Communication Speakers
You've booked the venue, lined up the audience, and now you need someone who can actually hold their attention. But not just anyone with a mic.
You're looking for communication speakers who know how to connect - clearly, effectively, and without the fluff.
So how do you find the right communication speaker? Should they be funny? Tactical? Inspirational? What even makes someone a strong communicator on stage or behind a mic?
That's what this list helps clear up. You'll get a look at top-tier communication speakers who bring clarity to complex ideas, keep audiences engaged, and know how to tailor their message to fit the room.
Whether you're hosting a business summit, recording your next podcast season, or building your YouTube interview series, these pros can help make the conversation actually land.
I've seen how the right communication speaker doesn't just talk - they listen, adapt, and deliver ideas in a way that sticks.
Check out the featured communication speakers below or book someone who fits your next event perfectly.
Top Communication Speakers List for 2025
Christiaan Willems
How to NOT to come across as a 'Complete Dick' in your Business Videos
Leisa Reid
I train Coaches & Entrepreneurs how to use speaking to attract their ideal clients
Shannon GaNun
Helping business professionals communicate with clarity and confidence so they can become stronger leaders.
Theo Kapodistrias
Award-winning Speaker + Lawyer, TEDx professional, and MC
Robin Owen
Helping you speak with confidence and leave a lasting impression
Gary Wohlman
Elevate your impact & captivate any audience with BODY & VOICE
Brian Fippinger
Speaker, Best Selling Author, and former Improv Actor who had been coaching leaders for 46 years.
Jenn Espinosa-Goswami
Unlock Confidence, Impact, and Income with Public Speaking
What Makes a Great Communication Speaker
Take someone like Brené Brown. She doesn't just share research-she tells stories, uses humor, and makes vulnerability feel like a strength. That's the kind of emotional intelligence that separates a decent speaker from a memorable one. Great communication speakers know how to balance clarity with charisma. They don't overwhelm with jargon or fluff. Instead, they simplify complex ideas and make them relatable, whether they're speaking to a boardroom in Sydney or a virtual summit audience in Nairobi.
But it's not just about delivery. Preparation is key. The best speakers tailor their message to the audience. A communication speaker addressing startup founders in Berlin will frame their talk differently than one speaking to healthcare professionals in Toronto. They do their homework, ask questions, and align their message with the event's goals.
And let's not forget presence. Some speakers have a calm, commanding energy. Others are dynamic and animated. There's no one-size-fits-all style, but authenticity is non-negotiable. Audiences can spot a script-reader from a mile away. The greats? They speak from experience, from insight, and from the heart.
So if you're looking for a communication speaker who can truly move the needle, look for someone who listens as well as they speak, prepares like a pro, and brings their full self to the mic. That's where the magic happens.
How to Select the Best Communication Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Show's Goals.
- Are you aiming to educate, inspire, entertain, or challenge your audience? A podcast for remote team leaders might need a speaker who specializes in virtual communication, while a business summit might require someone with corporate negotiation chops.
2. Know Your Audience.
- What are their pain points, interests, and expectations? If your listeners are early-stage entrepreneurs, they'll resonate more with practical frameworks than high-level theory. Match the speaker's experience with your audience's needs.
3. Use Platforms Like Talks.co.
- Talks.co is a great place to discover vetted communication speakers. Browse speaker pages, check out their video clips, and read reviews from other hosts. It's like a matchmaking service for high-quality conversations.
4. Review Their Content.
- Watch their past talks or listen to their podcast interviews. Are they engaging? Do they stay on topic? Do they offer actionable insights? Look beyond the sizzle reel-dig into the substance.
5. Reach Out With a Clear Ask.
- When you find a potential match, send a concise message outlining your show's theme, audience, and what you're hoping they can bring to the table. Be specific about format, timing, and expectations.
6. Test for Chemistry.
- If possible, hop on a quick pre-interview call. This helps you gauge rapport and alignment. A great speaker on paper might not vibe with your show's tone-and that's okay. Better to find out early.
