Our Spring Conference Committee has worked tirelessly since last July to organize an incredible opportunity to enhance your communication, creativity, and leadership skills in today’s age of technology.
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND? Because You will have a multitude of opportunities to meet and learn from a variety of professional speakers , network, share insights, tools, and techniques that can be applied immediately. Our aim as a committee is that you too may “innovate, influence, and inspire” those within your own personal, professional, and toastmasters clubs and community.
Explore the profiles of our engaging and dynamic speakers, including TEDx presenters renowned for their inspiring and thought-provoking talks. Your gateway to learning from the best in the field, connecting with peers, and sparking your own creativity.
Renée Marino, celebrated as an International Keynote Speaker, Connection Expert, and Best-selling Author, gained notable recognition playing Mary Delgado, Frankie Valli’s wife, in Clint Eastwood's "Jersey Boys." Marino specializes in empowering business professionals and entrepreneurs to enhance their communication skills, both in person and digitally, with straightforward, effective techniques. Her acclaimed book, "Becoming a Master Communicator," praised by influential figures such as Dean Graziosi, Russell Brunson, and Chazz Palminteri, serves as an essential resource for improving direct and transparent communication in an era dominated by digital interactions. Renée Marino is dedicated to encouraging individuals to prioritize genuine connections and masterful communication, adhering to the belief that: "Everything starts with Communication, and when we learn to Master this Skill, we become Limitless!"
Marc Williams is renowned for assisting leaders and professionals in honing their communication skills to become clear, concise, and compelling. His expertise as an Everyday Communication Strategist and Public Speaking Coach is centered around his goal to empower over a million individuals to confidently express themselves and their ideas, particularly in group settings, without succumbing to nervousness. His extensive background includes over two decades in education as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, enhancing the leadership and communication abilities of educators and educational leaders through tailored coaching and training sessions. Marc holds degrees in secondary education and communication from New York University, and his research spans public speaking, interpersonal communication, and professional branding strategies.
Scott Mason, also known as the Myth Slayer, is a Columbia Law School graduate who has spent over 20 years working as an attorney and senior executive in the government and non-profit sectors. He later became an entrepreneur, successfully expanding a manufacturing company into a major operation serving prominent corporate clients across two cities. Currently, he operates his own coaching and speaking business, focusing on transformative executive leadership coaching for lawyers. Scott has contributed insights to various media, including books, online magazines, TV, radio, and numerous podcasts. He has hosted four podcasts, including the official podcast for District 46, “Transformational Pathways,” and “The Webdelics Podcast,” which aligns with his co-founded venture, www.Webdelics.com, a leading online resource on plant medicines. Additionally, he co-founded the Podcast Pioneers club in District 46, aimed at enhancing podcasting skills among Toastmasters.
Matt Kinsey, DTM, based in Coral Springs, Florida, serves as the Chief Information Security Officer and Managing Director at IT Fusion, LLC, an IT and cybersecurity consulting firm he helped form through a merger involving his previous company, MK Tech Group. He holds a master's degree in computer information systems and a Bachelor's in Business Administration, along with a strategic management certificate. Kinsey has been significantly involved with the Boy Scouts of America for nearly 30 years, earning prestigious awards and holding various leadership roles. A committed Toastmaster since 2003, he has achieved the highest educational level in the organization and currently acts as an officer on the Toastmasters International Board of Directors, contributing to policy and mission fulfillment.
Mary Cheyne, MBA, transitioned from a socially awkward computer programmer to a celebrated public speaker, becoming the first runner-up in a World Championship of Public Speaking that featured 25,000 competitors from 14 countries. Her journey of transformation began with learning to trust herself in daunting situations, beyond merely mastering speaking techniques. Mary developed a curriculum focused on effective communication where individuals feel acknowledged and valued, which she has shared through training, coaching, and her best-selling book with over 30,000 people across more than 30 cities on four continents. Her innovative approach to public speaking also led her to deliver a TEDx talk, which has attracted over 539,000 views. Additionally, Mary holds a second-degree black belt in karate and enjoys singing and playing the ukulele.
Dora Maria Abreu ignites diverse voices, sparks connections, and builds vibrant communities. Beyond her title as an Inclusive Engineer & Project Manager, She is a force for positive change, makes technology understandable for all and an Award winning author. Her unique background bridges technology, leadership, mentorship, emotional intelligence and communication, empowering individuals across STEM and beyond.
Ramon Ray is unapologetically positive and passionate about making the world a better place. He's the publisher of ZoneofGenius.com and host of the USA Today Show, Rundown with Ramon. Ramon's an in-demand motivational keynote speaker and event host who's shared the stage with Deepak Chopra, Gary Vaynerchuck, Seth Godin, Simon Sineck and many other powerful speakers.
“A velvety mix of Erykah Badu & Billie Holiday paired with the cool grooves of her 007 on bass” is how one reviewer described Acute Inflections. New York’s Jazzy R&B duo, led by a former Broadway singer, has been featured on HBO and Amazon. They can often be found entertaining their clients (United Nations, Mercedes-Benz, etc.) at high-end events across the country and abroad. They have shared the stage with Jennifer Hudson, Sting, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and other notable artists at some of these celebrations. Their albums are always favorites on the jazz charts, and their shows are both fun and enchanting. Just prepare yourself, because these sassy artists love engaging their audiences!"
Em and Alex Pedron are passionate about learning and public speaking. They're both certified relationship coaches and corporate trainers, podcast hosts of "Stories After Swipe Right" on Spotify, and education technology entrepreneurs. Em Pedron brings over 15 years of experience as an L&D Leader. Alex Pedron serves as the Area Director of Area 44 and Vice President of Education for New York Toastmasters, and 8 years of professional public speaking and training in a corporate setting. Through their work and podcast, Em and Alex empower individuals to build strong relationships, develop essential skills, and lead fulfilling lives. Their passion for personal growth and learning shines through in everything they do, making them sought-after speakers and hosts in the field of personal and professional development.