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Bob Berkowitz

Imagine yourself speaking as effectively to voters as FDR, Kennedy or Clinton. You can learn the secrets of speaking with passion and substance, to live audiences and the media.

Learn to win votes every time you open your mouth.

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Imagine yourself speaking as effectively to voters as FDR, Kennedy or Clinton. You can learn the secrets of speaking with passion and substance, to live audiences and the media.

Learn to win votes every time you open your mouth.

        This course is specifically for Democratic candidates running for public office in the United States. Candidates will earn how to develop a stump speech, hold press conferences, speak to live audiences and the media. Additionally, they will learn how to defend themselves from Republican attacks. The course will cover every aspect of developing messages, answering reporters' questions and speaking in sound bites. You will learn how to be a better candidate through this course. You will learn all the essential elements of media training, public speaking and presentation training. 

Course updated on July 23, 2015

There is a 100% Money-Back Guarantee for this course. And the instructor also provides an enhanced guarantee.

TJ Walker has more than 100,000 courses enrollments from more than 14,000 online students around the globe.

This Media Training course is ideal for anyone searching for more info on the following: journalism - media training - radio jockey - confidence on - camera - confidence - radio - camera - camera confidence - video - TJ Walker. Plus, this course will be a great addition to anyone trying to build out their knowledge in the following areas: journalism - videography - confidence.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Developing a campaign message
  • Communicating through the media
  • Speaking in sound bites
  • Building a stump speech
  • Responding to attacks

Syllabus

The Secret to Being a Charismatic Public Speaker
How to Give a Great, Not a Good Speech
Developing a Stump Speech that Voters Love and You Won't Get Sick Of
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I've listen to you tell me that you found it difficult to upload your homework videos to the Udemy Q and A Section. To make it easier for you to get quick feedback from me and your fellow students, I've created a Facebook page just for my Udemy students.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/559917031170397/?ref=group_browse_new

Please note that this page is just for posting homework and questions related to your course. There will be no promotion or selling of any kind by me or any students in this forum. And please note, that you are in no way required to join this page or post your videos to Facebook. You can simply use the Udemy Q and A section here if you prefer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/559917031170397/?ref=group_browse_new

All of your course related questions will be answered live each day. Live Teacher office hours 1PM to 3PM Eastern time at https://www.youtube.com/user/MediaTraining

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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on developing a stump speech, which is a core component of political campaigning and helps candidates connect with voters on a personal level
Covers how to defend against Republican attacks, which is a crucial skill for candidates navigating the adversarial nature of political discourse and debates
Explores how to develop messages, answer reporters' questions, and speak in sound bites, which are essential for effective communication in the fast-paced media environment
Includes guidance on asking for campaign contributions, which is a vital aspect of fundraising and securing the financial resources needed for a successful campaign
Features a section on 'The Nature of Scorpions and Republicans,' which may present a biased perspective and could alienate some learners seeking objective media training
Updated in 2015, which means that some of the examples and strategies may not reflect the current media landscape and political climate

