The 3 Speeches Every Thought Leader Should Have
Recently, I began working with a wonderful author whose publicist referred her to me.
She has written a beautiful book and is now ready to bring her ideas to the stage.
She wants to create several talks:
• Keynotes
• Workshops
• Webinars
• Stage talks
• And a TEDx talk.
Early in our conversation she asked a question I hear often.
“Can I just write one speech and use it everywhere?”
It’s a natural question.
But the truth is…
Every great speaking career is built on several different types of speeches.
Not simply keynote versus webinar.
I’m talking about the creative structure behind the talk itself.
Let me explain.
Speech #1: The Paid Speaking Speech
This is the speech designed for conferences and organizations that hire speakers.
Its purpose is to deliver insight, inspiration, and memorable ideas.
It leaves the audience thinking.
And it leaves the event organizer glad they hired you.
This speech establishes you as a thought leader.
Speech #2: The Enrollment Speech
This speech often happens at conferences, community events, summits, or workshops.
It provides real value—but it also naturally leads the audience toward working with you.
When done well, this speech creates clients and long-term relationships.
Speech #3: The TEDx Speech
A TEDx talk is its own category.
It centers around a single powerful idea worth spreading and is delivered in a concise, story-driven format.
It is less about selling and more about contribution and impact.
When done well, it can elevate someone’s visibility around the world.
Each Speech Must Stand Alone
Yes, pieces can be repurposed.
Stories can be reused.
Ideas can evolve.
But each speech must be designed for the opportunity it serves.
This is why when I work with clients, we don’t just write a speech.
We build a speaking strategy.
And sometimes we also identify the stages where that message belongs.
Because a powerful idea deserves the right platform.
If speaking is something you’d like to do more of
whether that’s keynotes, workshops, or a TEDx talkI’d love to talk with you.
