Get Inspired
Well-Spoken Role Models
Whom do you admire as a public speaker?
Stretch the limits of your own persona by tapping into the charms of an accomplished presenter. As actress Laverne Cox says, roles models or “possibility models” help us find our way.
Every year I enjoy compiling The Well-Spoken Women Role Models.
For added inspiration, I’ve collected videos of amazing women speakers and training tips.
The Well-Spoken Women of 2018
2018’s Well-Spoken Women Lead the Way Forward Let’s Toast Their Rousing Words Oprah Winfrey Early in the year Oprah Winfrey foretold promising change declaring, “A new day is on the horizon.” Her Golden Globes speech was a tour de force reminiscent of John F. Kennedy call for all Americans to put their country before themselves […]
The Well-Spoken Women of 2017
Looking for inspiration? These women will bring you to your feet. From the U.S. Capitol to statehouses nationwide. From Alabama to Virginia. From jammed phone lines to packed town halls. From Hollywood to television studios. Silence breakers, candidates, organizers, and activists are giving voice to the resistance. Let’s celebrate the stirring words of strong women driving change. The […]
The Well-Spoken Women of 2016
Looking for inspiration? These women will bring you to your feet. Hillary Clinton – The First Post-Election Day, thousands of women say they have been inspired to run for office. Watch the first but not last woman candidate accept a major party presidential nomination. Michelle Obama – Not Your Typical Political Speech In […]
The Well-Spoken Women of 2015
Here are standout media and public speaking performances from the Well-Spoken Women of 2015. These role models will make you LOL, misty-eyed, and shout: “Amen, sister!” Misty Copeland – Principal Ballerina At 13 years, Misty was told she was too old, her feet were wrong, body too heavy and she was living in […]
The Well-Spoken Women of 2014
The Well-Spoken Women of 2014 called it like they saw it. Dared to defy authority. Changed the debate. Broadened the dialogue. Their words and ideas challenge us to think differently and act boldly. Mo’ne Davis – Little League Star With a 70 mph fastball, 13-year old Mo’ne is in a league of her own. […]
The Well-Spoken Women of 2013
Diana Nyad – World Record Long-Distance Swimmer After swimming 53-hours nonstop from Cuba, Diana emerged from the ocean on a Key West beach with a message. The 64-year old summed up the three keys to her historic achievement by saying: “One, never, ever give up. Two, you’re never too old to chase your dreams. Three, it […]
Amazing Talks
Watch Well-Spoken Women Work Magic
Here are a few of my all-time favorite speeches and talks given by amazing Well-Spoken Women. They are exemplars of skill, talent, experience, and hard work in a variety of venues.
Watch, enjoy, and learn.
Oprah Winfrey, 2018 Golden Globes Ceremony
Emma González at March for Our Lives 2018
Gloria Steinem, Women’s March 2017
Hillary Clinton, Democratic National Convention 2016
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi, TedTalks 2012
Mindy Kaling, Harvard Law School Commencement Address, 2014
Alicia Garza, Iowa Coalition for Community Improvement, 2017
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stanford Rathbun Lecture, 2017
Carla Harris, Take the Lead Conference, 2014
JK Rowling, Harvard University Commencement Address, 2008
Anita Hill, Senate Judiciary Committee Testimony, 1991
First Lady’s Convention Speech Is A Case Study In Excellence
In Philadelphia, First Lady Michelle Obama gave one of the most successful political convention speeches in history. The First Lady’s speech is a case study in how to present your authentic self. Her stirring words were matched by her poised performance. Watch and learn:
The Case for Diverse Leadership
One of the most powerful women on Wall Street makes a compelling case for gender diversity. In this Knowledge at Wharton conversation, Sallie Krawcheck offers frank and humorous advice on how to negotiate and network your way to the top. The former head of Smith Barney and Merrill Lynch is the owner and chair of […]
The Best Career Advice You Never Got
The CEO of Leading Women answers the question: “Why am I getting passed over?” Susan Colantuono discusses a leadership trait that you and many women may be missing. To close the gender gap at the top, Susan’s research shows women need to beef up their business, strategic, and financial acumen. It’s key for women to […]
Impassioned Plea for Women’s Rights
“We must change attitudes around the world.” Watch Angelina Jolie Pitt at the Women in the World Summit deliver an impassioned plea for women in war torn regions. Angelina pledges her personal support to the women and girls in Iraq and Syria facing horrifying violence. And, calls on the world powers to step up saying […]
Can introverts be strong public speakers?
