How did you start your moderation journey?
“About 15 years ago, I attended a roundtable with a truly awful moderator. Someone who made it all about themselves and asked only yes/no questions. I walked out thinking, “Never again.” Fast forward, Jamie from The Ortus Club invited me to attend their first LA roundtable. Her energy and enthusiasm was contagious, and I was intrigued. When she asked if I could join as a participant, I said, “Can I moderate instead?”
That was the start. I challenged myself to do the opposite of what that first moderator did, and it worked. The conversation flowed, the connections were real, and I was hooked!”
What do you find most exciting about moderating?
“The best moderators talk the least. Our role is to draw out the brilliance in the room. It’s an art – and a challenge I love. A great conversation can shift the direction of an entire organisation. As moderators, we’re the hub of the wheel, connecting clients to participants and participants to each other. Moderation opens the door to Fresh ideas and new perspectives, participants feeling seen, heard, and valued and deeper, more meaningful relationships.”
How do you typically prepare to moderate an Ortus event?
“My motto: Fail to plan, plan to fail. Preparation is everything. Here’s my 5-step process: do my research, set up the script, set the stage, moderation in action, and beyond the event. Notice how these first three steps make up 80% of the journey? That’s because thorough preparation leads to greater success, meaningful impact, and better outcomes and increased confidence for everyone involved. When I’ve done the work upfront, I show up confident and ready to guide a great conversation.”
What tips and tricks would you recommend for aspiring moderators?
“You can absolutely do this! Bring your own style and flavor. As a moderator you set the pace, the space and you own the room. That means you have permission to call on people, to interrupt and you’re in charge of making it great We bring the energy, focus, and adaptability to create engaging, impactful conversations – and that’s the magic. So step up, own your voice, and trust that your presence makes the room better. You’ve got this!”
In what ways has moderating contributed to your growth as a leader?
“Moderating has sharpened my strategic thinking, expanded my network, and made me a better listener. It’s taught me how to guide a group without controlling the conversation – and that’s a powerful superpower.”
How has moderating contributed to your personal and professional growth?
“Personally, I’ve gained confidence and clarity in how I show up. Professionally, I’ve developed stronger facilitation skills, built meaningful relationships, and learned how to lead from behind the scenes. It’s one of the most rewarding things I do.”
