How to Speak Effectively in Any Setting

By: Molly Bishop Shadel, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Molly Bishop Shadel

The power of an effective speech is undeniable. It has the capacity to engage, inform, motivate, and create change in an audience - and in the world. In this compelling 24-lesson course, How to Speak Effectively in Any Setting, taught by Molly Bishop Shadel, Professor of Law at the University of Virginia School of Law, learn the fine art of speaking clearly, effectively, and persuasively in contexts across the spectrum, from the board room to the bar room and everywhere in between.

With an eye toward the role of ethos, pathos, and logos in effective writing and presentation, Professor Shadel helps you organize and construct a speech in ways that are different from what you might write for other purposes. Focusing on timing and environment in audience experience, you will learn to structure and deliver speeches that your audience can easily follow. Practice, preparation, and some tricks from the actor’s bag of tricks will support great vocal presentation with equally skilled physicality.

Whether you are expected to deliver a eulogy, a wedding toast, a commencement speech, or a formal workplace presentation, advice and direction from Professor Shadel will guide you to success. Learn the underpinnings of effective speech writing and skilled delivery in settings both personal and professional, providing you the tools needed to appear confident and competent during all your public speaking experiences. Finish the course with a new understanding of context, occasion, purpose, and audience, prepared to craft and deliver discourse for any occasion and every situation.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2021 The Great Courses (P)2021 The Teaching Company, LLC

Great tips and excellent narration

I bought this book so I can learn tips to be more confident and comfortable speaking in any situation. It DID help me! First, Molly Bishop Shadel is excellent in her narration of this book. Her voice was so effective in driving home the point she makes. Good book overall!

From One Fearful of Speaking to One Ready to Speak Up

Professor Shadel is an excellent teacher. I would have loved to have been in her classroom. On the other hand, I’m thankful I have a copy of her audiobook because I can listen to her speak again and again. She is logical, down to earth, and compassionate. I learned ways to relax and speak with confidence in a variety of situations. This has become my favorite audiobook.

become a better speaker...

there are specific ways in which we can improve ourselves as speakers, and this class/audio will definitely give us enough information and pointers to try, or keep in mind as we speak.

Most of the content was good

The audiobook provided good advice on speaking more effectively but there were several sections that I would skip entirely. Chapters 1-5 were more of an analysis than guidance, especially when the lecturer referred to political speeches as examples (not relevant for everyday communication). Then the chapter on negotiation weirdly uses a scene from a Western movie as an example of tough negotiation. Really?! There isn't any realistic scenario that can serve as an example?

Methodical and Logical

This course provides a concrete foundation for writing and developing speeches and even engaging in conversation. There are many examples given and almost step-by-step guides to produce quality materials.