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Faith Keynote Speakers

Faith keynote speakers inspire audiences with their real life stories of perseverance and how they kept their faith in the face of great adversity. Here are some of the top faith keynote speakers:

Nick Vujicic

Nick Vujicic was born without arms or legs. He has had to learn to adapt to this, and he has learned to become almost entirely independent. He loves to swim, fish and play soccer. Nick has brought back that refreshing positive focus to many employees of companies who value the importance of keeping their team motivated. He has spoken at annual conferences and at business-related seminars. He is also a powerful Christian and faith keynote speaker and has spoken at churches across the country. Nick Vujicic shares the key turning points in his attitude from depression to joy to truly inspirational. Nick is the author of Life Without Limits, and the founder of Attitude Is Altitude and Life Without Limbs.  

Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton 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. But one month after the attack, Bethany returned to the water and just over a year later she won her first national title. Bethany’s story has been told in the New York Times bestselling autobiography, Soul Surfer, and in the 2011 film with the same title. Bethany is a strong Christian and a stirring faith keynote speaker. She is also involved in numerous charitable efforts, including her own foundation, Friends of Bethany, which reaches out to encourage amputees and youth by offering hope to overcome through Jesus Christ.

Adam Christing

Adam Christing is an interactive entertainer, comedian, and magician. His keynotes are a unique mix of leadership, humor, and creative communication. Adam also has a clean comedy routine that “replaces vulgarity with variety” so that you don’t have to worry about embarrassing your organization or upsetting your company’s HR department. Adam is also the author of Comedy Comes Clean: A Hilarious Collection of Jokes, Quotes, and One-Liners; and Your Life is a Joke.

George Foreman

George Foreman was first recognized as a champion boxer who worked his way up from a difficult and disadvantaged childhood. Only to lose it all. He went from broke and disheartened to fight again, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing. He ventured on to become the wildly successful businessman behind the George Foreman Grill, a preacher, best-selling author, and motivator. He went from broke and disheartened to fight again, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing. He ventured on to become the wildly successful businessman behind the George Foreman Grill, a preacher, best-selling author, and keynote speaker.

Doc Hendley

While bartending to pay the bills, Doc Hendley noticed the men and women sitting on the stools seemed to want to be part of something bigger and was hit with an idea. He began hosting wine tasting events where people could donate money that would go to charities providing people with clean drinking water, and that’s how Wine to Water got its start. By using wine events to raise money and awareness about the lack of clean drinking water in the developing world, Doc Hendley has harnessed a powerful social force and multiplied the generosity of many. Doc Hendley’s keynote speeches center around the values of charity, community, humility, and generosity.

Inquoris “Inky” Johnson

Fulfilling his childhood dream, Inquoris “Inky” Johnson played college football at the University of Tennessee. One game changed his life forever when a routine tackle turned into a life-threatening injury that paralyzed his right arm. While the injury ended Johnson’s football career, it did not kill his spirits. A man of faith, Johnson is gripped by the promise that God has plans far beyond our own. His book, Inky: An Amazing Story of Perseverance and Faith, details his amazing story and steadfast faith. As a keynote speaker, Inky’s keynotes brings together the topics of faith, perseverance, leadership, and football.

To bring one of these or other faith keynote speakers to your next event contact us here.

Celebrity Keynote Speakers

Celebrity speakers who have charm, magnetism, charisma are hard to come by; it’s that rare personal quality that gives an individual influence over large numbers of people and a presence that instantly illuminates a room. Whether a television celebrity speaker, world class athlete, bestselling author, or an award-winning entertainer, a celebrity motivational speaker can add a touch of class, cachet, or clout to any engagement. Have your people call our people and let one of our celebrity speakers deliver red carpet excitement to your next engagement.

Jay Leno

Acclaimed TV late night show host, admired stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, corporate speaker, lovable TV and movie voice-over artist, pioneering car builder and philanthropist…it’s no wonder that Jay Leno is widely characterized as “the hardest working man in show business.” An indefatigable performer, Leno loves to test his humor live on audiences across the nation, performing over 100 live appearances in nightclubs, theaters, and stadiums each year. His “everyman”-style and personality have helped him earn millions of fans worldwide, especially in the regions where people relate to his personable style and work ethic. Lenno does keynotes as well as stand up routines.

Steve Wozniak

A Silicon Valley icon and philanthropist for more than thirty years, Steve Wozniak has helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s first line of products the Apple I and II and influenced the popular Macintosh. In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc. with Wozniak’s Apple I personal computer. The following year, he introduced his Apple II personal computer, featuring a central processing unit, a keyboard, color graphics, and a floppy disk drive. The Apple II was integral in launching the personal computer industry. As a keynote speaker, Woz’s vibrant personality particularly shines during Q & A’s when he gets to connect with the audience and speak candidly.

