Main Event Agenda
Friday 10th October
09:00
Tea, Coffee & Registration
09:45
Professional Speaker of the Year (PSY) Semi-Finals
It’s finally here. After the regional heats, the inaugural Professional Speaker of the Year takes place, with the first of the semi-finals. This competition is for Professional members only who have not previously entered
PSA Speaking competitions in the same year.
09:45
Workshop 1
How do you go from local speaker to international thought leader?
Join Frank Furness as he shares the inside stories and strategies behind 70 countries’ worth of stages. From winning over interpreters to handling cultural curveballs, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped to speak worldwide.
By listening to my speech you will learn...
- The 3 Game-Changers to Conquer the International Speaking Market
- How to Build Your Golden Referral Circle
- How to Design & Launch Your Own International Speaking Tour
- The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of International Speaking
From rocking the stage as a drummer for some of the world’s biggest music acts to ranking in the top 1% of salespeople worldwide, Frank Furness has mastered the rhythm of performance and success. Today, he’s a sought-after global keynote speaker, fusing sales mastery, cutting-edge tech, social media strategy, and goal-setting science to help entrepreneurs and organizations around the world achieve stellar results.
With an electric stage presence and a suitcase always packed, Frank spends over 70% of his time speaking internationally and has worked in 70 countries (and counting), inspiring audiences from Sydney to San Francisco, Dubai to Dublin.
Whether he’s empowering a boardroom of CEOs or lighting up a global stage, Frank delivers high-impact sessions packed with real-world tactics, powerful stories, and practical tools for thriving in the fast-moving digital world
09:45
Workshop 2
More to come.
More information to be announced.
11:00
Tea & Coffee Break
11:45
Workshop 1
More to be revealed..
12:20
Workshop 2
What if your speaking career could sparkle with more energy, ease, and joy – without burning out?
In this vibrant, metaphor-rich session, Celynn introduces Santé: The Alchemy of Crafting A Sparkling Life, a powerful wellbeing framework inspired by the artistry of Champagne. Drawing on her French heritage, science-informed insights, and decades of experience in wellbeing, Celynn invites speakers to become their own CEO – Chief Effervescent Officer. Expect a refreshing blend of inspiration and practicality that will help you transform stress into vitality, and create a speaking life that feels as good as it looks.
By immersing yourself in this session, you will learn how to:
Sustain your sparkle: Use the Champagne-making process as a metaphor to manage your energy and mindset as a speaker in a high-performance world.
Balance the hustle with the “nestle”: Discover the art of setting boundaries, embracing rest, and leading with joy and authenticity.
Craft Champagne moments: Create intentional rituals that boost your presence, performance and sense of meaning – on stage and off
Celynn Morin is a qualified dietitian, author, and workplace wellbeing consultant known for her practical yet joyfully pragmatic approach to helping leaders and teams thrive. Founder of the Wellculator™ and The Wellbeing Clubhouse, she empowers professionals to prioritise wellbeing without sacrificing success – combining science with celebration.
Celynn is a Professional Speaking Fellow, Certified Embodiment Facilitator, and HeartMath coach. Passionate about epigenetics, gut health, and energy management, she helps others lead with vitality and joy. Born in South Africa with roots in France’s Champagne region, she now lives in the UK, where she delights in partner dancing and living a life that sparkles
11:45
Workshop 2
We all develop a presenting ‘groove’ – a style that feels most authentically and comfortably our style. However, to be a master presenter we need to be agile – to switch from hero to magician, from caregiver to sage. We need to be a versatile presenter.
In this workshop, you will learn how to master 12 presenter styles, to get the audience response that you need. You will learn to:
SET the intent for your presentation (and each part of your presentation) – the type of audience response you are hoping for.
SELECT a type of presenter that will help your audience listen in the way you need.
Use this presenter type to SHARPEN your presentation design and to SHIFT your delivery.
Richard spent 18 years at international blue-chip company P&G, working in sales, insights & analytics, and learning & development. Throughout, his passion was transforming the presentation skills, at first in the UK and then across the globe: he became know in P&G as the “guru grandfather of presentation skills”.
Today he runs Making Presentations. He works with large multinationals like P&G and Carlsberg, UK companies like Channel 4 and TTP, and heroic charities like the Trussell Trust and Yorkshire Cancer Research. He designs and teaches training courses, leads executive coaching, and delivers keynote talks on an array of topics within making presentations – “The science and art of saying things brilliantly”.
In 2025 he co-authored his first book: The Versatile Presenter.
