Manuela Pauer, CPCC is a Certified Professional Coach and workshop leader. She is an authority in personal leadership and self empowerment. She works with clients who are stuck doing what they think they “should” be doing, rather than what they want to be doing. Her specialty is helping people fall in love with themselves so they can fall in love with their life.

Her work experience spans Strategy Consulting at Bain & Company, Product Management and Strategic Development at a successful start-up, and Executive Director of Product Management and Strategic Planning at AOL.

Manuela left the corporate world behind 4 years ago, when it became clear that she was feeling deeply unhappy despite her career success. She decided to give up the career she had worked so hard for to get back in touch with who she was and to find a vocation she loves. She realized that looking successful on the outside means nothing without feeling successful on the inside. And in order to feel successful on the inside, she had to fully accept and fall in love with herself first. Today, she is sharing the process she went through with other professionals who feel unfulfilled or stuck in their lives or careers and helps them rediscover their passion and purpose.

Manuela completed her coach and leadership training at the Coaches Training Institute and her relationship systems training at the Center for Right Relationships. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of California at Berkeley.

Public Speaking

Manuela’s audiences walk away with new insights and practices that they can implement right away to increase their confidence, improve their relationships, and re-power their lives and careers.

Her most popular presentations include:

• Transform Your Inner Critic into Your Inner Champion
• The Five Fallacies of Success that Keep Us Overworked, Overwhelmed, and Unhappy
• Authentic Leadership: Making an Impact While Being True to Who You Are

You can register here for her upcoming workshops.

Pro-Track Profile

Manuela is a member of the Northern California Chapter of the National Speakers Association Pro-Track class of 2011.

I interviewed Manuela during a recent Pro-Track class and reviewed her reasons for enrolling in the program and why she recommends it to others. She also shares her insights into her role as a life coach and a simple but powerful tip to help people improve their self-esteem. To hear what she told me, click on the podcast icon below.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 5:18 — 1.2MB)

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I’ve blogged about ways to represent large numbers that uses images of a trillion dollars stacked on pallets. Now, thanks to Kostas, my financial adviser, here’s a fascinating chart that’s all about money.

To view, be sure to click on the ‘+’ symbol in the upper left of the screen a few times until you can see the chart detail. There’s graphical representation of the value of dollars, thousands, millions, billions and trillions. It’s all here, from the cost of buying the world a Coke – and teaching the world to sing – to the value of $1000 invested at 5% over time:

Given the focus on the 1% that the Occupy movement has, this part of the chart shows that they might want to narrow the focus to the top 1/500th percent:

Elsewhere in the chart it shows that the 1.6 million US households which make up the top 1% claim a fifth of all household wealth ($2 trillion) while the next 9 million households share the next $2 trillion, down to the 63 million households making up the bottom 50% who earn below $55,000 annually. That, together with the chart showing the hourly income of CEOs today compared to production line workers, makes for some compelling infographics to paper the walls of your tent in Zuccotti Park.

Earlier this month I spent an evening in the Palo Alto Community TV studios being filmed for the monthly Toastmaster Time TV production. This long-running show features speeches by members of different San Francisco Bay Area Toastmasters clubs. Archived speeches go back to 1997.

Delivering a speech in a TV studio

I’d given my speech, A Tale of Two Cities, a couple of times before at different Toastmaster Club meetings. I thought I knew it well enough and felt comfortable with the content. However, being in the studio was a new and totally different experience. Not only was there the darkened room with the bright lights in my face and the camera angles to become comfortable with (“speak to the red light as if it is a person”), there was also the challenge of projecting myself into the fish-eye lens of the camera versus the responsive face of a member of an audience.

Dealing with two cameras was a challenge – I wanted to make a seamless transition from one camera to another and not be caught looking at the wrong lens. Watching for the red light was something that takes getting used to.

There was also the “hurry up and wait” aspect to sitting in the studio for over two hours while the producer assembled the volunteer crew, arranged the lights and resolved all the technical issues. Then, suddenly, it was time to deliver the speech without a teleprompter or notes. I thought I’d remember the content. I was wrong.

I hit the main points with one glaring exception. My close depended on an earlier reference to the smells of Paris: the Gauloise cigarettes, the garlic and the girls perfume. But when I reached the end I suddenly realized I’d forgotten to set this up. C’est la vie.

Lessons learned

Learning to present on camera is a skill that takes practice, my first attempt made me realize just how many pieces of the puzzle need to be in place for it to look natural. Being a part of Toastmaster Time gave me a deep appreciation for what the executives I support in my day job go through when they are on camera. Providing notes on a comfort monitor or card is essential. Schedule sufficient time before the broadcast for a run through. I’d recommend speechwriters and executive communications managers give a speech in a TV studio in order to appreciate the challenge clients face.

