Aging Speakers

An aging speaker is someone who brings the perspective of lived experience to the stage, often focusing on topics related to longevity, reinvention, health, purpose, or intergenerational leadership. But let's be clear: it's not just about age-it's about how that age translates into insight.

Typically, aging speakers are professionals, thought leaders, or public figures who have spent decades in their field and now use that experience to educate, inspire, or provoke thought. They might speak on aging itself-like wellness in later life, ageism in the workplace, or the future of retirement-or they might simply bring a seasoned lens to broader topics like entrepreneurship, leadership, or social change.

What makes them distinct is their ability to contextualize change. For example, an aging speaker in tech might compare the dot-com boom to today's AI revolution, offering a long-view perspective that younger speakers can't. In health, someone like Dr. Deepak Chopra brings decades of integrative medicine insights to conversations about aging and vitality.

These speakers are not defined by their age, but by how they use it. They're often advocates for continued growth, challenging stereotypes about what it means to get older. Whether they're 55 or 85, they're still evolving-and helping others do the same.

So, when we talk about an aging speaker, we're really talking about someone who has turned experience into expertise, and who uses that to move audiences forward.

When conversations about innovation, leadership, or wellness happen without the voices of aging speakers, we miss a huge piece of the puzzle. Here's why their presence matters.

First, aging speakers bring historical context. They've seen cycles-economic, political, cultural-and can connect the dots between past and present. That's not just interesting; it's essential for understanding long-term trends. For example, in finance, someone who navigated the 1987 crash, the 2008 recession, and the COVID-19 market dip brings a depth of insight that no spreadsheet can replicate.

Second, they challenge age-related assumptions. In a world obsessed with youth, aging speakers remind us that growth doesn't stop at 40-or 60. They model what it looks like to stay relevant, curious, and impactful well into later life. That's powerful for younger audiences who fear aging, and affirming for older ones who feel overlooked.

Third, they offer a unique kind of authority. Not just because they've 'been there,' but because they've reflected on it. That reflection often leads to more grounded, nuanced perspectives. In industries like healthcare, education, or public policy, this can shift conversations in meaningful ways.

Finally, their stories inspire intergenerational dialogue. When a 70-year-old founder shares a stage with a 25-year-old startup CEO, it's not just symbolic-it's strategic. It bridges gaps in understanding, values, and vision.

In short, aging speakers aren't just relevant-they're crucial to building more inclusive, informed, and future-ready conversations.

Aging speakers serve as translators between experience and insight, turning decades of life and professional history into messages that resonate across generations.

They speak at conferences, summits, podcasts, and corporate events, often focusing on topics like longevity, reinvention, leadership, wellness, or social change. But their role goes beyond delivering keynotes. Many aging speakers also:

- Mentor emerging leaders. They often provide guidance to younger professionals, either formally or through their talks.
- Advocate for policy or cultural shifts. Some speak on ageism, retirement reform, or senior entrepreneurship, influencing public discourse.
- Educate across industries. Whether it's a healthcare summit in Berlin or a tech panel in San Francisco, aging speakers bring cross-sector relevance.
- Inspire personal growth. Through storytelling, they help audiences reflect on purpose, resilience, and what it means to age well.

For example, someone like Arianna Huffington, while not solely focused on aging, often weaves her personal evolution into her talks on wellness and productivity. Or consider Marc Freedman, who speaks on encore careers and the power of intergenerational collaboration.

Ultimately, aging speakers don't just talk about aging-they use their age as a lens to explore broader human themes. Their work helps audiences see aging not as decline, but as a dynamic phase of contribution and change.

Becoming an aging speaker isn't just about having gray hair and stories to tell. It's about positioning your experience as a valuable asset and learning how to share it in a way that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What life lessons, professional insights, or personal transformations do you want to share?
- Focus on a niche: aging in the workplace, healthy longevity, retirement planning, ageism, or intergenerational leadership.

2. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include a compelling bio, high-quality headshots, a speaker reel (even if it's just Zoom recordings at first), and a list of talk topics.

