After bombing my first presentation in 1998, I spent 25+ years learning what actually makes tech presentations work. It's not about the technology—it's about the humans listening to you. In this video, I share the 6 human elements that transform boring technical presentations into remarkable ones. These are the same elements I used to coach 40+ speakers backstage at AWS re:Invent 2024. Huge thanks to my former AWS colleague Blaine Sundrud, who originally taught me this framework as "the 6 stimuli that access the lizard brain." 🎯 TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - My 1998 Disaster 0:51 - Introduction: The 6 Human Elements 1:30 - Element 1: Emotions 2:36 - Element 2: Visuals 3:34 - Element 3: Contrast 4:56 - Element 4: Clear Transitions 7:21 - Element 5: Tangible Examples 9:09 - Element 6: Make It Personal 11:07 - re:Invent Coaching Story 12:51 - What's Next 📝 FULL 7-POINT CHECKLIST Get the complete speaker preparation checklist (these 6 elements are just one part!): 🎙️ WORK WITH ME Want feedback on your specific presentation? I offer free 25-minute office hours (though slots are limited): 📱 CONNECT LinkedIn: Bluesky: Blog: If this helped you, please subscribe! I share insights on public speaking, career development, and navigating AI in the workplace. #PublicSpeaking #TechPresentations #PresentationSkills #SpeakerTips #TechnicalCommunication