Fredrik Eklund

Fredrik Eklund, the energetic, high-kicking, top broker at Douglas Elliman has secured over two billion dollars in closed residential sales. Constantly rated as New York City’ “Top Luxury Broker,” he set record sales in 28 buildings in Manhattan last year alone and is often spotted showing apartments to top name celebrities including Sara Jessica Parker and Jennifer Lopez. His active listings amount to $540,000,000. As a keynote speaker, Fredrik speaks on the topics of sales, branding, real estate, and diversity.  

Magic Johnson

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is a Major League baseball owner, an NBA legend, a two-time Hall of Famer, an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an activist and a motivational keynote speaker. The business mogul has successfully parlayed his skills and tenacity on the court into the business world. Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE), Mr. Johnson’s company provides products and services to ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities through strategic alliances, investments, consulting and endorsements.

Daymond John

Daymond John is the personification of the American Dream. From his humble beginning on the streets of New York, to a self-made multimillionaire with over $4 billion in global product sales, and a starring role on the ABC business reality TV show Shark Tank, Daymond John continues to set standards of excellence while expanding his interests in fashion, branding, marketing, consulting, entertainment and beyond. An industry leader, best-selling author and groundbreaking entrepreneur, he has evolved into a highly sought after business and motivational keynote speaker.

Celebrity speakers are highly sought after for their charismatic and engaging presentations that tell inspiring real-life stories of success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Convention Speakers

Keynote Speakers come in all shapes and sizes, some are at their best in small intimate settings and others thrive on a big, brightly-lit stage with a large crowd in front of them.

If you’re looking for a speaker for your next big corporate convention, these speakers thrive on the energy of a large crowd and are seasoned pros when it comes to speaking at mega-size events.

Carey Lorhenz

Carey Lohrenz is a dynamic communicator with an incredible story. As the first female F-14 Tomcat pilot, she was a pioneer in military aviation. Having flown missions worldwide as a combat, mission-ready United States Navy pilot, Carey Lohrenz is used to working in fast moving, dynamic environments where inconsistent execution can generate catastrophic results. Carey is a seasoned convention speaker who speaks on topics like leadership, teamwork, and work/life balance.

Peter Diamandis

Peter Diamandis is the Chairman and CEO of the X PRIZE Foundation, which leads the world in designing and launching large incentive prizes to drive radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity.Diamandis is also an international leader in the commercial space arena, having founded and run many of the leading entrepreneurial companies in this sector. In his keynote presentations, Diamandis focuses on the importance of innovation and he looks to the future in explaining how exponentially advancing technologies will transform our companies, our industries, our governments and our lives over the next 5 to 10 years.

Peyton Manning

Legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, the NFL’s only five-time Most Valuable Player and a 14-time Pro Bowl selection, has earned his place among the greatest quarterbacks in league history as the active leader in nearly every statistical passing category. As a convention speaker, Manning shines in questions and answer sections where his personal appearance, words of wisdom, and good humor are a huge hit with audiences.

Daymond John

Over the last 20 years, Daymond John (The Shark) has evolved from one of the most successful fashion icons of his generation to a highly sought after branding expert, author, consultant and as a speaker in business and motivational genres. With business savvy and style to spare, speaker Daymond John entertains audiences every week as the go-to branding guru on ABC’s hit entrepreneurial business show, Shark Tank. Daymond brings business savvy wisdom and fun times to his speaking engagements–often bringing in a DJ with him–and is sure to delight any convention audience.

Steve Wozniak

A Silicon Valley icon and philanthropist for more than thirty years, Steve Wozniak has helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s first line of products the Apple I and II and influenced the popular Macintosh. Wozniak speaks on a number of topics from telling the founding story of Apple to discussing creativity and innovation as well as how to build a successful startup. He is also a seasoned convention speaker who thrives during Q&A’s.

To bring these or any other convention speakers to your next event contact the keynote speaker experts–we’ll set you up with the right speaker for your conventions theme, message, and audience.

Top Commencement Keynote Speakers of 2017

The 2017 graduation and commencement season rounded up some of the most illustrious and timely keynote speakers.

The roster of commencement keynote speakers included figures as Wolf Blitzer, Colson Whitehead, Bernie Sanders, President Trump, Joe Biden, Ron Chernow, and Senator Cory Booker. Here are just a few of 2017’s great commencement speakers:

Will Ferrell, USC

Actor, comedian, and USC alumnus Will Ferrell was the 2017 commencement keynote speaker at his alma mater.

Katherine Johnson,  Hampton University

Katherine Johnson, the physicist and mathematician who worked for NASA and was an inspiration behind the film Hidden Figures, was the commencement keynote speaker at Hampton University.   

Howard Schultz, Arizona State

Former Starbucks CEO and current executive chairman Howard Schultz spoke at Arizona State University. Starbuck recently unveiled its new employee online degree program in partnership with ASU, making him a good fit as commencement keynote speaker at the university.

Oprah Winfrey, Skidmore College and Smith College

By this point Oprah Winfrey is a commencement keynote speaker expert. Previously having spoken at Harvard, Stanford, and Duke Universities, this year she spoke at two colleges: Skidmore and Smith College.  

