Top Funny Keynote Speakers and Groups

“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” — Charlie Chaplin

Audiences remember keynote speakers who use humor. Humor not only boosts our ability to recall information, but it also increases energy levels, reduces negative emotions, and creates a sense of community among attendees. This is why some of the best conferences and workshops are hosted by comedians.

If you want a funny speaker who can impact your event, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau works with the Top Funny Keynote Speakers and Comedian Groups. Some of these public speakers are expert entertainers, hosts, and workshop leaders, while others are funny thought leaders who can make your audience laugh while learning about important topics.

 

Jeff Civillico

Jeff Civillico is a comedian and performer who has performed over 5000 shows on the Las Vegas Strip as a Headliner with Caesars Entertainment at The LINQ, The Flamingo, and The Paris. In his talks, Jeff enables a renewed sense of passion, purpose, and gratitude in attendees’ work and lives by challenging the audience to view where they are personally and professionally.

Janelle Shane

Janelle Shane is an artificial intelligence humorist who was named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business and a Young Influential by Adweek. In her talks, Janelle uses cartoons and humorous pop-culture experiments to look inside the minds of the algorithms that run our world, making artificial intelligence and machine learning both accessible and entertaining.

Bill Benjamin

Bill Benjamin is a funny emotional intelligence expert and a contributor to the New York Times bestselling book Performing Under Pressure. In his talks, Benjamin uses research and humor to teach audiences practical strategies for managing their emotions during pressure moments.

Judy Carter

Judy Carter is a top leadership keynote speaker, transformational communication expert, and international humorist. Wielding the “power of the punch line,” Carter gets results both nationally and internationally with hilarious and empowering keynotes. She uplifts and entertains while sharing practical information that attendees can apply to their jobs as well as their daily lives.

Kamau Bell

Kamau Bell is a top humor keynote speaker, sociopolitical comedian, and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning CNN docu-series United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. Kamau has been nominated for multiple NAACP Image Awards and a GLAAD award, and he was featured on Conde Nast’s ‘Daring 25’ list for 2016.

Bertice Berry

Dr. Bertice Berry is a top change management speaker, sociologist, and the best-selling author of an inspirational memoir, I’m On My Way, But Your Foot Is On My Head. She entertains and educates about the importance of humor in the workplace.

Avish Parashar

Avish Parashar is a top motivational keynote speaker, humorist, and author who transforms his hilarious comedy skits into practical business lessons. Weaving together humorous stories, jokes, audience interaction, and improv comedy games, Parashar keeps the audience engaged while providing a key lesson: planning is important, but improvising is essential.

 

Comedy Groups

Comedy teams and comedy groups are great workshop hosts and entertainers. They can make your event funny, experiential, and memorable.

The Passing Zone

Jon Wee and Owen Morse are The Passing Zone, a top innovation keynote duo and juggling team. They have appeared on The Tonight Show and The Today Show and were finalists on America’s Got Talent. They entertain groups while teaching them the principles of teamwork.

The Pinquelton Group

Andy Eninger and John Loos are a top entertainment-speaking duo, master facilitators, performers, and writers who love to help organizations flourish by building skills in collaboration, storytelling, and ideation. Between them, they have 50+ years of experience connecting to audiences with clients like Deloitte, Facebook, MetLife, Whirlpool, and many, many, many more.

The Second City

From the world-famous Second City Theater that gave us such famous comedic actors as Dan Ackroyd, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, and Steven Colbert comes a proven and innovative training methodology that builds the skills necessary to make companies successful. They help groups with collaborative communication, leadership, and creative thinking.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak Jun 28, 2023.

Top Speakers Who Use Art and Animation In Their Presentations

Looking for a visual experience to delight your audience? Great talks are about as much as what you see as what you hear. While a poor PowerPoint can turn off an audience, a great visual presentation can enhance and explain an idea.

If you’re looking for a great visual experience, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau works with the Top Public Speakers who use art and animation in their presentations. These keynote speakers are experts in storytelling, innovation, artificial intelligence, and creativity. If you’re looking to think, feel, and SEE differently, these are the keynote speakers for you.

 

Matthew Luhn

Matthew Luhn is a top business keynote speaker in storytelling and a former lead animator and storyteller at Pixar Studios, who worked on Toy Story, Cars, Monsters Inc., and more. Alongside his story work in Hollywood, Matthew works closely with Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, and other professionals to craft stories that bridge the gap between business and heart to build stronger brands and business communication.

Janelle Shane

Janelle Shane is a machine learning expert and artificial intelligence humorist. Her TED talk, “The danger of AI is weirder than you think” has over 3 million views and provides a funny and insightful look at the nature of machine learning algorithms. She explains some of the myths and fallacies of AI, often using funny visuals, so you can understand the future of AI: what AI can and can not do for your business.

Duncan Wardle

Duncan Wardle is an innovation and creativity keynote speaker. Using art and activities, Duncan pushes executives and their teams to overcome preconceived ideas, act more audaciously, and develop their own innovation “light switch.”

Deanna Marsigliese

Deanna Marsigliese is a creativity keynote speaker, animation art director, and illustrator at Pixar Studios. You’ve seen some of her work in LucaSoulOnward, and the Incredibles. Deanna used workshops to show how to appeal to audiences.

Phil Hansen

Phil Hansen is a top innovation keynote speaker, internationally recognized multimedia artist, and author. Phil shares how to find creativity within limitations so you can start looking inside yourself for resources that will transform your challenges into opportunities for success.

Erik Wahl

Erik Wahl is an internationally recognized artist, top TED speaker, and No. 1 bestselling author. His breakthrough experience as an artist and entrepreneur has translated into making him into one of the most sought-after corporate speakers on the circuit today. On stage, Erik’s keynote experience creates a dynamic multidimensional metaphor for how to systematically embrace innovation and risk.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak  Jun 22, 2023.

