Coaching and Mentoring Speakers

A coaching and mentoring speaker is someone who delivers talks, workshops, or interviews focused on personal or professional development through the lens of coaching and mentorship. These speakers are typically experienced coaches, mentors, or thought leaders who specialize in helping others grow by sharing practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-world examples.

Unlike general motivational speakers, coaching and mentoring speakers often dive deeper into frameworks, tools, and actionable advice. They're not just there to inspire-they're there to equip. For instance, a speaker might walk through a 5-step process for building confidence in leadership, or explain how to structure a mentorship program within a startup.

These speakers show up in a variety of formats: virtual summits, podcasts, corporate events, masterminds, and even internal training sessions. Whether they're speaking to a room of 10 or a virtual audience of 10,000, their goal is the same-to guide people from where they are to where they want to be.

In short, a coaching and mentoring speaker is a bridge between knowledge and transformation. They don't just talk at people-they talk with them, helping them see what's possible and how to get there.

When you're building a community, a team, or even just your own mindset, the right voice can accelerate your growth. That's where a coaching and mentoring speaker becomes crucial.

First, they bring clarity. In a world flooded with content, people crave curated, trustworthy guidance. Coaching and mentoring speakers distill years of experience into digestible insights. Whether it's a founder in Lagos or a nonprofit leader in Vancouver, these speakers help people cut through the noise and focus on what actually works.

Second, they create momentum. Hearing someone articulate your challenges-and offer a roadmap forward-can be the spark that moves someone from stuck to unstoppable. Especially in virtual events or online summits, where engagement can dip, these speakers bring energy and structure that keep audiences tuned in.

Third, they foster connection. Many coaching and mentoring speakers share stories that resonate across cultures and industries. That relatability builds trust, and trust builds transformation. It's not just about delivering a talk-it's about creating a moment that sticks.

So whether you're hosting a leadership summit or a niche podcast, bringing in a coaching and mentoring speaker isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a strategic move that can elevate the entire experience for your audience.

Coaching and mentoring speakers guide, teach, and inspire-but their work goes far beyond giving a talk. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Share Expertise Through Speaking
- They deliver keynotes, workshops, and interviews on topics like mindset, leadership, resilience, and growth.
- Example: A speaker might walk a remote team through strategies for self-leadership in a hybrid work environment.

2. Translate Complex Ideas into Actionable Steps
- They break down big concepts into frameworks and tools that audiences can apply immediately.
- Think of someone like Tony Robbins explaining the '6 Human Needs' in a way that even a high schooler could grasp.

3. Facilitate Transformation
- Through storytelling, exercises, or Q&A, they help people shift perspectives and take action.
- In a corporate setting, this might look like helping managers adopt a coaching mindset with their teams.

4. Customize Content for Different Audiences
- Whether it's a startup accelerator in Berlin or a women's leadership summit in Sydney, they tailor their message to fit the context.
- They do their homework-understanding the audience's pain points, goals, and cultural nuances.

5. Extend Their Impact Beyond the Stage
- Many coaching and mentoring speakers offer follow-up resources, group coaching, or online programs.
- This allows them to continue supporting the audience long after the talk ends.

In essence, coaching and mentoring speakers are catalysts. They don't just speak-they spark change, one audience at a time.

Becoming a coaching and mentoring speaker isn't just about having a story to tell. It's about building a platform, refining your message, and connecting with the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Expertise.
- Are you focused on executive coaching, life mentoring, or leadership development? Get specific.
- Example: If you've helped startup founders scale their teams, that's your angle.

2. Develop Your Signature Talk.
- Craft a 20- to 60-minute talk that showcases your unique insights.
- Include actionable takeaways, relatable stories, and a clear structure.
- Tip: Record yourself and refine based on feedback.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include a bio, headshot, sample video, topics you speak on, and testimonials.
- This acts as your digital business card for event organizers.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Speak at local meetups, online summits, or niche podcasts.
- Use these opportunities to build your credibility and gather testimonials.
- Talks.co can help you connect with hosts looking for speakers.

