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 in the subject and the speaker. This is true whether you’re […]
Read More...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 an idea, or delivers a keynote. Strasberg […]
Read More...Do You Want to Know the Secret to Conquer Your Jitters When Speaking?
Here is the good news. Your audience will not know how you feel; they will only see how you act. Delivering Your Speech Is More Than the Words You’re waiting your turn to deliver your presentation when suddenly you realize that your stomach is doing flips and your mind is rapidly going blank. How do […]
Read More...Making It Look Easy Isn’t Easy
Making It Look Easy Isn’t Easy When we watch a brilliant comedian, captivating speaker, or talented entertainer, it’s easy to think, “They make it look so effortless!” That’s precisely the point. The smoother the performance, the more hours of preparation, refinement, and quiet struggle are behind it. Years ago, I had the privilege of hearing […]
Read More...Guaranteed this is the Best Way to Gain More Time: Say “No”
Let’s be honest—we all have too much to do. If you’re anything like me, there are times you feel overwhelmed just looking at your to-do list. My brilliant friend Ford Saeks often says, “Fripp gets more done in an hour than most people do in a day.” I appreciate the compliment. I only wish it […]
Read More...Lost Without PowerPoint? 7 Tips to Make It Powerful
When I ask my clients, “How long is your presentation?” it scares me when they answer, “Twelve slides.” Even worse is when I ask, “How do you design your presentation?” and they respond, “We get the slide deck.” Let’s be clear: PowerPoint is a very valuable tool, not a presentation. If you start with your […]
Read More...Norfolk: A Vacation Destination Full of History, Charm, and Creative Fuel
Whenever I return to the UK, I explore somewhere new I have never visited, even after decades of back-and-forth trips across the Atlantic. This time, it was Norfolk, and what a delightfully surprising choice it was. One of my greatest pleasures is listening to thrillers on Audible. Recently, I’ve been captivated by J.M. Dalgliesh’s Hidden […]
Read More...Need a New Perspective, Fresh Ideas, and Inspiration for Your Next Speech?
Then perhaps you need to take a vacation? I am now one week into my three-week vacation in the UK. This isn’t just a holiday, it’s a meaningful pause, a reconnection with my roots, and a chance to enjoy quality time with some of my favorite people. My long-time friend and negotiation expert, Derek Arden, […]
Read More...Are You Looking for a Secret Weapon to Make Your Presentations Successful?
Audience interaction is more than asking questions or inviting a show of hands. It is about engagement, connection, and curiosity. In my decades as a keynote speaker and executive speech coach, I have learned that when you interact with your audience, they feel seen, heard, and valued. They do not sit back passively; they lean […]
Read More...Storytelling: Your Secret Weapon in Recruitment
Want to Attract Top Talent? Tell Better Stories Hiring the right people is difficult—it’s expensive when you get it wrong. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a bad hire can cost up to 30% of that employee’s annual salary. That doesn’t include the emotional cost to your team or the loss of momentum. All […]
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