You’ll find out what I’ve learned over three decades of speechwriting, speaking and communications strategy. And you’ll meet some guests with their own wisdom to share on reaching audiences with powerful messages.
Ep. 39. Quote me on that: Using quotations effectively in your speech
Quotations are one of a speechwriter’s essential tools — right up there with metaphors, jokes and 3 a.m. espresso. But borrowed eloquence doesn’t always work out, and as handy as a quotation can be, using it requires care. This episode looks at how to use quotations to elevate your whole speech, and how another person’s fine words can make yours shine even brighter.
Ep. 38. To tell the truth: Speaking without misleading
Most of us like to think of ourselves as basically honest people. But as speakers and speechwriters, it’s surprisingly easy to find ourselves misleading our audiences: accidentally or (gulp) deliberately. Find out how — even with the best intentions — you may be leading your audience astray… and how to get back onto the path of truth.
Ep. 37. Making the most of a rally speech, with guest Tzeporah Berman: part 2
Political protest is on the rise — and with it, a growing need for leaders to speak to protest rallies. This episode, we talk with veteran environmental and climate campaigner Tzeporah Berman about rally speeches: how to plan, write and deliver them for maximum impact. This two-part episode started with a discussion on planning your speech and thinking about strategy. Here in part two, we conclude by talking about writing and delivery.
Ep. 36. Making the most of a rally speech, with guest Tzeporah Berman: part 1
Political protest is on the rise — and with it, a growing need for leaders to speak to protest rallies. This episode, we talk with veteran environmental and climate campaigner Tzeporah Berman about rally speeches: how to plan, write and deliver them for maximum impact. This two-part episode starts with a discussion on planning your speech and thinking about strategy. We’ll conclude in part two by talking about writing and delivery.
Ep. 35. Speechwriters on stage
Want to be a better speechwriter? One of the best ways to improve your speechwriting is to get out from behind your keyboard and get in front of an audience. Why speechwriters should also be speakers — and how you can get started.
Ep. 34. When the questions get tough, the tough get prepared
This episode, why debate prep and media prep should be tough on a leader… and how it too often isn’t.
Ep. 33. Cue the theatrics! What speakers (and speechwriters) can learn from actors
What does acting have to do with authenticity? More than you might think. This episode, we look at how the tools actors bring to their most compelling performances can help you connect with your audience.
Ep. 32. Getting started in speechwriting
There’s no well-worn, signposted career path to being a speechwriter. That’s the bad news. The good news? There are plenty of other paths in. This episode, we look at how to break into speechwriting — and some lessons from my own first big break.
Ep. 31. Sorry seems to be the hardest word: delivering a great apology
In today’s episode, we look at why it’s worth apologizing… how some people screw it up… and how to deliver an apology that brings some genuine closure.