Why They Resonate

Hosted by Jay Acunzo

Business Marketing Entrepreneurship

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

About the show

Speakers, authors, experts, and entrepreneurs develop their ideas in real-time, so you can see what it really takes to resonate. Join professional speaker and public speaking advisor Jay Acunzo as you get closer to the process of how exceptional communicators actually craft their materials. You'll hear how new ideas take shape, speeches become great, and stories evolve from meh to memorable. The show is part celebration, part workshop, and you'll walk away ready to compete on the influence of your ideas, not the volume of your marketing.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 18, 2026Episode 7539 min

KEYNOTE PUNCH-UP: How to open a data-heavy talk, with Amanda Natividad

Amanda Natividad joins the show to rework the opener of her keynote with Jay. It's extremely data-heavy and leads to a lot of "throat-clearing" by Amanda, which she notices rewatching it. Making things harder, she was introduced onto the stage in a strange way, presenting her with a tricky decision: acknowledge it or push ahead? Amanda is the author of the book, Zero Click Marketing: How to Build Brands and Earn Customers on a Traffic-Starved Web, which she coauthored with Rand Fishkin. WATCH THE KEYNOTE PUNCH-UP: https://youtu.be/cBRIKNYnFx4?is=X9SqqELKNjAOZwio Learn more about Amanda at https://zeroclickmarketing.co/ and follow her at https://linkedin.com/in/amandanat Watch the full keynote from MicroConf: https://linkedin.com/in/amandanat * KEEP LEARNING: 🧰 Resources for professional speakers: https://jayacunzo.com/speaking-resources 🎤 Book Jay to speak: https://jayacunzo.com/keynotes 📬 Jay's Newsletter: https://jayacunzo.com/newsletter 📈 Work with Jay to develop your keynote and grow your speaking business: https://jayacunzo.com/services * ABOUT THE SHOW: On WHY THEY RESONATE, speakers, authors, experts, and entrepreneurs develop their ideas in real-time, so you can see what it really takes to resonate. Join professional speaker and public speaking advisor Jay Acunzo as you get closer to the process of how exceptional communicators actually craft their materials. You'll hear how new ideas take shape, speeches become great, and stories evolve from meh to memorable. The show is part celebration, part workshop, and you'll walk away ready to compete on the influence of your ideas, not the volume of your marketing. Music for Why They Resonate is by Embleton: https://linktr.ee/embleton This episode is sponsored by Wistia, the platform for all your webinars, podcasting, and video marketing needs: https://wistia.com * ABOUT JAY: Jay Acunzo is a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Disney, Mailchimp, and Salesforce. Before starting his advisory firm, Jay was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. He’s directed documentaries, hosted podcasts, and created award-winning content for innovative startups and Fortune 500 brands. Today, Jay teaches business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Keynote Speaking & Business Inquiries: https://jayacunzo.com/

August 10, 2026Episode 741 hr 13 min

Live podcast audit: Jeremy Enns and Jay overhaul this show's strategy

This conversation blew my mind, and I found so much clarity talking my friend Jeremy Enns (founder of the Podcast Marketing Academy) as he helped rework my show's strategy so it better serves others and my business at the same time. You’ll hear a BIG realization about 30 or so minutes into our chat, plus get an inside look at the strategy, my creative execution, and how the show connects to other content and my revenue-generating offerings. EPISODE CREDITS: Learn more about Jeremy Enns and the Podcast Marketing Academy This episode sponsored by Wistia . Hosted and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. Music from Embleton . *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.com Book me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotes Watch video versions of some episodes, plus get regular insights into stronger public speaking and growing a speaking business, at youtube.com/jayacunzo *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

July 20, 2026Episode 7317 min

Book announcement! Plus a sneak preview

I'm writing my next book! In this episode, I lay out all the details for why I'm taking a risk, where the book fits in the market, and just how much of a delusional project this might be. Then, listen to the empathy statement—a kind of prologue or "starter dough" writing which sets the tone and answers the question, "Why should I care?" Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for book updates, exclusives, and behind-the-scenes, as well as the chance to submit your stories for inclusion! EPISODE CREDITS: Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. Music for Why They Resonate is by Embleton ( Instagram - Facebook ). *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.com Book me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotes Watch video versions of some episodes, plus get regular insights into stronger public speaking and growing a speaking business, at youtube.com/jayacunzo *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

July 10, 2026Episode 7242 min

BEST OF: Seth Godin dissects his signature story

In this episode, Seth Godin takes us into how he thinks about storytelling and the intersection of strategy and story, and then we hear him dissect one of his go-to stories. Plus, Seth and I trade stories in the back half of the episode—business storytelling nerdery on full display. Seth is a world-renowned author, speaker, and thought leader who has written more than 20 bestsellers, including Purple Cow, The Practice, and This Is Marketing. At the time of this recording, Seth was focused on promoting This is Strategy. Together, Seth and I discuss his delightful story about recumbent bikes. This "super-story" has found its way into Seth’s work repeatedly for over a decade. We discuss ‌the evolution of this story, how he conceptualizes status and affiliation, and why focusing on pedagogy as a storyteller is essential. Also in the episode: why the idea of your "posture" matters for storytellers, the role of the storyteller in the world today, and why smaller stories often have a bigger impact. Learn more about Seth's work and subscribe to his daily blog at seths.blog EPISODE CREDITS: Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. For more, subscribe to my newsletter→ Production support for the original edit by Ilana Nevins. Music for Why They Resonate is by Embleton ( Instagram - Facebook ). *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.com Book me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotes Watch video versions of some episodes, plus get regular insights into stronger public speaking and growing a speaking business, at youtube.com/jayacunzo *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