13:00
Lunch & Networking
14:00 - Main Stage
Welcome
Michelle Mills Porter - National President
14:15 - Main Stage
The Presidential Theme of 2024/25 was Collaboration Evolution. This is a celebration of the collaboration among members.
14:45 - Main Stage
Despite a digitally hyper-connected world, the illusion of separation is more present than ever before. Many are disconnected from themselves, from nature and from each other. Since some mid-life events, I have learned that tapping into a higher level of connection and consciousness has resulted in a happier, more fulfilled life. Not only that but the power of greater connectivity has transformed our business to having a much more significant impact on people and planet.
What you will discover
- just how disconnected we humans have become, which can a powerful stimulus to forging higher connectivity.
- how connecting with yourself, nature and others will transform your life and open us to a new world of serendipity and abundance.
- learn how to build more connectivity into your life in order to transform your business and increase your positive impact on the world.
Paul Hargreaves is one of the leading voices in the UK encouraging and inspiring businesses to make a positive impact on the world. He believes that businesses should be a Force for Good, which is also the title of his first book.
Paul’s main role is as CEO of Cotswold Fayre, a multi-award-winning speciality food and drink wholesaler supplying over 2,000 retail, mainly rural sites in the UK. The company diversified in June 2021 by opening Flourish, its first foodhall, restaurant and home and lifestyle store and opened a second store in Nov 2024.
Paul speaks to businesses and at conferences across the UK and Europe, usually to business leaders about compassionate leadership, personal development and sustainability. This is the topic for his second book, The Fourth Bottom Line, and the focus of his podcast of the same name
15:25
Tea, Coffee & Networking
15:55 - Main Stage
More to come
More to come.
16:20 - Main Stage
More information on David’s energetic and informative session to come.
More to come.
17:20 - Main Stage
Compere - Closing
Rachel Haslam
19:30
Dinner
21:00 - Cabaret
Hosted by Dave James with Special Guests
Dress - Casual
Saturday 11th October
08:30 - Main Stage
GSF International Networking
PSA UK & Ireland are members of Global Speaking Federation. This is your chance to learn more.
09:15 - Main Stage
Welcome to Summit Saturday
Join Penny Haslam as she welcomes everyone back to Speaking Business Summit for Summit Saturday.
09:25 - Main Stage
Human beings are biologically designed to collaborate, but not always easily. From tribal brains, to mirror neurones, to feeling a sense of belonging and shared purpose, collaboration isn’t about being nice, it’s about being effective.
Come along to this talk and learn how collaboration is a skill, not a personality trait. Why is it important? Because it’s not about giving something up, it’s about unlocking something new.
By listening to my talk, you will learn about
- Latest findings from psychological and neuroscientific research on collaboration for you to reference in your work.
- A deeper understanding in why and how to use collaboration.
You’ll also have a great time for 30 minutes that I promise will be memorable!
Lynda is Past President of the PSAUK&I, a Fellow and PSAE. She is the founder of Brain & Behaviour Ltd., the Neuroscience Professional Development Programme and the Learning Lab for Leaders. She holds a doctorate in Cognitive Neuroscience specialising in unconscious processing and behaviour.
She is also an adventure traveller. In fact, one of her many passions is walking—whether at high altitudes or on the treadmill in her office—earning her the nickname “The Walking Neuroscientist.“
Lynda is always informative, fun, extremely practical and hugely passionate about our wonderful association
09:55 - Main Stage
In today’s fast-paced, competitive, ever-changing and hyper-connected world, success as a Professional Speaker IS NOT a solo endeavor … IT IS a team effort.
In this high-energy, high-impact keynote, Larry Long Jr. takes you on a journey from making meaningful connections, creating powerful collaborations and solidifying relationships that drive real results (i.e. more sales and engagements)
Blending his signature ‘Jolt! of motivation, practical strategies for relationship-building, and a fresh perspective on sales, Larry will challenge you to think bigger, act bolder, and partner better.
His keynote will inspire you to leverage the power of intentional collaboration, transforming Contacts into Contracts, for collective wins. Let’s stop working in silos and start building something greater – TOGETHER!
Larry Long Jr is the Founder and CEO (Chief Energy Officer) of LLJR Enterprises, which focuses on motivation, inspiration, and most importantly, transformation through speaking, coaching & training programs. He is the host of the weekly Live Show, ‘Midweek Midday Motivational Minute’, and Author of ‘JOLT! Get Zapped Into Intentionality: Rediscover and Believe in Your Inner Greatness’.
Larry is a Sales & Revenue Acceleration Expert, recognized as a 4x Salesforce Top Sales Influencer, and serves as a LinkedIn Influencer and Sales Thought Leader. As a former college athlete (baseball at University of Maryland), Larry is extremely passionate about coaching, and helping business professionals and leaders take their game to the ‘next level’.