Remember, the best communication speaker for your show isn't necessarily the most famous one. It's the one who can speak directly to your audience's world and leave them thinking long after the episode ends.
How to Book a Communication Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker profiles. Look for those who specialize in communication topics relevant to your event or show. Filter by industry, region, or speaking style to narrow your list.
2. Check Availability Early.
- Communication speakers often book months in advance, especially if they're in high demand. Reach out early with a few potential dates and be flexible if possible.
3. Craft a Clear Invitation.
- Your initial message should include:
* Event or show name and audience type.
* Date, time, and format (live, virtual, recorded).
* Topic focus and why you think they're a fit.
* Compensation details or promotional benefits.
4. Confirm the Details in Writing.
- Once they say yes, send a confirmation email or agreement that includes:
* Date and time (with time zone).
* Tech setup or platform (Zoom, StreamYard, etc.).
* Talking points or themes.
* Promotion plan (if applicable).
* Contact info for day-of support.
5. Prep Together.
- Schedule a prep call to align on tone, flow, and audience expectations. Share any questions in advance if it's a podcast. For events, let them know the run-of-show and who's introducing them.
6. Promote and Follow Up.
- Promote the episode or event with their name and topic. Afterward, send a thank-you note and share links or feedback. This builds a relationship for future collaborations.
Booking a communication speaker is about clarity, timing, and respect. Treat them like a partner in your mission, and they'll show up ready to deliver.
Common Questions on Communication Speakers
What is a communication speaker
Unlike general motivational speakers, communication speakers zero in on how messages are crafted, delivered, and received. They might speak at corporate events, virtual summits, educational institutions, or industry conferences. Their goal is to help audiences become better communicators-whether that means improving team dynamics, pitching ideas more clearly, or navigating difficult conversations.
Some communication speakers come from academic backgrounds in linguistics or psychology. Others are seasoned professionals from media, business, or politics. Think of people like Julian Treasure, who speaks on sound and listening, or Nancy Duarte, known for her work on visual storytelling. They bring frameworks, research, and real-world examples to help audiences level up their communication game.
In today's world of remote work, global teams, and digital overload, communication speakers are more in demand than ever. They help bridge gaps, reduce misunderstandings, and foster stronger connections-whether in person or across time zones.
So, if you're hosting an event or podcast and want to offer your audience practical tools for clearer, more confident communication, a communication speaker is a smart choice.
Why is a communication speaker important
A communication speaker brings clarity to one of the most overlooked skills in business and life: how we share ideas. In fast-paced environments like startups or global corporations, clear communication can mean the difference between scaling fast or spinning in circles. A speaker who specializes in communication can help teams align on goals, reduce friction, and build trust.
In multicultural or multilingual settings, communication gets even trickier. A skilled speaker can offer strategies for navigating cultural nuances, managing tone, and avoiding misinterpretation. For example, a speaker addressing a remote team spread across Asia, Europe, and North America might focus on asynchronous communication and clarity in written updates.
Beyond the workplace, communication speakers are crucial in education, healthcare, and public service. Whether it's helping teachers engage students more effectively or training medical staff to deliver difficult news with empathy, the ripple effect of better communication is massive.
Ultimately, a communication speaker doesn't just talk about talking. They help people listen better, speak with purpose, and connect across barriers. That's not just helpful-it's transformative.
What do communication speakers do
Here's a breakdown of what communication speakers typically do:
- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They speak at conferences, corporate retreats, and virtual summits on topics like public speaking, conflict resolution, storytelling, and persuasive messaging.
- Provide Practical Frameworks. Instead of vague advice, they offer actionable tools. For example, a speaker might teach the 'SBI' feedback model (Situation-Behavior-Impact) to help managers give clearer feedback.
- Tailor Content to Specific Audiences. A communication speaker working with a tech startup might focus on pitching and investor communication, while one speaking to educators may emphasize student engagement and clarity.
- Facilitate Interactive Sessions. Many go beyond lectures. They lead role-plays, Q&A sessions, or breakout discussions to help participants apply what they've learned.
