EducationSelf-Improvement

A Better Way to Say

Celeste Renee

Become a confident communicator with lessons from the greatest communicators of the ages. Join host Celeste Renee as she delves into powerful speaking strategies inspired by historical figures and literary icons. Each episode offers practical conversation tips to help you become a magnetic storyteller, a persuasive speaker, and the most interesting person in any room.

Whether you want to speak with confidence, network with ease, or simply sound eloquent, these communication lessons will transform how you interact with others. Tune in and elevate your speaking skills.

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S3 · E6
Tuesday · 16 min
8 Niche Communication Habits I Find Incredibly Chic
✨ Get Eloquence Unlocked to level up your speech here.What is the verbal equivalent of an impeccable outfit or a signature scent? Inspired by the "things I find chic" discourse, I put together my own list of 8 niche communication habits that make someone sound timeless, elegant, and genuinely memorable. This isn't "make eye contact" or "remember people's names." We're going deeper.In this episode: personalized compliments, speaking with conviction, being comfortable with silence, recalling specific details, floating between topics with ease, having a signature phrase, painting with your words, and quoting from memory.EPISODES MENTIONED:How to Banish Filler Words From Your VocabularyHow to Train Yourself to Be Eloquent | The Edifying Environment Your Desire to Impress Others is Ruining Your ConversationsRESOURCES MENTIONED:Patrick Henry, "Give me liberty or give me death"Aristotle's RhetoricCicero's De OratoreJoan Didion's EssaysEnjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say for more lessons on eloquent communication
S3 · E5
September 1 · 37 min
Stop Sounding Like Everyone Else: Telling Your Unique Story with Nuria Garcia
Speak confidently with the Eloquence Unlocked guide here Your unique story is the one thing AI can't generate. In this episode, I sit down with Nuria Garcia, storytelling expert and founder of Meet More Doers, to talk about why so many business owners sound exactly the same, and how to build a story that actually connects.Nuria moved from Spain to the US alone, built a life and a business from scratch, and started Meet More Doers, a community for founders, creators, and "needle-movers" who have a bias for action. She's candid about what actually changed her: not the move itself, but consistently putting herself in situations that scared her.We get into:- Why humans connect through stories, not polished results — and why so many business owners sound exactly the same online- How to find your story even if you think your life isn't "exciting enough" - The underrated power of just asking for what you want — including how Nuria got a free venue for her event by simply asking- Why having a bias for action, and repeatedly doing things outside your comfort zone, is what actually builds confidence and community- How Nuria built Meet More Doers into a home for the "misfits" who don't fit the typical founder mold-The one piece of communication advice Nuria wishes she'd learned soonerResources Mentioned:Connect with Nuria Garcia on Instagram hereMeet More Doers is here (Nuria's community for founders and creators)Work with Nuria hereEnjoy this episode? Watch A Better Way to Say to level up your speaking skills
S3 · E4
August 25 · 17 min
I Studied History's Greatest Speakers. Here's What They Do.
Get the Eloquence Unlocked guide, with a place to log the phrases and words you want to weave into your own vocabulary. How do you become a better public speaker? Great speakers don't naturally deliver with confidence and clarity; they build the skill through specific, learnable habits. In this episode, I break down the exact practices history's greatest speakers used to become magnetic, persuasive communicators, including a story about a young JFK bombing a public speaking class in college. You'll learn how to structure your speech for maximum impact, specific rhetorical figures to sound more persuasive (the same ones Lincoln and JFK used), and how to actually practice public speaking so you improve faster. 📖 Resources Mentioned: Lend Me Your Ears by William Safire JFK's 1961 Inaugural Address Previous Episode: How to Make Speaking Practice Fun Enjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say for more communication lessons.
S3 · E1
August 18 · 14 min
Improving Your Speech Feels Like a Chore. Let's Fix That.
✨ ⁠Get your Eloquence Unlocked guide here.⁠ The journey to becoming an eloquent speaker can feel like trudging up a hill, or it can feel like running through a field. The difference comes down to one often overlooked ingredient: fun. Learn ways to make your speaking practice something you actually look forward to, from gamifying your practice with levels and goals to creating a speaking alter ego that lets you become the version of yourself you aspire to be. Resources Mentioned: Voltaire on solemnity and play Why All the World's Most Confident People Adopt Alter Egos Enjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say for more lessons every week.