Mark Zuckerberg, Harvard

Facebook founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, spoke at Harvard–the university he dropped out of as a sophomore to launch his company. The last time Harvard had a high school graduate as its commencement keynote speaker was Microsoft founder Bill Gates in 2007.

Hillary Clinton, Wellesley

Hillary Clinton also spoke at her alma mater, Wellesley College. Clinton also gave a commencement speech at Wellesley in 1969 as a graduating student–making her the first student to ever be the commencement speaker at Wellesley College  

The Dalai Lama, UC San Diego

The Dalai Lama is scheduled to speak at the University of California, San Diego on June 17th.

Sheryl Sandberg, Virginia Tech

Mark Zuckerberg isn’t the only Facebook executive to grace the commencement stage as a speaker. Silicon Valley living legend Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s COO spoke at Virginia Tech this year.  

 

 

Public Speaking Podcasts for Keynote Speakers

Podcasts are the new broadcast radio. They are portable, downloadable audio shows that can be enjoyed on any mobile. There is also such a wide range of genres that are covered that any niche audience can find a podcast that pertains to them– including keynote speakers.

Here are a few podcasts that will be of particular interest to keynote speakers for the speaking tips they provide and the inspiring stories they tell.

The Public Speaker

These short and informative episodes address everything from building workplace relationships to introducing yourself effectively. The podcast also features interviews with authors and keynote speakers

Toastmasters Podcast

Produced by Toastmasters, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to communication skills, the Toastmasters Podcast gives listeners the inside scoop on the keynote speaker business. Guests often include reps from SpeakerHub, EasySpeak, and Mohammed Qahtani, the 2015 World Champion of Public Speaking.

What the Speak

Here speaking industry professionals like Deanna Moffat and Rick Altman offer up their invaluable insider’s perspective on public speaking. The podcast is currently on hiatus but, What the Speak’s extensive archive will address every public speaking concern you’ve ever had.

The Moth

The Moth’s captivating storytelling podcast will teach you a thing or two about connecting with an audience. Each themed episode features recordings from live storytelling events, where people spin stories from their personal lives—without the aid of prepared notes. The best part of The Moth? The show’s storytellers are just regular people, proving that anyone can be a good public speaker with enough preparation (and confidence).

TED Radio Hour

Keynote Speakers, here’s your chance to learn from the best. NPR’s TED Radio Hour features your favorite TED speakers offering expertise on a variety of eclectic subjects.  After listening to a few episodes, you’ll be inspired to make your upcoming keynote as engaging and entertaining as a TED Talk.

Podcasts can be a great resource to any keynote speaker looking to refine their public speaking skills and looking for a little inspiration.

Portions of this article originally appeared on Born2Invest, “5 Must-Listen Podcasts for Public Speakers”

Top Professional Speakers in 2017

Top professional speakers are they experts in their field who have decades of industry experience, but they have also mastered the fine (and often terrifying) art of public speaking.

With so many professional speakers on the “speaking circuit,” how do you know which is the best professional speakers for your event?  

Below is our list of the top professional speakers in 2017:

Mike Walsh

Mike Walsh is a renowned futurist, bestselling author, and the CEO of Tomorrow, a global consultancy on designing business for the 21st century and consumer innovation research lab.  As a global nomad, professional speaker and consumer trend scout, Mike Walsh brings a truly global perspective to every event.  Rather than focusing on the distant future, Mike focuses on the next five years – scanning the near horizon for disruptive technologies and consumer innovations on the verge of hitting critical mass – then translating these into usable business strategies. Mike Walsh has advised the CEOs and senior management teams at multinational companies including: the BBC, Fujifilm, Richemont, MSN, Star TV, Televisa, Philips, and HSBC.

Barbara Corcoran

Best known as a panelist on ABC’s Shark Tank, Barbara Corcoran is a self-made real estate mogul, entrepreneur, and author.  Corcoran’s business keynote tells her inspirational story of turning a $1,000 loan into a $5 billion dollar real estate company.  As a business speaker, Barbara Corcoran brings her front-line business experience and infectious energy to every group she addresses. Motivational, inspirational, and sometimes outrageous, Barbara Corcoran’s tell-it-like-it-is attitude is a refreshing approach to business success.

Simon T. Bailey

Simon Bailey is one of America’s top 10 most-booked professional speakers on change, leadership, and customer experience. Simon is the CEO of Simon T. Bailey International, a premium education company specializing in creating learning and development content for individuals and organizations. His keynotes focus on bringing out your brilliance and will teach you how to make something happen instead of just playing it safe. A Simon T. Bailey keynote will inspire and invigorate your team with his brilliant message.