- Consult and Coach. Some communication speakers also offer one-on-one coaching or team consulting, helping organizations improve internal communication, branding, or customer messaging.
- Adapt Across Mediums. Whether it's a TED-style stage, a Zoom webinar, or a podcast interview, communication speakers know how to adjust their delivery for maximum engagement.
In short, communication speakers empower individuals and teams to express themselves more effectively-whether they're leading meetings, writing emails, or speaking to thousands. Their work is both strategic and deeply human.
How to become a communication speaker
1. Define Your Niche.
- Are you focused on corporate communication, interpersonal skills, crisis communication, or public speaking? Pick a lane. The more specific, the better.
- Example: If you're passionate about helping remote teams communicate better, make that your focus.
2. Build Your Expertise.
- Start by creating content: blog posts, YouTube videos, LinkedIn articles. Share insights, frameworks, and case studies.
- Consider certifications or training in communication, NLP, or leadership.
3. Craft Your Signature Talk.
- Develop one or two core presentations that showcase your unique perspective.
- Use storytelling, data, and actionable takeaways. Think TED-style clarity with real-world relevance.
4. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile.
- Include your bio, topics, testimonials, past appearances, and a video reel.
5. Start Booking Gigs.
- Reach out to event organizers, podcasts, webinars, and summits. Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for speakers.
- Offer to speak for free initially to build your portfolio, then scale up.
6. Collect Feedback and Refine.
- Ask for testimonials and reviews after each talk.
- Watch recordings of your sessions to improve delivery and content.
7. Scale Your Presence.
- Get listed in speaker directories, join speaker bureaus, and attend networking events.
- Collaborate with other speakers or hosts to expand your reach.
It's a journey, not a sprint. But with consistency and clarity, you can carve out a strong presence as a communication speaker.
What do you need to be a communication speaker
1. Communication Mastery
At the core, you need to understand communication deeply. This includes verbal and non-verbal cues, active listening, storytelling, and audience engagement. Whether you're teaching executives how to lead meetings or helping students improve presentations, your grasp of communication principles must be strong.
2. A Clear Personal Brand
What makes you different from other speakers? Maybe it's your background in psychology, your experience in multicultural teams, or your research on digital communication. Define your unique angle and make it visible across your content and speaker page.
3. Speaking Skills
You don't have to be a natural-born orator, but you do need to be comfortable on stage or camera. Practice pacing, tone, body language, and audience interaction. Record yourself. Join a local Toastmasters group or take a virtual speaking course.
4. A Professional Platform
You'll need a speaker page that showcases your bio, topics, testimonials, and media. Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to connect with event hosts and get discovered. A good speaker page acts like your digital resume.
5. Marketing and Outreach
Even the best speakers won't get booked if no one knows about them. You need to market yourself. This includes social media, email outreach, networking, and being listed on speaker platforms.
6. Tech Setup (for virtual speaking)
If you're doing online events, invest in a good mic, webcam, lighting, and a clean background. Poor audio or video can ruin a great talk.
In short, being a communication speaker is about combining expertise with visibility. You need to know your stuff, present it well, and make sure the right people see it.
Do communication speakers get paid
Who Gets Paid?
- Established speakers with a track record, published books, or media presence often command higher fees.
- Newer speakers may start with unpaid gigs to build credibility, then move into paid opportunities.
Where Does the Money Come From?
- Corporate events, conferences, summits, and webinars are common sources.
- Platforms like Talks.co help connect speakers with hosts who are actively looking to pay for quality content.
Factors That Influence Pay:
- Topic relevance: Communication is a hot topic in leadership, remote work, and DEI training.
- Audience size: Larger events often have bigger budgets.
- Format: Keynotes pay more than panels or breakout sessions.
Pros:
- High demand across industries.
- Opportunities for recurring gigs (e.g., corporate training).
- Can lead to consulting or coaching work.
Cons:
- Competitive field.
- Some events offer exposure instead of payment.
- Inconsistent income if not diversified.
In short, yes, communication speakers do get paid, but the path to consistent income often involves building authority and leveraging multiple income streams (see the next section).