3. Start Speaking - Anywhere.
- Offer to speak at local community centers, retirement expos, online summits, or podcasts.
- Use Talks.co to connect with virtual event hosts looking for experienced voices.

4. Collect Testimonials and Refine.
- Ask for feedback and testimonials after every talk.
- Use this input to sharpen your delivery, update your topics, and build credibility.

5. Network with Hosts and Other Speakers.
- Join online communities for speakers, like those on LinkedIn or Facebook.
- Attend virtual summits not just as a speaker but also as a guest to learn and connect.

6. Get Listed on Speaker Directories.
- Beyond Talks.co, consider directories like SpeakerHub or WomenSpeakers.com if applicable.

7. Package Your Expertise.
- Create downloadable resources, courses, or even a book to support your talks.
- This helps you stand out and increases your earning potential (more on that in the 'How do aging speakers make money' section).

Remember, your lived experience is your superpower. The key is learning how to frame it for impact.

To be an aging speaker, you need more than just years under your belt. You need clarity, credibility, and a platform. Here's what that looks like:

1. A Clear Message and Niche
Aging speakers thrive when they focus their message. Are you advocating for age inclusivity in tech? Teaching others how to age with vitality? Sharing insights on elder entrepreneurship? The clearer your niche, the easier it is for event organizers to book you.

2. Communication Skills
You don't need to be a TED Talk veteran, but you do need to be able to engage an audience. That means:
- Speaking with confidence and clarity.
- Using stories to illustrate your points.
- Adapting your tone for different audiences (corporate vs. community, online vs. in-person).

3. A Digital Presence
In today's speaking world, your online presence is your resume. At minimum, you'll want:
- A speaker page (Talks.co is a great place to start).
- A short video of you speaking.
- A LinkedIn profile that reflects your speaking focus.

4. Experience or Insight
You don't need to be a celebrity, but you do need to offer something unique. This could be:
- Decades of experience in a specific industry.
- A personal story of transformation or resilience.
- Research or thought leadership on aging-related topics.

5. Tools and Support
Consider using platforms like Talks.co to:
- Connect with podcast hosts and virtual summit organizers.
- Get booked without cold outreach.
- Build your reputation through verified reviews.

Ultimately, being an aging speaker is about turning your life experience into a message that matters. With the right tools and focus, you can do exactly that.

Yes, aging speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors: niche, audience, delivery format, and reputation. Let's break it down.

The Speaking Industry Landscape
According to SpeakerFlow and the National Speakers Association, the average professional speaker earns between $1,000 and $10,000 per talk. Aging speakers fall within this range, especially if they bring unique insights on longevity, leadership, or health.

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Paid Opportunities: Corporate events, industry conferences, government programs, and sponsored webinars often pay speakers.
- Unpaid but Strategic: Podcasts, virtual summits, and community events may not offer a fee but can lead to paid coaching, book sales, or consulting gigs.

Factors That Influence Pay
- Expertise: A former CEO speaking on aging in leadership will command more than a general wellness speaker.
- Audience Size: Larger events tend to have bigger budgets.
- Format: In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual panels.

Pros:
- Aging speakers often bring decades of credibility.
- Many organizations seek diverse age representation.

Cons:
- Some events assume older speakers will volunteer.
- Breaking into the paid circuit can take time.

In short, aging speakers absolutely get paid, but strategic positioning is key. Platforms like Talks.co can help aging speakers connect with paid opportunities faster by showcasing their expertise to the right hosts.

Aging speakers generate income in multiple ways, and it's not just from speaking fees. Let's analyze the most common revenue streams:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. Aging speakers can earn anywhere from $500 to $15,000 per talk depending on their niche, reputation, and audience. Corporate wellness events, HR summits, and healthcare conferences often pay top dollar for experienced voices.

2. Product Sales
Many aging speakers sell books, courses, or toolkits that complement their talks. For example:
- A speaker on aging and nutrition might sell a meal planning guide.
- A speaker on retirement planning could offer an online course.