Make Your Event Planning Easier: Work with a Top Speakers Bureau

If you’re planning an event, you know how daunting the process can be. From choosing a venue, organizing catering, to finding the ideal speaker, it can be overwhelming. That’s where a top speakers bureau comes in. 

With a top speakers bureau, event planning can be a breeze. We provide expert recommendations on speakers and topics that match your event goals, agenda and theme. We know that speakers (especially celebrity speakers) can be hard to reach, a top speakers bureau will handle all the networking and scheduling for you.

There’s no need to bother yourself about the details when it comes to logistics, such as figuring out the proper audio equipment needed, travel, hotel accommodation, per diems, contract logistics, and more—a top speakers bureau will have everything covered. With access to a vast array of high-quality, experienced, and talented speakers, a top speakers bureau can help you find the perfect fit for your event.

Choosing a top speakers bureau saves you time, energy, and stress.

More on Why to Partner with a Top Speakers Bureau for your Next Event:

What to Expect When Working With a Speakers Bureau

Why Work with a Speakers Bureau 

How to Hire the Perfect Keynote Speaker

5 Things to Consider Before Booking a Keynote Speaker

How to Book a Last-Minute Keynote Speaker

How to Book a Celebrity Speaker

4 Benefits of Bringing in a Business Speaker

Transform Ordinary Events into Unforgettable Experiences with a Top Public Speaker

Words do two major things: they provide food for the mind and create light for understanding and awareness.” – Jim Rohn.

 

From inspiring Fortune 500 boardrooms to captivating international stages, these top public speakers are among the most influential voices of our time. Their ability to connect with audiences on a deep, emotional level is unmatched, driving change across a range of topics and empowering individuals from all walks of life.

Meet the world’s top public speakers who leverage the power to move audiences, spark change, and transform events into unforgettable experiences.

 

Top Public Speakers

Jeff DeGraff

Renowned for jumpstarting creativity and empowering innovation culture and ecosystems at over half of the Fortune 500, Professor Jeff DeGraff combines top B-School expertise and research with extensive consulting experience and a successful career taking Domino’s Pizza from $50M to $2B. Dubbed “The Dean of Innovation,” for his simultaneously creative and pragmatic approach, he is a bestselling author and long-established thought leader in the innovation space. His talks inspire audiences while providing a proven playbook for success.

Chaunte Lowe

Chaunté Lowe is the story of determination, perseverance, and strength.  Not only is Lowe a mother of 3, a wife, and a business owner; she is also a professional athlete, an American Record Holder, a 4-time Olympian, a 3-Time World Championship medalist, and 12 times US National Champion. She has been in high demand since she decided to train for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics while undergoing chemotherapy and a double mastectomy for breast cancer. Her resilience is impactful in her own life, and to those who hear her speak.

Adam Cheyer

Adam Cheyer is a top technology public speaker, AI expert, and entrepreneur. He co-founded Siri, which was acquired by Apple, and later co-founded Viv, which became the basis of the voice assistant Bixby on Samsung phones, TVs, watches, and more. He is also a founding member and first developer at Change.org, the world’s largest petition platform, with more than 300M members.

Molly Bloom 

Molly Bloom is a top inspirational public speaker, entrepreneur, host of the award-winning podcast TORCHED, and bestselling author of Molly’s Game, the riveting story and Oscar nominated film about Molly running the most exclusive high stakes poker game in the world, being raided by the FBI and always maintaining her integrity. Her memoir was adapted into an award-winning film by Aaron Sorkin. Bloom has appeared on numerous shows and in media outlets such as EllenViceThe Los Angeles TimesNPRVulture, and has been asked to speak at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women.  Molly was also in the Top 3 of the US Ski Team.

Marcus Collins 

From Budweiser to Beyonce, McDonald’s to Google, Marcus Collins has been the architect behind some of the most famous ad campaigns of the last decade. When he’s not helping blue chip brands create contagious marketing ideas as Chief Strategy Officer at award-winning agency, Wieden+Kennedy, appearing on the TED stage, writing a column for Adweek or releasing a much-anticipated new book, he is shaping the next generation of marketers as a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. A celebrated expert on cultural contagion, meaning-making, brand strategy, and consumer behavior, Marcus shows audiences in any industry or profession how to harness the power of culture to get others to share your vision and most of all, take action.

Nancy Giordano 

Described as endlessly optimistic, Nancy is a strategic futurist and bestselling author with a drive to help enterprise organizations and visionary leaders transform to meet the escalating expectations ahead. Recognized as one of the world’s top female futurists, she has spent her career building, shaping and evolving a portfolio of $60+ billion worth of major global brands. Invited to give over 100 global keynote talks, and with growing conviction of what will (and needs to) shift, executives value her unique abilities to sense and synthesize the terrain ahead. All of her projects have a key common denominator: transitioning away from the extractive operating systems and outdated business thinking that no longer holds up, to creating the more sustainable, inclusive and dynamic solutions the future demands.

Matthew Luhn 

Matthew Luhn is a top innovation public speaker and former lead animator and storyteller at Pixar Studios. He is also an award winning filmmaker and Pixar veteran of nearly 20 years. Alongside his story work in Hollywood, Matthew works with Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, and other professionals to craft and tell stories that bridge the gap between business and heart to build stronger brands and business communication.

Wema Hoover

Wema Hoover is a culture and DEI expert who has dedicated her career to serving as a catalyst for change and as a transformational leader.  Her expertise centers on diversity, equity, & inclusion, authentic leadership and women’s empowerment with a reputation for creating systemic organizational change into people, processes, and products on a global scale. Her deep experience spans multinational, market-leading consulting, pharmaceutical, and technology enterprises with a high degree of cultural awareness having lived in the US, Europe and Asia and leading globally dispersed teams. As a trusted C-suite and board-level advisor, Wema has leveraged her background leading global DEI efforts for companies like Google, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb to help inform and guide corporate leadership through evolving corporate culture, creating inclusive work environments and integrating DEI and sustainability to build high performance organizations and drive business results.

