Does anyone have "hidden camera" footage of people from the 1950s and before having candid conversations? When they're giving prepared/on-camera remarks in any footage I watch, people seem very very stilted - like unskilled actors. I'm wondering if this was just the style of the "public voice" at the time, or if people actually talked to each other in day to day conversations this way [more inside]
posted by crayz on Nov 25, 2009 - 14 answers

Is English much more difficult than most languages to speak and to write? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano on Nov 23, 2009 - 37 answers

Why do I have to clear my throat all of the time? When I'm speaking, my voice often becomes croaky to the point where I can't speak normally without sounding like Tom Waits on his deathbed. This is normally resolved by me clearing my throat rather audibly (ahem-uh-huh-hem!), after which I can speak fine again. I might have to do this five or six times in an hour long presentation. I'm not spitting out or swallowing phlegm, my voice is just unusably scratchy until I clear my throat. Occassionally, clearing my throat does nothing, and I'm left with a voice that can barely speak. This happens with my normal conversations, too, not just presentations. [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Nov 20, 2009 - 6 answers

People routinely interrupt me when I'm speaking in a group. Why does this happen, and how can I stop it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Nov 18, 2009 - 37 answers

I'm looking for advice to avoid losing my voice while speaking for a long time. Can anybody help me...? [more inside]
posted by Simon Barclay on Nov 1, 2009 - 9 answers

Looking for a discreet audio recording device (not one of the typical voice memo recording sticks you get at radio shack, this must be discreet). I am a public speaker at my company and I typically speak at multiple meetings per day, with no time to take notes for follow-up questions. I need a stand-alone audio recorder that is discreet (wrist watch, pen, etc.) and that can handle at least 8 hours of recording on 1 charge / 1 set of batteries. [more inside]
posted by thankyoumuchly on Oct 19, 2009 - 19 answers

Can you help me learn how to finish a sentence? [more inside]
posted by YamwotIam on Sep 25, 2009 - 33 answers

I have a horrible stutter which just came to my attention about a week ago. Not only is "uh" my favorite word but I repeat myself a lot. Help me, oh hivemind, to learn how to fix this problem. Written and audio examples inside. [more inside]
posted by Pseudology on Sep 7, 2009 - 17 answers

What's the best way to learn Japanese, if you don't care about being able to write it? [more inside]
posted by Mwongozi on Aug 30, 2009 - 18 answers

Public Speaking Filter: I've been asked to speak in front of a very large group at a public rally tomorrow. I'm excited, but I've never done this before. Help! [more inside]
posted by inatizzy on Aug 29, 2009 - 29 answers

Japanese conversation practice with a native speaker in the Portland, OR area (or maybe Skype)? [more inside]
posted by wastelands on May 19, 2009 - 6 answers

I will be having surgery in the near future which will either leave me with a whisper for a voice or not being able to speak. I am a manager/team leader/director and I work with a large number of with people. Anyone know of resources for non-vocal team leading/management philosophies and styles? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on May 13, 2009 - 6 answers

Can you help me provide a good keynote presentation with your insights and suggestions? [more inside]
posted by RajahKing on Apr 22, 2009 - 7 answers

What are some easy, relatively quick ways to learn to write better, think clearer, and express myself better? [more inside]
posted by Bageena on Jan 28, 2009 - 24 answers

How can I transform from a low talker into someone people can hear? [more inside]
posted by Bunglegirl on Jan 9, 2009 - 17 answers

How do inspirational/motivational/informational speakers get started? [more inside]
posted by explosion on Dec 9, 2008 - 5 answers

How can I be less long-winded? [more inside]
posted by contessa on Dec 5, 2008 - 36 answers

How can I improve the quality / listenability of my speaking voice? (for podcasts, namely, but in general works too) [more inside]
posted by NikitaNikita on Oct 10, 2008 - 7 answers

My pronunciation of r's and l's is the same - for example, I pronounce lot and rot the same. English is my first (and only) language. When listening, i have no problems distinguishing between the two. No problems with writing either. Only with pronunciation. How do I become better at pronouncing those sounds? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Aug 16, 2008 - 12 answers

Soft talker here. Any methods/courses/books/exercises that might help me develop better voice projection? [more inside]
posted by Bardolph on Jun 16, 2008 - 12 answers

How can I reach potential clients and new avenues for my health business? Would love specific suggestions for online networks, writing and speaking opportunities, and individual consultations. My business revolves around holistic health, life coaching, homeopathy, and intuitive skills. [more inside]
posted by healthyliving on Jun 10, 2008 - 1 answer

What is the first question people ask when you tell them what you do? Are there common misconceptions or generalizations that people make? How do you tactfully and/or humorously correct them? [more inside]
posted by iamkimiam on Apr 28, 2008 - 156 answers

I'd like to learn a new language during my daily commute. What is the best language learning audio cd available? [more inside]
posted by zippity on Mar 25, 2008 - 11 answers

What books, training, or simple advice can you give me in becoming a more interesting conversationalist at work and especially in meeting new people? [more inside]
posted by Brandon1600 on Mar 16, 2008 - 20 answers