Peter Sheahan

Peter Sheahan is the founder & group CEO of Karrikins Group. Peter is known internationally for his innovative customized professional keynotes and thought leadership and has advised leaders from companies as diverse as Apple, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, Hyundai, IBM, Pfizer, Wells Fargo, and Cardinal Health. As a professional speaker at a corporate meeting Peter will advise your company on matter such as, finding opportunity in disruption to create more value, how to turn a challenge into opportunity and disruption into competitive an advantage, and building organizations and teams capable of sustaining growth through a culture of innovation, courageous leadership, and aligned individuals.

Peter Diamandis

In 2014 Fortune Magazine named Peter Diamandis as one of the World’s 50 Greatest Leaders. Diamandis is the Founder & Executive Chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, which leads the world in designing and operating large-scale incentive competitions. Diamandis is also New York Times bestselling author of two books: Abundance and BOLD. As an entrepreneur and futurist speaker, Peter is also a sought after professional speaker. This year he spoke at ThoughtWorks’s ParadigmShift, an executive conference that brings together business and tech’s most influential thinkers. Peter often speaks on the topics of technology, future tech and global trends, and innovation.

Peyton Manning

This year football living legend, Peyton Manning, spoke at Entrarta Summit, a four-day corporate conference that offered training courses, breakout sessions, and an impressive roster of keynote speakers, about personal branding and negotiation skills. When the scheduling and budget work out, a celebrity speaker can be a great addition to a conference. Peyton spoke on the importance of leadership, as well as teamwork skills in accomplishing any project. Having a celebrity as your keynote speaker can add some buzz around your event and provide attendees with chance to hear from beloved public figure about how they made it big.

Sallie Krawcheck

As the Chair of a major investing fund, the former CEO of Citi Global Wealth Management, and former President of Global Wealth & Investment Management for Bank of America, Krawcheck knows a thing or two about business and finance.  She has been listed as one of Forbes’ and Fortune’s “Most Powerful Women” in business and U.S. Banker’s top “Woman to Watch.” She is a past recipient of CNBC’s “Business Leader of the Future Award,” was one of Time magazine’s “Global Business Influentials,” Fortune’s “Most Influential Person Under the Age of 40” and an “Institutional Investor” top CFO in financial services.  She was recognized by the World Economic Forum as one of its Young Global Leaders and has been lauded as an exceptional top female business speaker for businesses and associations. Krawcheck’s business speaker keynotes include a refreshing mix of humor, passion, and invaluable learnings from her extensive business experience.

To bring one of the best professional speakers to your next conference or event, contact us here.

Top Political Keynote Speakers

 

A political speaker can talk about a number of different topics ranging from healthcare, finance, the environment, education, and more. A political keynote speaker can include politicians, activists, former presidents, and judges. Political keynotes speakers are the smartest minds in Washington and around the world who analyze the decisions and debates from the campaign trail to the halls of Congress and the White House. Their research and experience color their insights with fascinating anecdotes and true insider information.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

The world first knew Arnold Schwarzenegger as a famous bodybuilder and a Hollywood action hero, and now as California’s 38th Governor, an environmental crusader, a successful businessman, and a generous philanthropist. Due to Arnold’s busy schedule, he does not book as many speaking engagements per year, but when he does, his political keynote speeches are among the best.

Bill Clinton

William Jefferson Clinton, a seasoned political keynote speaker, is the first Democratic president in six decades to be elected twice, led the U.S. to the longest economic expansion in American history, including the creation of more than 22 million jobs. He is the founder of the Clinton Foundation which focuses on tackling a number of the worlds’ greatest challenges.

Mitt Romney

Widely praised for his leadership as a public servant and businessman, former Governor Mitt Romney was the Republican nominee for president in 2012, running on a platform of creating jobs, reducing the debt, reforming tax law, and healthcare reform. One of Massachusetts’ most successful governors, he established a healthcare law that was the first of its kind in the nation and ensured coverage for all citizens of the state. As a political keynote speaker, Mitt speaks on a number of different topics

Al Gore

An environmental, business, and tech visionary recognized as one of the world’s leading activists and political keynote speakers, Vice President Al Gore offers a unique perspective on national and international issues, including the threats of climate change and the future of tech. Consistently an active leader in technology, Al Gore is uniquely in touch with the opportunities and challenges in charting a new digital society. Vice President Gore’s status as a leader in global politics, technology and business influences his positions as member of the Board of Directors of Apple and a Senior Partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Silicon Valley’s preeminent venture firm.

John Boehner

A former small businessman, John Boehner served as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives for nearly five years during which he led the drive for a smaller, less costly, and more accountable federal government. Speaker Boehner focused on removing government barriers to private-sector job creation and economic growth, cutting government spending, reforming Congress, and rebuilding the bonds of trust between the American people and their representatives in Washington. As you might have guessed speaker of the house Boehner is one of the most sought after political keynote speakers.

Condoleezza Rice

From January 2005-2009, Rice served as the 66th Secretary of State of the United States, the second woman and first African American woman to hold the post. Political keynote speaker, Rice also served as President George W. Bush’s assistant to the President for national security affairs (National Security Advisor) from January 2001-2005, the first woman to hold the position. Rice served as Stanford University’s provost from 1993-1999, during which she was the institution’s chief budget and academic officer.

