Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of coaching two TEDx cohorts—more than two dozen speakers preparing for the biggest talk of their lives. I provided group sessions, one-on-one coaching, video feedback, and teamed up with other former TEDx speakers to help them shine. Watching those speakers deliver on stage was nothing short of inspiring.

Most of the speakers were professionals in something besides speaking. They were everyday people with “Ideas Worth Spreading” (TED’s brand slogan). Many wrestled with imposter syndrome right up to the final applause. But TEDx talks aren’t fundamentally different from your presentations, meetings, interviews, or pitches. The platform is bigger, but the principles are the same.

Here are five takeaways from the process that apply to every speaker.

The Audience Doesn’t Know

They don’t know what you planned to say, how much you did or did not practice, how nervous you feel, or that you just skipped a paragraph. What they do know is that they want you to succeed. They’ll forgive stumbles if you connect, inspire, and teach them something worth remembering.

Look Relaxed, Even if You’re Not

Your audience only sees what’s visible. Anxiety and confidence are internal. Control your body language. Breathe. Stop fidgeting. You don’t have to be calm to look calm. (We’ve talked about this before here).

Anyone Can Learn to Be an Effective Speaker

This was my seventh time coaching a TEDx event. Almost all the speakers were beginners. They started with rough ideas and too many words. But through feedback and iteration, their messages sharpened. On average, each invested 50+ hours of practice for a 10-minute talk. The formula is simple. The key to great content is iteration; the key to great performance is practice (not rehearsal).

That Which Gets Repeated Gets Remembered

When I coach, I call it finding your One Thing. The most memorable speakers reinforce their main idea again and again. Catchy phrasing helps—but if it’s worth remembering, it’s worth repeating.

Vulnerability Attracts

The most powerful talks weren’t the most polished—they were the most real. Audiences lean in when you share the human side of your story: the failure, fear, or lesson learned the hard way. Authenticity connects faster than perfection ever will.

Whether you’re giving a toast, leading a meeting, or speaking from a TEDx stage, communication skill determines your impact. And the good news is—you can learn all of it.

Communication Matters! What are you saying?

Alan, your Online Stage Coach