I've been running courses at the School of Connection now for six years. Even after years of watching people go through this process, I’m still continually surprised and blown away by how much I learn from witnessing others. Here are six things that have stuck with me.

If you’ve ever been nervous about doing a speech or speaking to a group of people, you’ve probably felt the pull of a wanting to read from a script.

But here’s the truth: the real connection doesn’t come from a memorised speech. It comes from you - your voice, your presence, your genuine self.

In this post, we explore how true confidence begins when you stop hiding the parts you wish you could edit out. Nervous, awkward, imperfect? They belong too.

Anxiety Isn’t the Problem—Your Story About It Is

Over the past 11 years, we've had the privilege of guiding thousands of people through their public speaking journeys.. Here are the key lessons we’ve taken away from more than a decade of running public speaking courses:

Anxiety often feels like an adversary to be defeated. The more we fight it, the more it seems to tighten its grip. But Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, discovered an unusual yet highly effective way to address anxiety—a method grounded in paradox.

Perfectionism in public speaking can create significant barriers, leading to anxiety, procrastination, and a lack of authentic engagement. If you struggle with perfectionism, read on to find out how it impacts public speaking and to find strategies to overcome it.

One of the most powerful tools a public speaker possesses is their voice. While the content of your speech is crucial, how you deliver it can make all the difference in maintaining audience engagement. Voice modulation—varying your pitch, tone, pace, and volume—is the secret to captivating your listeners.

Whether it's a technical glitch, an unanticipated question, or a sudden change in the agenda, the ability to improvise can turn potential disasters into opportunities for engagement and authenticity.

This blog will explore the art of improvisation in public speaking and provide practical tips to help you think on your feet with confidence.

One powerful tool in your public speaking arsenal is the resonance of your voice. A resonant voice is rich, full, and carries well, making your speech more compelling and easier to listen to.

Here’s how you can develop more resonance in your voice and why it’s crucial for effective public speaking.

We've all been there – tasked with presenting on a topic that doesn't exactly ignite our enthusiasm. Whether you're presenting quarterly sales figures or the intricacies of a new software, here are some tips to turn your dull presentation into a captivating experience.

Voice projection is a critical skill in public speaking, essential for ensuring your message is heard clearly by your audience. Let’s look at why people might struggle with voice projection in public speaking and discuss some practical tips for overcoming these challenges.

At the heart of many great stories lies the three-act structure, a timeless framework that divides a narrative into three distinct parts: Setup, Confrontation, and Resolution.

The best part of any speech is the human being delivering it. It’s the human connection, the authenticity, and the genuine emotions that make a speech truly memorable.

Here’s a guide to what makes a good best man speech and some tips to help you shine on the big day

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking funding, a salesperson aiming to close a deal, or a professional presenting an idea to your team, the ability to deliver a compelling pitch is crucial.

In this post, we’ll explore effective strategies for crafting both a powerful opening and a memorable closing for your speech.

Communication is more than just words; it's a multifaceted exchange that encompasses verbal and nonverbal cues, as well as the underlying intentions and self-perceptions that shape our interactions.

In an age of social media and oversharing, vulnerability has become synonymous with divulging every detail of our lives. But is this truly vulnerability, or merely a facade?

What if, amidst the chaos of life, self-acceptance is not just an ideal but the very essence of our existence? What if it's the key to unlocking a life of fulfillment and contentment?