SPEAK LIKE A CEO

258: Obama’s Speechwriter: Working in the West Wing, Speeches that Make History, and Becoming a Confident Speaker. Terry Szuplat

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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.
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ANECDOTE

From Intern To Presidential Speechwriter

  • Terry got his start as a White House intern, worked for the Secretary of Defense, and joined Obama's team after a writing test.
  • He then spent nearly the full eight years writing hundreds of presidential remarks.
INSIGHT

Upfront Briefs Save Huge Time

  • Leaders must spend time with their communications team so writers know what's in the leader's heart.
  • Ten minutes upfront with your comms team often saves many hours later fixing misaligned drafts.
ADVICE

Say What Only You Can Say

  • Say what only you can say by drawing on personal stories and unique experiences.
  • Use your distinctive voice to stand out from boilerplate speeches and be memorable.
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