business, Vince explains how confidence, clarity, and speed can work together. On his keynote topics page, he covers ideas that directly address the five signs above, from reigniting culture to leading through uncertainty.

In his talks, Vince blends humor, neuroscience, and real stories to connect with audiences on a practical level. People leave with a renewed sense of what’s possible, not because they were told, but because they felt it.

Organizations often describe his sessions as a reset. One of his clients, James B. Poage, SVP Marketing SABRE, shares his experience: Vince, you were the perfect person to open our meeting.

They come away with teams that speak with more confidence, leaders who communicate with purpose, and employees who reconnect with why their work matters.

Conclusion

Leadership needs renewal now and then. When energy dips, direction blurs, or motivation feels out of reach, it’s worth listening to what those signals are saying. The right voice at the right moment can bring everyone back to focus.

A​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ leadership keynote speaker is not a fixer. They are a kind of mirror, showing back to the people what is already within them: for example, purpose, skill, and drive. Such reminders have the power to transform a company's future.

Vince Poscente continues to help companies around the world rediscover that sense of purpose and speed. His work reminds teams that leadership isn’t about position. It’s about momentum.

Book Vince Poscente for your next event or explore his leadership keynote topics to find the perfect fit.

FAQs

Q1. What does a leadership keynote speaker do?

They inspire and guide leaders to strengthen vision, motivation, and alignment within their teams.

Q2. When should I book one?

When engagement feels low, leadership is changing, or growth has stalled — early signs matter more than visible problems.

Q3. How does Vince Poscente customize his talks?

He studies each client’s culture, challenges, and goals, then shapes his message around those realities.

Q4. How long is a typical leadership keynote?

Most range from 45 to 60 minutes, with optional follow-up sessions for deeper discussion.

Q5. Can one keynote really change leadership behavior?

It starts the shift. A shared moment of clarity can reshape how people see their work and each other, setting up lasting progress. 

The Heartfelt Mission Behind the United for LA Benefit Concert

The United for LA Benefit Concert is more than just a gathering of music lovers; it’s a beacon of hope and support for those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. At its core, this event is a profound expression of solidarity and compassion, aiming to channel the collective energy of the community into tangible relief efforts. By directing 100% of its net proceeds to crucial organizations like Friends in Deed, Direct Relief, Pasadena Humane, and vetted GoFundMe campaigns, the concert ensures that every dollar raised makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

This mission is deeply personal for the organizers, with heartfelt stories driving their dedication. One such story involves Max, whose connection to LA’s fire relief efforts is both personal and profound. As he spearheads the organization of this event, his commitment reflects a broader desire to see the community recover and thrive. The concert, supported by sponsors like Side View Ventures, stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion and purpose come together for a common cause.

Meet the Iconic Musicians Uniting for a Cause

Music has a unique power to bring people together, and the lineup for the United for LA Benefit Concert is nothing short of extraordinary. Featuring ten iconic LA musicians, the concert promises an unforgettable evening of melodies that inspire and uplift. Artists like Andrew Bird, Local Natives, and Zella Day are set to grace the stage, each bringing their distinctive sound and energy to the event.

These musicians aren’t just performing; they’re lending their voices and talents to amplify a message of hope and resilience. The shared goal is clear: to harness the unifying power of music to catalyze positive change and support the ongoing relief efforts. By attending, fans not only enjoy a night of incredible performances but also contribute directly to a cause that impacts lives.

How Your Participation Makes a Difference

Your involvement in the United for LA Benefit Concert extends beyond simply enjoying a night of music. By participating, you become an integral part of a community-driven initiative aimed at rebuilding and healing. Every ticket purchased, every donation made, propels the relief efforts forward, providing essential resources to families who’ve lost everything, ensuring emergency medical aid reaches those in critical need, and safeguarding displaced animals.

This concert is a reminder of the power each of us holds to effect change. By choosing to engage with this event, you’re not just a spectator; you’re a catalyst for hope and recovery. Your participation underscores a shared commitment to uplift and support, making a profound impact on the lives of those affected by the fires.

Creative Ways to Contribute to LA Fire Relief

While attending the concert is a wonderful way to support, there are numerous creative avenues through which you can contribute to the LA fire relief efforts. For those unable to attend, donations are a powerful alternative. Each contribution, whether big or small, is a step toward restoring lives and communities.

Consider sponsoring fire victims to attend the concert, offering them a moment of joy and community amidst their struggles. Donations can also be made in various amounts, with options to provide multiple tickets for those affected, magnifying the reach and impact of your generosity. Every gesture, no matter its size, reinforces the spirit of unity and care that defines the United for LA initiative.

Stories of Resilience: Beneficiaries of the Concert

Behind every donation and every ticket sold are stories of resilience and courage. Families who have faced the unimaginable loss of their homes and belongings find solace and support through the funds raised by this concert. Organizations like Friends in Deed and Direct Relief work tirelessly, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most, transforming despair into hope.

