Why most public speaking advice is wrong—and how to finally overcome your speaking anxiety | Tristan de Montebello (CEO & co-founder of Ultraspeaking) | Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career (private feed for websong16@gmail.com) | Podwise
This episode explores the misconceptions surrounding public speaking and offers practical techniques to improve communication skills. Against the backdrop of the common belief that public speaking is a specialized skill, the guest argues it's a meta-skill, impacting various aspects of life. More significantly, the core insight emphasizes the importance of enjoyment as a barometer for effective speaking; if it's not enjoyable, something is amiss. The discussion then pivots to tactical advice, focusing on three key areas: improving visual confidence (looking up instead of down), enhancing vocal confidence (ending strong), and building inner confidence (staying in character). For instance, the "end strong" technique involves using summary prompts to avoid self-doubt at the conclusion of a speech. The episode concludes with interactive exercises, such as the "Conductor" and "Triple Step" games, designed to build confidence and adaptability in spontaneous speaking scenarios, highlighting the importance of deliberate practice and immediate feedback. This means for individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills, a playful and iterative approach to practice, focusing on root causes rather than symptoms, can yield significant improvements.