10:30 - Main Stage
More to come.
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11:00
Tea, Coffee & Networking
Workshop 1
Room 1
11:30
As a late-identified AuDHD parent of autistic kids, Charlie Hart promotes understanding, compassion and respect for all kinds of minds through the lenses of neurodivergent lived experience and her 20-year career in HR Analytics.
In this workshop, Charlie will shine a light on the Neurodiversity Paradigm (all minds are unique, which is advantageous), share how Autism and ADHD can manifest in adults (maybe even you), and share neurodiversity inclusion top tips for speakers and events. Attend with an open mind!
Charlie Hart, also known as ‘Ausome Charlie’ (she/they) is a professional keynote speaker, an experienced CIPD-qualified HR Analyst, and a popular and influential neurodiversity advocate.
Charlie is neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, Complex PTSD), bisexual/pansexual and gender non-conforming. She identifies as a queer AuDHDer.
Charlie’s talks centre their own lived experience and insights, underpinned with expertise in employment legislation and inclusion theory, and delivered with authentically neurodivergent quirkiness and self-deprecating humour.
Unafraid to tackle emotive topics other speakers avoid, Charlie is not another happy-flappy neurodiversity advocate; she speaks of dark clouds and silver linings, of adversity and resilience, and will leave you inspired and hopeful.
12:05
What do you speak about?
Such a commonly asked question. So simple. Yet so hard to answer really well. But once you have mastered the answer, you’ll be amazed at how you can uncover opportunity in as little as 10 seconds.
The key is being able to succinctly explain who you help, the problem you solve and the results you deliver.
In this practical workshop, Carol will share the secrets of the perfect pitch, give you the chance to practice and get peer feedback. You’ll come away knowing how to say less, win more!
You will learn…
– A structure for the perfect, 10-second elevator pitch
– The chance to practice and get feedback on your pitch,
– Confidence that you have a great answer next time you’re asked ‘What do you speak about?‘
Carol Benton, communication expert, speaker and author, helps companies and individuals to win more business by clearly articulating their value.
Communication is at the heart of every successful business. Carol helps individuals and organisations to connect with their audience, convince them to engage and convert them to clients.
She honed her expertise during 30 years in corporate sales with tech powerhouses IBM and Toshiba, and now uses it to help clients around the globe to communicate more effectively.
Carol has a skill helping her audience to stop simply talking about ‘what’ they do and start communicating the ‘so what’ of how they add value
Workshop 2
Room 2
11:30
More to be announced.
More to come..
12:05
More to come.
More to come.
Workshop 3
Room 3
11:30
Do you fancy becoming the kind of speaker who not only talks the talk but changes the world while doing it? The Change4Good workshop is your launchpad to lasting personal transformation – and yes, we make it fun too. You’ll discover how to spark real change (the kind that sticks), and use your voice to do more good in the world.
Through the Think it – Say it – Do it method, you’ll get clear on your purpose, boost your confidence, and start creating ripples of impact wherever you go. Whether you’re speaking to a room of 5 or 500, this workshop will help you show up powerfully – and unapologetically you. If you’re ready to make a Change4Good and speak with purpose and inspire, educate and motivate your audience, come and join me. Your future audience will thank you for it.
Gethin Jones is a professional speaker who transforms adversity into impact. From childhood in care and years in prison to becoming a respected leader in public services, Gethin now uses his story to inspire, educate and motivate audiences across the UK, US, and Australia. Through his company, Unlocking Potential, he delivers keynotes, training and consultancy with a mission to build fairer systems and unleash human potential.
Gethin’s message is raw, real, and rooted in experience. His work challenges systems, dispels myths, and ignites hope – because change isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
12:05
You’ll discover how mastering the art of listening transforms your speaking business—making your message resonate deeper, your connections stronger, and your impact truly unforgettable.
- Learn how listening helps you understand your clients’ real challenges and needs, so you can tailor your message and offerings for maximum relevance and impact.
- Discover why people return to speakers who genuinely listen, how listening builds trust, loyalty, and deeper connections that fuel long-term business growth.
- Understand how mastering listening shifts you from just speaking at people to collaborating with them, making your business more adaptable, memorable, and in demand.
12:45
Lunch & Networking
14:45 - Main Stage
Professional Speaker of the Year Final
15:20
Tea & Coffee Break
15:55- Main Stage
Speaker Factor Winner 2024
Every year, the winner of the Speaker Factor (the previous speaking competition) is invited back to present on Main Stage. Please join us in welcoming last year’s Speaker Factor Winner, Nicola Morgan.
