The Speaker's Edge

015: Mastering Audience Connection with Bonnie St. John

7 snips
Jun 9, 2025
In this episode, Bonnie St. John, a Paralympian and seasoned speaker, delves into the art of audience connection. She discusses the importance of continuous learning and shares personal growth strategies, including unique training methods. Bonnie highlights the significance of connecting through relatable stories and emphasizes the heroism found in everyday roles. She provides actionable tips for conducting pre-event research and crafting presentations that resonate deeply, ensuring speakers can create lasting impacts and meaningful engagements.
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INSIGHT

Continuous Speaking Growth

  • Speakers never stop learning and evolving their craft, even after decades of experience.
  • Taking diverse lessons, like singing or acting, can improve one's speaking voice and resonance.
ANECDOTE

Persistence Led To Representation

  • Bonnie tried years to get represented by Washington Speakers Bureau without success.
  • Eventually, a client recommending her led to her representation and becoming their most booked speaker.
ADVICE

Collaborate With Speaker Bureaus

  • Treat bureaus as partners, collaborating on marketing and contracts rather than relinquishing control.
  • Regularly assess bookings, adjust topics, and co-create promotions to meet speaking goals.
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