15 Minutes with the Boss Want to be better at public speaking? NIDA’s CEO shares her tips
Dec 8, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Liz Hughes, CEO of the National Institute of Dramatic Art, shares her time-tested secrets for mastering public speaking. With a background in creative education, she emphasizes the importance of tailoring messages and embracing vulnerability to connect with audiences. Liz also offers practical stage techniques, like using marked scripts and paced breathing. Her insights into career choices and the impact of communication mistakes make this conversation a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their speaking skills.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Turning A Funding Threat Into Massive Attendance
- Liz Hughes recounted moving cities to take an artistic director role despite lacking direct experience.
- Her 'House of Tomorrow' exhibition drew 48,000 visitors in two weeks after she pivoted the program and engaged funders.
Creative Training Prepares You For Messy Reality
- Creative education trains you to handle uncertainty and to create persuasive visions under pressure.
- Those storytelling and funding skills converted near-withdrawn support into tripled funding for her organisation.
Network Daily To Create Opportunities
- Meet and connect with one new person every day while studying or at work to build your network.
- Create your own work and opportunities because creative jobs often come from connections, not job ads.