Speaker Feature: Andrea Sampson

In this speaker feature, we introduce you to Talk Boutique’s Co-Founder, Partner and Speaker Coach, Andrea Sampson.

What is your position at Talk Boutique?

I am the Co-Founder and Partner as well as a Speaker’s Coach.

What is the role that conversation plays in your life?

Conversation for me means connecting with another human, it means finding out who they are and what makes them tick. It means sharing my story and hearing theirs. It is such an important part of the lives we lead. I’m not a “small talk” kind of person. I love to delve deep, to discuss the mysteries of life or the explore the hidden meanings of human behaviour. I guess that’s why I love to work with speakers and communicators, they often have many of these same traits!

How would your friends describe you in 3 words or less?

Intelligent, loving and creative

What do you enjoy doing in your free time/what are your hobbies?

I have many hobbies. I paint which is such a great creative outlet, I love to travel and try to fit this into my schedule as often as possible. I am a history buff, so you will often find me reading historical fiction or biographies, I love a good story!

What is your personal philosophy?

Life is for living, we are here for joy!

What is something you can’t live without?

My cats… I know this is a bit cliché however, they are such good company now that my daughter has moved away. I miss her dearly, so kitty snuggles help to ease the pain.

What is your favourite TED/TEDx talk and why?

It’s hard to choose just one, but truly, I think the first TED talk I ever watch is still my favourite – Jill Bolte Taylor on My Stroke of Insight, a neurologist’s account of having a stroke. It is fascinating to watch her tell this incredible story of surviving a catastrophic stroke and at the same time maintain her scientific mind to observe the impact of what was going on in her brain throughout the stroke. She demonstrates the resiliences of the human spirit as well as the remarkable plasticity of the brain. It is a truly inspiring and captivating story.

What are you most proud of?

Well, the first answer is my daughter, at 20 I am watching her mature into a strong, aware, capable woman who is not afraid to ask for what she wants and to not settle for less. It is amazing as a parent to see your child come into their own and make life decisions for the first time. I am proud to be her Mom and for any part I have played in the woman she has become.

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