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Reviews summary

Media training for democratic campaigns

According to learners, this course is a highly practical resource specifically tailored for Democratic candidates seeking to improve their media training and public speaking skills. Students frequently praise the instructor, TJ Walker, for his energetic delivery and the actionable techniques provided for handling press, giving speeches, and responding to attacks. While it may serve as a solid foundation, particularly for those new to the campaign trail, some experienced individuals might find certain sections introductory. Overall, it's seen as providing immediate, real-world application for campaign communications.
Good starting point for basic skills.
"Provides a really solid foundation in public speaking and media basics."
"Great for someone who is relatively new to the campaign trail and media interactions."
"It covers the essential elements needed to get started."
"I gained confidence by starting with these fundamental principles."
Tailored content for the target audience.
"As a Democratic candidate, this course felt perfectly tailored to my needs."
"Appreciated the specific focus and examples relevant to Democratic campaigns."
"The advice on handling Republican attacks was particularly relevant."
"It addresses the unique communication challenges faced by Democratic politicians."
Energetic, engaging, and effective delivery.
"TJ is a very engaging and motivating instructor."
"His energy and direct approach make the lessons easy to follow."
"I really enjoyed TJ Walker's teaching style; it kept me focused."
"Found the instructor's delivery to be effective and persuasive."
Offers techniques for immediate use.
"The course is incredibly practical and provides actionable steps I can use right away in my campaign."
"I got specific, usable techniques for media interviews and public speaking."
"The strategies for crafting messages and responding to attacks were immediately applicable."
"Provides real-world tools and strategies I can implement in my campaign communication efforts."
May be introductory for experienced.
"If you have significant prior experience in media or public speaking, some parts might feel introductory."
"While helpful, seasoned campaigners might find the content a bit basic."
"Provides a good overview, but perhaps not advanced techniques for veterans."
"Could benefit from more depth on complex scenarios for experienced speakers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Media Training for Democratic Candidates: You Can Win with these activities:
Review 'On Message: How a Compelling Narrative Will Make Your Organization Succeed'
Learn how to craft a compelling narrative for your campaign.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on narrative construction.
  • Identify key principles for message development.
  • Apply these principles to your own campaign messaging.
Review US Political History
Strengthen your understanding of the US political landscape.
Browse courses on Political History
Show steps
  • Review key events and figures in US political history.
  • Identify major political trends and shifts.
  • Consider how historical events shape current political discourse.
Develop a Stump Speech Outline
Practice developing a core campaign message and structuring a persuasive speech.
Show steps
  • Identify your target audience and key message.
  • Outline the main points of your speech.
  • Develop compelling stories and anecdotes to support your points.
  • Craft a strong opening and closing.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Answering Mock Interview Questions
Improve your ability to respond effectively to media inquiries and challenging questions.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of common interview questions for political candidates.
  • Practice answering the questions concisely and persuasively.
  • Record yourself and review your performance.
  • Solicit feedback from others.
Create a Short Video Explaining Your Platform
Solidify your understanding of your platform and practice communicating it effectively on camera.
Show steps
  • Write a script outlining your key policy positions.
  • Record a short video presenting your platform.
  • Edit the video for clarity and impact.
  • Share the video on social media and gather feedback.
Review 'Words That Work: It's Not What You Say, It's What People Hear'
Learn how to use language effectively to persuade voters.
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on framing and messaging.
  • Identify key principles for effective communication.
  • Apply these principles to your own campaign messaging.
Offer Feedback to Other Candidates
Reinforce your learning by providing constructive criticism to other candidates on their messaging and delivery.
Show steps
  • Find other candidates who are willing to share their stump speeches or media appearances.
  • Provide specific and actionable feedback on their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Offer suggestions for improvement based on the course materials.