5. Promote Yourself Strategically.
- Use LinkedIn to share clips and insights from your talks.
- Reach out to event organizers in your niche with a tailored pitch.
- Tip: Offer to speak for free at first, but always ask for video footage.

6. Monetize and Diversify.
- Once you've built a reputation, start charging for keynotes, workshops, or virtual events.
- Bundle your speaking with coaching packages or online courses.

Remember, the best coaching and mentoring speakers didn't start on big stages. They built their way up by delivering value, showing up consistently, and refining their message over time.

To be a coaching and mentoring speaker, you need more than just a background in coaching. You need a blend of expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
Whether you specialize in executive coaching, youth mentoring, or career transitions, you need deep knowledge in your field. This could come from certifications (like ICF or EMCC), years of hands-on experience, or a proven track record of client success.

2. Public Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TED Talk veteran, but you do need to communicate clearly, confidently, and with impact. Practice storytelling, pacing, and audience engagement. Join a local Toastmasters group or take an online speaking course to sharpen your skills.

3. A Compelling Message
What's your unique perspective? Maybe you help women re-enter the workforce after maternity leave, or you coach first-gen entrepreneurs. Your message should be clear, relevant, and resonate with a specific audience.

4. A Speaker Platform
You'll need a speaker page that showcases your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and video clips. Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to connect with event hosts and get booked. Think of it as your online resume for speaking gigs.

5. Marketing and Networking
Being a great speaker isn't enough if no one knows about you. Use LinkedIn, email outreach, and speaker directories to get on the radar of event organizers. Attend virtual summits and webinars to network with other speakers and potential clients.

In short, being a coaching and mentoring speaker is about combining your coaching credibility with a powerful message and the tools to share it widely. Once you have those pieces in place, the opportunities start to open up.

Yes, coaching and mentoring speakers do get paid, but how much and how often can vary widely depending on experience, niche, and audience.

Let's look at the data:
- According to SpeakerHub and the National Speakers Association, beginner speakers typically earn $500 to $2,500 per talk.
- Mid-level speakers with a strong niche and following can earn between $3,000 and $10,000 per engagement.
- High-profile speakers or those with bestselling books or media presence can command $15,000 to $50,000+.

Pros of Paid Speaking:
- Direct income from keynotes, panels, and workshops.
- Opportunities to upsell coaching packages or online programs.
- Increased authority and visibility in your niche.

Cons to Consider:
- It can take time to build a reputation that justifies high fees.
- Many events, especially virtual ones, offer exposure rather than payment.
- Travel and prep time can eat into your hourly rate.

Tip: Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts who are actively looking for speakers and are more likely to offer compensation. Also, bundle speaking with other services (like coaching or consulting) to increase your overall ROI.

In summary, yes, coaching and mentoring speakers do get paid, but the real value often comes from how you leverage the stage beyond the speaking fee itself.

Coaching and mentoring speakers have multiple income streams beyond just speaking fees. Here's a breakdown of the most common ways they generate revenue:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes, breakout sessions, panels, and workshops.
- Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event type.

2. Coaching Packages
- Many speakers offer 1:1 or group coaching tied to their talk topics.
- Example: A speaker on leadership resilience might offer a 6-week coaching program for executives.

3. Online Courses and Memberships
- Digital products allow speakers to scale their expertise.
- Platforms like Kajabi or Teachable make it easy to launch.

4. Corporate Training and Consulting
- Companies often hire speakers for in-house training or long-term consulting.
- This can be a lucrative path, especially in industries like tech, finance, or healthcare.

5. Book Sales and Licensing
- Publishing a book can boost credibility and generate passive income.
- Some speakers license their content to organizations or other coaches.

6. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- If you have a large audience, you can partner with brands or promote tools you use.
- Example: Promoting a coaching platform or CRM tool during your talk.