Each story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience. The concert’s beneficiaries are not just recipients; they are the heart of this mission, inspiring us all to continue supporting and uplifting one another. Their journeys remind us that, together, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Join the Movement: Attend, Donate, and Inspire

Get Tickets or Donate Now →

To purchase tickets click this link: ticket link

If you would like to donate $1,000 and provide 10 tickets for fire victims, click this link and apply the following code: ticket link: united4la1k

If you would like to donate $5,000 and provide 50 tickets for fire victims, click this link and apply the following code: ticket link: united4la5k

The United for LA Benefit Concert is more than an event; it’s a movement of compassion and action. By attending, donating, or simply spreading the word, you become part of a collective effort to bring relief and hope to those impacted by the fires. This is your opportunity to make a meaningful contribution, to stand with a community in need and inspire others to do the same.

Los Angeles has long been a symbol of creativity and resilience. Now, as the city faces one of its toughest challenges, it calls on each of us to lend our support. Join us in this heartfelt mission to help heal and rebuild, ensuring that LA’s spirit remains unbroken and vibrant. Together, we can make a difference, one note, one donation, one story at a time.

Want something? A sale? Somebody's help? You may be leading with the wrong strategies and tactics. Fine tuning objection handling techniques. Product comparative analysis. Ensuring your SEO target words are driving inbound leads. A clever way to argue your point. Sure, all that’s important but masterful stories are critical as an upfront approach. Tell great stories or, better yet, create 'viral' stories and look what happens next...

Every one has a trip tradition. Buy a spoon or a mug. Drink a local brand of beer or keep the coaster. Hold onto a piece of currency or make sure you get “that stamp” on your passport. What has been our trip-tradition? Buy a piece of art. Over the years, we have aquired works from Ireland, Cuba, India, New Zealand and Russia. Closer to home, Dallas, San Antonio, New Orleans, Chicago and New York. It wasn’t until Paris in January, 2002 did we realize how important ‘story time’ is in our buying decision. So important that it crucial in the corporate landscape as well.

Paris in the winter will drive you indoors. The denture jangling, bone twisting, don’t stick your tongue on that bronze gargoyle COLD - gets you running for heat behind welcoming doors. Once inside you are compelled to buy something. By design, you go to the district in Paris where art galleries are waiting for appreciative buyers.

At the closest art-shop you see, you stumble through the door. The tiny brass bell designed to flip a latch and ding decides to ring into non-existence. The entire latch and bell blast off the hinge and ding, klang, bang its way across the worn wood floor. You turn to your spouse and say, “It’s so cold, the doors are freezing their bells off.” Your spouse would laugh but it was so frosty her lips aren’t ready for action just yet. Things heat up when she scans the room for a piece of art waiting to be the next in the acquisition tradition.

The art is appealing and has potential. You envision what pieces could go on which walls. A cherished memory from this trip is waiting for your Amex card.

“Could you tell us about this piece?”

The gallery attendant has her head buried in something on her screen. Her wood desk has nothing but a lamp and a computer on it. It is a tired desk ready for some paperwork. She looked up with a confident gaze and said, “It is one sousand Euros.”

Expecting more of a description we realized the attendant, the resident pro, the sales goddess was clearly not enthused about the first attractive piece.

“Could you tell us about zat one?” you accidentally ask in a French accent.

“Zees is seecks ‘undered Euros,” the ‘sales person’ says with more interest.

“Yes. Thank you. What can you tell us about it?” asks your spouse, giving the ideal person the room the chance to put the “sell” into sales.

“It is oil. It is possible to ship. It is elegant – oui?”

You try to like what you see but nothing is connecting. Could we rationalize the purchase anyway? It is, after all, our tradition. But, a half an hour later you leave the store empty handed. Unable to contain her annoyance, your spouse says under her breath, “Why buy something without a story?”

Immediately upon going back outside the temperature froze any further inclination to spend money or time on a piece of art. The moment was gone and the French GDP would have to do without our contribution.

Now, let’s talk about your sales strategy?

What are the tactics and strategies you use to close a sale? Do you sell products, services or both? Or, are you selling a specific initiative at work? Are you attempting to convince an external client or a colleague of a certain direction? Chances are, if your lips are moving you are trying to sell something. If that is the case, what will help your cause? Story Time.