Last week I enjoyed an evening at the SVForum Tech Women’s meeting (men welcome!) hearing a presentation by Kim A. Page on ways to make a presentation unforgettable.

Since the early 1990’s, Kim has worked as a consultant and trainer within the areas of communication and innovation for multinational and local organizations. She’s had several articles published about her communication and innovation methodologies and she is fluent in six (!) languages. Her background is in the fields of dramaturgy, communication and organization development.

Making Presentations Unforgettable

Kim shared tips and tools that help make presentations effective and unforgettable. During her session she discussed the contract between the speaker and his/her audience. The audience brings their “intentional attention” to the event. The speaker is responsible for giving a talk that respects the audience in terms of both duration (not going over time) with content that is authentic, honest, well-researched and delivered in a flexible, juicy manner:

The audience wants to feel that this is special. I’m giving you my diamond, I’m present, I’m here. Give me something that I can use in my life, that’s relevant…

Here’s some edited highlights from her talk.

Five Speech Preparation Secrets

Kim wrapped up the evening by sharing five speech preparation secrets. You’ll be surprised and delighted to hear that buying new underwear can play an important role in helping you prepare for your next talk! Watch the video to find out why.

Paul Larsen is an engaging and inspiring business consultant with over 20 years of experience within the business world. He has a proven track record of success in advancing strategic thought, streamlining operations, driving profits, and maximizing organizational growth and development within Fortune 100, start-up, high-tech, and non-profit environments.

Paul realizes that many organizations today are overrun with the “tourist” mentality: “Let someone else figure it out and then tell me what to do.”

Paul asks:

On life’s journey…are you a Tourist or a Traveler? Do you drive your tour bus or let someone else do the driving? Do you set your own itinerary or let someone else schedule your life?

Paul relishes all opportunities to transform leaders and teams from being “tourists” in their own companies into being “true travelers” and thus, take initiative and ownership for their results. The outcome is the creation of a well-connected, agile and motivating workplace of amazing results.

Paul is a frequent conference and workshop speaker on leadership and development at such organizations as the Southern Oncology Association of Practices (SOAP), American Society of Training & Development (ASTD), and the Northern California Human Resource Association (NCHRA). His organizational development work has been featured in the latest book, Consulting on the Inside by Bev Scott and B. Kim Barnes. And his latest article, “Your Front Office: Create Fantastic First Impressions that Last!” was recently featured in the journal of the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management (PAHCOM).

Paul has a B.A. in History from the University of the Pacific and a M.A. in Human Resources Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco. He is a current member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), NCHRA, ASTD and the Bay Area Organization Development Network (BAODN). In his spare time, he can be found somewhere in the world helping communities as a member of a project team with Global Volunteers.org.

Pro-Track Profile

Paul is a member of the Northern California Chapter of the National Speakers Association Pro-Track class of 2011.

I interviewed Paul during a recent Pro-Track class and reviewed his reasons for enrolling in the program and the value he gets from the “learning community” of fellow speakers. He also shares his insights into his role as a coach and consultant. To hear what he told me, click on the podcast icon below.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 4:57 — 1.1MB)

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I help edit SPEAKER Magazine for the National Speakers Association (NSA). Each month I curate the Relevant Resources column – a list of time-saving tools and technologies.

The October list focuses on resources for writers and writing.

Montblanc Fountain Pen – Writing with a quality fountain pen is like making love to your words as they flow sensuously onto the page. The exquisite Montblanc Meisterstuck collection is crafted from black resin and 18K gold with rhodium-plated inlay. Its barrel and cap are made of black precious resin inlaid with the coveted Montblanc emblem. A pleasure for the hand and eye, this pen is sure to conquer the page. Prices vary by custom design.

Rite in the Rain All Weather Notebook – Rite in the Rain is a truly amazing paper that is created for writing in all-weather conditions; from the torrential downpours of the Pacific Northwest to the blistering heat and humidity of a Midwest summer’s day. You can even use it in the bath or shower, or any place where you’re prone to spill food or drink. Starting at $3.95 for a 3″ x 5”spiral-bound pocket notebook.

Moleskine Notebooks – For two centuries Moleskine has been the legendary notebook of artists, writers, and intellectuals. A hardy travel companion, the notebook comes in a variety of sizes and styles, including hard and soft cover sketchbooks, storyboard notebooks, pocket notebooks, and ruled or plain classic writing notebooks. Each is made with acid-free paper and undergoes an environmentally friendly manufacturing process. Starting around $12.