7. Virtual Summits and Events
- Hosting your own summit or being featured on others can lead to leads, sales, and partnerships.

In short, coaching and mentoring speakers often treat speaking as the top of their funnel. The real money comes from what happens before and after the talk.

The income of coaching and mentoring speakers varies dramatically based on factors like experience, niche, audience, and business model. Here's a closer look at the earning potential:
1. Entry-Level Speakers
- Typical Fee per Talk: $0 to $2,000.
- Annual Income Range: $10,000 to $50,000 (if speaking part-time).
- Often unpaid or paid in exposure, but can lead to coaching clients.
2. Mid-Tier Speakers
- Typical Fee per Talk: $2,500 to $7,500.
- Annual Income Range: $50,000 to $150,000.
- These speakers often combine speaking with coaching, online courses, or consulting.
3. High-End Speakers
- Typical Fee per Talk: $10,000 to $50,000+.
- Annual Income Range: $200,000 to $1M+.
- Usually have a strong personal brand, bestselling books, or media presence.
Additional Income Streams

Source	Potential Annual Income
Group Coaching	$20,000 - $100,000
Online Courses	$10,000 - $250,000
Corporate Consulting	$50,000 - $500,000

Key Variables:
- Niche demand (e.g. DEI, leadership, mental health).
- Audience size and budget.
- Your ability to convert speaking into long-term clients.
So while some coaching and mentoring speakers treat it as a side hustle, others turn it into a six- or seven-figure business.

Hiring a coaching and mentoring speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you understand the pricing landscape:
1. Experience Level
- New or emerging speakers: $500 - $2,000 per talk.
- Mid-level professionals with a niche: $2,500 - $7,500.
- High-profile experts or authors: $10,000 - $50,000+.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual webinars or panels: Usually lower cost, $500 - $5,000.
- In-person keynotes or workshops: Higher cost due to travel and prep, $3,000 - $20,000.
- Multi-day corporate training: Can exceed $50,000 depending on scope.
3. Customization and Deliverables
- Off-the-shelf talks are cheaper.
- Custom content, follow-up coaching, or licensing materials increase the price.
4. Location and Travel
- International travel adds costs for flights, hotels, and per diem.
- Some speakers charge a flat travel fee, others bill actual expenses.
5. Booking Platform or Agency
- Booking through Talks.co or similar platforms may include service fees.
- Agencies often add 10-20% commission.
Sample Cost Table:

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote
New/Emerging	$500	$1,500
Mid-Level	$2,000	$5,000
High-Profile	$10,000	$25,000+

In short, the cost depends on the value the speaker brings to your audience. But there's a speaker for every budget if you know where to look.

Tony Robbins. Known for his high-energy delivery and transformational coaching, Robbins has been a global force in personal development for decades.

Marshall Goldsmith. A pioneer in executive coaching, Goldsmith has worked with Fortune 500 leaders and authored classics like 'What Got You Here Won't Get You There'.

John C. Maxwell. With over 30 million books sold, Maxwell's teachings on leadership and mentoring have shaped countless organizations worldwide.

Oprah Winfrey. While not a traditional speaker, Oprah's influence as a mentor and her SuperSoul Sessions have inspired millions.

Brené Brown. Her research-based talks on vulnerability and leadership have made her a favorite in both corporate and academic circles.

Simon Sinek. Famous for 'Start With Why', Sinek blends coaching insights with powerful storytelling.

Zig Ziglar. A foundational figure in motivational speaking and sales coaching, Ziglar's legacy continues through his books and recordings.

Lisa Nichols. A dynamic speaker who combines coaching with personal empowerment, especially for women and underrepresented communities.

Jim Rohn. A mentor to Tony Robbins and a legend in personal development, Rohn's teachings still resonate today.

Mel Robbins. Known for the 5 Second Rule, Mel blends neuroscience with practical coaching strategies.

