What Makes a Speech Great

The anatomy of a speech and a review of a speech by one of the greats, Dr. Willie Jolley

We know what makes for a great book or movie. They move us and make us laugh. Additionally, they lift our spirits and teach us something about ourselves. In fact, we learn about who we are and what we want out of ourselves and our lives. But what about an amazing speech? How do we know when we’ve heard a great one? What are the criteria we judge one by?

I believe the criteria are the same as for a great book, movie, song, play or any creative endeavor. If you’re going to speak to an audience, you want to move them, make them laugh, and teach them something about themselves, their work, or their lives.

Anatomy, Review, and Ideas

This weekend, I had the pleasure of hearing world-renowned, award-winning speaker Dr. Willie Jolley speak at the DC chapter of the National Speakers’ Association. This week’s podcast dovetails beautifully with that. Tune in to hear my thoughts on what makes a great speech, Dr. Willie Jolley’s ideas on what it takes, and my review of his stellar work. Oh, and if you know speakers, Mamie Brown’s favorite son made an appearance.

What do you think it takes to make an exciting and compelling speech? What do you think we need to say or do to be one of the greats?