Kwame Christian 

A business attorney and CEO of the American Negotiation Institute (ANI), Kwame Christian took his place among the world’s top negotiation experts when his TEDx talk went viral, spurring his bestselling books, Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life and How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race: Practical Tools for Necessary Change in the Workplace and Beyond, as well as Negotiate Anything, the  #1 negotiation podcast in the world. Defining negotiation as “any conversation in which somebody in the conversation wants something,” Kwame has worked with the Fortune 500 to apply the fundamentals of negotiation to virtually all aspects of corporate success. He has also helped thousands, from all walks of life, acquire a negotiation mindset that can be applied to universal situations, conflicts, and difficult conversations. As Kwame is frequently quoted, “The best things in life are on the other side of difficult conversations.”

Robyn Benincasa

Robyn Benincasa is a top leadership and teamwork public speaker, author, and Adventure Racing World Champion. One of the highest-rated, female motivational speakers in the world, she regularly shares the stage with world leaders and business icons, her customers include many Fortune companies like Starbucks, Deloitte, Aflac, Boeing, and more.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak Jun 16, 2023.

The Art of Disruption: How Innovation Keynote Speakers Inspire Creativity

Innovation is the lifeblood of progress, but how do we cultivate and harness it? This is where keynote speakers on disruption and innovation come in. These experts offer insights into the art of disruption, providing inspiration and guidance on how to challenge the status quo and foster creativity. From entrepreneurs to industry leaders, these speakers have a wealth of experience and expertise to draw from. They share their stories of overcoming obstacles, pushing boundaries, and carving out new paths in their respective fields. Their talks are a catalyst for change, inspiring audiences to embrace innovation and embrace the unknown. Through their words and ideas, these speakers ignite a spark of creativity that can transform individuals, teams, and entire organizations. So, whether you’re looking to shake up your industry or simply want to reignite your passion for innovation, an innovation keynote speaker can help you unlock your potential and unleash your creativity.

 

Understanding the Role of Keynote Speakers in Disruptive Innovation

Innovation keynote speakers are thought leaders who specialize in the art of disruption. They bring a unique perspective to the table, having often experienced the challenges of innovation firsthand. Speakers may come from a wide range of backgrounds, including entrepreneurship, academia, and industry. However, they all have one thing in common: a passion for innovation and a deep understanding of how to foster it.

Keynote speakers on disruptive innovation have a vital role to play in our fast-paced world. They help organizations stay ahead of the curve by inspiring them to embrace new ideas, take risks and challenge the status quo. Disruptive innovation is about more than just developing new products or services; it’s about questioning assumptions, challenging existing business models, and embracing change. Keynote speakers help organizations stay on top of these trends by sharing their insights and expertise.

Innovation keynote speakers also have a unique ability to connect with their audiences. They are passionate about their topics, and their enthusiasm is infectious. They use their stories and experiences to engage their listeners, making their talks both informative and entertaining. By connecting with their audiences on a personal level, speakers can inspire them to take action and embrace innovation.

 

Benefits of Disruptive Innovation Keynote Speeches

The benefits of listening to a disruptive innovation keynote speaker are numerous. For starters, these speakers can help organizations stay ahead of the curve. By sharing their insights and experiences, they can provide valuable guidance on how to navigate the ever-changing business landscape. They can also help organizations identify new opportunities for growth and development.

Innovation keynote speakers can also help individuals and teams unlock their potential. By sharing their stories of overcoming obstacles and pushing boundaries, they can inspire listeners to do the same. They can provide practical tips and strategies for fostering creativity and innovation, helping individuals and teams achieve their goals.

Perhaps most importantly, innovation keynote speakers can help individuals and organizations embrace change. Disruptive innovation can be scary, and many people are resistant to it. However, keynote speakers can help shift mindsets and encourage people to see change as an opportunity rather than a threat. By doing so, they can help organizations stay nimble and adapt to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.

 

Examples of Innovation Keynote Speakers

There are many famous disruptive innovators out there, from entrepreneurs to industry leaders. Here are a few examples:

Marc Randolph

Entrepreneur Speaker, Netflix Cofounder, National Bestselling Author, Executive Mentor and Angel Investor

Marc Randolph is a veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur, advisor, and investor, whose career as an entrepreneur spans four decades. In addition to being the co-founder and first CEO of Netflix, Marc has founded or co-founded six other successful startups, mentored hundreds of early-stage entrepreneurs, and as an investor has helped seed dozens of successful tech ventures (and just as many unsuccessful ones). He is host of the top-10 Apple podcast That Will Never Work, where he works directly with entrepreneurs to provide 1-on-1 mentoring. He lives in Santa Cruz, California.

Tan Le

One of the Most Influential Pioneers in the Emerging Field of Brain-Computer Interface & CEO of EMOTIV, Award Winning Inventor and Author

Tan Le is a top innovation and business keynote speaker, technology entrepreneur, author, and founder and CEO of EMOTIV. She is one of the most influential pioneers in the emerging field of brain-computer interface. She has won numerous awards, including Young Australian of the Year in 1998,  Australia’s 30 Most Successful Women Under 30, Most Influential Women in Technology by Fast Company in 2010, and Forbes 50 Names You Need to Know in 2011.

Matthew Luhn

Top Creativity Keynote Speaker, Award Winning Filmmaker, Director, Former Lead Storyteller and Animator at Pixar Studios

Matthew Luhn is a top innovation keynote speaker and former lead animator and storyteller at Pixar Studios. He is also an award winning filmmaker and Pixar veteran of nearly 20 years. Alongside his story work in Hollywood, Matthew works with Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, and other professionals to craft and tell stories that bridge the gap between business and heart to build stronger brands and business communication.

