I Crashed and Burned Onstage During a TED Talk. What I Learned Proved More Valuable Than Success

There are some great speaking lessons to be learned from the TED conference. I learned them the hard way! Read more at Inc.com https://www.inc.com/john-bates/how-failing-on-the-ted-stage-changed-my-life.html
The ESS “Put Them at Ease” Challenge

Here’s a potentially life changing challenge for you. It’s a great practice for public speaking, effective leadership, being a better parent, friend, lover, husband, wife, employee, employer AND it makes parties a whole lot more fun. If you accept the challenge please come share your story about how it goes here: facebook.com/executivespeakingsuccess We want […]
We Actually Do Want to Hear About You!

That’s right, we actually DO want to hear about you, if your intention and execution are right… And, it’s an important leadership skill to develop. I have seen this over and over. At NASA, Accenture, Johnson & Johnson, Janssen Labs, Boston Scientific and more. People say, “I don’t want to talk about myself. It’s not about […]
Look For Surprise!

Your Challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to: Look for Surprise! The Human Brain CRAVES surprise and if you know how to use that to your advantage you will be a far better leader, storyteller and speaker! Check this short video out and then please come to our Facebook page and let us […]
Children’s Stories for CEOs

Treat your employees like children? Well, in a sense, YES! Listen to this short video for an idea that could dramatically improve your leadership communication ability and which could make public speaking a lot more fun for your audience and even for you! And, once you try this, come to the ExecutiveSpeakingSuccess page on Facebook […]
Speak to Them Like They are Great!

Are you up for a worthwhile challenge this week? It will put a fun flavor into your interactions and it might even change your life, if you let it! I’d love to hear how it goes, and if you want some feedback (I mean feedFORWARD – Thank you, Marshall Goldsmith!) I’ll give it to you. Share […]
The Classical Guitarist at Portland Airport

As Sharon, Flash and I were changing planes in Portland Oregon on our way to Bend, where we recorded all the videos for my online course, we stopped by the wonderful Cuckoo Clock and listened to a young guy who was playing classical guitar. It was a while ago and I’ve lost his name, but […]
One Big Lesson I’ve Learned Working With TEDx Speakers: Audiences Want the Real You

What people want from you may be one of the most frightening things to give. They want you. The real, authentic you. That can feel especially uncomfortable when you’re an executive, founder, expert, or accomplished professional. You’ve worked hard to build your credibility. Naturally, you want to appear prepared, polished, and confident. But there is […]