Emotional Intelligence Speakers
You've got a packed agenda and one open slot. You want someone who can speak with heart, experience, and clarity on emotional intelligence... but the options are endless.
What makes a great emotional intelligence speaker? And how do you even begin to choose from so many?
Emotional intelligence speakers bring more than just knowledge. They bring presence. They connect with your audience, whether it's a live crowd or a podcast mic.
They speak to empathy, self-awareness, leadership, communication - all the things that make or break human connection.
I've seen how the right speaker can shift the energy in a room or completely change how a conversation unfolds. The good ones don't just talk about emotional intelligence. They live it.
This guide is built to help you cut through the noise and find emotional intelligence speakers who actually resonate.
Whether you're curating a summit, booking for your YouTube show, or building out a panel, explore this list to discover speakers who bring real insight and real connection.
Start browsing and find the emotional intelligence speaker who fits your event best.
Top Emotional Intelligence Speakers List for 2025
William Davis
Authoring the Blueprint for Transformational Leadership.
Inna Segal
Discover your body’s wisdom and transform your life.
Patricia Clason
Unlock Your Potential with Emotional Intelligence Expert Patricia Clason
Joie Seldon
Teaching coaches and clients how to utilize their emotions as a powerful tool for success.
Amber Cabral
Amber Cabral helps people human better at work and beyond.
Mike Griggs
Mike Griggs is a Husband, Father, Friend, Chaplain and Author helping people become who God created them to be!
Ruth Kongaika
Empowering Parents with Emotional Intelligence for Effective Role Modeling
Derek Bbanga
Helping you be seen, heard and remembered for the right reasons!
Jessica Soodeen
Revving up leaders with charisma and analytic savvy.
What Makes a Great Emotional Intelligence Speaker
Think about speakers like Brené Brown or Marc Brackett. They don't just inform-they connect. They share research, sure, but they also share vulnerability. A great emotional intelligence speaker is a master of balance: intellect and empathy, science and story, structure and spontaneity. They make complex psychological concepts feel personal and accessible.
And here's the kicker: they don't dominate the stage-they invite you into it. Whether they're speaking to a corporate boardroom in London or a virtual summit audience in Manila, they read the room and adapt. That adaptability is what sets them apart. It's not about having the perfect script-it's about having the emotional agility to respond in real time.
So if you're scouting for someone who can elevate your event, look for speakers who don't just talk about emotional intelligence-they live it. They'll leave your audience not just inspired, but transformed.
How to Select the Best Emotional Intelligence Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals.
- Are you speaking to HR professionals, startup founders, educators, or healthcare workers? Emotional intelligence hits differently depending on the crowd.
- Clarify what you want your audience to walk away with: practical tools, mindset shifts, or emotional resonance?
2. Search Strategically.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker profiles. Filter by topic, region, or availability.
- Look for speakers who have experience with your type of audience. A speaker who resonates with a corporate team in New York might not click with a nonprofit group in Nairobi.
3. Review Content and Delivery Style.
- Watch videos of past talks. Are they engaging? Do they explain concepts clearly?
- Read reviews or testimonials. Look for feedback on how the speaker made people feel-not just what they taught.
4. Evaluate Fit.
- Reach out and have a quick call. Ask about their approach to emotional intelligence. Do they lean more on neuroscience, storytelling, or coaching frameworks?
- Make sure their tone and energy match your show's vibe-whether that's high-energy, reflective, or somewhere in between.
5. Confirm Logistics and Flexibility.
- Can they adapt to live, virtual, or hybrid formats?
- Do they offer custom content or stick to a set keynote?
The right emotional intelligence speaker will not only deliver value-they'll align with your mission, your message, and your audience's moment.
How to Book an Emotional Intelligence Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist.
- Use speaker directories like Talks.co to find emotional intelligence experts who match your theme.
- Look for speakers with relevant experience, strong reviews, and a speaking style that fits your format.
2. Reach Out with Purpose.
- Send a concise email or message through their speaker page. Include your event date, audience type, and what you're hoping they'll deliver.
- Be clear about whether you're looking for a keynote, panelist, workshop leader, or podcast guest.
3. Discuss Scope and Customization.
- Ask if they can tailor their content to your audience. For example, a tech company might want a talk on emotional intelligence in remote teams, while a school might want one on student empathy.
