In this solo episode Heather Smith shares her proven process for creating impactful presentations, from topic selection to AI tools, helping accountants communicate with clarity, confidence, and audience engagement.

The accompanying article to this podcast appeared in Karbon Magazine : https://karbonhq.com/resources/creating-impactful-presentations/

In this episode, we talk about . . .

Key Topics:

• Choosing a clear, focused topic tied to your strengths.
• Event prep checklist (theme, audience, timing, learning outcomes).
• Leveraging AI tools like Gamma.ai & ChatGPT for brainstorming and refinement.
• Presentation design tips with Canva & accessibility considerations.
• Audience engagement strategies (polls, paired discussions, live reflections).
• Practising delivery, managing timing, and adjusting to conference themes.

Apps & Tools Mentioned: Canva, Gamma.ai, ChatGPT, Otter.ai, Mentimeter, Slido.

00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction Heather introduces the Accounting Apps Podcast and today’s focus on presentation skills.

03:05 – The Accountant as Storyteller Why storytelling matters in accounting presentations.

05:12 – Picking Your Presentation Topic Identifying core strengths and aligning with audience needs.

08:20 – Event Prep Checklist Heather’s go-to template for conference and session details.

12:18 – Knowing Your Audience & Agenda Positioning Adapting delivery based on audience energy levels and schedule timing.

16:05 – Drafting Content & Reusing Resources Repurposing past slides, articles, and podcasts to save time.

19:40 – Designing for Clarity with Canva Practical slide design tips and exploring Gamma.ai for inspiration.

24:10 – Essential Presentation Structure Key slide elements from title page to call-to-action.

27:55 – Engaging Your Audience Using polls, paired discussions, and live reflections to boost interaction.

32:05 – Slide Strategies & Accessibility Heather’s approach to slide density, colour choices, and design resources.

35:40 – Leveraging AI for Content Review Using ChatGPT to refine flow, style, and relevance.

39:05 – Practice, Backup Plans & Conference Day Routine Preparation techniques, tech checks, and handling unexpected issues.

41:25 – Lifelong Learning for Accountants Encouragement to keep developing skills for impactful communication.

Contact details:

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU