Ageism Speakers

Not every speaker who mentions age is an ageism speaker. So what exactly are we talking about here?

An ageism speaker is someone who specializes in addressing age-based discrimination and bias-whether it's against older adults, younger professionals, or anyone in between. They bring clarity to the often-overlooked ways age shapes our workplaces, media, healthcare systems, and social norms.

These speakers don't just define ageism-they explore its roots, its impact, and how to dismantle it. They might speak at corporate events to help HR teams build inclusive hiring practices. Or they might appear on podcasts to challenge stereotypes about aging in pop culture. Some focus on elder rights, while others examine how youth are dismissed in leadership roles.

What sets them apart is their focus. While a general diversity speaker might touch on age, an ageism speaker dives deep. They bring research, stories, and strategies specifically designed to shift how we think about age as a social construct.

In short, an ageism speaker is a subject-matter expert who uses their voice-literally and figuratively-to confront age bias and promote age equity across industries and communities.

When conversations about diversity and inclusion happen, age is often the last one invited to the table. That's where an ageism speaker comes in.

Ageism isn't just a personal bias-it's a structural issue. It affects hiring decisions, healthcare access, media representation, and even tech design. A 55-year-old software engineer might be passed over for a role despite decades of experience. A 22-year-old entrepreneur might struggle to be taken seriously in investor meetings. Ageism cuts both ways, and it's everywhere.

An ageism speaker helps surface these hidden dynamics. They educate audiences on how age bias shows up in subtle and systemic ways. More importantly, they offer tools to counter it-whether that's rethinking job descriptions, redesigning intergenerational teams, or challenging assumptions in marketing campaigns.

In global contexts, ageism intersects with other forms of discrimination. In some cultures, older adults are revered; in others, they're marginalized. An ageism speaker brings these cultural nuances into the conversation, making the topic relevant across borders and sectors.

So why are they important? Because without them, age remains the invisible bias. And you can't fix what you don't see.

Ageism speakers do more than talk-they educate, challenge, and inspire action around one of the most overlooked forms of bias. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. Ageism speakers present at conferences, corporate trainings, and community events. Their sessions often include real-world examples, interactive discussions, and data-driven insights on how age bias affects hiring, leadership, and innovation.

- Consult with Organizations. Many ageism speakers also work as consultants, helping companies audit their policies and practices for age bias. This might include reviewing job ads for coded language, advising on intergenerational team dynamics, or designing inclusive onboarding programs.

- Create Educational Content. From TED-style talks to LinkedIn articles, ageism speakers produce content that raises awareness and drives change. Some, like anti-ageism advocate Ashton Applewhite, have published books and launched campaigns that reach global audiences.

- Advocate for Policy Change. In some cases, ageism speakers are also activists. They may work with nonprofits, governments, or international bodies like the WHO to push for age-inclusive policies in healthcare, employment, and media.

- Facilitate Cross-Generational Dialogue. Ageism speakers often host or moderate conversations between different age groups to build empathy and collaboration. This is especially valuable in workplaces where generational misunderstandings can lead to conflict or missed opportunities.

In essence, ageism speakers are educators, strategists, and change agents. They bring visibility to age bias and offer practical ways to build more inclusive cultures-one audience at a time.

Becoming an ageism speaker isn't just about having a strong opinion on age discrimination-it's about crafting a message that resonates, building credibility, and getting in front of the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Unique Perspective
- What personal or professional experiences have shaped your views on ageism?
- Are you focusing on workplace ageism, healthcare disparities, or media representation?
- Narrow your niche to stand out-think 'ageism in tech hiring' or 'ageism in Hollywood'.

2. Build Your Thought Leadership
- Start publishing content on LinkedIn, Medium, or your own blog.
- Record short videos or host live sessions where you talk about age-related bias.
- Use real-world examples and data to back up your points.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to set up a professional speaker profile.
- Include a bio, your speaking topics, testimonials, and a high-quality headshot.
- Add a short video reel or clips from past talks-even if they're self-recorded webinars.

4. Network with Event Hosts and Communities
- Join online communities focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Reach out to podcast hosts, webinar organizers, and conference planners.
- Offer to speak at smaller events to build your portfolio.