How do communication speakers make money
1. Speaking Fees
- This is the most direct method. Speakers are paid to present at conferences, summits, corporate events, and webinars.
- Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and topic. For example, a communication speaker addressing Fortune 500 executives may earn significantly more than one speaking at a local business meetup.
2. Workshops and Training Programs
- Many speakers offer in-depth workshops for teams or organizations. These can be half-day, full-day, or multi-week programs.
- Example: A speaker might run a 3-day communication bootcamp for a sales team to improve client interactions.
3. Online Courses and Digital Products
- Speakers often package their knowledge into self-paced courses, eBooks, or toolkits.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi are popular for hosting these.
4. Consulting and Coaching
- After a talk, some clients want more personalized help. Speakers can offer one-on-one coaching or organizational consulting.
- This is especially common in industries like healthcare, tech, and education.
5. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- If a speaker has a strong online presence, they can partner with brands or tools they recommend.
- For instance, a speaker teaching virtual communication might partner with Zoom or Logitech.
6. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book not only builds credibility but also generates passive income.
- Many speakers use books as a lead magnet to attract speaking gigs or clients.
7. Talks.co and Other Platforms
- Platforms like Talks.co allow speakers to list their profiles, get discovered by event hosts, and manage bookings.
- This streamlines the process and opens up more paid opportunities.
By combining these methods, communication speakers can build a sustainable and scalable business model.
How much do communication speakers make
Typical Ranges:
Experience Level | Average Fee per Talk | Annual Income Estimate (if speaking regularly) |
---|---|---|
Beginner | $0 - $500 | $0 - $10,000 |
Mid-Level | $500 - $5,000 | $20,000 - $100,000 |
Established/Expert | $5,000 - $25,000+ | $100,000 - $500,000+ |
- Industry: Corporate and tech events often pay more than education or nonprofit sectors.
- Format: Keynotes command higher fees than panels or workshops.
- Reputation: Speakers with books, media appearances, or TEDx talks can charge premium rates.
- Location: Speakers in the US, UK, and Australia often see higher rates than those in emerging markets, though virtual events are leveling the field.
Additional Income Sources (as covered in 'How do communication speakers make money')
- Coaching, consulting, online courses, and affiliate deals can significantly boost total income.
Example:
- A mid-level speaker doing 2 paid gigs per month at $2,000 each could earn $48,000 annually from speaking alone, not counting other services.
So, while the ceiling is high, the floor can be low. Building authority and diversifying income is key to making a solid living as a communication speaker.
How much do communication speakers cost
1. Speaker Tier and Experience
- New or Emerging Speakers: $0 - $1,000 per talk. Often used for community events, schools, or startups with limited budgets.
- Mid-Level Professionals: $1,000 - $5,000. These speakers have a solid portfolio, maybe a book or podcast, and some media exposure.
- Top-Tier Experts: $5,000 - $25,000+. These are TEDx speakers, bestselling authors, or industry veterans.
2. Event Type and Audience Size
- A keynote at a global conference will cost more than a breakout session at a local meetup.
- Virtual events may cost less, though top speakers often charge the same regardless of format.
3. Customization and Duration
- A 60-minute keynote may cost less than a full-day workshop.
- Custom content or industry-specific research can increase fees.
4. Travel and Logistics
- For in-person events, expect to cover travel, accommodation, and per diem.
Sample Cost Table:
Speaker Level | Virtual Talk | In-Person Keynote | Full-Day Workshop |
---|---|---|---|
Emerging | $500 | $1,000 | $2,000 |
Mid-Level | $2,000 | $4,000 | $6,000 |
Top-Tier | $10,000+ | $15,000+ | $25,000+ |
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker profiles.
- Ask about package deals if you want multiple sessions or follow-up training.
- Always clarify deliverables: slides, Q&A, recordings, etc.
In short, communication speakers can fit a wide range of budgets, but you get what you pay for. The right speaker can transform your event or team training.
Who are the best communication speakers ever
1. Dale Carnegie
- Author of 'How to Win Friends and Influence People'.