Madeleine Albright

Albright was the 64th Secretary of State of the United States. In 1997, she was named the first female Secretary of State and became, at that time, the highest ranking woman in the history of the U.S. government. As Secretary of State, Albright reinforced America’s alliances, advocated democracy and human rights and promoted American trade and business, labor and environmental standards abroad. Madeleine is a highly sought after political keynote speaker, whose keynotes are not to be missed.

Top Keynote Speakers Who Donate Their Speaking Fees to Charity

Who are the top keynote speakers that donate their speaking fees to charity? Below is a list of speakers who give back to non-profit and community organizations that strive to make the world a better place.

Bert and John Jacobs, Life is Good

If ever there were a company that optimized the importance of giving back to the community, Life is Good would be it. The company was founded on the tenants of optimism, gratitude, and authenticity. Life is Good donates at least 10% of its annual net profits to the Life is Good Kids Foundation to positively impact over 120,000 kids daily facing poverty, violence, and illness. Bert and John Jacobs have lived and breathed “giving” at every stage of Life is Good’s growth and also donate all of their speaking fees to the Life is Good Kids Foundation.

James Curleigh, The Red Tab Foundation

James Curleigh, or “JC”,  is the President of Levi. He donates all fees to the Red Tab Foundation which is affiliated with Levi Strauss & Co. The foundation aids employees by providing critical aid to employees who are suffering through unexpected emergencies. The Red Tab Foundation also provides education and proactive programs to help individuals maintain their financial health.

Steve Gross, Life is Good Kids Foundation

Steve is the co-founder and Chief Playmaker at the Life is Good Kids Foundation. The LIG Kids Foundation partners with leading childcare organizations to positively impact the quality of care delivered to the most vulnerable children Additionally, the foundation also supports child care providers, believing that “in order to better care for the most vulnerable children, we must better support those who care for them.” As a Playmaker Steve helps others discover the power of optimism so that they can build resilience and bring greater joy, connection, courage, and creativity to their lives. Steve’s fees also go to the LIG Kids Foundation. John Mackey, Whole Foods Market John Mackey is the co-founder and CEO of Whole Foods. He is a strong believer in free market principles, to boldly defend and reimagine capitalism, and encourage a way of doing business that is grounded in ethical consciousness. In 2001, driven by a  passion to see the business realize its potential for a deeper purpose, and to answer the call to service that he feels in his heart, Mackey cut his pay to $1 a year and continues to work for Whole Foods. Mackey has created several philanthropic foundations at the core of Whole Foods Markets: The Whole Planet Foundation, which works to eradicate poverty in developing nations; the Local Producer Loan Program, which helps fund local farmers and food producers in business expansion; and, the Global Animal Partnership, which works to establish standards for the humane treatment of farm animals.

Matthew Beall, Hawai’i Life Charitable Fund

Matthew Beall is the Principal Broker and CEO of Hawai’i Life Real Estate Brokers. Hawaii Life is the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate for the neighbor islands of Hawaii (Kauai, Maui, Hawaii Island, Molokai, and Lanai). Matthew is also a television host of “Hawai’i Life” on HGTV. A portion of his speaking fees are donated to the Hawai’i Life Charitable Fund which works to preserve Hawaii’s beauty and culture by supporting its people.

Scott Harrison, charity:water

Scott Harrison is the founder and CEO of Charity:Water a non-profit organization that builds long-lasting public water installations and water sanitation services to communities in need around the world. When completed, those projects provide over 6.4 million people with clean, safe drinking water. Scott was inspired to start Charity:Water after volunteering on a hospital ship off the coast of Liberia as a photojournalist. He quite his job as a club promoter in NYC and turned his full attention to the global water crisis and the world’s 663 million people without clean water to drink. In ten years, with the help of more than one million donors worldwide, Charity:Water has raised over $225 million and funded over 21,000 water projects in 24 countries. Scott donates all of his speaking fees to Charity:Water.

Lauren Bush Lauren, FEED

Lauren Bush Lauren is the CEO, Creative Director, and Co-Founder of FEED Projects, she is also a fashion model and designer. FEED is a charitable company whose mission is to create good products that help feed the world. Many may recognize her first  famous burlap tote bags with the word “FEED” printed on them–When purchased, the bag feeds one child in school for one year. FEED Projects has now expanded their product lines to include leather bags and clutches, and t-shirts with all profits funding children’s school lunches.

