Are you eager to elevate your skills to new heights? Masterclass is a great platform fo this. Having so many courses, there’s an open question what are the best Masterclass courses?
Some of the most popular classes on MasterClass are cooking with Gordon Ramsay, writing with Margaret Atwood, and filmmaking with Martin Scorsese.
But here, I’ll share the courses related to effective communication, business, and writing.
Effective communication and leadership courses
The course taught by former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss delves into the art and science of negotiation, using techniques he honed while negotiating with terrorists and kidnappers. Voss’s methods, rooted in behavioral science and psychology, are designed to empower students with the skills to navigate complex interactions, whether in personal, professional, or everyday scenarios.
Over 18 video lessons, he breaks down strategies that foster better communication, sharpen understanding of human behavior, and ultimately help students gain more control over outcomes — whether it’s negotiating a salary, enhancing team collaboration, or strengthening personal relationships.
What I love about this course is its transformative approach to negotiation. Voss’s insights aren’t just theoretical; they’re proven strategies that anyone can apply to build rapport, read subtle cues, and speak with confidence and persuasion. His methods go beyond traditional negotiation, offering practical ways to connect with others and meet our goals. I find it incredibly valuable not just for negotiation, but for refining communication skills overall.
2. Neil deGrasse Tyson: Scientific Thinking and Communication
In this Masterclass course, renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson shares his approach to critical thinking, scientific literacy, and public engagement. With a career spanning bestselling books and a popular talk show, Tyson is known for making science accessible and exciting. Across 13 video lessons, he teaches students how to think like skeptics, assess information objectively, and communicate ideas that captivate audiences. From navigating media bias to understanding complex data, Tyson’s lessons offer a powerful toolkit for anyone looking to explore science and share knowledge effectively.
What makes this course especially compelling is Tyson’s focus on both analytical and communication skills. His insights into scientific thinking and skepticism encourage open-mindedness and precision, while his guidance on public speaking provides tools to engage and inspire. Tyson’s lessons go beyond science, equipping learners with skills to approach any topic with curiosity, clarity, and confidence.
3. George Stephanopoulos: Purposeful Communication
In this Masterclass course, celebrated interviewer and broadcaster George Stephanopoulos shares the communication strategies he’s honed over three decades, from serving as the White House communications director to co-anchoring Good Morning America. Through 14 video lessons, Stephanopoulos teaches students how to project confidence under pressure, conduct meaningful conversations, and elevate both professional and personal interactions. His lessons cover essential skills, from persuasive communication and public speaking to time management and goal setting.
What I find most valuable about this course is Stephanopoulos’s practical approach to intentional communication. His techniques provide a roadmap for handling high-stakes interactions with poise and purpose, whether in the workplace or in personal life. With insights into journalism, negotiation, and leadership, this course is ideal for anyone looking to become a more compelling communicator and a more effective leader.
Business-related classes
4. Mellody Hobson: Strategic Decision-Making
In this course, esteemed business leader Mellody Hobson shares the strategies and decision-making insights she’s developed while guiding major companies through challenges like financial crises, acquisitions, and restructuring. Across 10 video lessons, Hobson brings students into real-life case studies from her career, revealing how she navigated pivotal moments and made tough calls. By examining her approach, students gain tools to become more dynamic, confident leaders with a clear framework for strategic decision-making.
What stands out about this course is Hobson’s focus on practical, experience-driven insights. Her lessons go beyond theory, offering firsthand knowledge on finance, negotiation, team communication, and creative problem-solving. It’s an invaluable guide for anyone aspiring to lead with clarity and resilience in high-stakes business environments.
5. Sara Blakely: Self-Made Entrepreneurship
This Masterclass course features Sara Blakely, a self-made female billionaire — offers a rare, hands-on guide to building a business from the ground up. Blakely shares her journey from door-to-door fax machine sales to leading a billion-dollar brand, revealing her personal strategies for creating a customer-first brand, prototyping products, and driving awareness. Across 14 video lessons, she provides actionable insights on branding, marketing, and fostering creativity, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools to bootstrap their own success.
