In this episode of Uncoachable, your hosts Rhys Waters and Jon Burns are joined by Vatsal Sood, professional speaker, coach, and Founder of the Resilient Speakers community. Together, they dive into the transformative power of public speaking; whether you’re preparing for a TEDx talk, addressing a boardroom, or hoping to find your voice in everyday communication. Vatsal shares his inspiring journey from computer science into the world of speaking, breaks down practical strategies for overcoming stage fright, and reveals how storytelling and self-expression can change lives both on and off the stage.

Key Highlights:

• Practicing public speaking in unconventional settings
• Vatsal’s personal transition from coding to professional speaking coach
• Common challenges in public speaking: anxiety, overconfidence, and authenticity
• Why storytelling is the most powerful tool for connecting with any audience
• Techniques for overcoming nervousness, building confidence, and slowing down
• The role of practice communities like Toastmasters in building real-world skills
• How public speaking impacts careers, business, relationships, and self-image
• The effects of AI on communication, and why authentic voices matter now more than ever
• How to prepare a standout TEDx application and what organizers are looking for
• Building a supportive community through group coaching and storytelling

Guest info:

Vatsal Sood is a keynote speaker and TEDx coach who helps audiences reconnect with their voice, challenge limiting beliefs, and embrace authentic self-expression. With a background in tech and over a decade of experience in leadership and communication, Vatsal has spoken on topics like burnout, mindfulness, and the role of communication in leadership. Through keynotes and workshops, Vatsal empowers professionals and entrepreneurs to lead with confidence, connection, and courage.

00:00 – Introduction & unconventional public speaking practice
03:40 – Meet Vatsal Sood: from coding to coaching
07:35 – Confidence, authenticity, and serving the audience
12:09 – Transforming shy speakers into confident storytellers
14:28 – Vatsal’s coaching methods and practice environments
16:33 – Storytelling techniques and speech structure
19:32 – Overcoming fear and the “spotlight effect”
23:43 – The value of public speaking in work and life
31:12 – The human side of communication vs. AI
33:38 – Demystifying TEDx: pitching unique ideas
36:39 – Key takeaway: vocalizing your thoughts
39:45 – Final reflections and main learnings from the episode