Why Your Audience Connection Determines Your Presentation Success

Why Your Audience Connection Determines Your Presentation Success

When preparing for a presentation, most speakers focus on their content and slides. That’s important—but it’s not enough. The real question you must ask yourself is: Who is my audience, and why should they care? Your content may be brilliant, but your impact depends...
Do You Want to Inspire Action and Commitment? Use More Active Verbs

Do You Want to Inspire Action and Commitment? Use More Active Verbs

At an all-day event, my client asked me to speak briefly to promote my afternoon session. I said, “I know your morning is full, just give me three minutes.” I only took two and a half. I began with an amusing story about a request for an interview, which made the...
Are You Missing Out on a Great Way to Improve Your Presentations?

Are You Missing Out on a Great Way to Improve Your Presentations?

From Good to World-Class: How to Improve Your Presentations Socrates said, “Know thyself.” I say, “Put your words under the magnifying glass.” If you want to improve all of your presentations, here’s a simple process that works for seasoned professionals as well as...
The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

Recently, I had the joy of seeing the magnificent show A Beautiful Noise at The Smith Center in Las Vegas. This is, of course, the life story of Neil Diamond. Having seen him perform live before, I knew to expect magic, and I wasn’t disappointed. Part of the show’s...

Do You Agree Many Political Speech Openings Miss Opportunities?

You know how often I speak and write about the critical importance of a strong speech opening. The first words your audience hears don’t just begin your message; they set the tone, command attention, and signal your confidence. In short, the opening arouses interest...

The Actor’s Secret That Makes Great Speakers Unforgettable

The Secret to Impactful Speaking and Performing “What an actor has to do is be personal in public,” said the legendary acting teacher, Lee Strasberg. That phrase resonates deeply with anyone who has stood on a stage or in front of a camera—or who leads a team, pitches...