These are just a few examples of the many disruptive innovators out there. Each has their own unique approach to innovation, but they all share a willingness to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.

 

How Innovation Keynote Speakers Inspire Creativity

Innovation keynote speakers inspire creativity in numerous ways. One of the most important is by sharing their stories of overcoming obstacles and pushing boundaries. By doing so, they show listeners that anything is possible if you’re willing to take risks and embrace the unknown. They also provide practical tips and strategies for fostering creativity, such as embracing failure, taking breaks, and collaborating with others.

Innovation keynote speakers also inspire creativity by challenging assumptions and encouraging people to think outside the box. They help listeners see problems from a different perspective and identify new opportunities for growth and development. By doing so, they can help individuals and organizations stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changing circumstances.

Perhaps most importantly, innovation keynote speakers inspire creativity by igniting a passion for innovation. Their enthusiasm and passion for their topics are infectious, and they can help listeners rediscover their own passion for innovation. By doing so, they can help individuals and organizations unlock their potential and achieve their goals.

 

Innovation keynote speakers are an invaluable resource for individuals and organizations looking to foster creativity and embrace disruptive innovation. By sharing their stories and insights, these experts can inspire listeners to challenge the status quo, take risks, and embrace the unknown. They can help organizations stay ahead of the curve and identify new opportunities for growth and development. Most importantly, they can help individuals and teams unlock their potential and achieve their goals. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply someone looking to reignite your passion for innovation, an innovation keynote speaker can help you unlock your creativity and achieve your dreams.

This article was originally published by BigSpeak Jun 13, 2023.

Bring a Famous Musician to Your Next Conference and Reap the Rewards

Here at BigSpeak Speakers Bureau, we’re big on our speakers. Well, obviously. We have the honor of working with incredible thought leaders in every industry and helping match event planners and execs with the perfect headliner. We represent world leaders, Olympians and best-selling authors who command the respect and attention of global audiences and book hundreds of events each year for repeat clients eager to work with new-comers and old hats on the speaking circuit alike. We have an ear to the ground when it comes to trend cycles and hot topics, and  most recently one of our executives noticed a certain subset of bookable talent has been undergoing a rapid explosion in demand and popularity: musicians.

For the right price and handled through the correct avenue, such as a valid agency or speakers bureau, almost any musician you can think of can be engaged for a private event–  and yes, that means any musician, from Beyoncé to Diana Ross to the Rolling Stones. The number of private gigs big name musicians are doing per year has skyrocketed in the past few decades, with one of our fellow firms going from booking about one hundred closed concerts a year to nearly six hundred in 2022. Stars like Flo Rida book over 30 private gigs a year, and certain agencies now have entire departments dedicated solely to procuring talent for these events.

Even more so than hiring a famous inventor or record-breaking athlete, working with an A-list chanteuse is a major investment. Private performances necessitate careful planning and requisition of funds, but they are a guaranteed way to shake up your organization and guarantee that your upcoming event will be the most memorable one your company has seen in years.

 

Starting first and foremost on the bright side, there are plenty of advantages to swapping out keynotes and team meetings for a live performance once in a while. The benefits of bringing a big-name musician to your next event include:

  • Increased attendance. Many potential attendees are much more likely to not skip out on your event if you’ve booked a thought leader or well-known motivational speaker, and this return increases tenfold when your organization brings in a famous musician. A celebrity performer will increase excitement leading up to your conference as well as attract a broader audience.
  • Improved morale. Live music can be a euphoric, transportive experience. Whether the audience is made up of customers, employees or business partners, mood and motivation will rise.
  • Spike in brand awareness. A famous performer appearing at your conference will draw attention to your organization, and can also provide your company with a certain cultural currency that may lead to increases in sales, improved customer loyalty, and opportunities for partnerships with other brands.

As the more logical are doubtlessly thinking, yes it is the case that just as when booking a celebrity speaker, certain considerations must be made when bringing a famous musical artist to your event. It’s important to also consider these factors before getting too starry-eyed at the thought of your favorite artist performing a set at your upcoming symposium:

  • Schedule in advance. The more well-known a musician is, the higher their demand. We recommend booking a general motivational speaker at least 3-6 months in advance, and a celebrity performer will need to be booked even earlier than this to ensure they are available for the desired date.
  • Fork over the big bucks. There’s no beating around the bush and being coy: famous musicians make excellent conference headliners, but they are not cheap. You must be prepared to pay a premium to acquire one of these performers. Unfortunately, this does mean that a top-billed star is not a great fit for every organization’s event.
  • Work with a reputable agency. Negotiating prices, booking travel and putting together nondisclosure agreements is vital, but also a hassle. Go through a professional to guarantee everything is on the up and up.

This is not by any means something we recommend be undertaken casually, but neither do we want to sound forbidding; famous musicians are difficult to obtain, but they are not unattainable, and they offer an undeniable dazzle that flips any mundane conference on its head.  There is no doubt that private gigs will continue to become more common, the logical conclusion to the past few years’ trend towards interactive and experiential events we’ve noticed, and we’re proactive sorts that intend to get ourselves and our clients out ahead of the curve.  With careful planning and execution, booking a famous musician is a sure-fire way to take your next corporate conference from snoozefest to smashing success, and we eagerly await the opportunity to help make your next conference truly unforgettable.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak Jun 13, 2023.

LGBT Keynote Speakers

“In my journey, I have learned that obstacles are opportunities. Acknowledge the obstacles and don’t give them power.” — Vernice “Flygirl” Armour

 

Did you know that businesses that are more diverse and inclusive tend to have more engaged employees and increased market share? By understanding the opportunities of different perspectives, your business can build a better relationship with its customers and community.

If you’re looking to build a more inclusive business for employees and customers, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau works with some of the best LGBT keynote speakers. These speakers are experts in their respective fields as well as experts in business, inclusivity, and community. They can help your organization improve its culture and its market outreach.