Robin Sharma (Canada). Author of 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari', Sharma is a global leadership coach and speaker who works with billionaires and CEOs.

Tasha Eurich (USA). An organizational psychologist and expert on self-awareness, Eurich is a go-to speaker for corporate coaching events.

Dr. Marshall Goldsmith (USA). Still active globally, Goldsmith is considered one of the top executive coaches in the world.

Renée Mauborgne (France/USA). Co-author of 'Blue Ocean Strategy', she speaks on innovation and leadership coaching at global forums.

Nick Vujicic (Australia). Born without limbs, Nick's talks on overcoming adversity and mentoring youth have reached millions worldwide.

Sally Helgesen (USA). A top voice in women's leadership coaching, Sally is a frequent keynote speaker at international conferences.

Ajit Nawalkha (India/USA). Co-founder of Mindvalley and Evercoach, Ajit blends coaching with scalable business models for global audiences.

Dr. Srikumar Rao (India/USA). A former business school professor, Rao's talks on mindset and mentoring have influenced thousands of professionals.

Noeline Kirabo (Uganda). A rising voice in youth mentoring and entrepreneurship in Africa, Noeline speaks at global development forums.

Michael Bungay Stanier (Canada). Author of 'The Coaching Habit', he's known for making coaching practical and accessible worldwide.

Myth 1: Coaching and mentoring speakers are just motivational cheerleaders.
This one pops up a lot. People assume that if you're a coaching and mentoring speaker, you're just there to pump up the crowd with feel-good quotes and high-fives. But in reality, the best speakers in this space are deeply strategic. They blend psychology, business acumen, and real-world frameworks to help audiences shift behavior and build systems that last. Think of someone like Marshall Goldsmith-he's not just inspiring, he's tactical, delivering measurable leadership strategies that Fortune 500 companies rely on.

Myth 2: You need decades of experience to be credible.
Sure, experience helps. But it's not the only ticket in. What matters more is clarity of message, authenticity, and a proven framework. Some of the most impactful coaching and mentoring speakers today are in their 30s or even younger. They've built credibility by solving specific problems for niche audiences, not by waiting 20 years to get on stage. For example, in the startup world, younger speakers often resonate more because they speak the language of fast iteration and agile leadership.

Myth 3: Coaching and mentoring speakers only talk to corporate audiences.
Not even close. While corporate gigs are common, many speakers thrive in education, non-profits, sports, and even creative industries. In fact, some of the most booked speakers in this space are working with youth organizations, local governments, or online communities. The key is alignment-if your message meets a need, the audience will show up.

Myth 4: You have to be a certified coach to speak on coaching or mentoring.
Certifications can help, but they're not mandatory. What matters more is your ability to communicate transformation. If you've built a mentorship program, led teams, or coached individuals with real results, you have value to share. Many top speakers never went through formal coaching programs-they built their credibility through outcomes.

Myth 5: Speaking is the end goal.
Actually, for many coaching and mentoring speakers, the stage is just the start. Speaking often leads to consulting, online programs, books, or community building. It's a visibility tool, not the final destination. So if you're only thinking about keynotes, you might be missing the bigger picture.

In 2013, a former schoolteacher from New Zealand named Richie Norton transitioned into coaching entrepreneurs. He wasn't a household name, but he had a knack for simplifying complex ideas. His talks, rooted in real-life failures and wins, began attracting attention. Within a few years, he was keynoting global conferences and running a thriving coaching business. What made Richie stand out? He didn't try to be everything to everyone. He focused on helping creators build time-rich lifestyles-and his talks reflected that clarity.

Then there's Lisa Nichols. She started with a story-her own. A single mom on public assistance, she used her journey to build a powerful message around transformation and self-leadership. Her speaking career took off after appearing in 'The Secret', but she sustained it by building a coaching empire. Her speeches are emotionally charged, but also packed with frameworks. She's not just telling you to believe in yourself-she's showing you how to do it, step by step.