Doc Hendley, Wine to Water

While bartending to pay the bills, Doc Hendley noticed the men and women sitting on the stools seemed to want to be part of something bigger. Inspired from behind the bar, Hendley started Wine to Water with wine tasting and a humble donation jar. Hendley realized that just by using his ability to tend bars and create relationships with people, he might be able to help provide people with clean drinking water. So, at the bars where he worked, he started raising money to fight this water epidemic the best way he knew how, by pouring wine and playing music. Today Wine to Water not only raises money and brings awareness to the lack of clean drinking water in the developing world, but the organization (and also Doc himself) has dug, repaired, and sanitized drinking wells for nearly 25,000 people in five third world countries.  Hendley donates all of his speaking fees back to Wine to Water. These top-notch keynote speakers not only bring hype, and engaging, meaningful content to your event, but in booking them you are also contributing to charitable organizations that work to help those in need and make the world a better place.

These top-notch keynote speakers not only bring hype, and engaging, meaningful content to your event, but in booking them you are also contributing to charitable organizations that work to help those in need and make the world a better place.

Who are the Top 10 Motivational Keynote Speakers?

Are you planning a motivational keynote event for your company or organization?

Research shows that a boost in employee engagement and morale will also boost company productivity and profit. Motivation comes in many forms and goes by many names–motivational speakers have overcome adversity, beat the odds, and invested insurmountable amounts of time and effort to reach for their dreams.

A motivational speaker can inspire, engage, empower, and, of course, motivate your team. But, “Who are the top motivational keynote speakers,” you may ask?

Fear not, we’ve compiled this list for you. 

1. Jack Canfield

The originator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, and a prolific self development author, Jack is recognized as America’s number one motivational speaker. From Jack’s motivational keynote audiences will be inspired to participate more fully in life, show more compassion and caring in their professional relationships, dream bigger, replace blaming and complaining with responsibility, and how to persevere in the face of fear, obstacles, and setbacks. A keynote presentation from motivational speaker Jack Canfield is a once and a lifetime experience not to be missed.

2. Leon Logothetis

Leon is a global adventurer, motivational speaker, and philanthropist. Uninspired at this broker job in London, Leon set out for life on the road. Inspired by the movie The Motorcycle Diaries, Leon traveled across the country in a vintage yellow motorbike relying solely on the kindness of strangers to find food, gas and lodgings, while simultaneously giving life-changing gifts to good Samaritans along the way. Leon’s motivational keynote speech teaches you how to listen to that inner voice that tells you life is yours, that anything you dream is possible, and that the power for harnessing all of this potential has been right in front of you all along through kindness and human connection. Leon has an inspiring and fun story to tell, one that will surely motivate all in attendance.

3. Mel Robbins  

Mel Robbins is best known for her TEDxTalk: “How To Stop Screwing Yourself Over.” Mel is a powerful motivational keynote speaker who jumps into your audience (literally); creating motivational experiences with surprising research, vivid imagery, original videos, and music. In her keynote, “The 5 Second Rule”, based off her bestselling book of the same name, Mel points out that as we grow up we have parents, coaches, teachers, mentors, etc. who push us to be better and work harder. But as adults, we often don’t have anyone to push and motivate us but ourselves. Using scientific research on the nature of habits, and drawing on facts from some of the most famous moments in history, art, and business, Mel explains the power of a “push moment” to break the habit of procrastination and self-doubt and become a more confident and productive individual.

4. Brian Holloway

Former offensive tackle for the New England Patriots, Brian Holloway, is the most requested motivational team builder. He understands how to transform thinking within organizations and challenge the competitive spirit of diverse teams. Brian grew up to face and overcome many challenges—he spent much of his youth adjusting to life in 12 different states, even being labeled a “slow learner.” Persistence and an unstoppable spirit propelled Brian through his early struggles and on to academic and athletic success throughout high his school, college, and professional football years. As an international motivational speaker, Brian’s speaking engagements move and inspire audiences to positive change.

5. Tan Le

Tan Le is an innovator, entrepreneur, and the co-founder and CEO of the bioinformatics company EMOTIV. In her motivational keynote speech, “My Immigration Story,” Tan recounts her childhood experiences fleeing from war-torn Communist Vietnam with her mother, and sister at the age of 4, to their life in Australia as refugees. Despite immense financial and emotional hardships, Tan explains how her single mother was able to support Tan and her sister and provide them with a good education. Audiences will be motivated by the tenacity of this young entrepreneur and inspired by her courage and grace in any situation.

6. Magic Johnson

Universally known for his 13 year professional basketball career, which includes 12 NBA All-Star games, an Olympic gold medal win, and a very public diagnosis and battle with HIV, Earvin “Magic” Johnson is also one of our most requested motivational speakers. After retiring from professional basketball, Magic turned his interest toward entrepreneurship and became a leading spokesperson for HIV education. After leaving the ballcourt, Magic turned to the board room. He established the Magic Johnson Development Corporation, which builds commercial property in long-neglected minority urban and suburban neighborhoods. In his keynote address Johnson delivers a passionate message about his life story and how we can all make a difference in our community. Magic is dedicated to developing programs and supporting services that address the educational, health, and social needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities.

