Talk Better
A former TEDx producer and current speechwriter on speaking, storytelling, and getting stage-ready.
SPEECHWRITING STAGE PRESENCE MARKETING YOURSELF
Why you don't want to be Brené Brown
I get it. Who doesn’t admire Brené Brown? But Brené Brown is already taken. You’re not.
Confessions of an accidental killer
When working with Gregg Ward, we landed on the title Confessions of an Accidental Killer. Was it too much? Too edgy? Would people freak out?
What all great conversationalists know (that we can learn)
All great conversationalists are naturally curious people and they are very good at asking interesting questions. Here’s how to use that approach in speechwriting.
Want to keep your audience engaged? Answer this one question.
A compelling opener will get your audience to sit up and listen, but to KEEP them engaged, you need to answer the question: What’s in it for them?
Which opening do you like more?
Skip the “I’d like to begin by thanking so-and-so” or an agenda slide. Here’s where to start to grab your audience’s attention.
“What if I’m not funny?”
When it comes to whether or not you should open your speech with humor, take advice from Yoda: "Do or do not, there is no try."
How to find your big idea for the TEDx stage
The “big idea” is central to TED’s identity. The best ones are unexpected, provocative, defy expectations, and spark curiosity. Let’s look at a few examples.
A simple framework for structuring your talk
Help your audience relax and (actually!) listen: Structure your talk using the classic storytelling principle, The Rule of Threes.
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Let's talk about your talk.
During your free 15-minute Zoom, we’ll talk about your goals and see if we're a good fit.
I love working with people who are passionate about what they do, who truly enjoy the collaborative process and are confident enough to laugh when I say, “I love you, but that line is garbage.”