Author: John K. Bates

John K. Bates is a keynote speaker, executive communication coach, and founder of Executive Speaking Success. He helps accomplished leaders become inspiring, emotionally credible communicators so their communication can be as mighty as their ideas. John has spoken at TED three times, coached TED and TEDx speakers, and trained leaders from organizations including NASA, Johnson & Johnson, GE Aerospace, and U.S. Navy Special Operations. His WHY is to bring out what is awesome inside every person so it can live in the world and make a real difference.

How Power Can Quietly Erode Empathy in Leaders

Power can quietly reduce perspective-taking and compassion. Learn four ways leaders can protect empathy, invite candor, and stay connected to the people they lead.

Leaders Don’t Wait for Connection. They Create It.

A lesson from Estonia that will change how you lead conversations, meetings, and relationships.

Your Best Story May Be Wrong for the Room

Kevin O’Connor of This Old House learned that even experienced storytellers must adapt their stories to each audience, setting, and moment.

How to Speak on a Panel: 9 Ways Executives Can Prepare, Contribute, and Stand Out

Learn how to speak on a panel with confidence. Prepare concise answers, listen visibly, build Emotional Credibility™, and make your expertise memorable.

How to Present to a Board of Directors: 7 Practical Tips

Prepare for your board presentation with John K. Bates’s advice on clear recommendations, evidence, team handoffs, difficult questions, and delivery.

15 Tips for Crafting Stories with Transformational Impact

Learn 15 tips for crafting stories that create transformational impact. Discover how to engage your audience and inspire meaningful change through the power of storytelling.

Would Anyone Sit In The Rain To Hear You?

What Jesse Welles performing “Siddhartha” can teach leaders and speakers about craft, practice, performance, and earning an audience’s attention.

Executive Public Speaking Coaching: What It Is and How It Helps

Executive coaching public speaking helps leaders develop confident presentation skills and effective communication. Learn how this specialized training can improve your professional presence and career advancement.

How Can Leadership Training Lead to Transformational Impact?

Learn how leadership training creates transformational impact within organizations, from developing essential skills to driving meaningful change across teams and company culture.

10 Tips to Transform Your Communication Skills and Increase Your Influence and Success

Learn how renowned speaker John Bates teaches effective communication techniques that can help you become more influential and successful in your professional and personal interactions.