- Clarify the length of the session, Q&A time, and whether they'll provide slides or handouts.
4. Confirm Fees and Terms.
- Be upfront about your budget. Some speakers offer tiered pricing based on format (live vs. virtual).
- Review their contract carefully. Make sure it covers cancellation policies, travel (if applicable), and recording rights.
5. Finalize and Promote.
- Once booked, promote the speaker on your event page, social media, and email campaigns.
- Share their bio, headshot, and a teaser of what they'll cover. This builds anticipation and boosts attendance.
Booking a great emotional intelligence speaker is about more than filling a slot-it's about creating a moment your audience will remember. Do it right, and you'll elevate your entire event.
Common Questions on Emotional Intelligence Speakers
What is an emotional intelligence speaker
Unlike general motivational speakers, emotional intelligence speakers focus on self-awareness, empathy, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills. They might draw from psychology, neuroscience, leadership theory, or coaching methodologies. The goal? To help people communicate better, lead more effectively, and build stronger relationships.
You'll find emotional intelligence speakers across industries. In education, they might help teachers foster emotional resilience in students. In business, they might train executives to lead with empathy. In healthcare, they might support providers in managing burnout and patient care dynamics.
These speakers often deliver keynotes, workshops, or virtual sessions. Some are authors or researchers, like Dr. Susan David, who coined the term 'emotional agility'. Others are coaches or consultants who've worked with teams around the world. What unites them is their ability to make emotional intelligence feel relevant, actionable, and urgent.
So if you're looking to bring more humanity into your event or workplace, an emotional intelligence speaker could be exactly what you need.
Why is an emotional intelligence speaker important
First, emotional intelligence is the foundation of effective communication. A speaker who specializes in this area can help teams recognize emotional triggers, respond instead of react, and create space for honest dialogue. That's huge in today's hybrid workplaces, where misunderstandings can derail progress fast.
Second, these speakers bring clarity to a topic that's often misunderstood. Emotional intelligence isn't just about being 'nice' or 'sensitive'. It's about being aware, intentional, and responsive. A skilled speaker breaks it down into real-world skills-like giving feedback without defensiveness or managing stress under pressure.
Third, emotional intelligence is tied to performance. Studies from Harvard, Yale, and the World Economic Forum all point to EQ as a top predictor of leadership success. When a speaker walks your audience through these insights, backed by stories and data, it sticks.
Finally, emotional intelligence speakers help shift culture. Whether you're a startup founder trying to build a resilient team or a school principal looking to support student wellbeing, these speakers offer frameworks that ripple beyond the stage.
In short, they don't just inform-they catalyze change. And in a world that's increasingly complex and emotionally charged, that's more than important. It's urgent.
What do emotional intelligence speakers do
- Educate on Core Concepts. They explain what emotional intelligence is, including its five key components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. They often use relatable examples from leadership, parenting, or team dynamics.
- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. Whether it's a 20-minute TED-style talk or a full-day training, these speakers tailor their content to fit the format and audience. For example, a keynote at a tech conference might focus on emotional intelligence in innovation teams, while a workshop for educators might explore classroom empathy strategies.
- Facilitate Real-Time Reflection. Many speakers include interactive elements like journaling prompts, breakout discussions, or live coaching demos. This helps the audience internalize the concepts rather than just hear them.
- Translate Research into Action. They bridge the gap between academic research and everyday life. For instance, they might explain how cortisol affects emotional regulation or how mirror neurons relate to empathy-and then show how that applies to difficult conversations at work.
- Support Organizational Change. Some emotional intelligence speakers also consult with companies or schools to embed EQ into culture, hiring, leadership development, or conflict resolution processes.
In essence, emotional intelligence speakers help people understand themselves and others better-so they can lead, collaborate, and live with more intention.
How to become an emotional intelligence speaker
1. Define Your Niche and Message
- Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a broad field. Are you focused on leadership, education, mental health, or workplace culture?
- Example: If you're passionate about EQ in schools, tailor your message to educators and parents.
2. Build Your Expertise
- Read foundational books like Daniel Goleman's "Emotional Intelligence" or Marc Brackett's "Permission to Feel."
- Take certifications in coaching, psychology, or emotional intelligence assessments (like EQ-i 2.0).