LogiPen NOTES – Convert your notes into digital format with LogiPen NOTES, an innovative pen that captures everything you write and sketch electronically for later editing and sharing on your computer. Write on any type of paper (scratch paper, business cards and napkins) and LogiPen magically converts your scribbles into manageable text files. Compatible with Mac OS X, Windows 7, XP and Vista. $98.50

Old School Lap Desk – When writing in your PJs, keep it classy with the Old School Lap Desk. Elegantly crafted with a cherry-stained finish and brass-hinged top, this desk offers a simple solution when working from home or traveling. The top opens to provide access to a divided storage space with soft green felt to protect your documents, and a foam bead-filled pillow ensures comfortable lap placement. 4.5″ tall x 17″ wide x 14″ deep. $54.49.

The Associated Press (SP) Stylebook – has gone mobile and its 2011 edition is packed with 500 revisions, including a new food, wine and spirits section, and expanded social media guidelines. Download this app to put the journalistic standard for writing at your fingertips. Available for iPhone and Blackberry. $24.99

New York Messenger Bag – Tote all your writing gear in this classic NY Messenger Bag from Manhattan Portage. It has plenty of zippered pockets for keys and small gadgets, and a roomy interior for your books or laptop. Made of Cordura classic fabric with water resistant coating and double reinforcement on the corners for durability. 22″ x 12.5″ x 8.5″. $79.00.

Verilux Modern Natural Spectrum Desk Lamp – Natural lighting contributes to an overall sense of well-being by increasing energy and reducing headaches. The Modern Natural Spectrum Desk Lamp from Verilux is easy on the eyes and energy consumption. The Optix lens focuses natural light while decreasing glare. Includes a 10,000-hour bulb and one-year warranty. $129.95

Planon DocuPen – Making copies is SO yesterday. Scan and store information from books, articles and brochures with the Planon DocuPen, a sleek portable scanner the size of a pen that can process full pages of text and graphics, and store up to 100 images. DocuPen X Series products provide high-quality images and improved functionality for today’s multitasking professional. Includes leather case, USB cable and software. Starting at $299.

Dragon Naturally Speaking Software – Turn ideas into text at the speed of thought when you dictate your words using Dragon Naturally Speaking speech recognition software from Nuance. Three times faster than typing, Dragon allows you to create and edit documents while focusing on your content instead of the pain in your wrist. Invest in the Premium Edition so you can download audio files from any digital recorder and transcribe podium presentations in a flash. Available for the Mac and PC. $199.99.

You can view articles from the current edition and subscribe to SPEAKER magazine on the NSAwebsite.

Madelyn Mackie is a Professional Development and Career Advancement expert. Having successfully navigated careers in biochemistry research, Tony Award winning theaters and major nonprofit agencies, she brings experience, motivation and step-by-step action plans that will Activate Your Career Dreams!

Ask any 5-year-old what they want to be when they grow up and they might answer, “a firefighter,” “an astronaut” or even “President of the United States.” Madelyn Mackie dreamed of being a Superhero and using her talents, strengths and unique gifts to change the world. Madelyn believes that the road to career success and happiness starts with having and living BIG dreams. In college while researching articles for tenured chemistry professors, she dreamed of finding the cure for cancer and other lifesaving scientific discoveries. While working in small community theaters, she dreamed of being a part of with Tony Award winning productions. And up until a few years ago, she dreamed of a job that would allow her to leap tall buildings in a single bound and save the world!

All those big dreams have come true.

Career coaching

Madelyn believes that life is too short to be unhappy, work at a job you hate and not make a difference. She brings experience, motivation and step-by-step action plans that will motivate everyone to activate their career dreams.

Madelyn’s newest workshop, Activate Your Resume! helps individuals refresh outdated resumes, highlight their strengths and showcase their experience for their next dream job. Participants will walk out with a professional, current, stylish resume that will get results!

In today’s competitive job market, Human Resource Managers want more than just a professional, confident, smart candidate with a charming personality. Madelyn’s Activate Your Interview! workshop promises give you the confidence you need to land the job. Find out the best way to research a company before you walk in the door. Learn how to answer the top 10 interview questions and the dreaded “uh oh” question. Discover the one thing you should bring to every job interview that will help you stand out from the pack.

For more information on Madelyn’s speaking presentation and workshops visit ActivateYourCareerDreams.com

Pro-track Profile

Madelyn is a member of the Northern California Chapter of the National Speakers Association Pro-Track class of 2011. As part of the class, she has created an intriguing demo video.

