by Rob Cottingham | Feb 28, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
One of the most effective ways a speech can hold an audience’s attention is suspense. And withholding a little information can whet their appetite for the answer to the question, “What happens next?” Links: Story by Robert McKee. He wrote it with... 
by Rob Cottingham | Feb 26, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
The folks in the room are just one of the audiences your speech is going to reach. Here’s how to think through who else may be listening in… and how you’ll account for them when you’re writing your speech. Music: “Upbeat” by Jon Luc... 
by Rob Cottingham | Feb 21, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
Plain language can make your speech a lot clearer, and allow your ideas and thinking to shine through. But there are times when speechwriters and speakers want to reach for the more complex words… and even use (gasp!) jargon. Music: “Upbeat” by Jon... 
by Rob Cottingham | Feb 19, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
Between “helpful” suggestions from others and your own creativity, it often isn’t easy keeping a speech on topic and on track. Here are some tools for sticking to the path — and a few tips on handling unavoidable detours. Music: “Upbeat”... 
by Rob Cottingham | Feb 14, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
You’ve probably always been told to project confidence and certainty when you’re speaking from the stage. But if you want to truly connect with your audience, a little vulnerability in your speech can go a long way. Links: Probably the best-known... 
by Rob Cottingham | Feb 12, 2019 | LCWRC, Podcast, Speaking, Speechwriting
We’ve talked about your speech’s one big story, the narrative arc. But running in tandem with it is something at least as important to your audience: the emotional arc. Music: “Upbeat” by Jon Luc Hefferman, used under a Creative Commons...