- Stay current with research and trends in neuroscience, communication, and empathy training.
3. Create Your Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include a compelling bio, high-quality headshot, demo video, and clear talk topics.
- Tip: Make your topics outcome-driven, like "How Emotional Intelligence Increases Team Productivity by 30%."
4. Start Speaking (Even for Free)
- Reach out to local schools, HR meetups, or virtual summits.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts looking for guest speakers.
- Record every talk to build your portfolio.
5. Collect Testimonials and Refine Your Pitch
- After each talk, ask for feedback and testimonials.
- Use these to improve your delivery and boost your credibility.
6. Monetize and Scale
- Once you've built a track record, start charging for gigs.
- Consider creating online workshops, courses, or coaching programs.
- Collaborate with other speakers or join speaker bureaus for more exposure.
Becoming an emotional intelligence speaker isn't about being perfect. It's about being real, informed, and impactful. Start where you are, and build from there.
What do you need to be an emotional intelligence speaker
First, you need a solid foundation in emotional intelligence itself. This includes understanding the five core components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. You don't need a psychology degree, but you do need to know how these elements play out in real-world scenarios-whether in boardrooms, classrooms, or communities.
Second, you'll need strong communication skills. EQ speakers must be able to read the room, adapt their tone, and connect with diverse audiences. This means practicing public speaking, storytelling, and active listening. Platforms like Toastmasters or online courses from Coursera or Udemy can help sharpen these skills.
Third, credibility matters. Certifications in emotional intelligence (like the EQ-i 2.0 or Six Seconds EQ Certification) can boost your authority. But so can real-world experience-whether you've led teams, coached clients, or facilitated workshops. If you're just starting out, consider volunteering to speak at local events or virtual summits to build your resume.
Fourth, you need visibility. A speaker page on Talks.co is a great place to start. It lets event organizers find you, see your topics, and book you directly. Include a demo video, testimonials, and a clear value proposition.
Finally, you need a growth mindset. Emotional intelligence is a lifelong journey. The best speakers are always learning, adapting, and evolving. Stay curious, stay humble, and stay connected to your audience's needs.
Do emotional intelligence speakers get paid
First, the demand for emotional intelligence has surged in recent years. According to LinkedIn's 2023 Workplace Learning Report, emotional intelligence ranks among the top five soft skills employers want. That means organizations are willing to invest in speakers who can teach these skills effectively.
However, not all EQ speakers earn the same. Here are some key variables:
- Experience Level: New speakers may earn $0 to $500 per talk, while seasoned professionals can command $5,000 to $20,000 per keynote.
- Audience Type: Corporate events tend to pay more than schools or nonprofits.
- Geographic Region: Speakers in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia often see higher rates than those in developing markets.
- Format: In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual webinars, but virtual events can offer more frequent gigs.
Pros:
- High demand in leadership, HR, and education sectors.
- Opportunities for recurring gigs (e.g., annual conferences).
- Ability to scale income through digital products.
Cons:
- Competitive field with varying entry barriers.
- Inconsistent income for freelancers.
- Requires ongoing marketing and networking.
In short, yes-EQ speakers get paid. But like any speaking niche, it takes time, strategy, and hustle to turn it into a reliable income stream.
How do emotional intelligence speakers make money
1. Keynote Speaking
- This is the most visible income stream. Corporations, schools, and conferences pay for high-impact talks on emotional intelligence.
- Rates vary widely, from $500 for local events to $20,000+ for top-tier speakers.
2. Workshops and Training Sessions
- Many EQ speakers offer half-day or full-day workshops for teams, especially in HR, leadership, or education.
- These sessions can be priced per participant or as a flat fee (e.g., $3,000 for a 3-hour workshop).
3. Online Courses and Webinars
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi allow speakers to create scalable digital products.
- Example: A speaker might sell a $99 course on "Emotional Intelligence for Remote Teams."
4. Coaching and Consulting
- Some speakers offer 1:1 coaching or consulting packages for executives or organizations.
- These can range from $150/hour to multi-thousand-dollar retainers.
5. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book can boost credibility and generate passive income.
- Self-publishing on Amazon or speaking at book-related events adds another layer of income.
6. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- Speakers with large followings may partner with brands or tools aligned with emotional intelligence (e.g., meditation apps, leadership platforms).
