Are your messages missing the mark? Are your stories clear and accurate or are your meanings lost in translation? The storyteller’s challenge is to convert abstract and intangible ideas, experiences, emotions, and memories into sounds or characters on a page … READ MORE→
Be a journeyist, not a journalist. The purpose of a speech is to transform the audience—to elicit some change in thought, feeling, or action. The purpose of the audience is not to help you unburden yourself of your story. Life … READ MORE→
I-We-You. You’re addressing an audience. When should you switch from the inclusive “we” to the more personal “you?” When is it acceptable to use “I?” When talking about your own experiences, use “I.” Listeners will follow your story as long … READ MORE→
Have you ever been disappointed with a judge’s call—in a courtroom, on a ball field, or in a contest? Who are you to judge? In August of 2020, I watched eight finalists compete in the World Championship of Public Speaking, … READ MORE→
Verbs are the engines that move your writing, your speaking, and your readers, but many authors don’t spend enough time choosing the right ones. If your writing was an electric guitar, your verbs would be the volume, tone, and distortion … READ MORE→
Is your story big enough? The following passage from The Story Story describes a common speaker’s dilemma. Too many meaningful stories go untold because we fear they’re not as big as someone else’s. “He’s got to be a motivational … READ MORE→
If I can do it, you can do it! Well … maybe. Is your story about your extraordinary personal journey? Talking about yourself for your own sake will be perceived by listeners as narcissism or seeking validation. Stories of dramatic … READ MORE→
What is a meeting monster? My daughter asked me to spend some time with her. “I can’t right now,” I replied. I’m the meeting monitor today.” She shot me a funny look. “Daddy, what’s a meeting monster?” The name stuck. … READ MORE→
Love means never having to say you’re sorry. “I’m sorry, but I had only an hour to put this speech together.” “I’m sorry … I need to look at my notes.” “I’m sorry to get started late; the traffic was … READ MORE→
Advice on how to deal with stage fright ranges from absurd (don’t picture the audience naked unless you’re speaking at a super-model convention—and that could be distracting) to just plain useless. The popular assumption is that people are naturally fearful … READ MORE→
