In this episode, you will hear a conversation with Anthony LaMantia, Ph.D., of the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech. Like my previous guest, Dr. LaMantia started out intending to be a clinician, not a researcher. But he did become a scientist, albeit one with an interest in theatre and literature. Hear how those…
In this episode, you will pick up on the surprising parallels between host and guest. Both were engineers before changing direction and becoming speakers. Both found help and an impetus for that change through Toastmasters. And even the last names rhyme! Alan Cote talks about overcoming his stutter, and shares some excellent speaking tips for…
In this episode, you will meet Beth Boaz, who credits her communication skills with advancing her engineering career. You will hear how her early interests led her into engineering, how she overcame obstacles as a female engineer, and how one colleague pestered her into joining Toastmasters, where she honed her leadership skills in some surprising…
Focus on what your audience needs. Rehearse your “planned spontaneity.” And watch all your videos four different ways! These tips and others helped former technology executive Ed Tate win the World Championship of Public Speaking. But more than that, by using these and other tips, Ed has helped many speakers achieve confidence and better results.…
Science is about uncovering mysteries. And today’s guest gets that. He’s a scientist and a journal editor who says that sometimes, that mystery comes through—even in scientific writing. Join me as I have a conversation with Bill Williams, a pharmaceutical scientist with a background in both industry and academia. You’ll be surprised at what a…
In this episode, you will hear a conversation with one of the best storytellers on the planet. That’s not hyperbole. Craig Valentine won the World Championship of Public Speaking on the strength of his storytelling skills. Why does that matter to you? Because stories are your best tool for connecting your information with your audience’s…
Can you speak on saving energy and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions with passion and enthusiasm? Andrew Cooper is known for doing just that. In this episode, you will hear how this engineer-turned-energy-specialist has used his communication skills to change the culture of his organization and the people who are part of it. And who knows? You…
In this episode, you will hear from my colleague and fellow speaking coach Michael Davis. You’ll learn the reason why speakers tell stories. You’ll pick up on what makes a story—why it’s not just a collection of events. And why stories are the key to engaging your listeners in a way that you simply can’t…
Several years ago, I helped judge a college speech contest. The reason I remember that event specifically is because of a memorable student I met there named Rodrigo, from Brazil. After doing well in the contest, Rodrigo approached me to ask for help with his speaking. “I already have done a lot of public speaking…