 

1) Vernice “Flygirl” Armour

FlyGirl is a top inspirational speaker, America’s first African-American female combat pilot, and the author of Zero to Breakthrough. FlyGirl’s fresh, edgy style, high, contagious energy, and unique, gutsy essence jump off the stage, page, and screen and moves people to action.

 

2) Fredrik Eklund

Fredrik Eklund is a top sales keynote speaker, number one broker, star of Million Dollar Listing, and the bestselling author of The Sell. To date, Fredrik has closed over 5 billion dollars in real estate sales all over the world.

 

3) Dr. Vivienne Ming

Ming is a top theoretical neuroscientist, top entrepreneur speaker, and author. Ming is transgender and speaks frequently on issues of LGBT inclusion and gender in technology.

 

4) Jonathan Lovitz

Jonathan D. Lovitz is a nationally recognized business keynote speaker, advocate, and lobbyist focused on diversity, inclusion, equity, and opportunity. He currently serves as Senior Vice President at the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)  and speaks about the economic strength of LGBT for business.

 

5) Caitlyn Jenner

Caitlyn Jenner is an Olympic gold medal winner and a Transgender Rights Advocate. Formerly known as Bruce Jenner, Caitlyn speaks about how audiences can live an authentic life.

 

6) Rick Welts

Rick Welts is one of the most respected executives in sports and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2018. In May of 2011, Rick became the highest-ranking executive in men’s professional team sports to publicly acknowledge he is gay. He speaks to audiences about leadership and inclusion.

 

7) Brianna Scurry

Briana is a top diversity keynote speaker who pioneered the first paid professional women’s soccer league as a founding player in 2001. Briana speaks about concussion awareness, success, and LGBT issues.

 

8) Shane Feldman

Shane Feldman is an LGBTQ speaker and the founder and visionary behind the world’s largest millennial-led movement, Count Me In. Shane has been recognized by the White House and the United Nations for his achievements in helping leaders build better relationships and create engaged communities.

 

9) Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an award-winning actress, author, activist, and TED speaker. She speaks on women’s issues, LGBT, and human rights.

 

10) Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown is a top social justice speaker, television host, and culture expert on the Emmy-winning Netflix reboot of Queer Eye. Karamo Brown says that the key to his success is tapping into the many facets of his identity—and teaches others to do the same.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak June 9, 2023.

Unlock New Perspectives with the Top 10 Women Keynote Speakers

As women continue to break barriers and climb to the top in industries across the board, it’s no surprise there are a plethora of highly successful women keynote speakers out there. With topics ranging from leadership and empowerment to marketing and technology, the top 10 women keynote speakers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the stage. Whether you’re in need of motivation for your team or looking to gain new skills and perspectives, the top 10 women keynote speakers are sure to deliver with their engaging storytelling and powerful messages.

 

Top 10 Women Keynote Speakers

Chaunte Lowe

Chaunté Lowe is the story of determination, perseverance, and strength.  Not only is Lowe a mother of 3, a wife, and a business owner; she is also a professional athlete, an American Record Holder, a 4-time Olympian, a 3-Time World Championship medalist, and 12 times US National Champion. She has been in high demand since she decided to train for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics while undergoing chemotherapy and a double mastectomy for breast cancer. Her resilience is impactful in her own life, and to those who hear her speak

“Chaunte was amazing. She was exactly what our group needed at this moment, in this place, with her story. She connected all the right dots, struck the right chords, and was the authentic embodiment of the purpose behind our event. We were honored to have her and delighted by everything she brought to the mic today.” – Beckman Coulter, Inc.

 

Molly Bloom

Molly Bloom is a top 10 women keynote speaker, entrepreneur, host of the award-winning podcast TORCHED, and bestselling author of Molly’s Game, the riveting story and Oscar nominated film about Molly running the most exclusive high stakes poker game in the world, being raided by the FBI and always maintaining her integrity. Her memoir was adapted into an award-winning film by Aaron Sorkin. Bloom has appeared on numerous shows and in media outlets such as EllenViceThe Los Angeles TimesNPRVulture, and has been asked to speak at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women.  Molly was also in the Top 3 of the US Ski Team.

“Molly’s powerful presentation is as masterful and compelling as her Oscar-nominated film. Her messages of perseverance, triumph, and embracing personal growth remind us that our potential is truly limitless so long as we stay true to our goals and aspirations.” – Sarah V., FilmNation

 

Wema Hoover

Wema Hoover is a culture and DEI expert who has dedicated her career to serving as a catalyst for change and as a transformational leader.  Her expertise centers on diversity, equity, & inclusion, authentic leadership and women’s empowerment with a reputation for creating systemic organizational change into people, processes, and products on a global scale. Her deep experience spans multinational, market-leading consulting, pharmaceutical, and technology enterprises with a high degree of cultural awareness having lived in the US, Europe and Asia and leading globally dispersed teams. As a trusted C-suite and board-level advisor, Wema has leveraged her background leading global DEI efforts for companies like Google, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb to help inform and guide corporate leadership through evolving corporate culture, creating inclusive work environments and integrating DEI and sustainability to build high performance organizations and drive business results.

“Wema delivered a wonderful session for our manager’s retreat.  “Reframing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion” was a great topic for our group, which encouraged more participation than we normally see. They all gave very positive feedback as well.” – Director, DoubleLine

 

Robyn Benincasa 

Robyn Benincasa is a top 10 women keynote speaker, author, and Adventure Racing World Champion. One of the highest-rated, female motivational speakers in the world, she regularly shares the stage with world leaders and business icons, her customers include many Fortune companies like Starbucks, Deloitte, Aflac, Boeing, and more.

