By Reagan Hilton
Photo by Jeramie Lu
In her compelling TEDxReno talk, Adrienne Bankert, an award-winning national news anchor and author, explores the transformative power of human connection. Adrienne, who has interviewed everyone from Kobe Bryant to Lady Gaga, knows a thing or two about making connections that count. But in this talk, she digs deeper, offering insights on how we can all move from awkward, surface-level interactions to genuine, meaningful connections that open doors to new opportunities.
Adrienne introduces the concept of “prompt engineering”—a way to spark authentic conversations that go beyond the usual chitchat. Drawing from her experiences as a journalist, she explains how a well-placed prompt can create momentum in conversations, turning a simple exchange into a lasting connection. Whether it’s a question, a statement, or a gesture, a prompt helps to break the ice, shift the atmosphere, and build trust quickly.
One of the most powerful lessons from Adrienne’s talk is the importance of empathy and kindness in building relationships. She distinguishes between being “nice” and being “kind,” emphasizing that kindness involves being observant and engaged. Adrienne’s personal stories, like her experience interviewing Lady Gaga and the cast of A Star Is Born, illustrate how empathy can lead to deeper, more meaningful interactions. By imagining the journey of the person you’re speaking to, you can approach conversations with a genuine interest that makes others feel seen and valued.
Photo by Jeramie Lu
Adrienne also touches on the importance of self-awareness and overcoming insecurities when meeting new people. She encourages us to use affirmations and internal prompts to boost our confidence before stepping into new spaces. By telling ourselves, “I am confident” or “I am here to serve,” we can shift our mindset and approach others with openness and authenticity.
Ultimately, Adrienne’s talk is a call to action for all of us to become better connectors. She challenges us to see every interaction as an opportunity to prompt a meaningful conversation, whether it’s with a colleague, a stranger, or even a celebrity. Her insights are not just about networking; they’re about building a richer, more connected life where every conversation has the potential to be a goldmine.
If you’re ready to learn how to turn everyday interactions into powerful connections, don’t miss Adrienne Bankert’s TEDxReno talk. You can watch the full presentation below. How will you use prompts to connect more deeply with the people in your life?
