Writing a Powerful Speech Introduction

Writing a Powerful Speech Introduction

“Please help me welcome . . .”  In most public speaking situations, the coordinators will ask you to provide your own written speech introduction for them to read (hopefully with some energy and enthusiasm). At Toastmasters, we invite speakers to provide a...
Is Propranolol a Cure for Stage Fright?

Is Propranolol a Cure for Stage Fright?

A reader has this question: Is propranolol a cure for stage fright? “Your recent article was very helpful. I have a question: Do you think the beta-blockers that many people use can remove performance fears overnight,  like the antibiotic way of solving...
People Don’t Fear Public Speaking More Than Death!

People Don’t Fear Public Speaking More Than Death!

It’s Not True! Public Speaking Is Not Scarier Than Death!! You know how you’re always hearing that people are more afraid of public speaking than they are of death? It’s all over the place. Jerry Seinfeld unwittingly popularized the idea when he...
Performance Simulator Helps Musicians’ Stage Fright.

Performance Simulator Helps Musicians’ Stage Fright.

Virtual reality can be a big help in overcoming stage fright! This is so cool!  Here’s the situation. “Musicians stage fright” is a very real thing, as many musicians know. Too often, music students (even working performers) don’t get the...
Does It Take Years to Conquer Stage Fright?

Does It Take Years to Conquer Stage Fright?

It Doesn’t Have to Take Years. The singer and actress, Bette Midler, who has been performing for over 40 years, recently revealed that it had taken her almost that long to conquer stage fright, but she finally has. Bette Midler?! But she’s so fabulous! How...