NSA-MN September 2026 Newsletter
From Your President, Jill J Johnson, MBA
I have to confess something: I am a history nerd who loves genealogy, tracing where people came from and how the past shapes the present. When I think about NSA-MN, I see it the same way. Our chapter has been supporting speakers for decades, and every one of us, no matter where we are in our career, is part of this continuum.
You are part of our chapter legacy of members that includes more than 50 Certified Speaking Professionals (CSP), 15 National Speakers Association Hall of Fame honorees (CPAE), and 3 National NSA presidents.
Every NSA-MN member has built their speaking career the same way: one speech, one relationship, one chapter meeting at a time. They showed up. They learned. They got involved. Our community exists to help each of us think bigger and build smarter, no matter what stage we are in. And like any family tree, ours is still growing, one member at a time.
My ask of you: This month, be that person!
Show up. Volunteer. Mentor someone newer. Bring a guest. Share a resource. Come early and welcome our members as they walk through the door. These are small actions with a big continuum.
I look forward to seeing you at our next chapter program, connecting with you on social media (https:/www.linkedin.com/in/JillJohnsonUSA), and hearing how you are putting what you learn into action.
See you in the room!
Warmly,
Jill J. Johnson, MBA, President, NSA-MN
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Will We See You in October?
Wow! Our Fall kick-off chapter program with legendary speaker and Cavett Award recipient Scott McKain, CSP, CPAE, started our year strong! Nearly 80 attendees came reflecting one of the largest turnouts in our 40+ year history. The energy was contagious and people stayed long after to take photos with Scott and keep the conversation going. This is just the beginning of an exciting season!
NEXT UP: Ann McNeill joins us to provide proven strategies on how to get more impact, more income, and build a stronger speaking business - don't miss this one!
RSVP LINK
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR OUR 2026-27 PROGRAMS!
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Quick Hits
Thank You! A heartfelt thank you to Marci Malzahn for opening her home to host our Sold-Out Summer Social, and NSA-MN President-Elect, Kim Nagle, for her leadership alongside Marci in planning it. What a wonderful night, thanks to you two!
ACTIVATE 2026: NSA's only event dedicated entirely to online speaking and virtual delivery. This two-day virtual conference is built to help you take your virtual presentations to the next level. Take a look: LINK
CSP Applications Now Open: Considering your Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation? Applications for the Class of 2027 opened September 1. Find full details and requirements here: LINK
Don’t Forget: When you attend National NSA events, be sure to list NSA-MN as your chapter! We receive a rebate based on registration, and your attendance helps our chapter earn recognition.
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Big Wins
A behind-the-mic look at what our members are creating and achieving, from new books to podcasts to recognition worth celebrating!
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Bryce Austin, CSP, was interviewed by NBC’s KARE11 and CBS’s WCCO on the coordinated cyberattacks targeting 36 Minnesota water systems. A clip from his interview was featured nationally on the Today Show.
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Sebastian Dzuik launched a new podcast called Queer & Thriving. It can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Bill Goodwin launched a new podcast, The Priority Living Podcast with Coach Bill Goodwin. It can be found on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
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Jill J. Johnson, MBA, was named one of the “Top 50 Fearless Leaders” of 2026 by the International Association of Top Professionals. She was also featured in a book of the same name that has achieved Amazon Best Seller status including hitting #1 in the US, Canada, and Australia.
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Dr. Cindra Kamphoff, CSP, has released her new book, The Confidence Habit. She has appeared on Good Morning America, MPR and featured in TIME. Her book is now a national best seller with rankings on the Publishers Weekly and USA Today’s National Best Seller lists.
If you have any news or a win we can celebrate, send the information to us at: [email protected]
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Every month we send out a newsletter to our current membership and mailing list. These newsletters include updates, events, and some inspiring content for our professional speakers, trainers, coaches, and consultants. Enjoy these newsletters from the current and previous year.
