Ruth Milligan speaks with Jane Atkinson, podcast host of the Wealthy Speaker Show, about “High-Stakes Speaking” and explores the essential elements of effective communication in high-pressure scenarios. In the episode, Ruth posits that successful high-stakes speaking relies not just on charisma, but on intentional preparation, clarity, and empathy. Drawing from her TED experience, she explains that even seasoned executives can falter if they don’t structure their messages with the audience in mind. And she advocates for storytelling as a powerful tool to make complex ideas relatable and memorable, urging speakers to connect with their listeners emotionally and intellectually.
Ruth also outlines a framework for preparing speeches with impact: identifying the core message, understanding the audience’s needs, and delivering with authenticity. The women discuss common communication pitfalls, such as too much data or not rehearsing. The way past those pitfalls, per Ruth, is with iterative refinement through feedback and practice. Moreover, Ruth asserts that great public speaking is a learned skill, not an innate talent.
Ruth ultimately positions high-stakes communication as a strategic asset. Leaders who can convey their ideas clearly and persuasively are better equipped to influence, inspire, and drive change. Most importantly, she underscores that effective speaking is not performance—it’s purposeful connection rooted in clarity, relevance, and emotional intelligence.
🎙 Introduction & Background [00:02]
Jane Atkinson welcomes Ruth Milligan to the podcast, discussing “high stakes” speaking, which Ruth calls “consequential communications.”
🔴 Speaking Insights learned from TEDx [02:15]
Ruth shares her TEDx experience, starting in 2009.
- The difference between TED and TEDx.
- Discussion about TED being a publisher of ideas.
- The different purposes of TED vs. TEDx talks and keynote speaking.
- Preparation steps for a successful TEDx talk.
💡 The Motivated Speaker and how it can guide better habits [17:40]
Ruth identifies fundamental concepts to become a good speaker.
- The importance of feedback in speaking, including self-reflection.
- What “shaded habits” are in speaking, and how they might show up, even for experienced speakers.