“Robyn was wildly energetic, funny, engaging and shared some wonderful lessons with our community of retailers. A very big thank you and a great deal of appreciation to Robyn for her time. She has inspired me to be a stronger woman.” – Erin P., Vice President, Education and Media NACS

 

Crystal Washington 

Crystal Washington is a top 10 women keynote speaker, author, and works with organizations that want to leverage technology to increase profits and productivity. Crystal is well known for her ability to take complex Web, app, and social media topics, and make them easy to understand and accessible for everyday people and small business owners.

“She recharged the audience, had them laughing, energized and engaged in a topic near and dear to all of us.” – David, Employee Communications, Corning

 

Cassandra Worthy 

Cassandra Worthy is a top 10 women keynote speaker and Founder & CEO of Change Enthusiasm® Global, a well-respected Growth Enablement firm serving its client base through keynote speaking, training, and consulting. She is a former Fortune 100 Innovation Leader, highly dynamic speaker & presenter, chemical engineer, but above all else the world’s leading expert on Change Enthusiasm®.

“Cassandra’s message really hit home hearing her name those change emotions, and give us the choice to actively work towards using those emotions as fuel. I just started my job last Monday, so I’ve been feeling all the feels!” – Rachel, Associate Customer Care Representative, Appfolio

 

Nancy Giordano 

Described as endlessly optimistic, Nancy is a strategic futurist and bestselling author with a drive to help enterprise organizations and visionary leaders transform to meet the escalating expectations ahead. Recognized as one of the world’s top female futurists, she has spent her career building, shaping and evolving a portfolio of $60+ billion worth of major global brands. Invited to give over 100 global keynote talks, and with growing conviction of what will (and needs to) shift, executives value her unique abilities to sense and synthesize the terrain ahead. Her expertise and experiences range from A.I., to frozen foods, to reinventing the internet. All of her projects have a key common denominator: transitioning away from the extractive operating systems and outdated business thinking that no longer holds up, to creating the more sustainable, inclusive and dynamic solutions the future demands.

“Nancy has a unique ability to highlight the most innovative applications of technology on the market while making them relevant to the audience and somehow making the true story about people.” – Alex S., CMO, ivalua

 

Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour 

FlyGirl is a top 10 women keynote speaker, America’s first African-American female combat pilot, and the author of Zero to Breakthrough. FlyGirl’s fresh, edgy style, high, contagious energy and unique, gutsy essence jump off the stage, page, and screen and moves people to action.

“Thank you so much for all your help in coordinating FlyGirl’s participation in our 2017 NC Chamber Women > A Force in Business! The event was a huge success, and we have received wonderful feedback on FlyGirl’s closing keynote. I have included one quote below. Keynote speaker, Flygirl was AMAZING! She grabbed my attention and kept it. I was able to relate to her story and apply her transition to my life!” -Talisa H., Events Manager at NC Chamber

 

Tan Le 

Tan Le is a top 10 women keynote speaker, technology entrepreneur, author, and founder and CEO of EMOTIV. She is one of the most influential pioneers in the emerging field of brain-computer interface. She has won numerous awards, including Young Australian of the Year in 1998, Australia’s 30 Most Successful Women Under 30, Most Influential Women in Technology by Fast Company in 2010, and Forbes 50 Names You Need to Know in 2011.

“Tan was AMAZING!  She exceeded our expectations. THANK YOU for listening to what the nuances were of our group, as well as taking the time to understand the personalities of our audience and decision makers. Homerun!” -Collaborative Business Communications

 

Erica Dhawan

When leaders want to break team silos, drive exponential growth and innovate through teamwork, they call Erica Dhawan. Erica Dhawan is an internationally recognized leading authority, speaker and advisor on 21st century teamwork, collaboration and innovation. Named by Thinkers50 as the “Oprah of Management Thinkers”, she is the author of two books Get Big Things Done: The Power of Connectional Intelligence and Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance. The world of business is increasingly digital and work practices have changed at a blistering rate. Erica shares innovative strategies to unlock the collective power of teams, build a culture of trust across any distance and create authentic engagement to ensure competitiveness. Rated #1 on the Top Women Keynote Speakers of 2020 and featured as one of the management thinkers most likely to shape the future of business, Erica frequently appears in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and WSJ. She holds degrees from Harvard, Wharton and MIT.

Our executives thoroughly enjoyed your presentation and facilitated discussion. Not only did our executives appreciate the specific examples and research-based insights, but they valued your pragmatic and results-focused approach. – Ana, President, Executives Club of Chicago

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak May 30, 2023.

Five Speakers To Guide Your Team’s Deep Dive into Mental Health

Conversations about mental health in the workplace are more commonplace than ever, but as with any subject, discussions are most effective when headed by an expert. This is especially true with topics as delicate as mental health, but it is becoming more and more evident that such conversations are necessary to  create healthy, inclusive environments and foster total wellness in employees.

 

These five keynote speakers stand at the forefront of these discussions, educating others and doing work in the field regarding therapeutic methods, creating supportive cultures, and addressing the remaining stigma around this topic.

 

NBA champion Metta World Peace, known formerly as Ron Artest, is a keynote speaker and mental health advocate. He openly discusses his struggle with depression and anxiety, his candor on the topic a rarity among professional athletes. Awarded the title of “Mental Health Hero” for his activism, he seeks to help others, especially men, address issues around mental wellness.

 

Amanda Lipp is a keynote speaker and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of mental health, art, and technology. The producer of more than 60 documentaries, her work addresses youth psychosis, recreation therapy, and digital health, and she currently serves on the Mental Health Advisory Panel at Google as well as for the National Alliance on mental Illness and technology Adolescent Mental Wellness.

 

Mental health keynote speaker  Melissa Doman is an organizational psychologist experienced in many mental health disciplines, with years of work as a licensed therapist in private practice, employee-assistance programs, and university settings. With a practical, solutions-based approach, she aims to equip people to have constructive conversations about mental health in the workplace.