What I appreciate most about this course is Blakely’s relatable, real-world approach. Her advice goes beyond traditional business theories, focusing instead on innovative, resourceful strategies that work even when resources are limited. Her emphasis on creative thinking, customer focus, and relentless determination is both inspiring and practical, making the course ideal for anyone looking to launch a startup, lead a team, or simply bring a fresh perspective to their current career.
6. Howard Schultz: Business Leadership
In this course, former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz shares the powerful leadership lessons he’s gained from building Starbucks from a modest 13-store coffee chain into a global powerhouse. Coming from a humble background and without a formal business education, Schultz relied on his values and a people-first approach to lead Starbucks’ growth. Through 13 video lessons totaling 90 minutes, he reveals insights on branding, team collaboration, innovation, and essential business strategies, offering a personal roadmap for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs.
What I find compelling about this course is Schultz’s emphasis on values-driven leadership and his genuine, down-to-earth approach to business. His focus on teamwork, customer experience, and brand authenticity is as inspiring as it is practical. Schultz’s story demonstrates that building a successful brand isn’t just about profit but about staying true to your values and connecting meaningfully with people — a lesson that resonates deeply for anyone aiming to make a lasting impact in business.
7. Rosalind Brewer: Business Innovation
In this course, Rosalind Brewer — trailblazing CEO with leadership experience at Walmart, Starbucks, and Walgreens — shares high-level strategies for leading teams with purpose and innovation. Through 13 video lessons, Brewer guides students on promoting creativity, gaining support for impactful projects, and standing out as a leader with integrity. Her teachings cover essential topics like effective communication, leading diverse teams, and advancing racial and gender equality in the workplace, providing a comprehensive toolkit for anyone aiming to drive meaningful change.
What I admire about this course is Brewer’s focus on leadership grounded in values and inclusivity. Her approach to innovation isn’t just about growth; it’s about empowering teams and promoting justice within organizations. Brewer’s insights make this course an inspiring roadmap for leaders at any level who aspire to create inclusive, forward-thinking environments while staying true to their principles.
Writing classes
8. Margaret Atwood: Creative Writing
In this course, Margaret Atwood — renowned author and “Prophet of Dystopia” — invites students into her creative world to learn the art of storytelling. Known for works like The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood teaches how to shape ideas into novels that resonate with readers and stand the test of time. Across 23 video lessons, she delves into essential writing techniques, from crafting vivid characters and immersive worlds to overcoming writer’s block and refining one’s unique voice.
What I love about this course is the depth and breadth of Atwood’s insights. Her guidance feels both timeless and personal, offering practical advice on every stage of writing. Her approach to worldbuilding, nuanced characters, and the editing process makes this a rare learning experience for writers of all genres. With Atwood’s guidance, the course not only demystifies the writing process but also inspires confidence to explore, create, and share powerful stories.
9. Neil Gaiman: the Art of Storytelling
In this course, acclaimed author Neil Gaiman — known for Stardust, Coraline, and The Sandman — invites students to explore his creative approach to storytelling. With over 25 years of experience in crafting engaging and imaginative fiction, Gaiman teaches techniques for finding one’s unique voice, developing original ideas, and creating memorable characters. Across 19 video lessons, he shares his philosophy on what drives a story, offering guidance that helps students unlock the narratives within themselves.
What I find particularly inspiring about this course is Gaiman’s emphasis on individuality and imagination. His approach is both insightful and accessible, encouraging writers to embrace their own voice and to view writing as a personal and expressive journey. Gaiman’s insights on worldbuilding, poetry, and overcoming creative blocks make this class not only a toolkit for aspiring authors but also a source of inspiration for anyone looking to bring their inner stories to life.
Final words
Masterclass opens the door to a world of knowledge, offering courses that inspire, educate, and transform. Whether you’re honing your culinary skills, mastering a musical instrument, or embarking on a business venture, learning from the best in the industry can unlock your potential. So, what’s stopping you from diving into these incredible courses and unleashing your hidden talents?
William Kendal
I'm an educator while being skeptic, with extensive experience working for the Library of Congress and MSU Denver. My love for critical thinking and education has motivated me to create this website.
