When you’re working to overcome a fear of public speaking, it can be incredibly helpful to hear from others who understand the experience. Sometimes, a few minutes of the right advice, shared in the right way, can change the way you see things. Over the years, I’ve recommended these TED Talks to women I’ve coached—because they don’t just focus on performance techniques. They go deeper. They speak to mindset, self-perception, and how to move forward when you feel stuck.
If you feel nervous, anxious, or even terrified about public speaking, I think you’ll find something helpful in each of these Ted Talks.
1. “The Power of Vulnerability” – Brené Brown
Although not a talk about public speaking in the traditional sense, Brené Brown’s exploration of vulnerability gets to the heart of why public speaking feels so exposing. She shares research-backed insights about how embracing vulnerability can make us more connected, courageous, and authentic.
Standout quote:
“Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”
Why I recommend it:
When I struggled with anxiety about public speaking, I didn’t talk about it—because I felt ashamed. I thought it was something I should be able to handle. But the truth is, shame thrives in silence. What I’ve learnt is that speaking about it—naming it—starts to break that cycle. Brown’s talk helped me reframe vulnerability not as a weakness, but as a strength. It’s a powerful reminder that we don’t need to hide the fact we find things hard. In fact, acknowledging it can help us connect more deeply with others—and ultimately speak more powerfully too.
Watch it here.
2. “How to Speak so that People Want to Listen” – Julian Treasure
Julian Treasure delivers a practical, actionable Ted Talk about improving the way you speak—covering tone, pace, pitch, and intention. His advice feels empowering because it focuses on what you can do rather than who you are.
Standout quote:
“The human voice: it’s the instrument we all play.”
Why I recommend it:
This Ted Talk is a reassuring reminder that speaking effectively isn’t about being naturally gifted. It’s a skill you can learn, practice, and refine over time. He also suggests some vocal warm up exercises that I found really helpful to include in my pre-speaking routine.
Watch it here
3. “Why We Choke Under Pressure” – Sian Beilock
Cognitive scientist Sian Beilock explores why we sometimes underperform just when it matters most. She explains how focusing too much on doing well can actually disrupt skills that are usually automatic.
Standout quote:
“When we worry, we use up the working memory we need for the task at hand.”
Why I recommend it:
This talk is especially reassuring for anyone who feels they “blank out” when speaking under pressure. I’ve experienced that feeling myself—when your mind goes quiet just when you need it to speak up. It offers a scientific explanation for that experience, along with practical ways to shift your focus and regain control.
Watch it here.
4. “How I Beat Stage Fright?” – Joe Kowan
Joe Kowan delivers a humorous and heartfelt talk about his personal struggle with stage fright. Through his unique approach—writing and performing a song that openly addresses his nervousness—he transforms vulnerability into a powerful connection with his audience.
Standout quote:
“By thinking about my audience, by embracing and exploiting my problem, I was able to take something that was blocking my progress and turn it into something that was essential for my success.”
Why I recommend it: This talk makes me smile every time I watch it. I love how Joe turns his anxiety into a creative tool—it’s a reminder that being open and authentic can actually bring us closer to an audience.
Watch it here.
5. “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are” – Amy Cuddy
Amy Cuddy’s talk explores the connection between body language and confidence—not just how others see you, but how you feel internally. She introduces the idea of “power posing” as a way to shift your internal state before a big moment.
Standout quote:
“Tiny tweaks can lead to big changes.”
Why I recommend it:
I tried this myself when I found public speaking nerve-wracking, and I found it surprisingly helpful. Yes, there’s been some debate around the science since, but Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk explores an idea that still resonates: how body language can shift not just how others perceive you, but how you feel inside. Her concept of “power posing” offers a simple way to feel more grounded and capable before a big moment.
Watch it here.
How to Make the Most of These Ted Talks
If you find yourself nodding along, take it one step further. After watching one of these talks, spend a few minutes reflecting:
- What one idea stood out most to you?
- What small change could you experiment with this week?
You don’t need to implement everything at once. Building public speaking confidence is like strengthening a muscle: small, consistent practice works better than big, overwhelming leaps.
Further support with public speaking?
Fear of public speaking doesn’t make you broken, weak, or less professional. It makes you human.
The women I work with are often already highly capable, experienced professionals. It’s not ability that’s holding them back—it’s anxiety, mindset, and self-criticism. The good news is that all of these things can shift with the right support and strategies.
If you’re looking for tailored support to move past public speaking fear—at your own pace—you might be interested in my self-paced online course, Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking, or my affordable coaching options.
You don’t have to face this fear alone. And confidence doesn’t have to be something other people have and you don’t. It’s a skill you can build, one step at a time.
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