 

Wesley Hamilton is a personal development keynote speaker with an inspirational story of loss and recovery. Having battled severe depression while recovering from gunshot wounds that paralyzed him below the waist, he is intimately aware of, and equipped to, combat life’s challenges. He is devoted to raising awareness around the importance of  mental and physical health in living your best life.

 

Sheryl Ziegler is an expert on mental health, burnout, and stress management with a background working with parents and schools. With over 20 years of experience, she helps organizations make mental well-being a baked-in part of their culture and create truly healthy, supportive workplaces.

This article was originally published by BigSpeak May 24, 2023.

Well Known Christian Keynote Speakers

Faith is a powerful force that can help you achieve your goals. People who believe in something bigger than themselves tend to be happier and have more success. Many of the most successful business people, entertainers, and athletes cite their faith as a reason for overcoming challenges and rising to the top.

If you would like to harness the power of your faith, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau works with some of the most Well-Known Christian Keynote Speakers. These keynote speakers have found success in business, sports, and entertainment. In their talks, they share insights on how your faith can help you lead the life you want.

 

1) Jonathan Reckford

Jonathan Reckford is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, a global Christian housing organization that has helped more than 39 million people construct, rehabilitate or preserve their homes. While he spent much of his career in the for-profit sector, including executive and managerial positions at Goldman Sachs, Marriott, The Walt Disney Co., and Best Buy, he also spent several years as a pastor and speaks to topics of faith as well as business.

2) Eric O’Neill

Eric O’Neill is a top cybersecurity expert, former FBI agent, and inspiration for the movie Breach. Eric shares his story of how he helped bring down the biggest spy in American history and how his faith sustained him and his wife while he was undercover.

3) Jade Simmons

Jade Simmons is a top faith, motivational, experiential keynote speaker, in addition to being a rockstar concert pianist and best of SXSW performer. Jade uses her storytelling and music to bring breakthroughs and inspiration to her audiences who are seeking a renewed sense of purpose.

4) Chaunté Lowe

Chaunté Lowe is a motivational and faith keynote speaker, 4-time Olympian, 3-Time World Championship medalist, and breast cancer survivor. She has been in high demand ever since she decided to train for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics through Chemotherapy and a Double Mastectomy. Her story shows audiences the power of resilience through life’s challenges.

5) Kurt Warner

Kurt Warner is a Christian keynote speaker, Super Bowl Champion, and two-time NFL MVP. Since 2001, Kurt and his wife Brenda’s nonprofit First Things First Foundation has impacted lives by promoting Christian values and providing opportunities to encourage everyone that all things are possible when people seek to put first things first. Kurt speaks about his incredible and inspiring journey that he couldn’t have done without faith.

6) Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton is a top Christian speaker who has become a source of inspiration to millions through her story of determination, faith, and hope. During a surf in 2003, Bethany was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark, which bit off her left arm. Her story has been told in the New York Times bestselling autobiography, Soul Surfer, and in the 2011 film.

7) Michele Rigby Assad

Michele Rigby Assad is a Christian speaker, former counterintelligence expert, and the author of Breaking Cover. She had incredible challenges while working undercover in the Middle East. In her talks, she shares insights into the life-altering power of grit.

8) Jim Morris

Jim Morris is a top inspirational keynote speaker, author, athlete, and the subject of the movie The Rookie. His Cinderella story— from 35-year-old high school teacher to flame-throwing major league pitcher in three months—serves as testimony to the power of dreams and their ability to inspire and transform human life.

9) Janine Turner

Janine Turner is a Christan keynote speaker and bestselling author, best known for her role as Maggie O’Connell in the CBS hit Northern Exposure. Janine is also the host of God on the Go podcasts and has inspired thousands with her talks on faith, inspiration, and overcoming defeat.

10) David Drury

David Drury is a Christian keynote speaker who became the “Most Notorious Card Counter in America” by working with a team of Christian card counters. His story was documented in the film Holy Rollers: The True Story of Card Counting Christians. Audiences come away learning how faith and teamwork can lead to outstanding outcomes.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak May 19, 2023.

Well Known Keynote Speakers to Headline Your Next Event

Looking for a big name to draw in the crowd or build hype among your employees? BigSpeak Speakers Bureau is pleased to have an excellent selection of celebrity business speakers and well known thought leaders on our roster.

 

Our well known keynote speakers aren’t just celebrities and thought leaders, but seasoned professionals with valuable insights. In many cases, they’ve been on the speaking circuit for years, honing their skills as motivational speakers until they’re a true double threat, offering dynamic presentations and one of a kind insights .

 

Recognizable from his role on ABC’s Shark Tank, entrepreneur and fashion titan Daymond John is an award winning motivational keynote speaker with over 20 years of proven business experience. A highly dynamic speaker, he shares his secrets for marketing and financial success with both industry leaders and enterprising hopefuls around the globe.

 

Marc Randolph is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and cofounder of streaming pioneer Netflix. A well known keynote speaker on top of his successful career as a mentor and advisor, he is responsible for fundamentally altering global media consumption, and has insights from the forefront of innovation and business development.

 

Celebrity keynote speaker Sofia Wylie is a dancer, influencer and activist who has performed on tour with Justin Beiber, appeared on America’s Got Talent, and acted on Disney Channel’s Andi Mack. A hit with Gen Z audiences, she is taking Hollywood by storm, and has unique insights into the intersections between social justice and social influence.

 

Real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran is a celebrity motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and Shark Tank Judge. With an inspiring rags to riches story, she’s a frequent contributor to every major network, uplifting and educating in turn.

 

Fabio Viviani is a celebrity chef, TV host, best-selling author, and hospitality developer responsible for opening three dozen establishments in the past 20 years. With a true passion for cooking, he is one of the country’s best known culinary names, and regularly headlines global food events when not on screen.

