Pope Francis, Symbols & Communication Failure

The Pope was in town last week. There was great anticipation for his visit, as there is with every Pope, but Francis seemed to have something special. From the minute he began his papacy, he seemed far more inclusive than his predecessors. His manner bespoke humility. He chose to live in a smaller, less ostentatious residence in Vatican City. His words were crafted to convey non-judgment. These careful and deliberate messages were intended to confirm that this pope was different, new, with fresh ideas about how to treat the marginalized. And then, poof, all gone, with one, depressing misstep.

02 October 2015 | 0 Comments

Tags: Catholic Church , Communication , Political Communication , Pope Francis , public speaking

Who Won The 2nd GOP Debate? - Ruth Sherman with Marcia Kramer of CBS

I watched the 2nd GOP Debate. It was clear to me that Carly Fiorina won. She deployed her considerable talents and skills as a public speaker and presenter. She also prepared. Watch my discussion with Chief Political Correspondent Marcia Kramer of CBS.

21 September 2015 | 0 Comments

Tags: Ben Carson , Carly Fiorina , CBS News , Donald Trump , Marcia Kramer , Political Communication , public speaking

Kanye West: How NOT To Give An Awards Acceptance Speech

Kanye West just cannot get out of his own way. In his acceptance speech for the VMA Vanguard Award, a huge honor, he once again lacked the grace, humility, and, frankly, the skills to deliver the speech his audience deserved to hear. At the start I thought he was might be about to redeem himself, acknowledging and perhaps even apologizing for his outrageously rude behavior at the 2009 awards show when he snatched an award out of the hands of Taylor swift because, in his opinion, others were more deserving (Beyoncé). Within seconds, however, he veered into familiar territory.

03 September 2015 | 3 Comments

Tags: Awards Acceptance Speech , Kanye West , Making an Impression , MTV VMA Vanguard Award , Preparation , public speaking

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