Not Just Another Speaker: How I Make Keynotes Unforgettable
- Dr. Tomi Mitchell
- Apr 17
- 3 min read

I’ll be honest—being a keynote speaker is one of my absolute favourite things to do. There’s
something magical about standing on stage, looking out at a room full of people, and knowing
that we’re about to share something meaningful for the next hour or so. It’s not about the
spotlight (though, let’s be real, a little glow never hurts). It’s about connecting—really
connecting—with people, sharing stories, and sparking ideas that stay with them long after they
leave the event.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—physician, coach, educator, entrepreneur, and world
traveller—and through those experiences, I’ve gathered a lifetime of stories and insights. Every
keynote is my chance to bring those lessons to life in an inspiring, practical, and, most
importantly, real way.
Keynotes Are Conversations, Not Just Speeches
Here’s how I see it: a keynote is like throwing a stone into a pond. The message doesn’t just
land—it ripples outward. In one talk, I might reach hundreds, maybe even thousands of people,
but what excites me is how that message keeps moving. It goes home with them. It shows up in
their workplaces, relationships, and communities. That’s the real impact.
I don’t speak just to check a box or recite a well-rehearsed script. My topics—relationships,
wellness, mental health—aren’t just trendy buzzwords. They’re at the core of what makes us
human. I believe our relationships—whether with ourselves, our loved ones, or our work—define
so much of our happiness and success. And wellness? It’s not just about eating kale and doing
yoga (though, if that’s your thing, go for it). It’s about balance, self-awareness, and choices that
serve us, not drain us.
Why a Dynamic Speaker Matters
We’ve all sat through one of those keynotes—the kind that feels like an endless slideshow with
someone reading off the screen. That’s not what I do. A great keynote should be an experience.
It should have energy, authenticity, and yes, even a little humour—because, let’s be honest, life
is too short for boring speeches.
I believe in making every talk engaging, interactive, and relevant to the people in the room. I
don’t just stand behind a podium and talk to the audience—I connect with them. Whether
speaking to corporate leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, or entrepreneurs, my goal is
always to keep it accurate, make it relatable, and leave people with something that sticks.
But delivering a keynote isn’t just about the speech itself. A great speaker doesn’t just show up,
talk, and leave—they become part of the event’s success. That’s why I love going beyond the
stage, whether leading workshops, joining panel discussions, or facilitating breakout sessions
where we can take the conversation deeper.
The Perspective I Bring to the Stage
What makes me different? It’s not just my credentials or experience—it’s the lens through which
I see the world.
As a physician, I’ve had a front-row seat to some of the most profound human
experiences—moments of joy, heartbreak, resilience, and transformation. As a coach, I’ve
helped people navigate personal and professional challenges. As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned
to pivot, adapt, and push through uncertainty.
As someone who has travelled the world, I’ve learned from different cultures, perspectives, and
ways of thinking. That global experience helps me connect with diverse audiences in a real,
inclusive, and relatable way. (Plus, it gives me plenty of travel stories to throw in for a good
laugh!)
Why Humor Matters
Do you know what makes information stick? Emotion. And humour is one of the best ways to
create that connection. I never want my audience to feel like they’re being lectured at—I want
them to feel like they’re part of a conversation. A little humour can make even the most complex
topics accessible and relatable.
For example, I often joke about my time as a physician: “When I started med school, I thought
I’d save lives daily. Turns out, half the job was just trying to survive the paperwork.” It’s funny
because it’s true—and so many people can relate to feeling overwhelmed by bureaucracy in
their fields.
Let’s Make Your Event One to Remember
My goal as a keynote speaker isn’t just to inspire—it’s to create a lasting impact. I want people
to walk away feeling motivated and equipped with real, actionable strategies they can apply in
their lives.
So, if you’re planning an event and looking for a speaker who connects with your audience, let’s
talk. Whether it’s a keynote, a workshop, or a deeper discussion, I’m here to help make your
event unforgettable. The best talks don’t just fill up a schedule—they spark change.
And that’s precisely what I aim to do.
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