Say It Well audiobook cover - Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience

Say It Well

Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience

Terry Szuplat

★ 4.5 / 5(22 ratings)
Start ListeningDownloadQR code that opens AudiobookHub on the App StoreTry free on iPhoneScan to start in 5 seconds
Categories:
Career & SuccessCommunication SkillsMotivation & InspirationPersonal Development

If You're Curious About These Questions...

You should listen to this audiobook

Listen to Say It Well — Free Audiobook

Loading player...

Key Takeaways from Say It Well

Learning Tools

Reinforce what you learned from Say It Well

Mind Map

Say It Well
Finding Your Voice+
Creating Rapport Quickly+
Fostering Engagement+
Inspiring Action+
Priming for Success+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 7
According to the text, what lies at the heart of effective public speaking?
  • A. Mastering body language and vocal projection to command the stage.
  • B. Having a clear understanding of who you are and what you believe.
  • C. Memorizing your speech perfectly to maintain continuous eye contact.
  • D. Using extensive data and statistics to build immediate credibility.
Question 2 of 7
How does the '50–25–25 Rule' suggest you divide your speech preparation time?
  • A. 50% writing, 25% memorizing, 25% delivering.
  • B. 50% researching the audience, 25% writing, 25% designing visual aids.
  • C. 50% practicing, 25% writing, 25% reviewing feedback from peers.
  • D. 50% thinking and organizing, 25% writing, 25% practicing and refining.
Question 3 of 7
What is the core strategy of 'Values-Based Public Speaking'?
  • A. Presenting undeniable logical arguments and facts to win a debate.
  • B. Framing your arguments around the specific moral or social priorities that resonate with your listeners.
  • C. Stating your own personal values repeatedly until the audience adopts them.
  • D. Avoiding controversial topics to ensure everyone in the room feels comfortable.
Question 4 of 7
Which technique does the author recommend to make a speech feel more personal and foster a stronger bond with the audience?
  • A. Imagine you are speaking to just one specific person and use the word 'you'.
  • B. Address the audience as a collective group by frequently using words like 'they' and 'everyone'.
  • C. Walk into the crowd and physically interact with as many people as possible.
  • D. Use complex industry jargon to prove your expertise and relate to professionals in the room.
Question 5 of 7
How does the author advise handling negative realities or hard truths during a speech?
  • A. Ignore them to maintain an upbeat and inspiring 'happy talk' tone throughout.
  • B. Gloss over them quickly to avoid losing the audience's enthusiasm.
  • C. Exaggerate the negative aspects to shock the audience into taking immediate action.
  • D. Acknowledge the negative candidly and embrace nuance rather than using absolutes.
Question 6 of 7
When polishing a speech draft, what specific goal does the author suggest for trimming the content?
  • A. Cut the initial length of the speech by 15 percent.
  • B. Remove all personal stories to focus strictly on actionable advice.
  • C. Expand the speech by 10 percent to ensure all counterarguments are addressed.
  • D. Keep the speech exactly as long as the event organizers requested, without making cuts.
Question 7 of 7
When concluding a speech, what is the most important factor in ensuring it sticks with the audience?
  • A. The exact wording of your final, poetic sentence.
  • B. The final statistic or data point you presented.
  • C. How your closing made the audience feel.
  • D. The specific instructions you provided for the call to action.

Say It Well — Full Chapter Overview

Say It Well Summary & Overview

Say it Well (2024) offers a guide to delivering speeches that will both captivate and inspire action. With practical tips on crafting engaging openings, connecting emotionally with your audience, and using the power of storytelling, it helps you make every word count. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just getting started, this advice will leave you feeling confident and ready to address any audience. 

Who Should Listen to Say It Well?

  • Public speakers looking to improve their skills   
  • Leaders and executives wanting to motivate and inspire
  • Aspiring toastmasters wishing to effectively engage audiences

About the Author: Terry Szuplat

Terry Szuplat previously worked as a senior speechwriter for former US President Barack Obama, and is known for helping craft some of the most memorable speeches during Obama’s presidency. With over 20 years of experience in writing and communications, he has worked with leaders and organizations to shape their messages and inspire audiences. Szuplat runs his own speechwriting firm, Global Voices Communications, where he supports clients in telling their stories with clarity and impact.

🎧
Listen in the AppOffline playback & background play
Get App