7. Diana Nyad

At the age of 64, Diana Nyad successfully fulfilled her lifelong dream of completing the 110-mile swim from Cuba to Florida on September 2, 2013. Never one to quit, this marked her fifth and final attempt. It was in July of 2010, at the age of 60, when she first began her quest of swimming from Cuba to Florida, a task she had failed to finish thirty years prior that. Nyad was unsuccessful in 2010 and tried two more times 2011 and 2012 before completing her historic and victorious swim in 2013. When asked her motivation, she replied, “Because I’d like to prove to the other 60-year-olds that it is never too late to start your dreams.” If Diana’s story doesn’t inspire you to never give up  and never stop working towards your dreams, then nothing will.

8. JP Pawliw-Fry

What is it that most often stops us from performing at our best and accomplishing our goals? Dr. JP Pawliw-Fry suggests that it is pressure moments when we feel, overwhelmed and unsure. Using the research and brain science of emotional intelligence Pawliw-Fry explains how your brain works under pressure and how that affects your decision making and your impact on others. JP offers actionable tips on how to view pressure situations as opportunities, instead of obstacles, and provides strategies to manage your emotions so you can be at your best even in your most difficult moments.

9. Allison Massari  

In 1998, Allison survived a devastating near head-on car crash where she was trapped in her burning car, conscious the entire time. A selfless onlooker, who was a Vietnam veteran, ran into the fiery scene, kicked the glass out, and saved her life. Just three years later she was hit again at 60 mph and sustained a closed-head brain injury. Allison’s profound journey of overcoming these two life-altering injuries gives her a genuine and direct approach to transcending life’s difficulties. By sharing her story she motivates change in people and in organizations. Her motivational keynote focuses on success, adversity, and personal development to equip audiences with tools they need to effectively manage change and challenges. Alison is also a successful entrepreneur who has built four businesses in 25 years and has been voted top ten motivational speakers in North America for the past three years.

10. Bert Jacobs and John Jacobs

Motivational speakers, Bert and John Jacobs have an inspirational story of turning their dream into a socially conscious business. Bert and his brother John launched their retail company, Life is Good, with $78 in their pockets, by selling T-shirts on the streets of Boston. Today, Life is Good is a $100 million positive lifestyle brand sold by over 2,000 retailers across the US and Canada. The brand developed 10 “superpowers” (gratitude, authenticity, creativity, love, courage, compassion, simplicity, humor, fun, openness) that they not only run their company by, but also live by. These superpowers were inspired by customers’ stories which illustrated the power of optimism in the darkest of times.

With the top ten motivational speakers (or perhaps 11?) in mind, you’re well on your way to planning the most motivational and inspiring keynote event your organization has ever seen!

Why Book a Keynote Speaker?

A keynote speaker is certainly is an investment, but it will prove to be a valuable one. A keynote speaker can bring excitement and notoriety to your event. They also provide expertise on the topic your event centers around, and sometimes an outsider is just the person to really drive a particular message home. A keynote speaker will help set the tone of your event, bring thought leadership and expertise to your organization, and inspire audiences.

To set the tone

This is the very name sake and role of a keynote speaker, to set the tone of the entire event. A keynote speaker can bring it all together and make all of the varies workshops and presentations a cohesive element.

To create buzz around the event

A keynote speaker, especially a well established one, carries a certain level of notoriety and can draw media attention to your event. Usually speakers are also bestselling authors, and in some sense have developed a following. The notoriety that the speaker possesses will bring a sense of buzz and excitement to your event a well. This attention can put your event and company on the map.

To bring thought leadership to your organization

The purpose of a keynote speaker at an event is not solely for entertainment purposes, though a keynote speaker should be entertaining. The main purpose through of a keynote speaker is to inform an audience and make them think about a subject in a new way. A keynote speaker should provide audiences with actionable insights that they can take away from the event and implement into their daily and/or work lives that will help to make them more productive, energetic, happier, healthier, or something along the lines of keynote topic.  

To inspire your audience

While the audience should walk away from the keynote having learned something, if they are not simultaneously inspired by the keynote speaker and his/her message, then they will not be inspired to actually implement what they have learned into their lives of work. So a keynote speaker will also inspire your audience and provide them with the reassurance that they are capable of making the change the keynote speaker speaks of.

As you can see the keynote speaker plays many roles at an event, and thus there are many reasons why you would want to hire a keynote speaker at your event–plus, your event attendees will thank you if you do!

Top Keynote Business Speakers

Now, more than ever, businesses are turning to keynote business speakers to gain valuable insights on industry best practices. Keynote speakers are proven experts who can energize an audience, have a story to tell, and are the best of the best in their respective topics, such as, leadership, customer service, sales, business strategy and innovation. They’re also a valuable way to educate and inspire your business’s employees and emerging leaders to dream big and achieve their goals. Here are some of the top business speakers that event planners should know about when booking their next keynote event.

