The Right Way to Practice Your Talk (With PowerPoint and a Remote)

Michael Philpott
Michael Philpott
October 14, 2025

Most people practice their talk without the one tool they’ll actually have in their hand on the day: the clicker.

In this episode of The Science of Speaking, executive speaker coach Michael Philpott unpacks why rehearsing with your clicker (or remote) in hand isn’t just a tech check — it’s a performance upgrade.

You’ll learn how using your clicker and slides during rehearsal helps:

  • Anchor your content into kinaesthetic memory
  • Reduce anxiety by building muscle memory•Improve your body language, gestures, and transitions
  • Turn your slides into powerful memory pegs (based on Dr. Rich Allen’s techniques)•Avoid clunky, awkward movement on stage

Whether you’re delivering a keynote, facilitating a workshop, or pitching to investors, this one habit will help you show up more confident, clear, and in flow.

🎤 Michael has coached TEDx speakers, founders, CEOs, and world-class performers for 25+ years.

Every video in this series is rooted in real-world coaching, neuroscience, and NLP.

🔁 Own the clicker. Own the room.

💡 Want to design, develop, and deliver more powerful presentations, pitches, and public speaking?

Join Michael live at the StorySelling Workshop — designed to help you sharpen your message, grow your influence, and speak like a leader.

https://www.storyselling.nz

📍 Want to know your speaker type?

Take the free Anxious–Avoidant Speaker Assessment here: https://www.michaelphilpott.co.nz/assessment

📍 Explore workshops and 1:1 coaching:

https://www.michaelphilpott.co.nz

https://www.storyselling.nz

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Michael Philpott
Michael Philpott
Michael is New Zealand’s #1 speaker coach and co-founder of Smart & Wise. He helps leaders speak with charisma, confidence, and clarity—drawing on decades of experience in storytelling, psychology, and stagecraft.
Michael Philpott's Confidence Toolbox PDF