What Broadway Can Teach Us About Unforgettable Presentations

What Broadway Can Teach Us About Unforgettable Presentations

Last week I travelled to New York City to speak to NSA New York City. As I often do when my schedule permits, I added a few extra days to enjoy—and study—what New York has to offer. For me, going to the theatre is not simply entertainment. It is continuing education....
Get Into the Scene Late: A Hollywood Technique Every Speaker Can Use

Get Into the Scene Late: A Hollywood Technique Every Speaker Can Use

My friend Michael Hauge is a Hollywood story consultant. We met 25 years ago when he came to hear me speak at the Los Angeles chapter of the National Speakers Association. At the time, I was in my heavy-duty screenwriting-seminar days. I quoted David Freeman, who...
When History Comes Alive on Stage

When History Comes Alive on Stage

Recently, I attended a fascinating speakers’ conference, the Veteran Speakers Network. Terry Brock hosted the Friday evening entertainment, creating his own version of Steve Allen’s Meeting of Minds. Meeting of Minds was an unusual and highly regarded PBS television...
What You Can Say Instead of “I’m Sorry” and Build Credibility

What You Can Say Instead of “I’m Sorry” and Build Credibility

A client recently asked me to come up with suggestions for her team members who were overusing the phrase, “I’m sorry” with clients. “I’m sorry” is important when a genuine apology is called for. However, many professionals have developed the habit of apologizing...
How Do You Do Stop Everyone Including the Boss from Dominating Meetings?

How Do You Do Stop Everyone Including the Boss from Dominating Meetings?

When one person dominates a meeting, your goal is not to “shut them down.” Your responsibility is to protect the participation of the whole room. Why does this matter? Because meetings are designed to benefit from the collective experience, expertise, and perspective...