Find Your Throughline: How to Avoid the “Too Broad or Too Narrow” Dilemma in Your Presentation Topic

Feeling unsure if your presentation topic is too broad or too narrow?

In this episode, I dig into one of the most common challenges speakers face - and share how to fix it with clarity and confidence.

Years ago, when I built a talk around “women’s leadership,” I ran into the same issue: I had *so* much to say and no clear structure to tie it all together.

The turning point? Discovering the power of a throughline, which is a focused core message that anchors your entire talk.

In just a few minutes, you’ll learn how to:
- Know when your topic is too big or too small
- Use the “palm tree” test to connect your points to one strong idea
- Turn overwhelming content into a portfolio of signature talks

You’ll walk away with three key questions to ask yourself that will help you streamline your topic and speak with more impact.

Remember, the best speakers aren’t the ones who say everything; they’re the ones who clarify what matters most for their audience right now.

If you’re ready to develop a meaningful talk that showcases your voice and vision, I’d love to guide you. Head over to speakingyourbrand.com to learn how we can work together to clarify your idea and message and create your signature talk.

Be sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss upcoming episodes packed with strategies and inspiration just for you.

For interviews and longer episodes, check out the Speaking Your Brand podcast.

The script was generated by AI based on past Speaking Your Brand podcast episodes, proprietary frameworks, and years of experience coaching clients on public speaking and thought leadership. Powered by a custom Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, the script pulls from a rich library of our expert insights and methodologies. The final episode is voiced using host Carol Cox’s AI voice clone from Eleven Labs, so you’re getting her guidance - in her own voice - delivered in a quick and accessible format. It’s a unique blend of innovation and authenticity designed to help you speak with confidence and clarity.