Don Epstein
Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Talent Network Inc.
Don Epstein's interest in seeking talented performers and presenters began at the University of Florida, where he booked concerts and speakers for the student body. After graduation, he ran the speakers division for New Line Cinema and, in 1982, started the New York City-based Greater Talent Network, which has grown into a leading bureau representing clients such as Chaz Bono, Lara Logan, Conan O'Brien, Shaquille O'Neal and Paula Zahn.
What led you to start GTN? Back in 1982, most of the bureaus concentrated mostly on politicians. I felt there was a need for more diversity in issues of interest to audiences. I also sensed that audiences were craving less canned speeches and more extemporaneous storytelling.
Who is the most unusual or notorious speaker you've represented? Probably the late "gonzo journalist" Hunter Thompson. I remember the night he called me at 3 a.m. to tell me he had just shot a peacock that was keeping him awake.
What should a planner most keep in mind when considering a speaker? Your goal should be to enlighten, educate and entertain your audience. Your delegates should leave the presentation more excited than when they came in.
What common mistake should planners avoid with speakers? Remember: The later in the day the speech takes place, the harder it is to deliver content. The audience has had a long day.
What do you like to do in your spare time? I watch a lot of speeches. I'm always looking for the best of the best when it comes to presenters. I try to fit a little golf in on the side, as well.
On the MovePlanners
Tina Wehmeir, CMP, has been hired as president of Precision Meetings and Events, a conference and event-planning company based in Alexandria, Va.
Suppliers
At the 373-room Hyatt Regency Greenwich (Conn.),
Shaheryar Adil has been named general manager.
The Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau has appointed
Marco Bloemendaal senior vice president, convention sales and services.
The Las Vegas Sands Corp. has named
Chris Cahill to the post of executive vice president of global operations.
Amy Colangelo has been appointed spa and recreation director at the 212-room Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach Shores, Fla.
Lanham, Md.-based Hargrove, the trade show, event and exhibit contractor, has named
Patricia Coleman as director, exhibitor sales.
Hospitality management company The Wilderman Group has hired
Debi Harrill as sales manager at LeGrand Center in Shelby, N.C.
Jeffrey Hentz is the new president and CEO for the Daytona Beach (Fla.) Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.
At the 60-room Nantucket (Mass.) Hotel & Resort,
James Holmes has been named general manager.
Justin Markle has been named director of sales and marketing at the Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati.
At the 251-room Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation, in Greensboro, Ga.,
Andrew Neubauer III has been hired as director of sales and marketing.
At the 415-room Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown,
Lino Rodrigues has been hired as director of food and beverage.
Eduardo Segura has been named executive director of the Los Cabos (Mexico) Convention & Visitors Bureau.
At the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau,
Sonia Storbeck has been appointed national sales manager of corporate accounts.
Lloyd Williams has been hired as general manager of the 296-room Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, Va.