by Kat Evans
We included Sarah Renahan on our "Best Public Speakers" list because of her impressive transition from luxury brand manager to socially conscious new brand founder and CEO. We also loved her collaboration and chemistry with her co-founder and CCO Nydia Shipman.
After working as an account executive at luxury brands like Gucci and Frette, and after becoming a mother, Renahan became a collaborative entrepreneur, co-founding Worthy Foods with Nydia Shipman. Their mission was to create an acccessible, plant-based, shelf-stable product-- something the market had not yet seen.
We reviewed Renahan's tag-team presentation with co-founder Nydia Shipman for Foodbytes by Rabobank in 2019.
What are the main communication takeaways?
Storylining: Renahan and Shipman begin with a compelling case for an unprecedented market opportunity, then move into their team credentials and overall mission as they help the audience get to know them.
Collaboration: Renahan and Shipman share the stage and the speaking load with warmth and chemistry. They create a sense of a shared mission, a fun working relationship, and shared credit.
Brevity & pace: This presentation is carefully scripted. They use simple language and manage the time spent on each slide or point. Renahan and Shipman also use a measured pace to make sure audiences can understand every word.
How could she improve?
Minimize uptick: Renahan often speaks in lists, ending most clauses on a higher pitch, which makes her sound less authoritative than Shipman.
Increase energy: Both presenters are low energy in their delivery, with their attempt at a high-five and rallying cry for "Moms get the job done" falling flat. Given how scripted it is, more rehearsal to loosen up and feel more at ease would help their impact.
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