Carol Ann Lloyd is a leadership keynote speaker and historian who helps leaders navigate complexity using timeless insights from Shakespeare’s plays. She speaks globally for Smithsonian Associates and other organizations, translating Shakespeare’s stories into practical strategies for leadership, communication and decision-making in a fast-changing world. Lloyd is the author of “Courting the Virgin Queen: Queen Elizabeth I And Her Suitors” and hosts the podcast British History: Royals, Rebels, and Romantics. She is an Innovation Women Content Creator member who frequents Innovation Women online events, uses her speaker profile to gain visibility and takes part in our online community.
What challenges led you to us?
Not knowing how to expand my audience from the history world (Smithsonian) to a broader, higher-paying corporate world.
Tell us about your best speaking success story! How have you used the Innovation Women educational resources, network, database and/or services to help you drive business, book talks, make key connections, or land new opportunities?
I recently developed, secured and delivered at TEDx talk that was selected as an Editor’s Choice! This is thanks in large part to someone I met on Innovation Women, the amazing Anna Goldsmith. I was also supported and inspired in this experience by another IW member, Tricia Rose Burt.
Has Innovation Women helped you find speaking engagements, talks, events, conferences, or networking opportunities?
Innovation Women helped me find Anna, who led me to landing my TEDx talk! I’m working hard on submitting applications, so a success story is right around the corner.
Has your business grown through your affiliation with Innovation Women, our online community, Lioness Magazine events and services, Speaker Friend Fridays, BrightTALK webinars, or any other resources shared by our community?
I have learned so much from the amazing women I have met. I participated in one of Brenda Mellar’s LinkedIn live events. I wrote an article for Lioness. The webinars are amazing. I love Speaker Friend Fridays. I have recommitted myself to my speaking business, overhauled my website, hired a business manager and am committed to submitting application after application. Thank you, IW!
What is the most significant impact that Innovation Women has had on your career or business?
Knowledge. Knowledge is power.
What is one thing you learned from Innovation Women that you will carry forward?
That we as women have the power to redefine the way the world works. I get so much love from Innovation Women when I share how I’m using Shakespeare to speak about leadership!
What specific results or achievements are you most proud of?
My commitment to growing my business and finding the tools to do so.
What do you like best about our approach/support?
The ease of coming to a meeting with questions and having everyone willing to help. I have never felt stupid asking questions at IW.
Did anything about Innovation Women surprise you or exceed your expectations?
I was happily surprised how open everyone is to sharing ideas.
What would you tell someone considering our services, but on the fence about joining?
You will feel better about yourself when you participate in the community.