Writer Susan Cain champions the talents of the shy and reserved. Watch the video: Susan Cain The Power of Introverts
Lessons from the Oscars
Make Your 15 Seconds Count Academy Award acceptance speeches have long been used by Hollywood stars to raise awareness of favored causes. The much-deserving top actress honorees both seized the opportunity before a worldwide audience. A comparison of the performances of Julianne Moore and Patricia Arquette reveals a sharp contrast in technique. Best supporting actress […]
Lesson from the Oscars
Make Your 15 Seconds Count Academy Award acceptance speeches have long been used by Hollywood stars to raise awareness of favored causes. The much-deserving top actress honorees both seized the opportunity before a worldwide audience. A comparison of the performances of Julianne Moore and Patricia Arquette reveals a sharp contrast in technique. Best supporting actress […]
Training Tips from Chris
Election Night Protocol: Win or Lose, Signal Why You Care
The turmoil of the midterms will reach a fever pitch on election night as people anxiously watch the returns.
Women Candidates Rewrite the Political Playbook
The impact of record numbers of women candidates has already been felt this election cycle. The #MeToo movement and anger about the outcome of the 2016 presidential contest has driven women to break free from some of the conventions that have constrained them in the past.
Public Speaking Advice for Handling BS on the Campaign Trail
In GenderWatch, Chris Jahnke writes, “Too many campaigns hold back – ignoring derogatory comments because they don’t view them as damaging. Or, candidates are advised to bite their tongue lest they sound whiny, petty and create a backlash. In a post-2016 election world, this guidance is outdated. It’s time for campaigns to pull on their […]
Oprah – Other Worldly Source of Inspiration: What Every Woman Candidate Can Learn from Her Magnus Opus
In GenderWatch, Chris Jahnke writes, “In today’s blockbuster release of A Wrinkle in Time, Oprah Winfrey plays Mrs. Which – an out-of-this world being who inspires a young girl to “Be a warrior.” Real-world Oprah doesn’t need to appear as a shimmering light to lead us out of the darkness here on Earth.” Read the full article here.
Memo to Women Candidates Part III: Lessons from the Presidential Primary Debates
History was made on the primary debate stage as women from both major parties stood shoulder to shoulder with the men. From the onset, Hillary Clinton and Carly Fiorina each faced a unique set of challenges as well as a common obstacle. Two different candidates exposed the trials and triumphs of campaigning while female.
Memo to Women Candidates Part II: What Kind of Debater Are You?
Everyone advises you to “just be yourself.” But how is that possible under hot TV lights, inches from an opponent, with reporters waiting to pounce on any misstep? What can be done in advance to present your best self?
Memo to Women Candidates from Debate Coach Chris Jahnke
Women candidates running for executive posts in 2016 should watch and learn from the first Democratic primary debate. What candidates see and hear from the presidential contenders can jump start their own debate prep regimen.
Public Speaking Resolutions For a Well-Spoken Year!
1. Ring in 2015 with a toast. It’s good practice. 2. Create your elevator speech. In 2 minutes, what do you care about & why does it matter? 3. Quote the greats: “The American dream is not dead. It is gasping for breath but it is not dead.” Barbara Jordan 4. Warm up beforehand. Slowly […]
Guidance on Shaping Your Personal Narrative
Brene Brown Vulnerability Researcher Professor Brene Brown shares her research on vulnerability, courage, authenticity, and shame. Her insights will help you convey your authentic self. Watch the videos: Brené Brown: The Power of Vulnerability Brené Brown: Listening to shame
Pockets are a Girl’s Best Friend
Next time you’re shopping, be on the look out for a blazer with pockets. Pockets can be lifesavers when you are standing at the front of the room. No, I don’t mean you should cram your hands into them. Rather, they can help ensure you’ll be ready when it’s your turn to talk. Pockets can […]
A Memorable Commencement Address
“Who do you want to be?” First Lady Michelle Obama challenges the graduates of Eastern Kentucky University. In May 2013, the First Lady called on the students to give a hand and reach back to others who need help. EKU Class of 2013 Commencement Address by First Lady Michelle Obama
Use Power Posing to Project Confidence
Amy Cuddy, Harvard Business School Power Posing: Body Language In her classic TED Talk, the amazing Amy Cuddy explains what you do physically before you stand before an audience will dramatically increase your level of performance. Amy Cuddy: Your body language shapes who you are
The Style of Leadership
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, and Girl Scout CEO Anna Maria Chavez are models of confidence. The three joined together to kick off the “Ban Bossy” campaign www.banbossy.com to teach girls leaderships skills. The site provides tips and must-know facts to help girls step out of their comfort zones. The […]
Vibrant Voice
Did you know that warming up your body will also warm up your voice? Simple relaxation exercises will help ensure that the tone of your voice is easy on the ears. A lower tone and slower pace sounds conversational. A high pitch and fast pace can sound anxious. These exercises will help improve your vocal […]
AMA: The well-spoken woman can be you
Chris joins Susan Zeidman of the American Management Association to discuss “How to be Well Spoken.” View and listen to the full webcast here.