3. Consulting or Coaching
After a talk, audience members or organizations may want deeper engagement. This leads to:
- 1-on-1 coaching for individuals navigating aging transitions.
- Consulting for companies building age-inclusive workplaces.

4. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
Some aging speakers partner with brands that align with their message. For instance:
- A speaker on active aging might promote fitness gear.
- A retirement expert could partner with financial planning tools.

5. Virtual Summits and Online Events
Using platforms like Zoom, aging speakers can host their own events, charge for access, or monetize through sponsorships.

6. Membership Communities
Some speakers build recurring revenue by creating private communities or mastermind groups for older adults or professionals transitioning careers.

Diversification is key. The most successful aging speakers don't rely on one income stream. They build an ecosystem around their message.

The income of aging speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and how diversified their revenue streams are. Here's a closer look at the numbers:
Typical Speaking Fees

Experience Level	Virtual Talk Fee	In-Person Keynote Fee
Beginner	$0 - $500	$500 - $1,500
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $3,000	$2,000 - $5,000
High-Demand Expert	$5,000 - $10,000	$7,500 - $15,000+

Annual Income Ranges
- Part-Time Speakers: $5,000 - $25,000 per year.
- Full-Time Professionals: $50,000 - $250,000+.
- Top Tier Thought Leaders: Over $500,000 annually (includes books, consulting, and licensing deals).
Variables That Affect Income
- Niche Demand: Topics like aging in the workplace or elder tech are hot right now.
- Geography: Speakers in the U.S., Canada, and Australia often command higher fees than those in smaller markets.
- Digital Savvy: Those who leverage platforms like Talks.co to get booked more frequently tend to earn more.
Example: A speaker focused on ageism in tech might earn $3,000 per keynote and supplement that with a $99/month membership group for mid-career professionals.
In short, aging speakers can earn a modest side income or build a six-figure business depending on their strategy and reach.

Hiring an aging speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Let's break it down:
Cost Breakdown by Type of Engagement

Engagement Type	Typical Fee Range
Local Community Event	$0 - $500
Virtual Panel Guest	$100 - $1,000
Corporate Webinar	$1,000 - $5,000
In-Person Keynote	$2,500 - $15,000+
International Conference	$10,000 - $30,000+

Factors That Influence Cost
- Reputation: A well-known author or media personality will charge more.
- Customization: Tailored content or workshops increase the fee.
- Travel Requirements: In-person events may include travel and accommodation costs.
- Event Size and Budget: Larger events often have more budget flexibility.
Cost-Saving Tips for Organizers
- Book speakers through platforms like Talks.co where you can filter by budget.
- Offer value beyond money: exposure, testimonials, or future bookings.
- Consider virtual engagements to reduce travel costs.
Example: A speaker specializing in aging and diversity might charge $3,500 for a 60-minute keynote at a corporate DEI event, but only $500 for a virtual nonprofit panel.
In summary, aging speakers can fit a wide range of budgets, especially if you're flexible on format and delivery.

Here's a curated list of some of the most impactful aging speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped conversations around aging, longevity, and purpose:

- Jane Fonda: Actress, activist, and author. Her TED Talk 'Life's Third Act' is a masterclass in reframing aging as a time of growth.

- Dr. Ken Dychtwald: Founder of Age Wave and a global authority on aging demographics. His insights have influenced policy and business strategy worldwide.

- Maya Angelou: Though known primarily as a poet and author, Angelou gave powerful talks on aging, wisdom, and resilience.

- Deepak Chopra: His work on mind-body wellness includes aging gracefully and living with intention.

- Marc Freedman: Founder of Encore.org, he's a leading voice on intergenerational collaboration and purposeful aging.

- Betty Friedan: Author of 'The Fountain of Age', she challenged stereotypes about aging, especially for women.

- Ram Dass: Spiritual teacher whose later-life talks focused on conscious aging and dying.

- Gloria Steinem: Continues to speak powerfully about aging, feminism, and activism well into her 80s.

