Episode 9: BONUS Episode with Dr Nadya Zhexembayeva in BeTheTalk Podcast by Nathan Eckel

Breaking the Rules: Reinvention, TED Talks, and Publishing on Your Own Terms

In this candid bonus episode, Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva joins Nathan Eckel for a behind-the-scenes conversation about her TEDx talks, her journey as an author, and what it means to speak—and write—with truth and urgency. From navigating the pressures of large audiences to crowd-writing books in real-time, Dr. Nadya shares how breaking the “rules” of both speaking and publishing helped her make a bigger impact. This episode is a masterclass in finding your voice and staying authentic in a world obsessed with formulas.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll learn why following traditional rules doesn’t always serve your mission—and how Dr. Nadya learned to speak, write, and publish on her own terms. She breaks down how to approach public speaking with integrity, build books through community input, and why “TED is not about you—it’s about the idea.” Whether you’re a speaker, author, or leader with something important to say, this episode offers practical, empowering advice on how to show up fully and connect with your audience in powerful ways.

Who This Is For

• Speakers preparing for TEDx or keynote events
• Authors navigating traditional vs. self-publishing
• Coaches, educators, and thought leaders building a platform
• Creators seeking authentic expression without gimmicks
• Professionals who want to make meaningful impact with their ideas

3 Key Takeaways from This Episode

1. Reinvention Includes How You Speak

Public speaking advice is often too rigid—and often distracts you from your message. Dr. Nadya encourages listeners to embrace their natural style, saying the most powerful talks happen when you stop trying to impress and focus fully on the audience.

2. Publishing Success Doesn’t Require an Agent

Despite being told she needed an agent or a big-name publisher, Dr. Nadya built successful book launches both traditionally and through self-publishing. Her latest book uses a living model, with continuous updates and crowd collaboration, showing how reinvention applies even to the publishing process

3. Know the Rules—Then Break Them with Purpose

Whether it’s on stage or on paper, reinvention requires courage. Dr. Nadya explains why knowing the rules is important—but having the confidence to break them when necessary is what truly sets your message apart.

Resources Mentioned

• ChiefReinventionOfficer.com
• “The Titanic Syndrome” TEDx Talk by Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva
• Overfished Ocean Strategy and Embedded Sustainability  (books)
• Dr. Nadya’s new living book project on reinvention - now Chief Reinvention Officer Handbook: How to Thrive in Chaos