SPEAK LIKE A CEO
258: Obama’s Speechwriter: Working in the West Wing, Speeches that Make History, and Becoming a Confident Speaker. Terry Szuplat
Sep 17, 2024
Terry Szuplat, a former speechwriter for Barack Obama and author of "Say It Well," shares his journey in the White House and the art of impactful communication. He reveals personal anecdotes, including a memorable moment when Obama lost his train of thought. The conversation dives into overcoming speech anxiety and the importance of understanding both yourself and your audience. Terry also discusses effective speech preparation and the power of a hopeful conclusion, offering actionable tips to enhance your public speaking skills.
39:30
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Quick takeaways
- Great speakers develop their skills over time through practice and can improve by learning from personal experiences, no matter their background.
- Effective communication relies on understanding the audience's perspective, requiring speakers to balance their personal values with the interests of those they address.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Public Speaking Skills
Great speakers develop their skills over time rather than being naturally gifted. Barack Obama shared a personal experience where he froze up during a speech as a young man, highlighting that even he faced challenges in public speaking. This moment of insecurity emphasized that everyone has the potential to improve their speaking abilities through practice. The key takeaway is that there is always a path to growth, regardless of previous setbacks.
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