An Interview with Jasmine Birtles

How did the corporate speaking begin?

It was born out of both my broadcast work as a financial commentator and my live appearances as a stand-up comedian. It turned out that audience participation and feedback was much greater with a combination of the two. I quickly realised I had a unique ability to bring humour into the important subject of money.

Which event has been your favourite and why?

It’s hard to say as there have been so many really good ones! Recently my favourite was hosting a two-day conference for WorldPay in Budapest. There were some genuinely interesting speakers and I was able to get to the heart of the many new payment systems that are now operating.

Why do you love being a speaker?

I hate to admit it but I’m a show-off! Speaking is what I do best and because I am very interested in my subject I just love doing it. Also, by making it fun and interesting for my audience, the feedback I get from people who understand the subject for the first time after listening to me makes the effort worthwhile.

Who would you most like to share a platform with?

Warren Buffett. I’m a huge fan. Not only is he a brilliant man and highly successful investor with a very clear sense of how things work but he also has a great sense of humour. I know we would get on well and would make a great double-act on stage!

What do you do to ensure your presentation has a lasting impact?

I specialise in making complicated, and often boring, subjects understandable and approachable. If you can explain something dull like quantitative easing or equity release schemes in a way that makes people smile or even laugh then you’ve made them listen and understand without them even realising it. Also, that way I help them be the best they can be where money and finance is concerned.

What’s your favourite way to spend a Sunday?

I teach Sunday School on Sunday mornings so my favourite Sunday is to have a light lunch - ideally outside if the weather is good - and then meet friends for afternoon tea in a nice hotel.

What personal ambition must you fulfill before you die?

To make a difference to everyone I meet in how they deal with money and finance. If we want to make poverty history we have to give people the tools to make it happen for themselves.

Can you leave us with an inspirational one liner from your speech?

Money is not to be feared or revered. It should be kept in its place - just supporting the life you want to lead.

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