Career center

Learners who complete Media Training for Democratic Candidates: You Can Win will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Speechwriter
Speechwriters craft compelling and persuasive speeches for individuals in leadership positions, including political candidates. This course helps a speechwriter learn to develop memorable stump speeches, incorporate effective storytelling techniques, and tailor messages to resonate with diverse audiences. The curriculum's focus on crafting charismatic speeches, understanding audience needs, and using persuasive language equips speechwriters with the tools to create impactful speeches that inspire voters and advance the candidate's agenda.
Press Secretary
A press secretary serves as the spokesperson for an individual or organization, typically in a political context. For a press secretary, this course helps develop crucial skills in managing media relations, crafting clear and concise messages, and preparing for press conferences. The focus on responding to attacks, speaking in sound bites, and mastering media appearances enables the press secretary to effectively communicate the candidate's message, defend their positions, and maintain a positive public image, even under pressure.
Communications Director
The communications director develops and implements communication strategies for organizations, including political campaigns. This course helps a Director learn how to craft impactful messages, handle media inquiries, and train their candidate for effective public speaking. The course's emphasis on developing stump speeches, speaking in sound bites, and responding to attacks directly benefits the communications director, enabling them to control the narrative and ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
Campaign Manager
A campaign manager orchestrates and oversees all aspects of a political campaign. This course helps develop a capacity to craft compelling speeches, manage media interactions, and respond effectively to opposition attacks, all crucial for a campaign manager to steer a candidate toward victory. The curriculum enables the campaign manager to build a strong messaging strategy, prepare the candidate for press conferences, and hone their public speaking skills, ensuring the candidate connects with voters and maintains a positive image throughout the campaign.
Political Consultant
Political consultants provide expert advice and guidance to political campaigns and organizations. This course helps a consultant learn how to develop effective campaign messages, train candidates for media appearances, and craft persuasive speeches. By mastering the art of speaking in sound bites, responding to attacks, and connecting with voters, the political consultant can provide valuable insights and strategies to help their clients win elections. The course's comprehensive approach to media training and public speaking makes it an invaluable asset for any aspiring political consultant.
Communications Consultant
Communications consultants provide expert advice and guidance to organizations on their communication strategies. This course helps a consultant learn how to craft compelling messages, train individuals for media appearances, and develop persuasive presentations. By mastering the art of speaking in sound bites, responding to attacks, and connecting with audiences, the communications consultant can provide valuable insights and strategies to help their clients achieve their communication goals. The course's comprehensive approach to media training and public speaking makes it an invaluable asset.
Debate Coach
Debate coaches train individuals or teams for competitive debates or public speaking engagements. This course helps a debate coach understand the nuances of crafting persuasive arguments, responding to attacks, and mastering public speaking techniques. The course's emphasis on developing stump speeches, speaking in sound bites, and handling questions directly benefits the debate coach, providing them with the tools and strategies to guide their students to success in debate competitions and other public speaking forums.
Government Relations Manager
Government relations managers build and maintain relationships with government officials to advocate for their organization's interests. This course helps a government relations manager learn how to communicate effectively with policymakers, craft persuasive arguments, and navigate the complexities of the political landscape. The focus on messaging, responding to questions, and building rapport equips government relations managers with the skills to influence policy decisions and advance their organization's goals. The ability to articulate key points, address concerns, and build trust with stakeholders is essential for success.
Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists manage an organization's public image and communications. This course may help a specialist learn how to craft compelling messages, handle media inquiries, and prepare individuals for public appearances. The focus on media training and public speaking equips specialists with the skills to effectively communicate with the public, manage crises, and build positive relationships with stakeholders. The ability to speak confidently, respond to tough questions, and deliver persuasive presentations is essential for success in public relations.
Lobbyist
Lobbyists advocate for specific interests and policies before government officials. This course helps a lobbyist learn how to craft persuasive arguments, communicate effectively with policymakers, and navigate the complexities of the political landscape. The focus on messaging, responding to questions, and building relationships equips lobbyists with the skills to advocate for their clients' interests and influence policy decisions. The ability to speak confidently, articulate key points, and build rapport with stakeholders is essential for success in lobbying.
Fundraiser
Fundraisers are responsible for soliciting and securing financial support for organizations, including political campaigns. A fundraiser may find this course useful by learning how to craft compelling appeals, connect with donors, and deliver persuasive presentations. The emphasis on effective communication and public speaking equips fundraisers with the skills to inspire generosity and build strong relationships with potential supporters. The ability to articulate the organization's mission and impact, and to respond to questions with confidence, is crucial for success in fundraising.
Community Organizer
Community organizers work to empower local communities and advocate for social change. The course may help community organizers learn how to build relationships, mobilize residents, and advocate for policy changes. The emphasis on effective communication and public speaking equips organizers with the skills to inspire action and create lasting change. The ability to articulate community needs, respond to concerns, and facilitate dialogue is essential for success in community organizing.
Marketing Director
Marketing directors oversee the development and implementation of marketing strategies for organizations. This course may help a director learn how to craft compelling messages, connect with target audiences, and deliver persuasive presentations. The emphasis on effective communication and storytelling equips marketing directors with the skills to build brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales. The ability to articulate the organization's value proposition, respond to customer inquiries, and create engaging content is crucial for success in marketing.
Political Reporter
Political reporters cover political events, campaigns, and issues for news organizations. The skills emphasized in this course are useful for the reporter in understanding how candidates are trained to present themselves, respond to questions, and manage their public image. This insight makes a political reporter more discerning when analyzing political messaging and reporting on political campaigns, allowing them to see beyond the surface and provide more informed analysis to their audience.
Social Media Manager
Social media managers are responsible for managing an organization's social media presence and engaging with online audiences. This course may help social media managers learn how political candidates craft messages, manage attacks, and present themselves effectively. The course provides valuable insights into how political campaigns use language and communication strategies to influence public opinion, which informs social media management strategy. The course's comprehensive approach to media training and public speaking is useful to understanding the tactics used to sway public opinion.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Media Training for Democratic Candidates: You Can Win.
Explores the power of language in shaping public opinion. It provides insights into how to frame messages effectively and connect with voters on an emotional level. This book is highly relevant to the course, as it directly addresses the importance of choosing the right words to communicate your message. It offers practical advice on how to craft persuasive language and avoid common communication pitfalls.

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