Listen up, all you business people

The name Mary Buffett probably doesn't stand out among those of Colin Powell, Bill Cosby and Terry Bradshaw.

But Buffett offers advice on a topic sure to captivate in these uneasy economic times: how to make money.

Buffett will speak about investments during the Get Motivated business seminar being held from 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Tuesday at the Ted Constant Convocation Center in Norfolk.

Other scheduled speakers include Powell, Cosby, Bradshaw, Rudy Giuliani, Laura Bush and former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz.

"I try to take complex investments and reduce them into easy-to-understand techniques," Buffett said. "Ones both sophisticated and average investors can use to gain wealth."

And while Mary Buffett probably isn't a household name, the best-selling author and consultant has a connection who is: She studied the methods of world-famous investor Warren Buffett up close for 12 years, as his daughter-in-law.

"I had unusual access that gave me the opportunity to understand his thinking in a philosophical way," Buffett said.

Each speaker Tuesday will address a specific theme. Powell, the four-star general and former secretary of state, will speak on leadership. Cosby, the famous comedian, will speak on success. Bradshaw, a Hall of Fame NFL quarterback, will speak on teamwork.

Giuliani, the former mayor of New York City and a potential presidential candidate, will address perseverance. Bush, wife of former President George W. Bush, will discuss fulfilling potential. Holtz, who started his head coaching career at William and Mary, will talk about motivation. Southwest Airlines CEO Howard Putnam will address management, and former Microsoft president Rick Belluzzo will talk about business skills.

Buffett said that when she's not speaking, she'll try to listen to as many other speakers as possible, to study their approaches and absorb their lessons.

"I love to learn," she said. "I'm part of the audience in that regard."

The seminar (with the same speakers) is also being held at Hampton Coliseum from 8 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. Tuesday, with a satellite showing at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott at the same time.

Though called business seminars, the events are open to anyone. Those who buy tickets at least a day in advance can get in for $1.95 per person or $9.95 for an entire office. The price jumps to $225 per person at the door. Call (800) 880-7058 or visit http://getmotivated.com for advance tickets.

Buffett knows these are trying economic times, but one of her aims is to dispel the notion that it's unwise to invest.

"This is a time when Warren Buffett steps in and buys," she said, b

ut it doesn't take an acclaimed billionaire to make the right choices.

"It's not rocket science," she said. "You can do it."

Mike Connors, (757) 446-5434, michael.connors@pilotonline.com