Jim Barber's Speaker Gym

People afflicted with the Perfection Obsession think that a "perfect" speaker is an effective speaker, but that's frequently not the case -- perfect speaking is often perfectly blah. In this episode you'll explore how imperfections, used occasionally and appropriately, can make your presentations much more enjoyable.

"How do I become a pro speaker?" is a simple question with an involved answer. Answering that question in sufficient detail requires its own dedicated podcast. This episode of Speaker Gym introduces the new podcast from The Barber Shop called Pro Speaker U that's created just for those people who want to move "from free to fee".

Should you stand up when you speak, or can you remain seated? It's a simple question, but there's not a simple answer. In this episode you'll explore when (and why) it's best to stand, and when it's best to stay seated.

Hyperbole and understatement are figures of speech that can bring interest and power to an otherwise bland presentation. This episode explores what hyperbole and understatement are, and how you can use them effectively.

I love accents! So if people have trouble understanding what you say, there are a number of techniques you should try before you resort to getting rid of your accent.

Some people think that using the word "one" instead of "you" makes them sound cultured. It doesn't. So one shouldn't do that!

Should you end your presentation by saying "thank you"? There are three reasons why you should, but one BIG reason why you shouldn't. Explore them all in this episode.

The number 3 is powerful. Using "3" (three reasons, three points, three goals...) in your presentations will easily improve how effectively you communicate with others.

One of the best ways to strengthen your presentation skills is to quit using tentative language like "I'd like to...", "I think that...", and other weak-sounding words and phrases.

A quick introduction to Speaker Gym and what it will do for you!