Say It Well by Terry Szuplat Summary

Say It Well is a guide to mastering public speaking, blending Terry Szuplat’s experience as Barack Obama’s speechwriter with actionable strategies to overcome anxiety, craft persuasive messages, and inspire audiences. It covers AI-assisted speechwriting, attention-grabbing openings, scientifically backed persuasion tactics, and impactful closings, while emphasizing empathy and authenticity in communication.

Aspiring speakers, professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and anyone facing public speaking fears will benefit. The book is particularly valuable for leaders seeking to inspire teams, advocates pitching causes, or individuals delivering toasts, eulogies, or presentations. Szuplat’s relatable anecdotes and Obama-era insights make it ideal for those wanting to communicate with clarity and confidence.

Yes—it’s a USA Today bestseller and Porchlight Award winner for Best Business Book (2024). Szuplat’s blend of White House storytelling, practical frameworks (e.g., overcoming stage fright, AI tools for drafting), and real-world success stories from diverse speakers offers fresh, actionable advice for modern communicators.

Szuplat shares his journey from anxiety to confidence, offering techniques like reframing fear as energy, practicing deliberate pauses, and focusing on audience connection. He emphasizes preparation strategies used by Obama, such as rehearsing aloud and visualizing success, to turn nervousness into compelling delivery.

Yes—the book advises using AI to draft initial content or brainstorm ideas but stresses the irreplaceable role of human editing to infuse emotion, humor, and personal stories. Szuplat warns against over-reliance on AI, advocating for a balance between efficiency and authentic voice.

Key lessons include using concise language, structuring arguments around relatable stories, and prioritizing vocal variety. Obama’s emphasis on empathy—tailoring messages to audiences’ values—and his “rule of three” for memorable phrasing are highlighted, alongside behind-the-scenes anecdotes from crafting historic addresses.

The book argues that empathy is critical for bridging divides, urging speakers to acknowledge opposing viewpoints respectfully. Szuplat shares frameworks for finding common ground, such as “yes, and” thinking, and using inclusive language that reflects shared values, even in polarized contexts.

Strong openings include surprising stats, provocative questions, or heartfelt gratitude (despite traditional advice). Closings should rally action with a “call to purpose” or a resonant quote. Szuplat critiques overused templates, advocating for endings that leave audiences feeling hopeful and empowered.

Unlike generic guides, it merges presidential speechwriting tactics with modern tools (AI) and psychological research. It’s more storytelling-driven than Talk Like TED and addresses digital-era challenges (short attention spans, hybrid audiences) absent in classics like The Art of Public Speaking.

Some note it focuses heavily on political/ceremonial contexts versus everyday workplace presentations. Others argue its AI advice may become outdated quickly. However, its core principles—clarity, empathy, and practice—are universally applicable.

It addresses virtual speaking pitfalls (e.g., flat Zoom delivery) and leverages AI as a collaborative tool. Szuplat also analyzes viral speeches from social media influencers, offering tips for concise, platform-friendly messaging without sacrificing depth.

• “Speak to the person, not the crowd”: Personalize messages for deeper connection.
• “Edit ruthlessly, practice relentlessly”: Cut jargon and rehearse timing.
• “Facts persuade, but stories compel”: Use narrative to drive action.

These are illustrated through case studies, including a student’s viral climate speech and a veteran’s TED Talk on resilience.