I knew someone who's dad was one of the assigners for the DO, he blatantly gave all the jobs to his pals. They even had like interviews and chats with all the potential bro's but he always gave it to his mates.
As for items, they are very coherced, be glad you got fropped I feel guilty about all my involvment now and I hope that I did not ever influence anyone or their life. I gave an experience and they crow barred the message they wanted out of it into it, they tell you how to walk, talk, dress, it is very much like a coporate conference or release. It is ALL about impression and style over substance.
They didn't care if it was true i..e they even tinker with the stories etc, it is all about finding someone that has an experience that can be used which is in align with the talk outline and the theme they want to convey.
When we went for practice, I only went once, I watched the DO and some guys from bethel I had not seen before, they were brutal! They were tearing up speakers in front of everyone, they were openly encouraging people to word things differently etc.
As you said, one thing I remember well is the timing issue. Just like a company in the 1950's who wont hire you with a beard or if you are black or jewish lol, they want timing to be perfect.... again, the love, the message was second to apperance and co-ordination.
Assembly speakers are chosen on their speaking ability not their knowledge, experiences, qualifiations or personage. The exception is the bethel speakers which were hit and miss.
The whole thing was very rehersed, very clinical, very shallow, false and unsatisfying. For me it was anothe peak behind the curtain at Oz.
Also there is little freedom in the talks, apart from adding an illustration or an example MAYBE, it is all written out for the speaker. Cult activity at its best!
You have to give them points for rigid control! They also get all this out of everyone for free..... amazing really.