5. Get Listed on Speaker Directories
- Talks.co is a great place to start, but also consider SpeakerHub and WomenSpeakers.com.
- Optimize your profile with keywords like 'ageism expert', 'diversity speaker', or 'intergenerational workplace'.

6. Refine Your Signature Talk
- Develop a 30- to 60-minute keynote that you can adapt for different audiences.
- Include stories, stats, and interactive elements to keep people engaged.

7. Ask for Feedback and Testimonials
- After each talk, ask organizers for a testimonial.
- Use that feedback to improve your delivery and content.

Starting small is totally fine. The key is consistency and clarity. If you keep showing up with value, the right stages will find you.

To be an ageism speaker, you need more than just passion-you need credibility, clarity, and a platform. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need a PhD in sociology, but you do need a deep understanding of ageism and how it manifests in different sectors. This could come from:
- Personal lived experience (e.g., being passed over for jobs due to age).
- Professional background (e.g., HR, healthcare, media, or policy).
- Research and advocacy (e.g., writing articles, conducting interviews, or leading workshops).

2. A Clear Message
What exactly are you saying about ageism? Are you calling for policy change, workplace reform, or cultural awareness? Your message should be:
- Specific: Avoid vague generalizations.
- Actionable: Offer solutions, not just problems.
- Memorable: Use stories, analogies, or data to make your point stick.

3. Speaking Skills
You don't have to be a TED-level orator, but you do need to be engaging and clear. Practice by:
- Hosting webinars or joining panel discussions.
- Recording yourself and analyzing your delivery.
- Getting feedback from peers or mentors.

4. A Platform to Promote Yourself
This is where tools like Talks.co come in. You need a speaker page that showcases:
- Your bio and expertise.
- Topics you speak on.
- Testimonials and past speaking engagements.
- A booking form or contact info.

5. Connections with Event Organizers
Whether it's a corporate DEI summit or a local nonprofit event, you need to connect with the people who book speakers. Use LinkedIn, speaker directories, and platforms like Talks.co to make those connections.

In short, being an ageism speaker is about combining insight with influence. If you can educate, inspire, and challenge audiences to rethink age-related bias, you're on the right track.

Yes, ageism speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and platform. Let's break it down:

Who Pays Ageism Speakers?
- Corporations: Especially those investing in DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) training.
- Conferences: Industry events focused on HR, aging, healthcare, or social justice.
- Nonprofits and Government Agencies: Often for awareness campaigns or educational seminars.
- Universities and Schools: For lectures, panels, or workshops.

When Do They Get Paid?
- Keynote Speakers: Usually paid.
- Panelists: Sometimes paid, sometimes not.
- Webinars or Podcasts: Often unpaid, but can lead to paid gigs.

Pros of Being a Paid Speaker
- Recognition of your expertise.
- Sustainable income stream.
- Opportunities to scale (books, courses, consulting).

Cons
- Competitive field-especially for newer speakers.
- Some events offer exposure instead of payment.
- Payment terms can vary widely (net 30, net 60, etc.).

Quick Stats
- According to SpeakerHub, new speakers often earn $500-$2,000 per talk.
- Mid-level speakers can command $3,000-$7,500.
- Top-tier experts or celebrities may earn $10,000-$25,000+.

So yes, ageism speakers do get paid-but the path to consistent income usually involves building a strong brand, a clear message, and a solid network.

Ageism speakers generate income through a mix of direct speaking fees and indirect revenue streams. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most obvious revenue source. Fees vary based on experience, reputation, and audience size. Corporate DEI events, HR conferences, and healthcare summits are common venues.

2. Workshops and Training Sessions
Many ageism speakers offer half-day or full-day workshops tailored to organizations. These are often more lucrative than keynotes and can be packaged as ongoing training programs.

3. Consulting Services
Speakers often transition into consultants, helping companies audit their hiring practices, marketing strategies, or internal policies for age bias. This can lead to long-term contracts.

4. Books and Digital Products
Publishing a book on ageism can position a speaker as a thought leader. Some also create online courses, toolkits, or downloadable guides.

