Jun 12, 2025
In Part 2 of their conversation about the Top Ten Mistakes, Darren and Mark talk with Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis about mistakes #5 through #1 in the countdown.
SNIPPETS:
• Identify the guide/guru/compass, which may not be a human
• The hero should not solve their own problem
• It isn’t just about what changed, but about how the character grew
• Give your audience time and room to reflect on the character’s development
• Give the hero a time limit to reach their goal
• Create and escalate conflict
• Be clear about the hero’s goal; not what, but why
• Specificity and clarity are key
• Engage the audience immediately
• Don’t open with trivialities like the weather or how nice it is to be there
1. Weak or Wandering Openings
Why it matters: If you don’t hook the audience in the first 15 seconds, you risk losing them entirely. Many speakers start with platitudes or overused statements instead of tension, emotion, or curiosity.
✅ Fix: Begin with a vivid image, jarring question, or a clear inciting incident. (Craig Valentine: “When they’re predicting, you’re connecting.”)
2. The Main Character Lacks a Clear Goal or Stakes
Why it matters: Without a specific goal and consequence, the story feels directionless and unmotivated. The audience won’t care what happens next.
✅ Fix: Use the ABS AND section to define the character's goal, traits, and motivation.
3. Stories Skip the Struggle
Why it matters: Too many stories jump from the problem to the resolution. They miss the BUT—the emotional depth, obstacles, and low point that make the payoff matter.
✅ Fix: Amplify conflict. Show the tension before the turn. That’s where connection lives.
4. Resolution Without Reflection
Why it matters: The SO isn’t just about what changed—it’s about how the character grew, and what we can take away. When this is rushed or vague, the audience misses the lesson.
✅ Fix: Let the character experience change and articulate new insight. Use dialogue, emotion, and detail.
5. The Guide Isn’t Clear (or is the same person as the hero)
Why it matters: Without a separate Guide figure, the story sounds like self-congratulation. That breaks trust.
✅ Fix: Show who offered perspective, wisdom, or a framework that shifted the main character’s path.
Work with Mark and Darren:
https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/
Check Out Stage Time University:
https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com