In this insightful conversation, with Better Communication Results podcast host Lee Hopkins, Ruth unpacks the six “threshold concepts” that define the art and science of effective speaking. From understanding that speaking is social and embodied, to embracing feedback and recognizing that every genre—from a podcast to a pitch—demands a different approach, her framework challenges common misconceptions and builds new habits.
In a world where communication is often mistaken for charisma or natural talent, Ruth offers a powerful reframe: great speaking is not innate—it’s learned. With over three decades of experience in high-stakes communication, including founding TEDxColumbus, Milligan has coached CEOs, scientists, and leaders to find their voice and elevate their message.
Beyond the concepts, Ruth brings empathy and rigor to the often messy, vulnerable journey of becoming a confident speaker. Through real-life stories—from a finance executive nearly derailed by a single boardroom misstep, to a nervous speaker transforming anxiety into presence—she shows how communication is not just performance, but identity. Whether you’re a seasoned communicator or just starting to find your footing, this episode is packed with practical insights, sharp wit, and the kind of wisdom that will change the way you prepare, rehearse, and ultimately connect with any audience.
Highlights from the episode:
🎙️ Introduction & Background (00:12)
Ruth introduces her book The Motivated Speaker and gives her background
💡 Discovery of Purpose (02:14)
Ruth describes discovering her passion through coaching TEDx speakers.
🧠 The Six Threshold Concepts of Speaking (06:46)
1. Speaking is habitual, not natural
2. Speaking is social
3. Speaking is embodied
4. Speaking is messy
5. Speaking has genres
6. Speaking requires feedback
🧵 Powerful Coaching Stories (19:30)
Real-life stories where poor speaking habits impacted careers, e.g., the finance leader and the woman trained to “look between people.”
💥 Real Coaching Stories (20:18)
A finance leader nearly lost her credibility due to poor communication and hearing loss.
A woman trained as a beauty queen failed a high-stakes pitch due to eye contact issues.
📚 Purpose of Book (23:21)
Book isn’t about structure/storytelling but the communicator. Includes threshold concepts and a reference index for skills.
🛠️ Practical Advice for Nervous Speakers (27:56)
Key tips:
- Listen to yourself (recording)
- Visit the speaking location
- Understand and use breath
- Embrace pauses for impact
🎤 Practice & Rehearsal (37:31)
Emphasis on repetition: e.g., Nikki Glaser practiced her Oscar monologue 91 times.
💬 Storytelling & Connection: (42:11)
How to make stories land emotionally: use metaphor, relevance, and sensory language.
🧰 Speaking is Messy – But Fixable (1:01:38)
Ruth breaks down her strategy for managing complex content:
- Start with the audience’s question.
- Define what you want them to know, feel, or do.
- Create a governing thought (central message).
- Use hierarchy and structure (e.g., Minto Pyramid)
- Practice modularly and adapt for time constraints