S3 · E2
August 11 · 28 min
How to Rebuild Your Environment to Become Eloquent
✨ Get Eloquence Unlocked here to speak with confidence. Being an excellent speaker comes down to daily habits. In this episode, learn how to build your "edifying environment", the daily system of inputs (what you read, listen to, and reflect on) that shapes how clearly and confidently you speak. You'll learn the three-step framework for building your own edifying environment: how to define your spheres of interest, how to choose sources (physical and digital) using Francis Bacon's "tasted, swallowed, chewed" approach to books, and the three daily habits — reading, vocabulary review, and reflective writing — that turn it into a real practice. And sign up for the newsletter here. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Francis Bacon "Of Studies" essay Lend Me Your Ears (speech anthology) The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant Joan Didion and F. Scott Fitzgerald essay collections Enjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say for more lessons every week.
S3 · E1
August 4 · 19 min
Why You're Not Well Spoken (And How to Fix It)
Get ⁠Eloquence Unlocked here⁠ for practices to help you speak with confidence. If you've ever wondered how to be well-spoken, or why you don't sound as articulate as you'd like, this episode is for you. This episode breaks down the deeper root causes keeping you from sounding articulate and becoming a more eloquent speaker, from the pie chart of how you spend your mental energy to a rhetoric lesson from the ancient Romans to why a young man in ancient Greece shaved off half his head to become a great public speaker. If you're looking to improve your communication skills, build public speaking confidence, or simply learn how to speak more clearly and eloquently, this episode lays out exactly where to start. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why consuming more than you contemplate is quietly working against you - The difference between staying in "education mode" and actually executing - The one shift that changes your entire communication output RESOURCES MENTIONED: Politics and the English Language by George Orwell Cicero De Oratore Toastmasters Get the next episode on building your speaking environment here. Enjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say on your favorite podcast app for more lessons on how to become a more eloquent, confident speaker every week.
S2 · E6
Aug 12, 2025 · 47 min
A Speaking Coach's Guide to Sounding Confident
Professional speaking coach Alienor Hunter shares her journey from too shy to order a sandwich to a world-class communication expert. Learn the mindset shifts confident communicators make. Ready to speak with confidence, even if you're incredibly shy? The journey starts with your mindset. Get your free Notion template, ⁠The Conversation Compass here⁠, to begin transforming your interactions today Alienor breaks down the essential mindset shifts and practical tools you need to overcome speaking anxiety, find your natural voice, and actually enjoy speaking up in any situation. Whether you're navigating a new job or just want to feel more at ease in social settings, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom. In this episode, you'll learn: 💡 The #1 mindset shift to stop worrying about how you sound to others. 🎤 Why "speaking before you think" is the secret to sounding more natural and authentic. ✨ An actionable tip for ending your sentences with power and authority. 🤔 A controversial "hot take" on filler words like "um" and "like." 💪 What it truly means to be a resilient speaker (and how to become one). GUEST & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Alienor Hunter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliénor-hunter-08a962186/ Learn more about the course mentioned at UltraSpeaking: https://ultraspeaking.com/ Enjoy this episode? Follow A Better Way to Say on your favorite podcast app for new lessons every week.
S2 · E5
Dec 14, 2023 · 18 min
7 Micro Habits to Sound Eloquent Instantly
Ready to become an unforgettable conversationalist? Download your free Notion template, The Conversation Compass, here. Learn how to speak eloquently with seven microhabits you can implement in minutes. Episodes Mentioned : Spotify: How to Stop Saying Um and Like Apple: How to Stop Saying Um and Like Spotify: Build an Impressive Vocabulary Apple: Build an Impressive Vocabulary Connect with Me: Get the Newsletter X: @HeyCelesteRenee Website: BetterWaytoSay.com Discover the power of structure, balance, and emotion in your words as we delve into: Structure for Clarity: Craft impactful one-sentence summaries to streamline your message and banish filler words, unlocking a confident delivery. Posture and Voice: Explore the connection between posture and vocal clarity, learning how a simple adjustment can amplify your presence. Balanced Speech: Embrace tone variation and strategic pauses to engage listeners. Master the art of speaking confidently. Enjoy the eloquent speaking class. Talk soon.
