Experienced Moderator, Debate Leader & Podcast Host
With Tom Jessen's energetic style, journalistic sharpness, and a fantastic sense of humor, he brings every conference, debate, or conversation to life. He maintains the thread of the discussion, asks the questions others dare not ask, and keeps the energy in the room high even with complex themes.
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Tom Jessen is one of the most sought-after moderators in the Netherlands. With his energetic style, journalistic sharpness, and a fantastic sense of humor, he brings every conference, debate, or conversation to life. He leads over a hundred events each year: from strategic conferences at ministries to international summits with executives, scientists, and CEOs.
Tom began his career as a journalist at RTL and BNR News Radio. There, he learned to listen, analyze, and probe deeper. These three skills now distinguish him as a conversation leader. His background in journalism ensures conversations are substantive, rhythmic, and directed. He maintains the thread of the discussion, asks the questions others dare not ask, and keeps the energy in the room high even with complex themes.
Whether it’s a public debate, a panel discussion, a live talk show, or a podcast: Tom makes every conversation relevant, sharp, and human. His humor provides relaxation and connection, even with the most serious topics.
He has worked for organizations such as ASML, the Dutch Government, Rabobank, Erasmus University, Philips, and various ministries. His clients praise him for his thorough preparation, personal approach, and ability to bring out the best in speakers.
In addition to his work on stage, Tom is the host of one of the most listened-to podcasts in the Netherlands, alongside historian Maarten van Rossem, with an average of 200,000 listeners per episode. In it, he combines journalistic depth with humor and entertainment, which also characterizes his live performances.
Tom Jessen is available for conferences, debates, corporate meetings, podcasts, talk shows, and online events. He speaks Dutch and English and feels at home with themes such as leadership, economy, AI, innovation, politics, and media.
A good conversation starts with attention. Then comes sharpness. And only then the show.
What makes a conversation truly interesting? Tom shares insights from journalism and the stage about listening, guiding, and probing, always with a touch of humour.
How do talk shows, podcasts, and social media influence our opinion formation and how do you navigate through that as an organisation?
What can you learn from a professional moderator? About energy, structure, preparation, humour, and connecting with your audience.
Why good conversation leadership resembles leadership: about giving trust, maintaining direction, and utilising tension.
From physical conference to hybrid talk show: what does the new generation of audiences demand from speakers and organisers?
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