I interviewed Madelyn during a recent Pro-Track class and reviewed her reasons for enrolling in the program and the value she gets from the classes. She shared her insights into job searching, the value of LinkedIn and a key tip to customize a resume. To hear what she told me, click on the podcast icon below.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 5:28 — 1.3MB)

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Round and round it goes
Round and round it goes
– Spandau Ballet

I recently heard a startling NPR report on Roundabouts in the USA.

The report highlights that, over the past decade, the number of roundabouts in the U.S. has increased dramatically, from the low hundreds up to the thousands. Traffic circles (as roundabouts are known Stateside) clearly cut down on commute time and pollution.

Traffic engineers in Los Angeles estimate that at just one intersection

…more than 100 hours of cars just sitting there wasting gas will be saved every day after the retrofit. That calculates to a reduction in tens of thousands of pounds of greenhouse gases every year.

So, with improved traffic flow equaling less wasted time and less pollution, what’s not to like about roundabouts?

Plenty, it seems to some.

Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt

NPR reports that roundabout projects have been defeated all over the U.S. by people who think they’re dangerous. LA resident Isabella McNeil’s comments are typical:

“Oh my gosh, I see people literally like, there’s nothing there, they just keep going, and I’m stuck going, ‘Uh, I think it was your turn to yield?’ ”

An educational campaign that communicates the advantages of roundabouts seems key to overcoming American resistance to changing their approach to intersections from stop and go to going with the flow.

I’ve blogged before about the peculiar aversion to clotheslines exhibited by many Americans. Add an aversion to roundabouts together with a love of green jelly as a side dish to a Turkey Dinner at Thanksgiving and you have a unique trifecta of likes and dislikes in the Land of the Free.

Sun Microsystems co-founder Andy Bechtolsheim kicked off the 2011 Gateway to the US program jointly hosted by ANZA Technology Network and CCICE at the Computer History Museum in Mt. View. His keynote reviewed the challenges and opportunities start-ups face in contrast to established companies.

He claims that the current uncertainties in the world economy favor start-ups. Andy shared his own experience starting Sun in the early 1980s when the economy was on the ropes. In 2001 economic hard times made Google’s paid search a viable alternative to expensive banner ads and the company took off.

Andy shared the five reasons new ideas fail and also listed the most promising areas for start-ups to invest in the I.T. space.

Hear him share his insights into why start-ups are more innovative than established companies by viewing the edited highlights from his keynote below.

On Sunday I invited my daughter to the Shattuck Cinema in Berkeley for the opening weekend of Tiffany Shlain’s latest film Connected. Since we both work at Cisco, and the movie trailer promised a discussion of internet and connectivity, I thought we’d both find it interesting and relevant to our day jobs. “It’ll be a nice Father-Daughter afternoon out,” I mentioned to Emily.

I had no idea.

Tiffany Shlain is the daughter of Dr. Leonard Shlain, a Renaissance man who was a surgeon, inventor and author. In May 2009 he passed away after a two-year battle with brain cancer. This film is an emotionally raw account of her father’s life and death; of his influence on her and the ideas on language and the brain he developed in his book The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image; of
her own struggle to conceive a second child and of her eldest child’s brush with a life-threatening medical emergency.

She started work on the film five years ago, at that time her Dad was one of her principal advisers on the script. His passing both challenged her ability to complete the film and offered an opportunity to make her autobiography a point of departure for a wide-ranging consideration of the effect of the internet, connectivity and collaboration on society today.

Tiffany has been involved in the promotion of the web as the founder of the “Webby Awards” as well as an early proponent of distance learning.

The film uses animated timelines to span developments in science, technology and innovation from the Big Bang to the present day. She focuses on historical figures such as Einstein, Marie Curie and James Lovelock to detail the evolution of ideas from the era of the printing press to the web. The decline of the honeybee is seen as a leitmotif for the many threats to the planet that patriarchal, left-brained thinking has led to.

However, Tiffany takes an optimistic view of the potential for the interconnected world we inhabit to discover a way out of the crisis. By focusing less on linear text and more on pattern recognition and images, she suggests the Web might begin to undo the centuries exaltation of the masculine, left-brained approach to problems.

As Adi Da Samraj has written in Not-Two Is Peace, Only everybody-all-at-once can change the current chaos. Tiffany’s stunning autobiographical film holds hope that the interconnectivity made possible by the network will indeed become a platform for a sensible resolution to the challenges we all face.

Coming to Theaters

Connected is currently playing at selected theaters in San Francisco, Berkeley and Mill Valley, CA. Over the next six weeks it opens in Portland, OR; Monterey, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Seattle, WA; New York, NY and Denver, CO.