In this insightful and practical blog post, award-winning speaker and coach Rikki Arundel explores one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of public speaking: Platform Mechanics. Drawing on decades of experience, Rikki explains how everything except your speech content—room layout, AV setup, tech crew, microphones, slides, lighting, and even late arrivals—can make or break your presentation.
With a gripping personal story from a disaster-stricken Wembley event, Rikki shares practical tips on how to work with the team, avoid common pitfalls, and adapt when things inevitably go wrong. Whether you’re a seasoned keynote speaker or preparing for your first big talk, this post will help you plan for the unexpected and stay in control. Essential reading for anyone serious about delivering unforgettable presentations.
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In this thoughtful and poetic article, professional speaker and storytelling coach Rikki Arundel explores the often-overlooked power of silence in public speaking — through the elegant lens of haiku poetry. Drawing from both live and virtual speaking experiences, Rikki weaves a series of original haiku that illuminate those quiet, pivotal moments speakers often fear: the pause before beginning, the silence after a powerful point, the awkward stillness when humour misses, or the quiet screen of a muted Zoom call.
The article introduces readers to the traditional structure of haiku while offering deeply relatable insights into the speaker’s emotional landscape. Each poem is paired with a descriptive title that speaks directly to a shared speaker experience. A unique fusion of art and coaching, this piece offers both seasoned speakers and nervous first-timers a gentle reminder: silence isn’t something to fear — it’s a tool to be embraced.