- Dan Buettner: National Geographic fellow who speaks on Blue Zones and longevity.

- Jimmy Carter: Former U.S. President who remained an active speaker and humanitarian into his 90s.

These speakers have not only aged visibly but have used their voices to shift how the world sees aging.

Looking for top aging speakers making waves globally right now? Here's a list of standout voices from different regions and sectors:

- Ashton Applewhite (USA): Author of 'This Chair Rocks', she's a fierce anti-ageism advocate and a popular keynote speaker at global aging conferences.

- Dr. Alexandre Kalache (Brazil): Former WHO director of aging, he speaks worldwide on age-friendly cities and global policy.

- Dr. Rose Anne Kenny (Ireland): A leading geriatrician and author of 'Age Proof', she speaks on healthy aging and science-backed longevity.

- Chip Conley (USA): Founder of the Modern Elder Academy, he speaks on midlife reinvention and intergenerational wisdom.

- Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn (Australia/USA): Nobel Prize-winning scientist who speaks on telomeres and the biology of aging.

- Dr. Kiran Rabheru (Canada): A geriatric psychiatrist and global advocate for mental health in aging populations.

- Tina Woods (UK): Founder of Longevity International, she speaks on innovation, AI, and healthy aging policy.

- Dr. Nir Barzilai (USA/Israel): A longevity researcher and speaker on the science of reversing aging.

- Helen Hirsh Spence (Canada): Founder of Top Sixty Over Sixty, she speaks on age diversity in the workplace.

- Dr. Satarupa Bhattacharjya (India): A rising voice in aging and gender equity in South Asia.

These speakers are shaping the global conversation on aging, from science to social justice to workplace innovation.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions about aging speakers. These myths often discourage talented individuals from stepping onto the stage later in life. But the truth? Age can be a massive asset.

- Myth 1: Aging speakers can't connect with younger audiences.
This one's common, but misleading. Connection isn't about age, it's about relevance. Take Jane Fonda, who continues to speak on climate justice and gender equity in ways that resonate with Gen Z. Her delivery is sharp, her message current, and her authenticity bridges generational gaps. When aging speakers stay informed and speak from lived experience, they often offer a depth that younger audiences crave.

- Myth 2: Older speakers are out of touch with technology.
Not true. Many aging speakers are leveraging platforms like Zoom, LinkedIn Live, and Clubhouse to build global audiences. Think of Deepak Chopra, who's embraced digital wellness spaces and virtual summits. The key is mindset, not birth year. Plenty of older speakers are early adopters of tech when it serves their mission.

- Myth 3: Speaking careers peak in your 30s or 40s.
False. Many speakers hit their stride in their 50s, 60s, or even 70s. Les Brown, one of the most iconic motivational speakers, gained massive traction in his late 40s and continues to inspire today. Experience, credibility, and storytelling skills often improve with age, making seasoned speakers more compelling.

- Myth 4: Event organizers prefer younger talent.
While some industries lean young, many conferences seek authority and wisdom. In sectors like healthcare, education, finance, and leadership, aging speakers are often the go-to experts. Organizers want speakers who bring substance, not just style.

- Myth 5: It's too late to start speaking professionally.
This one stops too many people in their tracks. But look at people like Colonel Sanders, who started KFC in his 60s. Or motivational speaker Lisa Nichols, who gained prominence in her 40s and continues to grow. The speaking world values transformation stories, and starting later in life can actually make your story more powerful.

When you think of successful aging speakers, you might imagine someone who's spent decades on stage. But many of the most impactful voices started later or evolved their message with age. Their journeys are as diverse as their audiences.

Let's take a look at Ken Dychtwald. A psychologist and gerontologist, Ken has spent decades speaking about aging and longevity. But his message didn't peak in his 30s or 40s. In fact, his influence grew as he aged alongside his audience. His talks now carry even more weight because he embodies the very transition he speaks about.

