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September 18, 2025

Strategies for Longevity in Speaking with Michelle Ray

BY Jane Atkinson

Listen to this Episode (00:34:31)

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00:34:31

Strategies for Longevity in Speaking with Michelle Ray

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Quote: “If people don’t get what you do straight away, it’s really hard to put yourself out there or sell yourself.” Michelle Ray

Let’s face it: whether you’re just starting out or have been at this for a while, we all want a long, successful speaking career. But how do you actually achieve it? How do you build a business that not only survives but thrives for decades? On this episode of The Wealthy Speaker Podcast, I am beyond thrilled to welcome my friend and former client, Michelle Ray. She is a master of longevity and has built a speaking business that has not only endured but excelled for more than 30 years. Join us as Michelle pulls back the curtain and shares her hard-won secrets to sustaining a business that has truly stood the test of time.

Imagine someone who started their career watching leaders make bold moves—and mistakes—and decided to turn those lessons into a life’s work. That’s Michelle. Born in Australia and now based in Canada, Michelle has taken her messages across the globe, helping audiences from every industry rethink what it truly means to lead. From humble beginnings to becoming a Hall of Fame speaker, educator and author, Michelle has made it her mission to help people take the lead in their work and life since starting her business in 1995.

Highlights you won’t want to miss:

Michelle’s current business model. [1:00]
Where you need to focus. [2:30]
Connecting with your audience. [7:00]
It starts with you. [9:00]
Be strategic with coaching. [12:30]
Stand in your value. [14:30]
Investing in your company. [19:00]
Find your “champions”. [25:00]
Opportunity beyond the keynote. [30:00]

Michelle’s journey is rooted in the belief that real leadership starts from within—and that self-leadership isn’t optional in a world that’s constantly changing. With a blend of humor, honesty, and straight talk, Michelle connects with leaders at every level, showing them how to show up fully, take ownership, and lead in real time. Her work doesn’t just inspire—it equips people with the courage to shift their mindset, act and embrace the moment.

If you could use some great strategies on how to sustain a long-lasting career in speaking, you simply can’t afford to miss this episode.

I hope you’ll listen and learn.