Oct 25, 2023 · 35 min
Powerful People Do THIS : Strategies from Communication Expert Steven Gaffney
Ready to become an unforgettable conversationalist? Download your free Notion template, ⁠The Conversation Compass, here⁠. Join me as I sit down with Steven Gaffney, the renowned communication expert and public speaker to discuss how to be powerful in any situation. With over 25 years of experience, Steve is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 leaders, associations, and U.S. government agencies, among others. In this episode, we dive into What it takes to be powerful in your communication Key differentiators that set exceptional communicators apart How to move from powerlessness into a state of Unconditional Power Roadblocks that keep people from realizing their power Buy Unconditional Power Get Your Free Book Connect with Steve Steven breaks down his personal definition of power and draws from his extensive work in the heart of Washington, D.C., and beyond to highlight what distinguishes the truly powerful. Delving into the states of powerlessness, conditional power, and ultimate empowerment, we unveil the essential characteristics that drive success and influence. Connect with me on X: @⁠HeyCelesteRenee
Oct 11, 2023 · 30 min
5 Elements of An Attractive Speaking Voice | Tips from a Classically Trained Actor
Craft an enchanting speaking voice with guest Kylie Olsen, a classically trained actor and vocalist. Discover how to breathe life into your words, command attention with volume, and evoke a honey-like quality in your voice by exploring the beauty of notes and mastering diction. In this episode, we cover: Techniques to harness the power of breath for a captivating speaking voice Adjusting volume to convey confidence and engage your audience Exploring the beauty and versatility of your voice's tonal range Perfecting diction to articulate clearly and enhance your vocal allure For more expert insights and practical exercises to enhance your speaking voice, stay tuned for Part Two, where Kylie Olsen shares invaluable tips and exercises to help you achieve vocal brilliance. Connect with Kylie ⁠Survive This Crit Podcast⁠ Instagram: ⁠@KylieRaine_⁠ Connect with me on X: @⁠⁠HeyCelesteRenee⁠
S2 · E3
Sep 27, 2023 · 20 min
10 Tactics of Highly Persuasive People | Rhetoric Rules with Aristotle
Learn the tactics of highly persuasive individuals who effortlessly win hearts and minds, and learn how to build these skills for yourself. We'll Cover: Discover the three modes of persuasion: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. Learn how to use Ethos to establish credibility and trust, engaging your audience effectively. Dive into the power of Pathos, appealing to emotions and creating lasting connections. Master Logos, structuring logical arguments, and providing evidence to support your claims. Learn how to effectively address counterarguments and leverage social proof to reinforce your position. Engage your audience through descriptive language, evoking emotions and painting a vivid picture. Connect with me on X: @HeyCelesteRenee 30+ Rhetorical Devices Join us on this journey through the modes of persuasion, and enhance your ability to influence and inspire others effortlessly.
S2 · E1
Sep 13, 2023 · 20 min
How to Build Your Mind in Your 20s | Ancient Greek Lessons
This episode blends ancient Greek wisdom with practical strategies to help you build a strong and captivating mind in your 20s. Discover the timeless principles of Plato and Aristotle while gaining insights on how to enhance your life. ⁠Get the Newsletter⁠ ⁠Connect with Me on X: @HeyCelesteRenee⁠ In this episode, we discuss: How to build a structured learning routine that aligns with your interests and aspirations. The enduring relevance of Plato's three parts of the soul and how they relate to your personal development. Strategies to curate the content you consume for mental enrichment This episode empowers you to shape your mind and future while honoring the wisdom of the past, offering a balanced and comprehensive approach to personal development and intellectual growth
S1 · E19
Jul 18, 2023 · 50 min
How to Speak so People Listen | Councilwoman Roxy Ndebumadu
Sit down with Councilwoman Roxy Ndebumadu as she shares advice on impactful communication and building genuine connections. We'll explore: Deepening connections: Techniques to connect on a deeper level with others from Roxy's experience in tech and political spheres. Debunking communication myths: Unveiling misconceptions about authentic communication. Impactful connections: Genuine ways to connect with people for maximum impact. Networking authentically: Avoiding the transactional networking approach, especially as a young professional. Cultivating your voice: Nurturing your unique voice when engaging with accomplished individuals. Confidence in communication: Carrying yourself with self-assurance in conversations. The power of silence: Leveraging silence to your advantage in effective communication. Have an episode request? Leave it here: ⁠⁠http://betterwaytosay.com/ ⁠ Connect with Roxy: Instagram: ⁠⁠roxyndebumadu⁠⁠ Tik Tok: ⁠⁠rockingwithroxy⁠⁠ Episodes Mentioned: ⁠⁠Do This to Sound Smarter | Voltaire on Unlocking Your Inner Intellectual ⁠ Books Mentioned: The Four Agreements
Jun 5, 2023 · 21 min
Do This to Sound Smarter | Voltaire on Unlocking Your Inner Intellectual
Ready to become an unforgettable conversationalist? Download your free Notion template, ⁠⁠The Conversation Compass, here⁠⁠. Learn to sound smarter in conversation with one of history's most brilliant minds: Voltaire. Discover the secrets to engaging others and exuding intellectual prowess. We'll cover how to: • Move from small talk to big ideas • Speak like an intellectual • Dig deeper into statements to encourage critical thinking • Deliver your ideas with impact Drawing inspiration from Voltaire's masterful use of language, we reveal the power of concise and impactful communication. Enhance your conversational skills, impress others with your intellect, and channel the spirit of Voltaire himself in this episode designed to make you sound smarter and more captivating in every interaction. Episodes Mentioned • How to Stop Saying Like and Um • Get Anyone to Open Up to You Have an episode request? Leave it here: ⁠⁠http://betterwaytosay.com/ ⁠
S1 · E10
May 7, 2023 · 22 min
Be The Most Interesting Person in a Room | Leonardo da Vinci's Lessons
Learn how to be a more interesting person as we draw inspiration from one of history's most fascinating figures. Discover how to leave a lasting impression and spark curiosity. We cover: Ways to add depth to your conversations Lessons from Leonardo on curiosity Actions to take that make you more interesting The value of mystery and how to use it in your life Discover how to leave a lasting impression, spark curiosity, and become a captivating conversationalist. Join us as we unlock the art of magnetic communication and reveal the hidden gems from the original Renaissance man. Have an episode request? Leave it here: ⁠⁠http://betterwaytosay.com/ ⁠ Like the episode? Give the show a rating!