[ConversationFilter] Me no speaky so good no more. Please help! [more inside]
posted by willie11 on Jan 19, 2008 - 26 answers

How can I become good at speaking extemporaneously? [more inside]
posted by fogster on Nov 29, 2007 - 13 answers

For my public-speaking workshop I've been told to memorize and recite 1 - 2 minutes of text that inspires me, from a story, speech, monologue or performance. All I can think of is silly love poems and scenes from Taxi Driver. Help! [more inside]
posted by KathyK on Nov 28, 2007 - 32 answers

How do I get over my fear of speaking in public... in a foreign language? I can barely function when speaking in my second language, partially because of this fear. [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet on Nov 6, 2007 - 14 answers

I need anecdotes/ideas/something for a speech I will be giving at an antiwar protest this Saturday. Please help! [more inside]
posted by skjønn on Oct 25, 2007 - 6 answers

[Shy student filter]: how to work constructively with a domineering classmate? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Sep 30, 2007 - 11 answers

Last Saturday I gave a speech to a group of about 500 people and I rocked it. Standing ovation and all. I want to start doing much more public speaking, but how do I promote myself as public speaker and land some more speaking opprotunities? (either paid or unpaid) [more inside]
posted by jlowen on Sep 7, 2007 - 12 answers

What is the origin of pronouncing "I've got you" like "I've gotchew?" Does this go back to ancient English speaking times, or is this merely a sloppy, learned Americanism? Is there a name for it? [more inside]
posted by iguanapolitico on Aug 30, 2007 - 32 answers

I'm learning a new language (Italian), and as with other languages I've learned, I have no trouble with the written form. But, as with the others, the spoken variety gives me trouble. [more inside]
posted by SuperNova on Aug 29, 2007 - 15 answers

How to reduce "umms" in conversation? I have no problem in public speaking and well prepared statements, but when I'm in conversation when someone asks me a question, I use a lot "umms" because I'm not sure always what to say. Any tips to reducing this habit and talking more confidently? [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv on Jul 30, 2007 - 26 answers

Tell me/help me find some jokes about/involving not being able to speak. One of my coworkers has a throat... thing, that is keeping her from speaking today(bare whisper if she must), and possibly will last until tomorrow. I'd love to brighten her day with some jokes, and you can help. [more inside]
posted by ElfWord on Jul 19, 2007 - 16 answers

I'm supposed to give a toast at my friend's wedding, but I don't really know his fiancee very well. What should I say? [more inside]
posted by Elmo Oxygen on Jul 9, 2007 - 9 answers

I'm looking for a good Czech pronunciation guide. [more inside]
posted by vernondalhart on May 17, 2007 - 4 answers

[GraduationSpeechFilter] I'm scheduled to give an end-of-year speech to a group of high schoolers. Help me plan what to say! [more inside]
posted by unexpected on May 9, 2007 - 13 answers

What makes a good online training video? Besides decent software and production value. [more inside]
posted by mrhaydel on Apr 10, 2007 - 10 answers

Should I join Toastmasters? [more inside]
posted by By The Grace of God on Apr 2, 2007 - 15 answers

What does American English sound like to people who don't speak english? [more inside]
posted by sammich on Feb 12, 2007 - 35 answers

How do I give the best instructional presentation ever? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Dec 15, 2006 - 13 answers

how does one go about improving their speaking skills i.e. argument, presentation and general eloquence.
posted by thegeezer3 on Oct 30, 2006 - 11 answers

I have been asked say few words for a good friend who passed away young... [more inside]
posted by curiousleo on Jul 19, 2006 - 12 answers

I'll be going to France in a little under 2 months, to stay 2 weeks with a family that doesn't speak much English at all, in a relatively small town that doesn't speak much English at all. I'm decently proficient, but not confident, and definitely lacking in the listening/speaking end. I have, however, 9 days coming up where I will have more than enough free time. I won't have an internet connection, but I'll have a laptop I can put stuff on. What is the best use of the next 2 months in terms of preparing for functioning well on the trip? [more inside]
posted by devilsbrigade on Jun 4, 2006 - 10 answers

I need to buy one or two *good* books about speaking in public. Techniques, how to build a good presentation, usage of humour, tips, etc. The works. There are thousands available on Amazon and I don't want to waste my money. Any good recommendations?
posted by falameufilho on May 11, 2006 - 7 answers

When we hesitate when we speak, the most often heard sound is "um". Why is this? Is it learned? Mechanical? Is it the same in other languages?
posted by peacay on May 9, 2006 - 37 answers

Help me stop staying "you know" when I am having professional conversations with clients. [more inside]
posted by Xurando on Apr 28, 2006 - 28 answers

Are there any alternatives to Toastmasters for public speaking practice clubs? I've been to a few local meetings to see what they're like and the style is just too regimented for me.
posted by yoga on Apr 4, 2006 - 6 answers

Anyone have any practical tips for using voice recognition in an office environment? [more inside]
posted by krisjohn on Mar 26, 2006 - 1 answer