 

Top real estate agent Tracy Tutor is best known for her role on Million Dollar Listing, but is also a well known keynote speaker focused on helping audiences overcome fear and build wealth, with a special interest in uplifting and empowering other women. With over 20 years of experience in the field, she is an expert negotiator who has built a global business as well as a best-selling author.

 

Iconic athlete Lance Armstrong offers both name recognition and a moving story of growth and redemption that audiences have rated as life changing. Charting his riveting arc from record-setting cyclist  to a disgraced athlete banned from professional cycling for life, Lance shares the tale of personal renewal and transformation that took him from his lowest point to his current resilient, accountable self as a successful investor, philanthropist, and content creator.

 

NBA legend and well known keynote speaker Kareem Abdul-Jabbar spent 50 years as an athlete and activist and now shares his insights into teambuilding, leadership, and success with audiences. A regular contributor to major media publications, he has also written 17 books, many of which are bestsellers, and is an award winning documentary producer.

 

Top motivational speaker Kevin O’Leary is a venture capitalist. Shark Tank judge, and media sensation with a global following and signature candor. Possessing encyclopedic knowledge of finance, economics, and business trends, he regularly works with Fortune 1000 companies and other influential megacorps.

 

Mikaela Shiffrin is not only an Olympic gold medalist, but also a well known keynote speaker. A high-achieving skier, she has been heralded as “The Next Lindsey Vonn,” featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and has been collecting accolades since the beginning of her professional career in 2011.

This article was originally published by BigSpeak May 18, 2023.

Ten Powerful African American Keynote Speakers you need to know

Looking for a speaker to inspire your crew? Check out BigSpeak Speakers Bureau’s lineup of powerful African American keynote speakers and thought leaders. Our roster includes marketing and finance gurus, champion athletes, diversity and inclusion experts, and more. This lineup of powerful African American keynote speakers know how to connect with any audience and leave a lasting impact.

Whether you’re planning a team-building event or working through challenges in your department, we’ve got the perfect speaker for you. Don’t miss the chance to ignite productivity and growth in your organization. Book a top African American keynote speaker today.

 

Top 10 African American Keynote Speakers: 

Wema Hoover 
Wema Hoover is a culture and DEI expert who has dedicated her career to serving as a catalyst for change and as a transformational leader.  Her expertise centers on diversity, equity, & inclusion, authentic leadership and women’s empowerment with a reputation for creating systemic organizational change into people, processes, and products on a global scale. As a trusted C-suite and board-level advisor, Wema has leveraged her background leading global DEI efforts for companies like Google, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb to help inform and guide corporate leadership through evolving corporate culture, creating inclusive work environments and integrating DEI and sustainability to build high performance organizations and drive business results.

Omar Johnson 
Omar Johnson is a top marketing and branding keynote speaker, entrepreneur, former CMO at Beats by Dre, and former VP Marketing at Apple. Adweek named Johnson a “Brand Genius,” and Business Insider named him one of the “Most Innovative CMO’s.”

Carla Harris 
Carla Harris is a top finance keynote speaker, author, and one of Fortune Magazine’s list of “The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America”. In her 30 year career, Ms. Harris has had extensive industry experiences in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors.

Daymond John 
Daymond John is a top business and motivational keynote speaker, founder of FUBU clothing, Shark Tank judge, and the bestselling author of PowerShift. As a dynamic business speaker with over twenty years of hands-on proven business experience, Daymond shares the strategies that continue to bring him financial success.

Risha Grant 
Risha Grant is a top diversity and inclusion keynote speaker, founder & CEO of Risha Grant LLC, an award-winning diversity consulting and communications firm, and author of That’s BS! How Bias Synapse Disrupts Inclusive Cultures. Through her interactive keynotes and deep-dive training sessions, Risha teaches and empowers attendees with D&I tools to increase their bottom line.

Dr. Marcus Collins 
From Budweiser to Beyonce, McDonald’s to Google, Marcus Collins has been the architect behind some of the most famous ad campaigns of the last decade. When he’s not helping blue chip brands create contagious marketing ideas as Chief Strategy Officer at award-winning agency, Wieden+Kennedy, appearing on the TED stage, writing a column for Adweek or releasing a much-anticipated new book, he is shaping the next generation of marketers as a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. A celebrated expert on cultural contagion, meaning-making, brand strategy, and consumer behavior, Marcus shows audiences in any industry or profession how to harness the power of culture to get others to share your vision and most of all, take action.

Cassandra Worthy 
Cassandra Worthy is a top change and transformation keynote speaker and Founder & CEO of Change Enthusiasm® Global, a well-respected Growth Enablement firm serving its client base through keynote speaking, training, and consulting. She is a former Fortune 100 Innovation Leader, highly dynamic speaker & presenter, chemical engineer, but above all else the world’s leading expert on Change Enthusiasm®.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson 
Magic Johnson is a top business keynote speaker, former NBA great, and Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises. Still a commanding presence in popular culture, Johnson made history in 2012 when he became co-owner of MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers. He also co-owns the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA, Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Football Club, and eSports franchise Team Liquid.

Vernice “Flygirl” Armour 
FlyGirl is a top inspirational speaker, America’s first African-American female combat pilot, and the author of Zero to Breakthrough. FlyGirl’s fresh, edgy style, high, contagious energy and unique, gutsy essence jump off the stage, page, and screen and moves people to action.

Metta World Peace
Best known for the highs (making the shot that won the 2010 NBA Championship for the Lakers) and lows (the infamous “Malice in the Palace” brawl) of his career and his openness in discussing his struggle with depression and anxiety; Metta World Peace was awarded the “Mental Health Hero” award for his advocacy and activism. An authentic and inspirational speaker, he shares his journey from the projects in Queensbridge, NY to NBA superstardom.

 

This article was originally published by BigSpeak May 8, 2023.