Introducing Tom Bentey’s New Online Course on Communications and Public Speaking
Hello! I’m Tom Bentey, and I’m excited to share that I’m launching a new online class focused specifically on public speaking and communications. Because I have taught these subjects at the college level for over a decade, I want to bring my experience and expertise in mastering communication to a wider audience. Therefore, this course will be available in a convenient online format. But before diving into the course details, I’d like to share some important insights on why effective communication is such a powerful and essential skill in our daily lives.
Why Public Speaking and Communication Matter
Speech delivery is foundational to every aspect of life. Whether you’re a professor, actor, doctor, lawyer, business professional, or working in a corporate environment, communication shapes how effectively we share ideas. Moreover, it helps us connect with others and influence outcomes. Over the years, teaching effective communication has profoundly impacted my own life. Thus, I’m passionate about helping others develop these vital skills.
Learning from Great Speeches
One of the best ways to improve your speech delivery skills is by studying great speeches. Not only do they teach us about history, but they also show how to deliver messages compellingly and meaningfully. For example, two speeches that stand out to me are:
1. President Barack Obama’s 2008 Inauguration Speech
This historic moment captures the power of context — understanding the setting, the audience, and the significance of the event. President Obama’s introduction is masterful. It instantly engages listeners and sets the tone for hope and unity. For example, he said:
“If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible… Tonight is your answer.”
Obama’s speeches often weave broad themes like unity, progress, and determination into relatable stories of real people. Also, his ability to humanize big ideas is a powerful lesson in mastering communication.
2. President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 Speech at the Berlin Brandenburg Gate
Reagan’s bold call to “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall” is one of the most iconic lines in modern history. However, he was advised to avoid such a provocative statement. Despite this, Reagan understood the importance of calling out injustice clearly and courageously. The speech’s context — the Cold War and the divided Germany — adds weight to every word. Therefore, it remains a timeless example of impactful speech delivery.
Applying These Public Speaking Lessons Today
You might not be delivering speeches on global stages. However, the principles behind these historic moments apply everywhere — whether in office meetings, presentations, or everyday conversations. By crafting your message with context, clarity, and connection, you can dramatically improve your influence and effectiveness in communication. Furthermore, practicing these techniques regularly will build your confidence over time.
Join Me on This Communication Journey
Mastering communication is a lifelong journey. Just as I continue honing my skills, I invite you to develop yours alongside me. In addition, I’m launching a video and podcast series where I’ll analyze famous speeches, share tips on speech delivery, and explore different styles. This will help you become a confident and compelling communicator. Moreover, these resources will be accessible anytime, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
If you’re passionate about improving your communication skills like I am, please subscribe and join the conversation. I’ll be sharing insights from my years of teaching. Also, I’ll break down communication into practical steps that anyone can apply.
Let’s Connect!
I’d love to hear from you — what challenges do you face in public speaking? Which speeches inspire you? What skills do you want to develop? Please leave your questions and comments, and let’s learn and grow together. Stay tuned for more videos, speech analyses, and updates on my upcoming comprehensive communication course. Together, we’ll unlock the power of words and storytelling to make a lasting impact.