16:15 - Main Stage
PSA UK & Ireland is a member of the Global Speakers Federation. We are delighted to welcome the President of GSF to the Speaking Business Summit Main Stage.
16:25 - Main Stage
John Peters came to the world’s attention in January 1991 during the first Gulf War, when his bruised and battered face flashed onto television screens around the world. It was his disfigured image that became a potent symbol of Saddam Hussein’s ruthless aggression. His dramatic and sometimes harrowing experiences reach deep into our innermost minds, showing us how we can overcome even our worst fears and nightmares.
His war was not all as he expected – it became a seven-week ordeal of torture and interrogation, testing John Peters to the absolute limit and bringing him close to death. By no means a doom and gloom story, his insights are powerful, passionate, emotive & challenging with an innate sense of humour.
By listening to this speech you will learn:
- To reframe how to engage with pressure
- How to dealing with stress
- How to turn adversity to opportunity.
John started his career as an RAF fast-jet pilot flying Tornado GR1. Subsequently, he has written two best-selling books on his experiences; ‘Tornado Down’ and ‘Team Tornado’, and the documentary; ‘Tornado Down’ was Independent Documentary of the Year and a BAFTA Award Nominee.
He left the RAF in 2000 and started MonkeyBiz working internationally with corporates, governmental and the Third Sector, providing business critical development, consulting and coaching through a leadership lens.
17:00 - Main Stage
Compere - Closing
Penny Haslam
19:30 - Gala Dinner
21:00 - Foundation Fundraising and Awards
Dress - Black tie/cocktail dresses
00:00
Carriages
Sunday 13th October
09:30 - Main Stage
Welcome to Summit Sunday
Join Jackie Handy as she welcomes us back to the Speaking Business Summit for fabulous Summit Sunday.
09:40 - Main Stage
Stuff happens! To all of us. Every story in our lives has ripples beyond our eye line. Every twist is a step in our evolution. In this session, Bryony will explore what happens when the life you thought you were building gets cruelly interrupted. With lessons in change, resilience and perspective, Bryony will share the moments in her life that have forever altered its narrative.
During this masterclass in storytelling, you will learn:
How to tap into your own stories to engage and inspire
Coping with life’s challenges
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10:15 - Main Stage
Panel - 6 of the Best!
A panel curated and invited by 2024/25 President Michelle Mills Porter.
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10:45
Tea & Coffee Break
11:15- Main Stage
Great speakers don’t just get booked. They get remembered, rebooked, and recommended.
You’re not the only one who can work a room or deliver a five-star feedback form! Building a thriving speaking business means staying top of mind AFTER the applause has faded, and long after the biscuits have been cleared away.
In this session, Nathan shares how the most in-demand speakers create intentional visibility, deliver value that lasts, and craft the kind of experiences people can’t help but talk about. You’ll explore what it really takes to be top of mind for bookers, clients, and other speakers who can refer you – and how the right mix of marketing, systems, and relationships makes it all work.
If you’re ready to raise your profile, get booked more often, and become the speaker they think of first, this session will give you the tools to make it happen.
By listening to my speech you will learn..
- How to stay top of mind with bookers, clients, and speaker buddies who can open doors
- What makes people recommend you – and how to make it easy for them to do it
- What to focus on when marketing isn’t “your thing”
Nathan Littleton is a marketer, professional speaker and author who specialises in helping businesses to grow by attracting and winning more customers.
Each year he sends more than a million emails on behalf of his clients, and his proven track record has led to him working with leading brands including Microsoft, Virgin Care and the BBC.
Having started his first business, building websites from his bedroom at the age of just 12, he quickly built a reputation for his unique take on email marketing and growing businesses by sending truly un-deletable emails.
Since then, he has made it his mission to give businesses the insights and tools to take their marketing campaigns from good to great, leveraging more than 20 years of experience in the marketing world.
As an in-demand conference speaker, Nathan speaks regularly on email marketing, content creation and marketing strategy with the perfect blend of energy, insight and actionable advice. He holds the distinction of being the youngest ever National President of the Professional Speaking Association and continues to be an active Fellow of the organisation.
Nathan has been honoured with the Professional Speaking Award of Excellence and inducted into the PSA’s Hall of Fame, a distinction shared by around 30 speakers in the UK.
He is the author of two books: ‘Delivered: The No-nonsense Guide to Successful Email Marketing’ and ‘Opened: Great Subject Lines for Higher Email Open Rates.’
When he’s not speaking, writing or sending emails, Nathan is a long-suffering Aston Villa fan, stand-up comedy fanatic and proud geek
