30 years ago this spring, I wrote my first speech as a professional — and started a career in leadership communications that has now spanned three decades.
To celebrate, I’ve launched a speechwriting and public speaking podcast: 30 short episodes with the key lessons I’ve learned in the business of planning, crafting and delivering powerful speeches.
Check for the latest episode every Tuesday and Thursday.
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Ep. 32. Getting started in speechwriting
There's no well-worn, signposted career path to being a speechwriter. That's the bad news. The good news? There are plenty of other paths in. This episode, we look at how to break into speechwriting — and some lessons from my own first big break. Music: Theme: "Good...
Ep. 31. Sorry seems to be the hardest word: delivering a great apology
None of us is perfect, and sooner or later, leaders have to apologize for something. Sometimes it's something out of your control; sometimes it really is on you. Apologize well, and you can come out with stronger relationships and a better reputation. Apologize badly,...
Ep. 30. Build your organization’s podium strength.
Over the past 29 episodes, we've looked at how you can be a better, more effective speaker and speechwriter. For episode 30, let's magnify your impact — helping your whole organization tap into the power of public speaking.Also, I reveal my hidden agenda.Music:...
Ep. 29. Broaden your media diet
This episode, we talk about how expanding the kinds of media you like to read, watch and listen to can make you a better speechwriter and speaker. Links: The 100-Mile Diet by Alisa Smith and J.B. Mackinnon. Music: "Upbeat" by John Luc Hefferman. Used under a Creative...
Ep. 28. Listen to speakers outside your niche
Niches are great places to develop a deep understanding of audience and subject matter, and to build community... but they can get pretty insular. Whether you're a speaker or a speechwriter, here's how to keep your work fresh, by drawing inspiration from outside your...
Ep. 27. Make your speech a content factory
Speeches are amazing. They can move audiences, inspire crowds... and they can help you create new content, quickly and easily! In this episode, we'll look at 10 ways you can repurpose your next speech into high-impact video, audio, text and images.Music: "Upbeat" by...
Ep. 26. Think strategically
When it comes to your organization's leadership speaking, you have strategic resources in play and strategic values on the line. That makes a pretty good case for a speaking strategy. Here's how to take the first steps toward crafting one.Music: "Upbeat" by John Luc...
Ep. 25. Build a platform
The applause from your speech may have faded, but the connection you make with your audience doesn't have to. Engaging online can help you deepen and broaden your audience relationship, while building a growing network that may become one of your most valuable assets:...
Ep. 24. Review your performance
Who are the top performers who need to review their performances so they can improve? Athletes... actors... and speakers like you! This episode, let's talk about how to review and improve your speaking and your content.Music: "Upbeat" by John Luc Hefferman. Used under...
Ep. 23. Go all in
This episode ties together everything we've talked about around speech delivery with one big idea for truly powerful speaking: commitment.Links: Here's David Granirer's long-running comedy course at Vancouver's Langara College. David's also the founder and driving...