# Ultraspeaking [site](https://ultraspeaking.com) Ultraspeaking is a cohort-based class and a platform for improving public speaking. Unlike other programs or communities like [[Toastmasters]], Ultraspeaking takes a less technical approach. Instead of removing "ums" and "uhs" from their speech or learning what to do with their hands, students are encouraged to enjoy the act of speaking. ## The course ![[Fundamentals Tenets Learning Path.pdf]] ## Principles ### Everyone is a speaker It's not just presenters who speak; we all talk to people more than we think. Improving your speaking skills helps with general professional work, but also with our personal lives. Getting good at communication improves every aspect of our lives. ### Don't break character If something unexpected happens, don't assume people will notice it-- just keep going and don't deviate from what you're talking about. Most issues are momentary and addressing them takes the audience out of what you're saying. ### Vary your energy levels The best way to be a charismatic speaker is to explore your range of energy levels. Imagine a scale from 1-10 where 1 is the lowest energy (thoughtful, contemplative, quiet, insightful) and 10 is the highest (excited, loud, energetic, opinionated). Varying your energy levels is less about having an objective range and more about trying to find _your_ range and extend it, so that you can express a wider breadth of emotions. People respond to changes in energy levels. ### Take a breath Rather than keep rambling, sometimes it's better to just take a breath. Don't be afraid of the pauses; pauses add rhythm and emphasis. ### Make it personal When in doubt, share a personal insight or story. The skill of storytelling is applicable regardless to any topic. ## The classes ```dataview TABLE summary as "Summary" from "private/meeting" where contains(file.name,"Ultraspeaking") sort file.name desc ```