Public speaking, especially at conferences and meetups, can significantly enhance a developer's career, though it often falls outside many developers' comfort zones due to potential technical issues like broken slides and faulty projectors. To create effective technical talks, it's crucial to focus on preparation, particularly in designing simple, high-contrast slides that clearly communicate ideas without overwhelming the audience. The decision to use slides should consider the talk's format and audience expectations, with some scenarios benefiting from verbal communication alone. When including code examples, it's recommended to use high-contrast themes, line numbers, and highlight changes to facilitate understanding, while also providing accessible links to the code for attendees. Addressing potential pitfalls by coordinating with event organizers and preparing for technical constraints can ensure a smoother presentation experience. Ultimately, public speaking offers a unique opportunity to share knowledge and connect with peers in the industry, and following these guidelines can help mitigate stress and improve the delivery of a talk.