Good Ideas Don't Speak for Themselves
Topic: The best idea in the room isn't always the one that gets heard. So what makes people listen, connect, and ultimately act? Public speaking isn't simply about finding the right words or conquering a fear of the podium. It's about turning conviction into connection and ideas into influence. Drawing on experiences in leadership, advocacy, and Toastmasters, Erin McDonald explores why the ability to communicate with clarity, authenticity, and purpose can be the difference between having something worth saying and making something happen.
Erin McDonald is the City of Edmonton’s City Archivist and founder of EMC³ Consulting & Appraisals. A cultural strategist and public-sector leader, Erin has built a career communicating ideas, building partnerships, and advocating for community culture. Erin is President of Aimcrier Toastmasters, a past Division Director and District Public Relations Manager, and has completed two Toastmasters Pathways. Drawing on professional and personal experience, Erin explores how effective public speaking transforms good ideas into influence, connection, and meaningful action.