Storytelling

Open a Speech with QuestionsOpen a Speech with Questions

Open a Speech with Questions

One simple way to open a speech is with questions—usually three. How will you captivate your audience at the beginning…

2 years ago
Need Their Attention? Train Your AudienceNeed Their Attention? Train Your Audience

Need Their Attention? Train Your Audience

I watched a speaker disperse the audience into discussion groups of four people … And then struggle to get them…

2 years ago
Let Your Audience in on Your Unspoken ThoughtsLet Your Audience in on Your Unspoken Thoughts

Let Your Audience in on Your Unspoken Thoughts

Sometimes we say one thing when we want to say another. Maybe you need to reject someone but you want…

2 years ago
In Public Speaking, Being Theatrical is Authentic!In Public Speaking, Being Theatrical is Authentic!

In Public Speaking, Being Theatrical is Authentic!

So many speakers—even professional ones—are afraid to be “theatrical.” They worry that will be inauthentic or phony. A speaker I…

2 years ago
How Stories Work in Your MindHow Stories Work in Your Mind

How Stories Work in Your Mind

Many speakers talk about cortisol and oxytocin and how your brain reacts to stories. That’s all rather sophisticated sounding except…

2 years ago
How Stories Work: The 4 Elements of StoryHow Stories Work: The 4 Elements of Story

How Stories Work: The 4 Elements of Story

Start with the golden rule of storytelling: Stories are always about people. And in a story, that person or group…

2 years ago
Find the Funny in the RoomFind the Funny in the Room

Find the Funny in the Room

A super way to surprise your audience is to “find the funny in the room” and use it to your…

2 years ago
Acknowledge the Secrets of Human NatureAcknowledge the Secrets of Human Nature

Acknowledge the Secrets of Human Nature

Here’s one of my favorite advertisements: This hair salon bills itself as the place “where the women you hate get…

2 years ago
How to Write a Humorous SpeechHow to Write a Humorous Speech

How to Write a Humorous Speech

Write a humorous speech. What’s that? You don’t think you’re funny? Well, you’re not alone. Most comedians aren’t funny, either.…

2 years ago