On this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, Danella Burnett shares her journey from a reluctant entrepreneur to a successful event producer and speaker strategist. She discusses the importance of understanding the needs of event hosts, finding speaking opportunities, and the lessons learned from her experiences on stage. Danella emphasizes the significance of collaboration, knowing your audience, and the value of being flexible in the speaking industry. Her insights aim to empower speakers to get visible and make a positive impact in the world. In This Episode Danella Burnett has over 40 years of experience in event production. Her entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly in a church kitchen. Understanding the needs of event hosts is crucial for speakers. Collaboration can lead to greater opportunities in speaking. Finding speaking opportunities requires leveraging past experiences and networks. Getting paid to speak is a pathway, but understanding value is key. Flexibility and adaptability are important in the speaking industry. Speakers should know their audience and the event's goals. Building relationships is essential for long-term speaking success. Danella's legacy is about lifting others onto the stage to make an impact. We Discuss 07:50 The Reluctant Entrepreneur's Journey 16:08 Understanding the Needs of Event Hosts 23:58 Finding Speaking Opportunities 32:02 Lessons from the Stage