A metaphor in search of a speechwriter
Ridiculous vocals-only version of the Van Halen song, “Running with the Devil” is a perfect metaphor for … something. (Or everything?)
“Let Us Continue” … to Protect Voting Rights
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder sounds an alarm: “we cannot—and must not—take the right to vote for granted.”
Inciting Peace
“Peace journalist” Steven Youngblood urges graduates to promote peace in all their pursuits.
Public relations: Call it what you want, but it is what it is
My Kent State PR prof pal Bill Sledzik could bring rationality and a sense of consructiveness to a gang bang. Which is exactly what he did last week when he …
Being the editor of Vital Speeches is busier than you’d think
Everybody thinks I have the easiest job in the world. And I don’t mind people thinking that. Better that people are jealous of you, than sorry for you. And in …
I stopped pitying speechwriters when I realized they were liars
In the foreword to 10 Steps to Writing a Vital Speech, Fletcher Dean’s nutricious and delicious new book—the official launch is in January, but advance copies are available at our …
What to remember in December
Events taking place, deadlines approaching, and agenda planning cycles beginning this month.
“It Never Stops”
You think you feel overwhelmed by work? You should try being editor of Vital Speeches, or director of the Polish Museum of America.
Speechwriter as sycophant, or errand boy as speechwriter?
For the most part, I don’t write speeches. That’s why I have time to read so many speeches, and write about speechwriters. Occasionally, not being on the front lines leaves …
The key to a great speech introduction: Say something true
(And if you really want to get their attention, throw in an obscenity.)