Then there's Susan Cain. While not traditionally labeled as an 'aging speaker,' her rise to prominence came in her 40s with her book 'Quiet.' Since then, she's become a highly sought-after speaker, especially among corporate and educational audiences. Her calm, thoughtful delivery proves that powerful speaking doesn't require high energy or youth-it requires clarity and authenticity.

In Asia, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia's former prime minister, continued to speak at global forums well into his 90s. His insights on governance and leadership are valued precisely because of his long-term perspective. He's a reminder that in some cultures, age is synonymous with wisdom-and audiences lean in when elders speak.

And let's not forget Maya Angelou. Her poetry readings and keynote addresses in her later years were deeply moving, not just because of her words, but because of the gravitas she brought to the stage. Her voice, her presence, her lived experience-they all combined to create unforgettable moments.

These stories show that success as an aging speaker isn't about defying age-it's about embracing it. Whether you're pivoting careers, deepening your message, or finally stepping into the spotlight, there's room for your voice.

The speaking industry is evolving, and aging speakers are uniquely positioned to ride the next wave. Let's break down what's coming and how it impacts those with a few more years of experience under their belt.

First, the demand for intergenerational wisdom is growing. As younger professionals navigate burnout, career pivots, and purpose-driven work, they're turning to older voices for guidance. Aging speakers who can translate decades of experience into actionable insights are in high demand, especially in leadership, wellness, and personal development spaces.

Second, hybrid and virtual events are here to stay. This levels the playing field for aging speakers who may prefer to avoid constant travel. With tools like StreamYard and Zoom Webinar, you can reach global audiences from your home office. And with platforms like Talks.co, you can get matched with podcast hosts looking for seasoned experts.

Third, niche authority is becoming more valuable than general appeal. Speakers with deep expertise-whether in sustainable agriculture, elder care, or post-retirement entrepreneurship-are finding loyal audiences. Aging speakers often have the lived experience to own these niches.

Here are a few specific trends to watch:

- Rise of longevity-focused content: Topics like brain health, financial planning for retirement, and aging with purpose are gaining traction.
- Cross-cultural speaking opportunities: In many non-Western cultures, age is revered. Aging speakers can find enthusiastic audiences in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Mentorship-based speaking formats: Workshops, fireside chats, and Q&A sessions are replacing traditional keynotes. These formats favor speakers who can share stories and mentor in real-time.

Bottom line: The future isn't about competing with younger speakers. It's about owning your space, leveraging your story, and delivering value that only time can teach.

If you're stepping into the speaking world later in life, the right tools can make the journey smoother and more rewarding. Here's a curated list of platforms, apps, and resources to help you build your brand, book gigs, and deliver with confidence.

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest-matching platform is perfect for aging speakers looking to build credibility and reach new audiences. You can filter by topic, audience size, and host preferences. Tip: Use your life experience as a unique angle in your bio to stand out.

2. Canva. Need to create a speaker one-sheet, presentation slides, or social media graphics? Canva's drag-and-drop interface is beginner-friendly and professional. Use templates designed for speakers to save time.

3. SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can list your profile, topics, and availability. Great for getting discovered by event organizers. Tip: Highlight your years of experience and any industry-specific expertise.

4. Zoom and StreamYard. These platforms are essential for virtual speaking gigs. StreamYard is especially useful for live streaming to multiple platforms at once. Practice using breakout rooms and screen sharing to keep your sessions interactive.

5. Otter.ai. Use this transcription tool to turn your talks into written content. You can repurpose transcripts into blog posts, newsletters, or even a book. It's also helpful for reviewing your delivery and improving clarity.

6. LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on public speaking, storytelling, and personal branding. Ideal for brushing up on skills or learning new ones. Look for instructors with experience in executive communication.

7. Audacity. A free audio editing tool. If you're recording podcast interviews or creating your own show, this helps you sound polished without needing a full studio setup.

8. Meetup. Not just for social events. Many local groups host speaker series or workshops. Joining or organizing a group can help you test content and build a local following.

Whether you're tech-savvy or just getting started, these tools can help you build momentum. Combine them with your unique voice and experience, and you've got everything you need to thrive as a speaker.