- Pioneered the self-improvement and communication training industry.
2. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- His speeches, especially 'I Have a Dream', are studied worldwide for rhetorical brilliance.
- Master of emotional appeal, pacing, and repetition.
3. Tony Robbins
- Known for high-energy seminars and personal development talks.
- Blends communication with psychology and motivation.
4. Oprah Winfrey
- While not a traditional speaker, her communication style has influenced millions.
- Known for empathetic listening and authentic storytelling.
5. Simon Sinek
- Famous for 'Start With Why' and his TED Talk on leadership.
- Clear, structured, and deeply resonant messaging.
6. Barack Obama
- Widely regarded as one of the most eloquent political speakers of the 21st century.
- Balances logic, emotion, and vision.
7. Les Brown
- Motivational speaker with a powerful personal story.
- Focuses on overcoming adversity through belief and communication.
8. Brené Brown
- Researcher and storyteller known for talks on vulnerability and connection.
- Her TEDx Houston talk went viral and reshaped how we talk about emotions.
These speakers span different eras and styles, but they all mastered the art of connection through communication.
Who are the best communication speakers in the world
1. Julian Treasure (UK)
- Known for his TED Talks on sound and communication.
- Focuses on conscious listening and vocal delivery.
2. Amy Cuddy (USA)
- Social psychologist famous for her TED Talk on body language.
- Combines science with practical tips on presence and confidence.
3. Vanessa Van Edwards (USA)
- Founder of Science of People.
- Teaches communication through behavioral science and data.
4. David JP Phillips (Sweden)
- Expert in storytelling and presentation skills.
- His talk 'The 110 Techniques of Communication and Public Speaking' is a masterclass.
5. Jay Shetty (UK/India)
- Former monk turned storyteller and speaker.
- Focuses on mindful communication and emotional intelligence.
6. Carla Harris (USA)
- Wall Street executive and speaker on leadership and communication.
- Known for her 'pearls of wisdom' on executive presence.
7. Priya Parker (USA/India)
- Author of 'The Art of Gathering'.
- Specializes in intentional communication in group settings.
8. Eric Edmeades (South Africa/Canada)
- Speaker and entrepreneur known for his talks on influence and storytelling.
- Frequently featured at business and wellness events.
9. Lisa Nichols (USA)
- Motivational speaker and communication coach.
- Known for her dynamic stage presence and emotional storytelling.
10. Bo Seo (Australia/Korea)
- World debate champion and author of 'Good Arguments'.
- Brings a fresh, global perspective on persuasive communication.
These speakers are shaping how we communicate in boardrooms, classrooms, and digital spaces. Whether you're looking to improve your own skills or book a speaker, this list is a solid starting point.
Common myths about communication speakers
This idea gets thrown around a lot, but it's misleading. Sure, some people have a knack for speaking, but most successful communication speakers have honed their skills through years of practice, feedback, and refinement. Think about Simon Sinek. He wasn't born with a TED Talk in his back pocket. He developed his message, tested it, and adjusted based on audience response. Communication is a learned skill, not a genetic trait.
Myth 2: You need a big stage or corporate backing to be a communication speaker.
Not true. Many speakers start small-local meetups, online webinars, or niche podcasts. Take the rise of micro-influencers in the education and coaching space. They build credibility by showing up consistently and delivering value, not by waiting for a keynote slot at a Fortune 500 event. Platforms like LinkedIn Live and Clubhouse have made it easier than ever to build an audience without a big-name sponsor.
Myth 3: Communication speakers only talk about soft skills.
This one's outdated. Communication speakers today cover everything from crisis management in healthcare to cross-cultural negotiation in global tech teams. For example, Erin Meyer, co-author of 'No Rules Rules', brings communication into the context of Netflix's global operations. Communication isn't just about tone and body language anymore-it's strategic, data-informed, and industry-specific.
Myth 4: You have to be extroverted to succeed.
Introverts often make some of the most thoughtful and impactful communication speakers. Susan Cain, author of 'Quiet', built an entire movement around this. Her talks resonate because they're introspective and deeply researched. Being a communication speaker isn't about being loud-it's about being clear, authentic, and relevant.