S1 · E9
May 1, 2023 · 22 min
5 Habits of Attractive Conversationalists | Charisma Class with Benjamin Disraeli
Learn how to become a more attractive and engaging conversationalist, with lessons from former Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. Get practical tips on speaking confidently and winning people over. From professional settings to social ones, these insights on how to be an attractive speaker are here to help. We'll cover: How to enter a conversation with confidence Tips for putting people at ease and creating a comfortable atmosphere How to signal interest and attention Compliments that make a lasting impression Ways to make the other person feel important and valued Tune in and learn from one of the greatest politicians and conversationalists in history. Have an episode request? Leave it here: http://betterwaytosay.com/ Episodes mentioned in this show: Learn to master storytelling Learn to be naturally funnier
S1 · E7
Apr 16, 2023 · 21 min
How to Be Funnier, Naturally | Master Humor with Mark Twain
Ready to become an unforgettable conversationalist? Download your free Notion template, ⁠⁠The Conversation Compass, here⁠⁠. Ready to become funnier in conversations? Explore the art of being naturally funny with one of the most legendary humorists in history, Mark Twain. We'll cover why humor is a powerful tool in communication and walk through examples of how to bring more laughs to your interactions. Whether you want to impress your friends or colleagues with your wit or simply lighten the mood, this episode has something for you. Join us as we take a closer look at Mark Twain's unique brand of humor and what we can learn from it. We'll cover: Benefits of being funny How Mark Twain made people laugh and what we can learn from him Ways to be funnier in your daily communication How to make your stories hilarious and engaging Please follow the podcast and share it with a friend using this link: ⁠A Better Way to Say
S1 · E6
Apr 8, 2023 · 20 min
How to Stop Saying Um and Like | Stoic Strategies to Banish Filler Words
Learn how to eliminate those pesky filler words like "um" and "like" from your vocabulary. With the wisdom of the Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, we explore practical techniques for cultivating self-awareness for clear and disciplined speech. By the end, you'll know how to identify and eliminate filler words in your speech. We'll cover: An introduction to stoic philosophy and its relevance to speaking well How to identify when and why filler words come up when you talk Strategies and techniques to eliminate the filler word from your speech. If you're ready to take your speaking skills to the next level and stop saying "um", "uh" and "like", tune in to these stoic strategies for eliminating filler words. Want to improve your vocabulary? Click below to listen: Apple: Move Others With Beautiful Words Spotify: Move Others With Beautiful Words Please share the podcast with a friend and follow for weekly lessons in speaking with confidence!
S1 · E5
Apr 1, 2023 · 24 min
Become Ridiculously Charming | Cleopatra on Getting What You Want
We'll explore the timeless art of charm and charisma and how it can be learned from one of history's most captivating figures, Cleopatra. Get practical tips on how to be more charming and uncover misconceptions about charm that hold you back. Whether you're looking to impress a date, land a job, or simply improve your social skills, these insights on how to be charming will help. We'll Cover: We'll cover: What is charm What people get wrong about charm How Cleopatra used charm and what we can learn from her Tactics for being a more charming person Please share this podcast with a friend using the link below. A Better Way to Say Listen to the episode on asking better questions and having more meaningful conversations using the link below: Be an Unforgettable Conversationalist
S1 · E4
Mar 25, 2023 · 26 min
Become a Magnetic Storyteller | Charles Dickens on Telling Better Stories
Telling a good story helps you connect with others instantly. Learn how to tell better stories, mistakes to avoid, and more storytelling with lessons from Charles Dickens's writings. Use these techniques to tell sticky stories that people cant get enough of. Whether you're a public speaker, a writer, or simply someone who wants to improve your storytelling skills, your journey to be a better storyteller starts here. So join us as we uncover the secrets of Charles Dickens and learn the storytelling techniques we can use to connect with others.

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