In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Elias Kuehn von Burgsdorff, speechwriter for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. 🌍✨

Elias shares his journey from history and economics to crafting speeches for Europe’s top leader—plus tips on storytelling, clarity, and impact.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 Mastering Speechwriting Skills – Elias highlights storytelling, logical argument structure, and simplifying complex topics for diverse audiences.

👉🏽 Daily Workflow & Processes – Insights into managing deadlines, research strategies, and collaborating with stakeholders for high-impact speeches.

👉🏽 AI in Speechwriting – Practical uses of AI for efficiency while preserving human creativity and oversight in major speeches.

Chapters

• 00:01:06  Career Journey to Presidential Speechwriter


• 00:03:58  Essential Skills for Speechwriting


• 00:11:41  Daily Routine and Speech Creation Process


• 00:21:31  AI Integration in Speechwriting


• 00:23:18  Tips for Aspiring Writers

Guest Links:

🔗 ****LinkedIn: ⁠Elias Kuehn von Burgsdorff⁠

🔗 Book recommendation from Elias: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

🔗 Newsletter tip: ⁠Adam Tooze's Chartbook⁠

Engagement Links:

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🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this podcasts are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.