Myth 5: Once you've got your talk, you're done.
Nope. The best communication speakers iterate constantly. They adapt based on audience feedback, cultural shifts, and new research. Communication is dynamic. What worked in 2019 might fall flat today. Staying relevant means staying curious and flexible.
Case studies of successful communication speakers
Then there's Dorie Clark. She didn't start as a communication speaker. She was a journalist, then a marketing strategist. But she noticed a gap: professionals struggled to communicate their personal brand. So she built a speaking career around that. Her talks at Harvard Business Review events and her books like 'The Long Game' helped her carve out a niche. Her story shows that communication speakers don't have to start with a mic-they can grow into it by solving real problems.
In South Africa, Vusi Thembekwayo took a different path. He began as a business prodigy, then transitioned into speaking. His talks blend economics, leadership, and storytelling. What sets him apart is his ability to connect with both grassroots entrepreneurs and corporate executives. He uses humor, data, and cultural references to keep his message grounded and global.
And let's not forget Amy Cuddy. Her research on body language and power poses sparked both praise and controversy. But her TED Talk remains one of the most-watched of all time. Why? Because she took academic research and made it accessible. Her story reminds us that communication speakers can come from academia, as long as they translate their message for real-world impact.
Each of these speakers started from a different place-branding, journalism, economics, research-but they all found a way to communicate ideas that matter. That's the thread. It's not about where you start. It's about how clearly and consistently you deliver value.
Future trends for communication speakers
- Hybrid speaking formats will dominate. Events are no longer strictly in-person or virtual. Communication speakers need to master both. That means understanding how to engage a live audience while also connecting with viewers on Zoom or YouTube. Tools like StreamYard and Restream are becoming essential.
- Data-informed storytelling is on the rise. Audiences want more than anecdotes. They want evidence. Communication speakers who can weave in behavioral science, analytics, or case studies will stand out. Think of how Brené Brown uses research to back up her insights on vulnerability.
- Localization and cultural nuance matter more than ever. With global audiences tuning in, speakers need to adapt their message for different regions. What resonates in Tokyo might not land the same in Toronto. Multilingual delivery, culturally relevant examples, and inclusive language are becoming baseline expectations.
- AI-assisted prep and delivery. Tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly are already helping speakers refine scripts, but the next wave includes real-time feedback on tone, pacing, and clarity. Imagine practicing your talk while an AI coach gives you tips on filler words or audience engagement.
- Niche authority over generalist appeal. The days of the generic 'motivational speaker' are fading. Audiences crave depth. Whether it's communication in biotech, remote teams, or political activism, specialists are gaining traction. If you can own a niche and communicate it well, you're in demand.
In short, the future belongs to communication speakers who are agile, tech-savvy, and audience-aware. It's not about being everywhere. It's about being relevant, wherever you are.
Tools and resources for aspiring communication speakers
- Canva: Great for designing slide decks, social posts, and speaker one-sheets. Tip: Use the 'Presentations' templates to create clean, visual decks that support your message without overwhelming your audience.
- Otter.ai: Transcribes your practice sessions or live talks so you can review and refine. Tip: Use it to identify filler words, pacing issues, or moments where your message could be clearer.
- Notion: Use it to organize your talk outlines, research, and feedback. Tip: Create a 'Talks Database' with columns for event name, audience type, feedback notes, and performance rating.
- Descript: Edit your talk recordings like a doc. Tip: Use the Overdub feature to fix small mistakes in your voice without re-recording the whole thing.
- Toastmasters International: A classic, but still gold. Local and virtual clubs help you practice in a supportive environment. Tip: Join a club outside your usual demographic to get diverse feedback.
- TEDx Organizer Directory: Find local TEDx events and pitch your talk. Tip: Watch past talks from the event to understand their style and audience before submitting your idea.
These tools aren't just about tech-they're about building habits. The more you practice, track, and refine, the faster you'll grow as a communication speaker.
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