The Rising Star – Dipl.-Psych. Rolf Schmiel in Interview
From No-Name to Top Speaker: The Success Story of Rolf Schmiel
"15 years of preparation for a career leap!" - Diplom-Psychologe Rolf Schmiel in interview.
Just three years ago, hardly anyone in the speaker scene knew the psychologist Rolf Schmiel. Today, he is one of the most booked speakers at Speakers Excellence. As a psychological expert, Rolf Schmiel also appears almost weekly on radio & TV, including BR3, Sat.1, and WDR2. In the spring of 2017, he co-hosted the multi-part Sat.1 show "So tickt der Mensch" alongside Ruth Moschner. In our interview, he reveals how he went from being a no-name to a successful speaker and prime-time TV expert in a short time.
From Academia to the Stage: The Path to Becoming a Speaker
Speakers Excellence:
To get to know you better, could you tell us what you did professionally before launching your career as a speaker and TV psychologist?
Rolf Schmiel:
After my studies, I initially worked as a research assistant at the Chair of Communication Psychology at the Ruhr University Bochum. In 1999, I became self-employed as a psychological business consultant and spent about 15 years working on various projects – experiencing all the ups and downs imaginable.
Success Factors: Perseverance and the Courage to Change
Speakers Excellence:
In your book "Senkrechtstarter" (Rising Star), you share both your successes and your biggest crises. What had the most impact on you?
Rolf Schmiel:
The near insolvency in 2010 was a major blow. However, two extreme events shaped me the most: the death of my father at Christmas 2008 and the birth of my son Leonard just a few weeks later. These emotional extremes showed me what truly matters in life and gave me the strength to overcome professional challenges.
Career Leap: From Setback to Motivation
Speakers Excellence:
Until the release of your book "Senkrechtstarter", you were rarely seen on major stages. What ultimately led to your career leap?
Rolf Schmiel:
You could say I took 15 years of preparation to finally take off! The real breakthrough came from a mix of ambition and frustration. When my book received little attention in stores, I analyzed the reasons: Prominence beats competence. It became clear to me that media presence is key.
Strategic Media Presence: From Radio to TV
Speakers Excellence:
How did you manage to suddenly be so present in TV and radio?
Rolf Schmiel:
It was hard, strategic work. My goal was TV presence. Since you can't just apply for it, I specifically contacted radio stations and submitted expert commentary on current topics every week for several months. A PR agency supported me in this effort. Out of over 80 contributions, about 5% were very well received, leading to collaborations with stations like BR3 and WDR2.
Perseverance Pays Off
Speakers Excellence:
95% of your contributions had little or no impact. Wasn't that discouraging?
Rolf Schmiel:
Of course, it wasn't easy, but I knew that staying consistent is crucial. In marketing, achieving a 1% response rate is already considered a success. In addition to radio promotion, I pursued classic PR and remained active on social media. Eventually, one of Germany's largest TV production companies called, looking for a psychologist for the show "So tickt der Mensch".
The Combination of Strategy and Luck
Speakers Excellence:
You are now not only successful on TV but also a highly sought-after speaker. Where does your public speaking talent come from?
Rolf Schmiel:
Talent plays only a minor role. Since 2005, I've been giving public impulse lectures. But it was only after receiving coaching from experienced stage professionals from 2013 onwards that I truly developed. The coaching sessions were sometimes painful, but beyond the pain lie the greatest opportunities for growth.
Success and Enjoyment: Finding the Balance
Speakers Excellence:
Privately, you seem very joyful and sociable. How does that fit with your disciplined work ethic?
Rolf Schmiel:
I love the good life – but without hard work, there is no success. The balance of Yin & Yang, light & shadow is essential. If you only work, you miss life. If you only party, you remain unsuccessful.
Future Plans: Moving Forward with Motivation
Speakers Excellence:
What are your next goals?
Rolf Schmiel:
Right now, I am enjoying this successful phase and spending time with my family. After a short break, new projects with celebrities and TV formats are on the horizon – but I can’t reveal more just yet!
Experience Dipl.-Psych. Rolf Schmiel Live
Be part of the 14th Ostsee.Kongress and see Rolf Schmiel live! Get inspired by his motivational impulses and learn how to become a rising star in your own field.
