Spouse Speaker Interview: Diane McQuaig

 

YPO-WPO:  How did you first get involved in YPO?

            Diane: My late husband Don joined YPO in the early 90’s.  Being in the leadership business we thought YPO was a great opportunity to meet new people, share unique experiences, and participate in the success of our chapter by being on the executive, joining forums and volunteering as day chairs. It enhanced our lives immeasurably. Over the years we travelled the world, met incredible people, many who have become dear friends, and gained new insights into ourselves and our businesses. As a surviving spouse, I am very grateful to continue in WPO and to participate in all of the wonderful offerings.

YPO-WPO:  What made you realize you wanted to get involved with speaking?

            Diane: For many years at MICA, we brought world renowned speakers to Canada to introduce their philosophies to the business community across our  country….Tom Peters, Stephen Covey, Wayne Dyer, Tony Robbins, Edwards Deming, Jim Collins and Edward de Bono to name a few.  In the mid 80’s I also began representing Edward de Bono worldwide, managing his publishing and speaking. Recognized as the world’s leading authority in the field of conceptual and creative thinking, Edward coined the phrase “Lateral Thinking”, and has authored 65 books in 35 languages on the topic of thinking.  In 1985, he wrote a best seller entitled “Six Thinking Hats” that revolutionized the way we think.  Business, government and education embraced this powerful framework globally.  In the early 90’s, I began teaching Lateral Thinking and Six Thinking Hats to organizations, training thousands with incredible results….faster, more productive meetings and increased creativity and innovation.  Participants learned to defer judgment, silence the voice of caution and embrace change, while fostering a climate of respect for the individual. They gained valuable insight into their own thinking style and those of their colleagues. It was extremely rewarding and exciting. In addition, Edward and I created an International Creative Forum, bringing together leaders internationally to work on pertinent issues, using the de Bono tools. Participating corporations included Prudential Insurance, IBM, American Standard, Hughes Aircraft, Nestle, and British Airport Authorities to name a few. 

So, to answer your question…I have been in the speaking business for 30 years and feel most comfortable at the podium, sharing the tools and working with participants as they practice and apply the concepts to issues that are relevant to them, their businesses and their families. My keynote sessions are fast paced, highly interactive and fun, and are customized to the needs of the individuals.

For more information on Diane please visit the Speaker Database.

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