June 25, 2026Episode 7145 min

BEST OF: The only way to figure out a story is to tell it | Andrew Davis

The man, the myth, and the legend Andrew Davis appeared in the first-ever episode of the show. We're running it back today, so you can hear how a master operates and thinks. Andrew Davis is a bestselling author and internationally acclaimed keynote speaker. Before building and selling a thriving digital marketing agency, Andrew produced for NBC’s Today Show, worked for The Muppets in New York and wrote for Charles Kuralt. He's appeared in the New York Times, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, and on NBC and the BBC. Davis has crafted documentary films and award-winning content for tiny start-ups and Fortune 500 brands. Recognized as one of the industry's "Jaw-Dropping Marketing Speakers," Andrew is a mainstay on global marketing influencer lists. Wherever he goes, he puts his infectious enthusiasm and magnetic speaking style to good use teaching business leaders how to grow their businesses, transform their cities, and leave their legacy. Learn more about Drew, his speaking, and his books at akadrewdavis.com EPISODE CREDITS: Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. For more, subscribe to my newsletter→ Production support by Ilana Nevins. Music by Embleton ( Instagram - Facebook ). *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.com Book me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotes *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

June 10, 2026Episode 7023 min

How YOU can appear on the show [+ ranting on thought leaders and AI]

Here's how to turn Why They Resonate into Why YOU Resonate. Plus, a rant in two parts about the troubled relationship between thought leaders with big followings and AI. You see, they've all taken unpaid jobs working for other people. They just don't seem to notice yet. EPISODE CREDITS: Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. For more, subscribe to my newsletter→ Music by Embleton ( Instagram - Facebook ). *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.com Book me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotes *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

May 8, 2026Episode 6933 min

NEW SHOW NAME! Here's why, plus a tiny concept with big implications

How Stories Happen is now Why They Resonate . Here's why and what to expect next. Plus, learn the single Italian word which says so much about our creative work — and why it's the driving force behind the show's rebrand and revival. EPISODE CREDITS: Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. For more, subscribe to my newsletter→ Music by Embleton ( Instagram - Facebook ). *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot. I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance. Learn more about my work at jayacunzo.com . *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.

April 27, 2026Episode 6843 min

A look inside my business

I've been through the ringer these past few years and come out the other side with something special. It's time for a transparent look inside my business. *** To get regular advice, frameworks, and stories helping you communicate with greater clarity and resonance, subscribe to my newsletter→ PS: As mentioned in previous episodes, please expect a name change and cover art change for the show soon. Can't wait for things to come! *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I work with entrepreneurs, execs, and teams on the journey from competent to resonant. To do that, I help transform your thinking into clear, captivating ideas, speeches, and IP. Stop chasing attention. Become the one others seek. I’m a former marketing leader at Google and HubSpot and globally touring speaker and author . I've spent 20 years building the exact thought leadership I now help clients create—as a practitioner-peer, not a coach with templates. Work with me 1:1, book me to speak, or explore free resources at jayacunzo.com Don't market more. Matter more. Think resonance over reach. Don't be the best. Be their favorite. *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for listening!

April 7, 2026Episode 6718 min

I can't believe people can do that

I can't believe people can do THAT. I can't believe people can DO that. I can't believe PEOPLE can do that. *** To get regular advice, frameworks, and stories helping you communicate with greater clarity and resonance, subscribe to my newsletter→ PS: As mentioned in previous episodes, please expect a name change and cover art change for the show soon. Can't wait for things to come! *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I work with entrepreneurs, execs, and teams on the journey from competent to resonant. To do that, I help transform your thinking into clear, captivating ideas, speeches, and IP. Stop chasing attention. Become the one others seek. I’m a former marketing leader at Google and HubSpot and globally touring speaker and author . I've spent 20 years building the exact thought leadership I now help clients create—as a practitioner-peer, not a coach with templates. Work with me 1:1, book me to speak, or explore free resources at jayacunzo.com Don't market more. Matter more. Think resonance over reach. Don't be the best. Be their favorite. *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for listening!

March 30, 2026Episode 661 hr 3 min

Something bad happened to me thanks to AI

I'm sharing the full story in this episode. It's time to take stuff like this more seriously. To get regular advice, frameworks, and stories helping you communicate with greater clarity and resonance, subscribe to my newsletter→ PS: As mentioned in the episode, please expect a name change and cover art change for the show soon. Can't wait for things to come! *** ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZO I work with entrepreneurs, execs, and teams on the journey from competent to resonant. To do that, I help transform your thinking into clear, captivating ideas, speeches, and IP. Stop chasing attention. Become the one others seek. I’m a former marketing leader at Google and HubSpot and globally touring speaker and author . I've spent 20 years building the exact thought leadership I now help clients create—as a practitioner-peer, not a coach with templates. Work with me 1:1, book me to speak, or explore free resources at jayacunzo.com Don't market more. Matter more. Think resonance over reach. Don't be the best. Be their favorite. *** IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for listening!