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8 TED Talks to Master Communication
but only if you watch in order
Ajay Malhotra
November 14, 2024 • Reading Time: 8 minutes
In partnership with
Last week, I had a profound moment during one of my entrepreneurial journey.
A CEO client confessed that despite running a successful company, she still gets nervous speaking to large groups.
Her vulnerability reminded me of something crucial: even the most successful people continuously work on their communication skills.
That's why I spent hundreds of hours curating and sequencing the perfect TED Talk journey for you.
Think of it as your personal communication skills bootcamp, carefully designed to build your abilities from the ground up.
But before I share this career-changing sequence, let me ask you:
How much time do you spend consuming content vs. actually implementing what you learn?
Here's why this matters...
Most people watch TED Talks randomly, missing the crucial building blocks that make communication truly powerful.
It's like trying to run before learning to walk.
I've created a strategic sequence that builds each skill upon the last, maximizing your learning and implementation.
The 8-Step Communication Mastery Journey
1. Build Your Foundation
Before you can master techniques, you must master yourself.
Brown's research reveals that vulnerability isn't weakness—it's our greatest measure of courage.
When you embrace imperfection, you create genuine connections.
Next time you present, share a relevant personal story where things didn't go perfectly. Watch how it instantly builds rapport.
2. Own Your Presence
Remember that friend who always commands attention when they walk into a room?
Amy Cuddy's research shows that how Your physical presence shapes your mental confidence.
Just two minutes of power posing can significantly increase your confidence hormones.
Before your next important meeting, find a private space and hold a "power pose" for 120 seconds.
Notice how differently you show up.
3. Master Your Voice
Your voice is a tool of influence—when used correctly.
Use the HAIL Principle:
Honesty: Be clear and straight
Authenticity: Be yourself
Integrity: Be your word
Love: Wish them well
Record yourself speaking naturally for 2 minutes.
Then apply the HAIL principle and record again.
Compare the difference.
4. Perfect Your Dialogue
Celeste Headlee's approach to conversations will revolutionize how you connect with others.
Great communication is about listening, not waiting to speak.
Listen with the intent to understand, not respond.
In your next three conversations, focus solely on understanding rather than preparing your response. Notice how the dynamic shifts.
💡 Quick Insight: Want to maximize your professional reach while mastering these communication skills?
Here's something interesting our community has been testing:
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While you're working on your communication skills, their platform can help you land podcast appearances to practice them.
They're offering a free demo to our community.
Worth checking out!
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You could write a few emails yourself to podcast hosts...
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Log in with your email
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Big brands like Feastables are already using it instead of expensive PR Agencies.
5. Structure Your Message
Nancy Duarte reveals why some presentations captivate while others fall flat.
All great presentations follow the hero's journey format.
The Blueprint:
Start with what is
Contrast with what could be
End with a call to action
Restructure your next presentation using this three-part framework. Test it on a small group first.
6. Craft Your Stories
Andrew Stanton (the genius behind Toy Story) shares why every great story promises transformation.
Stories are not just entertainment—they're the most powerful tool for embedding messages.
Every compelling story promises transformation.
Identify three stories from your experience that demonstrate transformation. Practice telling them using Stanton's principles.
I've seen this principle turn dry data presentations into memorable experiences.
7. Simplify Complexity
Melissa Marshall's "Talk Nerdy to Me" is a masterclass in making complex ideas accessible.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication in communication.
Turn complex ideas into compelling content.
Explain your most complex idea to a 12-year-old. Use that simplified version in your next presentation.
8. Sustain Your Growth
Brittany Packnett ties it all together with a powerful formula: Confidence = Competence + Courage.
This talk helps you maintain momentum and lift others as you rise.
🎯 Pro Implementation Tips:
Watch one talk per day (they're only 4-21 minutes each)
Practice each skill for 24 hours before moving to the next
Record yourself implementing key techniques
You'll see noticeable improvements in just two weeks!
Ready to level up your communication skills?
Reply to this email with the first TED Talk you'll watch - I'd love to hear your takeaways!
Stay Elevated
~ Elevated Path
P.S. Found this valuable? Forward it to a friend who could benefit from better communication skills!
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