Story Time in Sales has three key elements in common:

1. Story Time is Personal. The purveyor of the story needs to connect with the story. In the case of the art work, the attendant should have said something about how she enjoyed meeting the artist. If it was a widget, the seller would say how he uses it at home.
2. Story Time Paints a Picture. When telling the stories, bring the listener into the experience. For example, the art gallery dud of a saleswoman could have said, the art was painted on the cold spring day where the artist had to warm her oils in her pants pockets. The widget seller could say the invention was an accidental result of trying to design a motion sensitive light and the widget became a better item.
3. Story Time is Experiential. Bring your purchaser into an experience rather than just being an observer. That means the art gallery lady could have engaged more. She could have asked about the design of our home. Mentioned how the artist was the same age as we were and how he always wants to keep every piece he paints.

If you want your stories to travel, make them compelling.

If you want to add rocket fuel to the sale, turn the sale into its own unique story that is a personal, picture painting experience. Do this and your product or service comes with an echo effect.

Case in point: I was test driving a Tesla. The copilot said, “At this straight away, step on it. Don’t worry. You won’t scare me.” I had no idea what he was talking about until the accelerator touched the carpet. With a zero to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, head pinned back, wheel gripping ride, the ‘copilot’ created a story I’ve told over and over. It was personal! The car painted the picture! It was tantalizingly, spine-buzzing experiential!

When a product, service, direction or idea captivates someone’s imagination it gets told repeatedly at the “purchaser’s” home or office. Like an objet d’art, the story about what you sell ripples across time and distance.

When others come through your door looking for the same thing, this means more sales.

Want to make your intentions sticky. Use story time and the improvement in your results will amaze.

Promotional Capstone about the Author: Vince Poscente has been described as an invigorating and masterful story teller. He is an in-demand motivational keynote speaker on the topic of Full Speed Ahead and inductee into the Speaker Hall of Fame. Vince is a New York Times bestselling author and Olympic competitor. Encounter his story about going from recreational skier to the Olympic Games in just four years, and you’ll have your own personal experience of Full Speed Ahead painted in your imagination. www.VincePoscente.com/video He can be reached through info@vinceposcente.com

A recent Wall Street Journal article affirms, Parents, let it happen instead of coaching your kids from the stands. Yeah. Makes sense. But, don’t be so sure with my Senior Citizen mom. Press the point and she’d probably mutter, "Well get off the ice if you’re not going to hustle."

Back-checking in hockey is a term primarily for forwards chasing down opponents on their offensive rush. Much like Horse-to-Barn, players find extra energy with the puck, while the opposition’s net is the barn. Your legs pump harder. Motivation increases. But without the puck, fear of being scored on increases while the muscles don’t get any motivational message.

It’s a paradoxical phenomenon. Salespeople agree... “The fear of loss is a greater motivator than the opportunity to gain.” Example? Black Friday shoppers line up at midnight to ensure they don’t miss out on a limited inventory's great deal. Put a sign out that says, "Sale" and you may get a few curious shoppers. Meh… Put a sign that says “Sale. Today Only” and interest spikes. Giddy up.

Flip the scenario for hockey forwards. The second you sense a chance to score a goal, adrenaline spikes. (The opportunity to gain.) But, the second you lose the puck to the opposing team, it’s a collective, “Oh crap. Now I have to chase a smelly guy around the ice to prevent him from scoring.” (The fear of loss.) 

This is where Mom’s voice kicks in. Each winter, Mom bugs-out of Edmonton to warmer Dallas climes.  God knows she has seen enough youth-hockey games in the sixties and seventies. But, she gets a kick out of coming to her 53-year-old son’s hockey contests. Trust me on this one, being a back-checking forward in your 50’s is NOT enticing. But, the sound of her familiar voice yelling out, “Hustle back Vince. Hustle!” is enough to reach down and get after the play. Amazingly, back-check hard enough and you’ll catch your opponents off guard a little – sometimes, a lot. Case in point: Playing hockey in Australia.

Thirty plus years ago, a chance to play a few weeks of hockey popped up in Sydney. Within seconds of starting the first game, it became clear both teams had an unwritten rule. “Mate, if you’re good enough to take the puck away from us, then you can skate down ice and take on our defensemen and goalie. I’ll get there in a tick.”

Cue Mom’s voice (despite being 8,258 miles away), “Hustle Vince. Hustle!” All neglected to point out their unwritten rule. I’d skate back, lift the stick of the unsuspecting offensive rusher and take the puck. Eleven players, teammates and opponents alike, seemed shocked to suddenly flip directions. We won every match during that stretch of games.

Finding an advantage in the business of life starts with what the competition is not willing to do.

Who’s cheering you to back-check?

Thanks Mom!

The trail held treasures for those willing to stop and look. Yet, the most delicious fruit was within reach - but untouched. Most were willing to comfortably pick low-hanging fruit. The best berries required stretching through some prickly branches. Human nature revealed itself in Mother Nature. When there is some form of resistance, our natural tendency is to stop short - even when there are treasures just beyond that invisible comfort-zone.  

John Steinbeck's iconic novel, The Grapes of Wrath, is about a depression-era family looking for hope and a better life. After their farm is seized by the bank, the family heads to California. On their difficult journey the Joads family discover their destination is not what they expected.