In the tech world, Rajkumari Neogy carved out a niche few others dared to touch: emotional intelligence in engineering teams. Her talks blend neuroscience, leadership coaching, and DEI strategy. She didn't follow the traditional speaker path. Instead, she built credibility by solving a very specific pain point in Silicon Valley. Her clients include Slack, Facebook, and Google-not because she's flashy, but because she's effective.

And let's not forget Eric Thomas, aka ET the Hip Hop Preacher. He started by speaking to high school students in Detroit. His raw, passionate delivery style caught fire on YouTube. Today, he's one of the most in-demand coaching and mentoring speakers globally. His story proves that you don't need a polished background-you need a powerful message and relentless consistency.

These stories show there's no single path to success. Some started with books, others with YouTube channels or local workshops. But all of them built trust by delivering value, not just hype. They didn't wait for permission-they started where they were and built from there.

The coaching and mentoring speaking space is evolving, but not in the ways you might expect. It's not just about more virtual events or better microphones. It's about deeper personalization, cross-industry relevance, and global accessibility.

First, audiences are demanding more than inspiration-they want transformation. That means coaching and mentoring speakers are shifting from keynote-only formats to hybrid models: combining talks with follow-up workshops, digital toolkits, or even ongoing group coaching. The line between speaker and facilitator is blurring.

Second, AI is changing how speakers prep and deliver. Tools like ChatGPT and Jasper are helping speakers refine messaging, create custom content for niche audiences, and even simulate Q&A sessions. But more importantly, AI is enabling scalable coaching-think personalized follow-ups based on audience feedback or automated mentorship journeys post-event.

Third, there's a growing demand for culturally relevant voices. As organizations expand globally, they're looking for speakers who understand local contexts. This opens doors for speakers from regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America, who bring fresh perspectives and untapped frameworks.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-niche positioning. Speakers who specialize in narrow topics (e.g. mentoring neurodiverse teams, coaching for remote-first startups) are getting more traction.
- Interactive formats. Audiences want to engage, not just listen. Expect more live polling, breakout coaching sessions, and real-time feedback loops.
- Subscription-based speaking. Some speakers are offering monthly access to live talks, Q&As, and mentoring sessions-like a Netflix model for personal development.
- ESG and impact alignment. Companies are booking speakers who align with their environmental, social, and governance goals. If your message supports equity, sustainability, or mental health, you're in demand.

The future belongs to coaching and mentoring speakers who are agile, authentic, and audience-obsessed. It's not about being everywhere-it's about being deeply relevant where it counts.

Talks.co. This is a game-changer if you're looking to get booked on podcasts or virtual summits. Talks.co matches speakers with hosts based on niche, audience, and topic fit. Tip: Use it to test your message before pitching larger stages.

SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can list your speaker profile, get discovered by event organizers, and apply for gigs. Make sure your profile includes a short video clip-bookers want to see your energy.

Canva. Yes, it's a design tool, but it's also your best friend for creating speaker one-sheets, slide decks, and branded coaching visuals. Pro tip: Use the 'Present and Record' feature to rehearse your talk and get feedback from peers.

Calendly. Streamline your booking process by letting organizers schedule discovery calls or pre-event briefings without the email back-and-forth. Set up a custom link just for speaking inquiries.

Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual keynotes and workshops. But go beyond the basics-use breakout rooms for mentoring exercises or live polls to boost engagement.

Notion. Organize your speaking topics, coaching frameworks, client notes, and event feedback all in one place. Create a template for each talk so you can iterate quickly.

LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your speaking topics, publish thought leadership posts, and attract event planners. Bonus: Use the 'Featured' section to highlight your best talks or testimonials.

Otter.ai. Record and transcribe your talks or coaching sessions. Great for repurposing content into blog posts, social media clips, or even a book outline.