speaker speaks Polar adventurer and ‘muscle warrior’ Michael McGrath on keeping cool on freezing stages Personal file A polar adventurer who has conquered both North and South Poles (the first and only disabled person to have done so), muscular dystrophy ambassador Michael McGrath is a motivation, strategy and leadership speaker. He uses his polar, professional and personal ethos as a ‘muscle warrior’ to inspire audiences to expand their potential. Booking McGrath direct via www.musclehelp.com will generate a 10 per cent donation from all contracted speaker fees in 2009 for The Muscular Help Foundation, a charity supporting young people in the UK afflicted by muscular dystrophy. Tel: 01763 274658 or email: [email protected] Can you describe your first speaking engagement? Having successfully led my first polar expedition seven years ago, I was invited to share the team’s achievement at BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) in Piccadilly. An experience I shall never forget! What’s the worst thing that has happened to you during an event? I was on a stage that was positioned directly beneath a huge aircon system pumping out ice-cold air – felt right at home! Not. What was the last event you spoke at? The HBOS plc Senior Executive ‘Strong Leadership in Changing Times’ programme. In the face of extreme adversity, I focused on Ernest Shackleton’s leadership lessons, drawing out key business metaphors delivered through a 21st century corporate lens. Which event has been your favourite and why? The Business Traveller Awards in Dubai. I delivered a keynote to 500 distinguished business guests from all corners of the Middle East. I revealed for the first time a photograph of a Business Traveller flag planted at the South Pole. The audience went absolutely crazy! If you could speak at any event, past or future, what would it be? The event that announces a global cure for muscular dystrophy. Which speaker/performer do you most admire and why? Stand-up comedian and dramatic actor Eddie Izzard. I love his comedy style expressed in rambling, whimsical monologue and self-referential pantomime. What is your worst on-stage habit? Can a speaker enjoy speaking too much? What annoys you most professionally? People failing to plan and prepare as thoroughly as I do. Great speakers need great support. A professional production team is worth its weight in gold… and I tell them so! Do you have any riders or special requirements? No - other than using Virgin when flying transatlantic. PHHWLQJV( kpegpvkxg vtcxgn 63 July/August 2009 = ‐ : + If you’ve got an issue you feel strongly about, share it with us. E-mail us at [email protected] or go to www.meetpie.com/mailbag We are waiting to hear from you… Love it? Hate it? E-mail it! Please keep letters to 200 words long Improving with age This unique example was founded 25 years ago in 1984 on the coast of Dorset. A rich blend of fresh views and ideas mixed thoughtfully together by experienced hands. The height of good taste this mature yet fruity little number would suit any occasion. The perfect accompaniment. Tel: 01202 456 550 [email protected]