In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast Todd Adkins, Daniel Im, and I talk about leading and public speaking. What are good habits? Who are the best public speakers we’ve heard? How can someone improve at public speaking? What are the best resources to help someone improve? We share from our own experience and from observing other gifted and experienced speakers. Here are our five questions.

* Can a leader lead without being a public speaker? Can they delegate public speaking?

* How can a person overcome discomfort with or fear of public speaking?

* What are the best resources you’ve seen to help people improve at public speaking?

* What are 2 or 3 key practical tips for public speakers?

* Who is the best public speaker you’ve had the chance to see?

Best Quotes

“When I train I’m not a sage on the stage, I’m a guide on the side.”

“If you are not addressing the people you lead there’s a leadership vacuum.”

“Any time there’s a leadership vacuum the person with the loudest voice or the clearest vision is considered the leader.”

“Just speak where you are. If you want to be a really good speaker you have to speak all the time.”

“You can never grow as a leader unless you open yourself up in those areas you need growth. It is one of the most humbling things.”

“Most of the reasons people are afraid of public speaking are something false they are telling themselves.”

“If you want to be a better public speaker go absorb great public speaking.”

“Early on it’s ok to imitate. As you begin to emulate how someone speaks you will inevitably add a personal twist.”

“Studying yourself is something that’s really beneficial.”

“Learn how you best prepare.”

“If you are prepared your presentations should actually get shorter and more distilled.”

“Any speaker who can take you from where you are to somewhere else, using any method, is effective.”

Recommended Resources

Communicating for a Change by Andy Stanley

Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath

Toastmasters

TED Talks