5. Affiliate and Partnership Deals
Speakers may partner with platforms like Talks.co to get booked or promote tools that align with their message. These partnerships can include affiliate commissions or co-branded content.

6. Media Appearances and Sponsorships
As their profile grows, some speakers get paid for media interviews, sponsored content, or branded webinars.

7. Membership Communities or Coaching
Some ageism speakers build private communities or offer coaching to individuals or companies looking to address age bias.

In short, the most successful ageism speakers diversify their income. Speaking is just one part of a broader ecosystem of influence and impact.

Earnings for ageism speakers can vary widely depending on experience, niche, and visibility. Here's a closer look at the income landscape:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $500 to $2,000 per event.
- Often speak at community events, smaller conferences, or online panels.
- May supplement income with part-time consulting or writing.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $3,000 and $7,500 per keynote.
- Often have a published book, media appearances, or a strong online presence.
- May run workshops or offer corporate training.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Can command $10,000 to $25,000+ per event.
- Frequently booked by Fortune 500 companies or global conferences.
- Often have multiple revenue streams: books, courses, consulting.
Variables That Impact Earnings

Factor	Impact
Location	Speakers in the US, UK, and Australia often earn more.
Industry	Corporate and healthcare events tend to pay more than nonprofits.
Format	In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual panels.
Reputation	TEDx speakers or published authors can charge premium rates.

Annual Income Range
- Part-time speakers: $10,000-$50,000/year.
- Full-time professionals: $75,000-$250,000/year.
- High-demand experts: $500,000+/year (including all income streams).
So while the ceiling is high, it takes time, strategy, and visibility to get there. Platforms like Talks.co can help speakers build credibility and connect with high-paying opportunities.

Hiring an ageism speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors. Here's a breakdown:
1. Speaker Experience Level
- Emerging Speakers: $500-$2,000. These are often newer voices with lived experience or niche expertise.
- Established Experts: $3,000-$10,000. These speakers typically have books, media features, or a strong online following.
- Celebrity or Academic Leaders: $15,000-$50,000+. Think professors, bestselling authors, or former executives.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual Events: Usually cheaper-expect to pay 30-50% less than in-person.
- Workshops: Often cost more than keynotes due to prep time and interactivity.
- Panels: May be unpaid or lower cost, especially if multiple speakers are involved.
3. Location and Travel
- If the speaker is traveling internationally, you'll need to cover flights, lodging, and per diem.
- Local speakers can reduce costs significantly.
4. Duration and Customization
- A 20-minute talk is cheaper than a full-day workshop.
- Custom content or audience-specific data adds to the fee.
5. Booking Platform or Agency Fees
- Booking through agencies or platforms like Talks.co may include a service fee, but they also streamline the process and vet speakers.
Sample Cost Table

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote	Workshop
New Speaker	$500	$1,500	$2,000
Mid-Level	$2,000	$5,000	$7,500
High-Profile	$5,000+	$15,000+	$20,000+

Ultimately, the cost reflects the speaker's value, reach, and ability to engage your audience. If you're booking through Talks.co, you can often filter by budget and availability.

- Ashton Applewhite: Author of 'This Chair Rocks', Ashton is one of the most recognized voices in the anti-ageism movement. Her TED Talk has over 1.5 million views and she's known for her sharp, research-backed insights.

- Dr. Robert Butler: A pioneer in the field of gerontology and the first director of the National Institute on Aging. He coined the term 'ageism' in 1969 and laid the foundation for decades of advocacy.

- Maggie Kuhn: Founder of the Gray Panthers, Kuhn was a fierce advocate for older adults' rights and intergenerational equity. Her activism in the 1970s and 1980s helped bring ageism into public discourse.

- Marc Freedman: Founder of Encore.org, Freedman has been instrumental in promoting the value of older adults in the workforce and civic life. His work bridges ageism and purpose-driven aging.

- Jane Fonda: While better known as an actress and activist, Fonda has used her platform to speak out against ageism in Hollywood and beyond, especially through her TEDxWomen talk and interviews.

- Dr. Becca Levy: A Yale professor whose research on age stereotypes and health outcomes has been groundbreaking. Her book 'Breaking the Age Code' is a go-to resource for ageism speakers.

