Episode brought to you by TORCH LEAP LLC.
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Martin Foster interviews Cody Keenan, a prominent speechwriter for President Obama.
They discuss Keenan's journey, the challenges of speechwriting, and the importance of storytelling in politics. Keenan shares personal anecdotes about his family, his experiences in the White House, and the legacy of his grandfather.
The discussion also touches on the role of media, the significance of optimism, and the lessons he imparts to the next generation.
Throughout the conversation, Keenan emphasizes the need for authenticity and connection in communication.
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What you’ll hear in this episode:
➡︎ Joys of parenthood.
➡︎ The 'speech cave' represents the high-pressure environment of speechwriting.
➡︎ Keenan's grandfather's legacy influences his perspective on service.
➡︎ Importance of storytelling in speeches is paramount.
➡︎ Young speechwriters should focus on authenticity and human connection.
➡︎ Keenan reflects on the significance of common narratives in society.
➡︎ Media coverage often overlooks important issues that will be studied by historians.
➡︎ Cody admires JFK's optimistic vision for America.
➡︎ The advanced team in the White House plays a crucial role in event planning.
➡︎ Keenan encourages future generations to embrace hope and optimism.
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🔥 Resources
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➡︎ Book: GRACE - https://www.amazon.com/Grace-President-Obama-Battle-America/dp/0358651891
➡︎ Website: https://fenwaystrategies.com/team/cody-keenan/
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QUESTION - What did you take away from this video?
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This video is NOT sponsored.
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
04:21 Life as a Speechwriter
09:59 Legacy and Family History
16:39 The Art of Speechwriting
17:42 Captivating Descriptions in Speechwriting
19:01 The Evolution of Speechwriting
20:37 Crafting a Coherent National Narrative
21:51 Unrecognized Speeches and Their Impact
25:25 Media Coverage and Historical Perspectives
26:49 Lighthearted Reflections on Political Roles
29:18 Musical Influences and Personal Favorites
30:26 Lessons from the Football Field
32:19 Writing for Fictional Heroes
34:29 Historical Reflections on Leadership
38:02 Wisdom for Future Generations
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Passing The Torch audio episode #83
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1946508/episodes/17400597
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Mentioned:
President Obama
Michael Gerson
Jon Lovett
@podsaveamerica
Jon Favreau
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Quotes:
"And here we are, at the center of the arc, trapped in the gaudiest, most valuable, and most improbable water wheel the world has ever seen."
- James Baldwin
“Everything now, we must assume, is in our hands; we have no right to assume otherwise." - James Baldwin
"Going straight is not the same thing as going forward."
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Keywords: Cody Keenan, speechwriting, Obama, legacy, family, storytelling, media, optimism, history, service