[header] How to develop persuasive speech topics [title] Brainstorm current issues. [step] Your topic should be both newsworthy and engaging. You can even watch the evening news, and take notes about the issues that you find interesting. 
Do a bit of research about any news story that you have an immediate emotional reaction to, especially if it relates to a recurring issue that consistently generates public interest. [substeps] If you set out to research a topic and are surprised by what you find, take note of anything that stands out.