The Power of Authenticity in Public Speaking

Have you ever listened to a speaker who seemed to say all the right words but still left you feeling uninspired? Now, think of a time when someone spoke from the heart—perhaps a mentor, a friend, or even a stranger—and their words left a lasting impact. What made the difference?

Authenticity.

In public speaking, authenticity trumps perfection. It’s what makes audiences lean in, trust you, and, most importantly, remember you. Yet, many speakers struggle with how to be themselves on stage. They worry about saying the right things, sounding professional, or avoiding mistakes. But here’s the truth...

?? Audiences connect with speakers, not speeches.

?? Flaws make you relatable.

?? Your unique voice is your greatest asset.

This week, we explore how you can harness authenticity to deliver speeches that resonate deeply with your audience.

??? Stoic Speaking Tip of the Week

"Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one." – Marcus Aurelius

In the same way that Stoics focused on action over words, great speakers focus on presence over perfection. Instead of striving to deliver the “perfect” speech, focus on delivering a real one.

The Power of Owning Your Mistakes

During an early TED Talk rehearsal, Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of Eat, Pray, Love, was struggling. Her speech was overly scripted, and it lacked energy. Instead of forcing through it, she paused and told the audience.

"I’m struggling because I feel like I have to be brilliant, but I’m really just trying to tell you a story."

That simple moment of honesty shifted the energy in the room. Suddenly, the audience was rooting for her, not just listening.

?? Ask Yourself

• Have you ever tried so hard to sound impressive that you lost your natural flow?
• What would happen if you simply focused on sharing your message, instead of performing it?

?? Hustle Exercise - The One-Take Challenge

Too often, we over-rehearse, tweak, and polish until our message loses its raw power. Think about a time you had a deep, meaningful conversation—did you script it? No. And that’s why it felt real.

The One-Take Challenge

1?? Pick a topic you deeply care about.

2?? Set a 2-minute timer.

3?? Record yourself in one take—no re-dos.

Watch it back and take notes...

? When did your energy spike?

? Did your voice sound natural or forced?

? Which moments felt the most genuine?

Now, imagine delivering a speech where you harnessed that level of authenticity—that’s the goal.

?? Ask Yourself

• Do you feel more engaged when you speak freely rather than memorizing a script?
• How can you bring more of your everyday voice into your speeches?

??? Featured Speaker - Julian Treasure – How to Speak So That People Want to Listen

Ever felt like your words aren't landing the way you want? Julian Treasure, a sound expert and communication coach, explores the science of speaking effectively in his TED Talk, How to Speak So That People Want to Listen.

What Makes His Speech Stand Out?

He teaches practical techniques—like vocal warm-ups and the "HAIL" method (Honesty, Authenticity, Integrity, Love).

He demonstrates voice control live—showing how tone, pitch, and pace influence how people receive your message.

He keeps it engaging—using humor, interactive elements, and clear examples to make his points memorable.

?? Try This... Watch his TED Talk and take notes

1. How does he use tone and pace to emphasize key points?
2. What vocal habits could you improve in your own speaking?
3. Which of his techniques can you apply in your next speech?

The way you say something is just as important as what you say. Master your voice, and you'll master your impact. ????

?? Motivational Quote

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Emerson reminds us that authenticity takes courage. But when you step on stage as yourself—not as a "perfect speaker"—you create moments that truly stick.

Find Your Authentic Voice!

Challenge for the Week.

?? Deliver a story-based speech. Skip the data and slides—focus on connection.

?? Practice speaking off the cuff. Choose a random topic and talk for 60 seconds.

?? Tag us and share your experience with authenticity in speaking! ???

#PublicSpeaking #AuthenticityMatters #LeadershipSkills #SpeakWithConfidence #RealNotPerfect