Really Good Rhetoricians

#1- Stephen Colbert

This man is amazing.  Seriously.  I would do unspeakable things to see his show tape live.  Stephen Colbert is a talented public speaker, a fantastic comedian, a witty interviewer, and overall just dead sexy, if you ask me.  Why do I think Stephen Colbert is such a great rhetorician?  There are several elements that make his show excellent- he has immense appeal with his satirical take on current social issues and the vocabulary he uses gives him credibility as an educated person.  He doesn't take himself too seriously, which makes him enjoyable to watch.  

#2- Conan O'Brien

Conan O'Brien, despite leaving NBC seemingly awkwardly, has bounced back as a late night talk show host with his new show on TBS.  Conan has a similar appeal as Colbert- he keeps his demeanor light and humorous while making social commentary.  Conan also has a logos appeal- he too speaks in an educated way and is, in fact, a Harvard graduate.  Conan engages viewers by featuring segments that are humorous and actually asking relevant questions when he interviews guests, unlike other interviewers (David Letterman comes to mind, who seems to only want to make himself look funny in interviews, even if it involves blatantly taunting guests to their faces).  Conan has a self-deprecating sense of humor that is refreshing, and makes him a powerful rhetorician.

#3- Oprah Winfrew

You didn't really think I would get away with making this list without a shoutout to my homegirl Oprah, didja?  Oprah is a phenomenal rhetorician whose rhetorical skills have helped her make bank and be relevant and recognizable worldwide. Why is Oprah so successful? Because Oprah goes there.  Oprah delves into issues that would be deemed too heavy or serious for other daytime talk show hosts.  She interviews her guests with questions that are well-crafted: she is not an indulgent or egotistical interviewer, but a genuinely good listener.  Her advice is always sound, her passion for charity work unmatched, and she is relatable and honest with her audience.  And anyone who gives away free cars is fine by me.