Ok, let's get one detail out of the way. Our “grapes” were actually blackberries. The combination of the Steinbeck metaphor, a blackberry's resemblance to grapes and this writer's pension for alliteration; made the title, The Grapes of Resistance, irresistible. The Blackberries of Wrath really doesn't have the same resonance to it. Think of this poet’s license as a way for you to stretch your imagination.

Let's carry on the trail.

Funny enough, the insight on human nature in Mother Nature didn't occur until; nature called. Tucked into part of the trail, out of sight from other hikers, the blackberries called out, "Pick me." Immediately, blackberry bushes were obvious every few steps on the path. The berries were in season and the most accessible bushes were picked over on the Lacamas Lake Trail. Take a step towards the very edge, saddle up to the branches, carefully reach into the chaotic web of barbs and you could rescue the tastiest berries destined for an unceremonious date with gravity and terra firma.  

Short people are regularly reminded of their vertical challenges when reaching for anything. We fantasize about comfortably reaching for stuff on higher shelves. (Those annoying tall people never fantasize about being short - unless, of course, they fly in coach.) Today was no exception. The Grapes of Resistance became an epiphany. If a Hobbit like me could access these berries with a little extra effort, anyone could. But they didn't.

What is the opportunity within your reach but mired in some form of resistance?

First, recognize opportunity just off your path.

Second, step as close to the resistance as possible (without getting hurt) and reach in.

Third, carefully choose the fruit that will nurture you.

Fourth, there's no need to be greedy. Ever. Abundance is everywhere with plenty of people stopping short when there is resistance.

Fifth, pick what you can comfortable hold, share and enjoy.

The Great Depression impacted millions of lives and inspired a classic narrative about struggle. You have delicious opportunities waiting for you and your family. Reach past human nature. Go through the resistance. Share HOPE and enjoy.

You would think at least one of us had life figured out with some form of stability, predictability or certainty. Look to your left. Max wants to make it big in the unstable music business. On your right, Alex has set her sights on the unpredictable entertainment industry. Isabella is determined to dance her way into the uncertain ballet world. Meanwhile, you launch into an unwavering dedication to a rebranding initiative which is a minefield of best-guesswork. All have the same intent. Reach that place where you experience your emotional buzz. Will you find YOUR buzz and enjoy the rewards?

From Unstable to Stable - Max is on the road with his band's seven city tour. His talented band mates are all dedicated to following their working musician's dream. But working ideally correlates to just compensation. In a market driven to streaming royalty payments the finances are a joke. One million plays on Pandora pays about $60 in publishing royalties. Case in point: In the first quarter of 2014, Pharell's song Happy streamed 43 million times on Pandora, which paid out $2,700 songwriter royalties. Is stability even possible in the music business? Would you like more stability in your life? Then take Max's lead guitar example. He is completely dialed in on the emotional buzz he gets from creating music. He will find his buzz by living his buzz.

From Unpredictable to Predictable - Alex just returned from a summer acting camp called Stage Door Manor. You have to book 10 months in advance to get into an alumni roster boasting Natalie Portman, Robert Downey Jr. and Zach Braff. Alex was selected for a coveted roll in Columbinus and earned a prestigious award for most improved. Still, the odds of someone becoming a famous or even, well paid actor is small. Yet, how many people dream of being an actor compared to those who make deliberate, purposeful steps in that direction. Is predictability even possible in the entertainment industry? Would you like more predictability in your life? Then follow Alex's standard. Find your buzz by ignoring probaility and take the next obvious step to getting there.

From Uncertainty to Certainty - When Isabella returns from the Pacific Northwest Ballet's summer intensive for pre-professionals she will will turn 15. She auditioned against thousands of girls across the country for this top-ten US ballet company. In her age group there will only be a couple of dozen girls but the competition is significant. How can Isabella be certain of her aspiration to make London's Royal Ballet? She can't. But she can live in the mindset of certainty. The doorway for certainty in her life and yours is by sustaining that emotional buzz. 

Your buzz is a vibration in every cell of your body. Your buzz is that place in your future that locks arms with your present moment. You reach your buzz by living your buzz. You find your buzz by stepping squarely in the direction of your buzz. By sustaining your emotional buzz you find your buzz in the years to come.

To that end, you may wonder where we have been all spring and summer? We have been rebranding.

Amigo - rebranding is an easy word to say but one heck of a leap. In this business of writing, speaking and consulting, having a uniquely valuable brand is critical. But the fact is ... there are no facts... until the market votes with its dollars. Is there a market for Max's music, Alex's talent and Isabella's expression? They won't know until they walk out the door to find their buzz.

That is why we, at ELEPHantPOWER Systems, are here. To help you find your buzz.