LEAST LIKELY: CHAPTER: THE PIPE DREAM It was 1989, and I had graduated from business school. I don’t remember where the idea came from, but I had a secret dream. I wanted to be an actor. Yeah, I’ve always loved movies and put famous actors on a pedestal. Somehow, I thought they were extra special.…
CHAPTER: THE BIG DECISION Have you ever looked back at some of your life-changing decisions? What prompted it? What was your thinking? Would you do it over again? Was it a good decision? Why was it good? Why was it not good? Once a decision is made, your outlook changes, and so does the world…
CHAPTER: DR. BOSE; THE TWO MIT STUDENTS It was just another Direct Marketing Group, “Good News” team meeting at Bose. They did make them fun and interesting, and it was a welcome relief from being on the phones all day. I had heard that Dr. Amar Bose, the founder of Bose, would be speaking…
If you like this article, check out the other speech critiques: Matthew McConaughey Denzel Washington What would a speech coach say? Jim Carrey’s Commencement Address at the 2014 MIU Graduation First, let me say that Jim Carrey is a movie star and not a professional speaker. He’s a celebrity brought in to give an inspiring…
Ep. 99 The 2021 Master Of Influence Since 1993, the National Speakers Association (NSA) has recognized those who have influenced the speaking profession in a significant way with the Master of Influence Award. In 2021, that honor was given to Toastmasters International. How are the organizations different? How can they complement each other? Mark and…
In 2001, while practicing my speech “Ouch!” in front of an Advanced Toastmasters Club, I was shocked and perplexed by a comment from two of the advanced members. At this point I had given my speech several times and had received an enormous variety of feedback. I thought I had heard it all. This comment,…
Ever wonder what a World-Class coach sees that you do not? You are about to find out. I got together with World Champion’s Mark Brown and Ed Tate, had a mini-watch party, and then did a speech contest debrief with our Stage Time Members. Sometimes even coaches disagree on some points, but often our perspectives…
Ep. 88 The Unforgettable Les Brown “LIVE YOUR DREAMS!” Millions have heard these words by the legendary Les Brown, who opens up to Mark and Darren about his incredible journey, which includes giving free speeches to 7-year-olds, hiding in the men’s room afraid to face his audience, and much more. His seasoned advice will help any speaker become unforgettable! Want…
One of my favorite shows on TV was Mythbusters. I love what they do and how they do it. They scientifically confirm or deny urban legends and myths in a fun way. It got me thinking about some of the classic myths about presentations. Early in my speaking career, I received one of the worst…
The Results are in! Have you been doing the challenge? Is it helping? It sure has helped people who were “ALL IN.” I sat down with five people who committed to the challenge. Watch these mini interviews and hear for yourself what they experienced. Some of what they say may just surprise you! It did…