  Bert Jacobs and John Jacobs

Motivational business speakers, Bert and John Jacobs have an inspirational story of turning their dream into a socially conscious business. Bert and his brother John launched their business, Life is Good, with $78 in their pockets, selling T-shirts in the streets of Boston. Today, Life is Good is a $100 million positive lifestyle brand sold by over 2,000 retailers across the US and Canada.    

Ben Casnocha

Ben is a successful entrepreneur and executive who developed an e-government software company, Comcate. He has co-authored several books, including #1 New York Times bestseller The Start-Up of You: Adapt to the Future, Invest in Yourself, and Transform Your Career (with Reid Hoffman). He is has appeared on Charlie Rose, CNN and served as a business keynote speaker and an entrepreneur speaker across the world.     

Jeff DeGraff

Dubbed “The Dean of Innovation,” Jeff is a world-renowned innovation keynote speaker, business speaker, thought leader, author and professor. He is Founder of the consulting services center, Innovatrium; and Clinical Professor of Management and Organization for the University of Michigan. He has authored successful books on innovation, including Creativity at Work, Leading Innovation, and Innovation You: Four Steps to Becoming New and Improved.

 Marc Randolph

Marc Randolph is a veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur, advisor and investor perhaps best known as the co-founder of Netflix. His message is a blend of inspiration, stories drawn from the starting and growing of Netflix, plus dozens of concrete suggestions taken from his 4 decades as an entrepreneur on how people can bring innovation back to THEIR companies. Marc is a sought after innovation speaker, CEO speaker, and business speaker.

Thomas Kolditz

Brigadier General (Ret.) Tom Kolditz is an expert on crisis leadership and serves as Professor in the Practice of Leadership and Management and Director of the Leadership Development Program at the Yale School of Management. He is a sought after keynote speaker and leadership speaker. He has presented leadership insights to 150+ organizations worldwide. He has been featured on various media outlets, including ABC 20-20, NPR and the New York Times.   

 

Matthew Luhn

Matthew Luhn, one of the original story creators at Pixar, has heard thousands of great ideas while working at Pixar, The Simpsons, and ILM, but how is it that some of these ideas make great movies and TV shows, while others don’t make the cut? The answer: the best innovators and directors have developed a process that focuses their team’s creativity into not only creating great ideas but also fleshing them out – something Matthew has experienced firsthand. He has gained much recognition this year as a marketing speaker, innovation and creativity speaker, and for his storyselling for business workshops.

 

Pre-Event Planning Tips from Keynote Speakers

You undoubtedly have an event planner checklist that you’ve refined/perfected over the years. Here’s a chance to perhaps refine it further from advice straight from keynote speakers.

PRE-DECISION CALLS BETWEEN THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND THE CLIENT

“I think great outcomes begin by selecting the right speaker to meet your needs. Even the best speaker may fall short of expectations if assumptions are being made about their relevance to the topic – or some other issue.  That’s where a pre-decision call can give event planners peace of mind – and allow the speaker to determine if he/she is a good fit. More importantly, a lot of speakers might be able to give you some great ideas on how to maximize their impact and get the most out of your investment. I have given over 1500 speeches and can share ideas of what I have seen work well. I am always happy to talk with event planner before they pick me.  It is reassuring to all concerned.  It’s hard to correct a situation where the wrong speaker was chosen in the first place.  A pre-decision call is a perfect way to assure a successful speech.”

–Mike Abrashoff – Former Navy Captain and Author, It’s Your Ship

AS AN EVENT PLANNER, KNOW WHAT YOUR AUDIENCE WANTS

“I was to keynote the funeral directors symposium for state association directors and their assistant directors.  In my preparation research I learned that, reacting to the bestselling book, The High Cost of Dying, the FTC had issued new regulations on price disclosure that intensely angered most funeral directors.  The association’s executive director, however, assured me that, while some members were still hot over the issue, his state directors were ready to move on and eager to learn how to teach their members ways to effectively communicate with their customers.

“He introduced me and outlined my topic. As I was about to speak, one audience member walked to the floor mike and said, “If that is your topic, I have wasted my time coming to this meeting.”  The entire audience broke out in applause.  I had not yet spoken a word.  I quickly huddled with the executive director, now totally embarrassed by the reaction of his state directors.  As I had warned him, they were far from over their anger over the regs.

“After agreement on a change of plans, I announced to the audience I was relinquishing my time to the association attorney to talk about the FTC regulations. I got a standing ovation…and took an early flight home, but I felt bad for the executive director who had to deal with the consequences of his failure to understand the real needs of his audience.”

– Chip Bell – Customer Experience Expert and Author, Take Their Breath Away

DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER IS USING POWERPOINT?

“I can’t count how many times I send a technical rider (which is very easy) in advance and the things that I’ve requested aren’t there.  I can easily get by without any of it, but the things that I (or any speaker) requests are there so that they can give the best presentation possible.  Help your speaker do the best job possible for your audience and assign someone the responsibility to make sure the tech needs are passed on to the right person and in place at the event.”

– Bill Herz – Master Magician