The dog days of summer have arrived and as the heat in Texas climbs, outside activities take a backseat to air conditioning and sipping on a mint julep. Okay, I’ve never had a mint julep, but it seems like a really southern thing to do. 

Every year I find myself silently complaining about the heat in the Lone Star State however this year, I decided I would use this time to create a passion project I’ve been considering doing for a long time.  For years, people have asked me if I would create an online public speaking course that could help them overcome their fear of standing in front of people and delivering a speech. And for years, I paused at the thought. The summer of 2024 would become the year I scratched that itch and poured my heart into creating the course.

My passion for helping people become better speakers inspired me to use this opportunity to bring this vision to life. I want to give people the chance to share their message with the world. I know many have fears around speaking, and I am dedicated to providing them with the tools they need to become their very best. It’s the perfect time to stay cool indoors and begin learning!

The first thing I considered is what makes for a great conversationalist or public speaker, and I found that there are four basic tenets to becoming a better speaker, spouse, friend, or parent. These four things are not that difficult (you just have to practice them), and they provide a roadmap to becoming a more robust human being.

Let’s take a look:

The Power of Listening

Imagine this: You're in a conversation and, rather than thinking about what to say next, you truly listen intently. Not just hearing the words, but understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. This is the first step in transforming your interactions. In my book, Listen, Laugh, Connect, I emphasize the ability to listen more than you speak. The magic happens when you start valuing others' words, creating a space where they feel acknowledged and appreciated.

Adding Value to Conversations

Next, think about how you add value to your conversations. It's not just about speaking; it's about providing pertinent information that enhances the dialogue. Whether it's an interesting fact or a personal anecdote, what you share should enrich the interaction and show your engagement. This builds a stronger rapport and leaves a lasting impression.

Elevate Your Interactions

Imagine every conversation you have as an opportunity to elevate your interactions. By being present, genuine, and actively engaged, you can turn ordinary exchanges into meaningful connections. This is especially powerful in professional settings, where your ability to communicate effectively can open doors and build lasting relationships.

The Joy of Humor

And let's not forget the power of humor! Injecting humor effortlessly into your conversations can lighten the mood, break down barriers, and foster a sense of camaraderie. I’ve found that laughter is a universal language that connects us all. So, don't be afraid to share a funny story or a clever joke – it could be the spark that transforms a simple conversation into something memorable.

Ready to Dive In?

If you're ready to take your communication skills to the next level, my book, Listen, Laugh, Connect is your ultimate guide. Whether you're looking to create stronger bonds at work, deepen friendships, or improve family dynamics, this book is filled with insights that will help you connect more profoundly with those around you while delivering your message to inspire the world to become kinder and more compassionate while celebrating those around you as artists and poets.

But why stop there? If you want to truly master the art of communication and make a lasting impact whenever you speak, consider joining my Public Speaking Course, Stand Up! And Speak.

Why Enroll in Stand Up! And Speak?

In Stand Up! And Speak, you'll learn to structure your speeches for maximum impact and deliver your message with clarity and conviction. This course will guide you through the nuances of public speaking with a blend of practical tools and engaging content.

What’s Included:

• Video lessons: Dive deep into the principles of effective communication and public speaking.

• PDF worksheets to refine your speech: Work through exercises designed to boost your speaking prowess.

• PDFs of my best-selling book, Listen, Laugh, Connect, and my best-selling journal, 21-Days to Saying "Yes" to Life: Elevate your skills both on and off the stage.

• Special bonuses throughout the course: Exclusive content to keep you motivated and on track.

 By enrolling in this course, you’ll not only be taking a pivotal step toward improving your communication skills but also impacting every aspect of your life with more confidence and clarity.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of Listen, Laugh, Connect, and enroll now in Stand Up! And Speak. Start transforming your conversations and your public speaking skills today!

I'd love to hear from you: How do you think improving your communication skills will impact your relationships? Feel free to share your thoughts and let's start a conversation!

Stand Up! And Speak