Drum Roll...my favs revealed

So often I'm asked who I think the best speakers are - since I did about 45 events out of the division last year - and considering I've been with IIR for over 14 1/2 years - I've pretty much heard all of them...
It's so hard to say, and some people have even suggested doing a yearbook, which i think would be so cool and super valuable - it's on my "list" right under "writing a book". Someday...someday...It's so hard to pinpoint the best speakers because what does BEST mean? Best delivery? Best energy? Best content? And let's face it, its the combination of the diverse speakers that create the unique dynamics that have them highlighting each other. Nonetheless, I've gone ahead and listed a few of my favorites - their key messages and why they are forever remembered in my favorites pile. It's fun reminiscing about presentations that make a lifelong impact...

Peter Guber - his most recent message centered around "congruence" and was delightfully articulated with enthusiasm and passion. Peter's achievements are so grand, that I feel humbled by his presence. Because he's a fav, he's spoken at Front End US, NACCM, THE Conference on Marketing and Youth Marketing. I could listen to him over and over and over again. In fact, lets book him for something soon...

Marcus Buckingham - what a scene stealer... He reminds us to focus on strength and nurture that vs. trying to drastically improve weakness. This talk hit me both personally and professionally - which is partly why he made my fav list. Marcus gave an example of his kindergarden son whose drawing didn't live up to his classmates - and how that became the focus for him until his teacher pointed out that he was the only one to use subtraction instead of addition, and double digits instead of single digits which clearly illustrates his mathematical affinity which was hidden behind his bland drawing. LOVE THAT. He spoke at The Market Research event last year and instantly topped my list.

Jim Collins - first of all, he's pretty much the smartest person in the world. He studies "contrast" and so, not only successful companies, but pairs of companies facing the same market conditions and his data is well, beyond vast. His message is to focus on the WHO not the WHAT - and its the "people driving the bus" that matter most. Clearly a timeless message but one that deserves recognition with tools and technologies taking the stage most of the time. I was fortunate enough to see him at FEI US this year - Jim is a very infrequent speaker

Dr. G. Clotaire Rapaille - I'll never forget him. He spoke at The Market Research event a few years ago and was such a character. The perfect combination of brilliant and bizarre. He had one statement about men spending 9 months trying to get out of the womb and the rest of their lives trying to get back in. You had to be there...but it was hysterical. His specialty is psychology and behavior and us humans are pretty eccentric. His talk was totally unforgettable.

Kevin Carroll - the big rubber ball. Enough said.