- Ken Dychtwald: Founder of Age Wave, Dychtwald has been a leading voice in aging demographics and age-inclusive marketing. His talks blend data with storytelling.

- Carl Honoré: Author of 'Bolder', Honoré challenges ageist assumptions and promotes positive aging. His TED Talk 'In Praise of Slowness' also touches on age-related themes.

These speakers have shaped the conversation around ageism across decades and disciplines. Whether through activism, academia, or media, they've each left a lasting impact.

- Ashton Applewhite (USA): A global leader in the anti-ageism movement. Her talks are witty, evidence-based, and deeply human. She's spoken at the United Nations, TED, and major universities.

- Carl Honoré (UK/Canada): Internationally known for his work on aging and 'slow living'. His book 'Bolder' and global speaking tours challenge age stereotypes with humor and insight.

- Dr. Alexandre Kalache (Brazil): Former director of the WHO's Ageing and Life Course program. Kalache brings a global health perspective to ageism, especially in policy and urban planning.

- Jane Fonda (USA): Continues to speak out against ageism in media and society. Her influence spans continents, and she's been featured in global campaigns on aging.

- Yumi Ishikawa (Japan): While primarily known for gender advocacy, Ishikawa has spoken on ageism in Japan's rigid corporate culture, especially affecting women over 40.

- Dr. Becca Levy (USA): Her global research on age stereotypes has influenced public health policy worldwide. She's a frequent keynote speaker at international aging conferences.

- Ken Dychtwald (USA): A futurist who speaks globally about aging populations and the economic impact of ageism. His talks are popular with governments and Fortune 500 companies.

- Lina Pohl (El Salvador): Former Minister of Environment, she has spoken on ageism in climate activism, highlighting how older voices are often excluded from sustainability dialogues.

- Marc Freedman (USA): His work with Encore.org has global reach, inspiring programs in Australia, the UK, and South Africa to rethink retirement and aging.

These speakers bring diverse cultural, academic, and professional lenses to the issue of ageism. Their global perspectives make them some of the most compelling voices on the topic today.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions surrounding ageism speakers. These myths don't just misrepresent the work-they actively hold back progress in how we talk about age in society.

1. Myth: Ageism speakers only talk about senior citizens.
This is a narrow view. While older adults are often the focus, ageism affects every generation. Ageism speakers address biases against both the young and the old. For example, Ashton Applewhite, a globally recognized ageism speaker, often discusses how ageism impacts hiring practices for people in their 30s and 40s, not just retirees.

2. Myth: You need to be over 60 to be an ageism speaker.
Not true. Some of the most compelling voices in this space are younger professionals who've experienced age bias early in their careers. Think of tech entrepreneurs in their 20s being dismissed as 'too green' or Gen Z activists challenging stereotypes about their generation's work ethic. Ageism isn't age-specific, and neither are its speakers.

3. Myth: Ageism speakers are just activists, not professionals.
This one's outdated. Many ageism speakers are researchers, consultants, HR strategists, or even corporate trainers. They bring data, case studies, and actionable strategies to the table. For instance, speakers like Dr. Tracey Gendron combine academic research with real-world consulting to help companies build age-inclusive cultures.

4. Myth: There's no real audience for ageism talks.
Actually, demand is growing across industries. From healthcare to tech to education, organizations are realizing that age diversity is a business asset. Conferences like the International Federation on Ageing and platforms like TED have featured ageism talks that rack up millions of views.

5. Myth: Ageism is a niche topic.
Ageism intersects with gender, race, disability, and class. That makes it a deeply relevant issue in DEI conversations. Ageism speakers often collaborate with other inclusion experts to address systemic bias from multiple angles. So no, it's not niche-it's foundational.

When you think of successful ageism speakers, you might picture someone on a stage with a mic and a slideshow. But the real impact often happens behind the scenes-through policy shifts, corporate training, and public mindset changes. Let's look at a few standout examples.

Ashton Applewhite didn't start as a speaker. She was a writer who stumbled into the topic while researching aging. Her TED Talk, 'Let's End Ageism,' has over 2 million views, but what's more impressive is how it sparked global conversations. She's since spoken at the United Nations, advised Fortune 500 companies, and helped launch the Old School Anti-Ageism Clearinghouse-a free resource hub used by educators and HR leaders worldwide.

