John Watkis
GPS Trainer and Coach
John Watkis Is at Home on Stage
John Watkis joins Global Public Speaking with a solid background in speechwriting and stage performance. John is a professional entertainer who was the first Canadian-born actor to play “Mufasa” in the Disney musical, “The Lion King.” He is an international speaker, speechwriter, and public speaking coach who helps leaders find their rhythm when they get up to speak.
John’s been in the speaking and coaching business for over 20 years. In addition to delivering keynote speeches and workshops in six countries and on three continents, he has written speeches for corporations, government officials, non-profits, professional speakers, and hall of fame athletes.
A partial list of his clients includes BMW Canada, Canadian Association of Professional Speakers, Human Resources Professional Association, RBC, TD Bank, Canadian Federal Government, Moneris Solutions, and Hills Pet Nutrition.
Meet Global Public Speaking Trainer John Watkis
What Clients Have to Say About John
John is perhaps the most engaging, humorous and relevant speaker I have had the pleasure of working with. I was so intrigued with his presentation on the topic of “How to Make Your Speech Sound Like Music to Their Ears!” that I brought John to London to present to the local chapter of my speakers’ association. He did not disappoint!
-Mia Doucet, Founder, Speed to ROI, LLC
John Watkis is truly gifted as a speechwriter and speaker. What a combination! I have seen John hold an audience in the palm of his hand and elicit laughter with seemingly no effort (he only makes it look easy). Best of all, he leaves the group with key messages they’ll always remember.
-Donna Papacosta, Principal at Trafalgar Communications
John Watkis Is an Accomplished Author and Performer
John is the author of the new book Speaking Notes: 8 Essential Elements to Make Your Speech Sound Like Music to Their Ears and Don’t Bite the Hand That Feeds You – How to Avoid Mistakes That Cost You Customers and Credibility. He wrote and appeared in the Fred Pryor/Careertrack video, “Management Skills for New Managers & Supervisors,” and his articles have appeared in Profit Magazine, The Toronto Star, and Ragan Communications. He’s also been interviewed on BBC and appeared on the CBC network.
John studied Adult Education at Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology in Toronto and is certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a Personal Trainer. He has advanced designations in Behavior Change, Corrective Exercise, Performance Enhancement, and Weight Loss. He has a passion for inspiring youth and has volunteered his time speaking to students in local schools and youth in prison.
John is a professional entertainer who was the first Canadian-born actor to play “Mufasa” in the Disney musical, “The Lion King.” He is also passionate about fitness and dance. He has run his own fitness studio and is a champion salsa dancer and instructor.
John Watkis explains more about his background