In Australia, Jane Caro has used her platform as a media commentator and speaker to challenge ageist narratives in advertising and politics. Her talks often blend humor with hard-hitting stats, making her a favorite at marketing and media conferences. She's helped shift how brands portray older adults, pushing for more authentic, diverse representation.

Then there's Dr. Alexandre Kalache, a Brazilian gerontologist and speaker who helped shape the WHO's Global Age-Friendly Cities initiative. His talks aren't just about awareness-they're about systems change. After speaking at a UN forum, he was invited to consult with cities like New York and Tokyo on how to make urban spaces more inclusive for all ages.

These speakers didn't follow a single blueprint. Some came from academia, others from journalism or activism. What they share is a clear message, a compelling delivery style, and a commitment to changing how we think about age. Their stories show that ageism speaking isn't about shouting the loudest-it's about connecting across generations and sectors to shift the narrative.

So where are ageism speakers heading next? The landscape is expanding, and the next few years are set to bring some interesting shifts. Here's what's coming down the pipeline:

- Intersectional framing will become the norm. Ageism doesn't exist in a vacuum. More speakers are weaving in race, gender, disability, and class to show how age bias compounds with other forms of discrimination. This makes talks more relevant to DEI programs and broader social justice conversations.

- Corporate demand is rising. Companies are realizing that age-inclusive policies improve retention and innovation. Expect more ageism speakers to be booked for internal trainings, leadership retreats, and HR summits. Especially in industries like finance, healthcare, and tech where multigenerational teams are the norm.

- Virtual-first formats are sticking around. Even as in-person events return, hybrid and virtual keynotes are here to stay. This opens doors for speakers from underrepresented regions or those with accessibility needs. It also means ageism speakers can reach global audiences without the travel budget.

- Younger voices are entering the space. Gen Z and Millennials are starting to speak out about age bias in hiring, entrepreneurship, and digital culture. This challenges the stereotype that only older adults care about ageism, and it broadens the audience appeal.

- Data-driven storytelling is gaining traction. Audiences want more than anecdotes. Speakers who can combine personal stories with research-like workforce demographics, longevity trends, or age bias in AI-will stand out. Think of it as TED meets Harvard Business Review.

In short, ageism speakers are moving from the margins to the mainstream. The next wave will be more diverse, more tech-savvy, and more embedded in business strategy than ever before.

If you're looking to build your voice as an ageism speaker, you're not starting from scratch. There's a growing ecosystem of tools and platforms that can help you craft your message, find your audience, and land speaking gigs. Here's a curated list to get you going:

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest-matching platform that connects speakers with relevant shows. Great for building your portfolio and testing your message with niche audiences.

2. Old School Clearinghouse. Co-founded by Ashton Applewhite, this is a treasure trove of free anti-ageism resources. Use it to sharpen your content, find stats, or reference credible materials in your talks.

3. SpeakerHub. A directory and marketplace for speakers. You can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful if you're just starting out and want visibility.

4. Canva. For creating visually engaging slide decks. Use templates tailored for TED-style talks or webinars. Pro tip: keep your slides image-heavy and text-light to maintain audience focus.

5. LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on public speaking, storytelling, and inclusive leadership. Look for instructors like Jessica Chen or Tatiana Kolovou for practical, speaker-focused tips.

6. The Moth. While not specific to ageism, The Moth's storytelling podcast and workshops are gold for learning how to craft compelling narratives. Ageism speakers who can tell a great story tend to resonate more deeply.

7. Google Scholar. Want to back up your talk with data? Search for peer-reviewed studies on age bias, intergenerational workplaces, or longevity economics. Citing credible research can elevate your authority.

8. Eventbrite. Not just for finding events-use it to track what kinds of age-related topics are trending. You can also host your own virtual events or workshops to build your brand.

Whether you're a seasoned DEI consultant or just passionate about challenging stereotypes, these tools can help you level up your speaking game. Combine them with a clear message and consistent practice, and you'll be well on your way.