7. Talks.co and Virtual Summits
- Using platforms like Talks.co, speakers can connect with event hosts, get booked for summits, and even monetize through bundled ticket sales or upsells.
The most successful speakers don't rely on just one stream-they build a business ecosystem around their message.
How much do emotional intelligence speakers make
Experience Level | Typical Fee per Talk | Annual Income Range |
---|---|---|
Beginner | $0 - $500 | $0 - $10,000 |
Intermediate | $500 - $2,500 | $10,000 - $75,000 |
Advanced | $2,500 - $10,000 | $75,000 - $250,000 |
Celebrity/Expert | $10,000 - $50,000+ | $250,000 - $1M+ |
- Frequency of Gigs: A speaker doing 2 paid gigs per month at $2,000 each makes $48,000/year.
- Diversified Income: Add in online courses, coaching, or book royalties, and that number can double.
- Market Focus: Corporate gigs tend to pay more than education or nonprofit sectors.
- Geographic Reach: Speakers who work globally or virtually can scale faster.
Example: A mid-level EQ speaker might earn $1,500 per workshop, run a $299 online course, and coach 5 clients at $200/month. That's a six-figure business when done consistently.
So while there's no fixed salary, emotional intelligence speaking can be a lucrative path-especially when combined with smart business strategy.
How much do emotional intelligence speakers cost
1. Speaker Experience Level
- New or Local Speakers: $0 - $1,000. Often ideal for schools, nonprofits, or community events.
- Mid-Level Professionals: $1,000 - $5,000. These speakers typically have a few years of experience, some credentials, and a solid portfolio.
- Top-Tier Experts: $5,000 - $20,000+. These are authors, TEDx speakers, or consultants with a national or international reputation.
2. Format and Duration
- Keynotes (30-60 minutes): $1,000 - $15,000 depending on the speaker.
- Workshops (2-4 hours): $2,000 - $10,000.
- Full-Day Training: $5,000 - $20,000+.
- Virtual Events: Typically 30-50% less than in-person rates.
3. Add-Ons and Extras
- Travel and lodging (if in-person).
- Custom content development.
- Post-event coaching or consulting.
4. Platform Booking
- Booking through Talks.co or similar platforms may include bundled pricing or speaker packages.
Example Scenarios:
- A corporate leadership summit might pay $7,500 for a 1-hour keynote plus a breakout session.
- A school district may hire a speaker for $2,000 to run a 2-hour teacher training.
In short, emotional intelligence speakers can fit a range of budgets-but the more tailored and high-impact the session, the higher the cost.
Who are the best emotional intelligence speakers ever
1. Daniel Goleman
- Author of the groundbreaking book "Emotional Intelligence."
- His TED Talks and corporate keynotes have reached millions.
2. Brené Brown
- Known for her work on vulnerability and empathy.
- Her Netflix special and viral TEDx talk made emotional literacy mainstream.
3. Travis Bradberry
- Co-author of "Emotional Intelligence 2.0."
- Regular speaker at Fortune 500 events and leadership conferences.
4. Marc Brackett
- Founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence.
- His book "Permission to Feel" is a go-to in education and parenting circles.
5. Susan David
- Harvard psychologist and author of "Emotional Agility."
- Her talks blend science with actionable insights.
6. Robin Sharma
- While known for leadership, his talks often center on self-awareness and emotional mastery.
7. Tony Robbins
- Though not strictly an EQ speaker, his work on emotional state management has influenced millions.
8. Lisa Feldman Barrett
- Neuroscientist and author of "How Emotions Are Made."
- Brings a scientific lens to emotional intelligence.
These speakers have not only educated audiences-they've shifted how we think about emotions in leadership, education, and personal growth.
Who are the best emotional intelligence speakers in the world
1. Daniel Goleman (USA)
- Still one of the most requested names in corporate and academic circles.
- Focus: Leadership, education, and organizational EQ.
2. Brené Brown (USA)
- Continues to lead conversations on empathy, vulnerability, and courage.
- Popular in tech, healthcare, and education sectors.
3. Dr. Tasha Eurich (USA)
- Organizational psychologist and author of "Insight."
- Specializes in self-awareness and leadership EQ.
4. Dr. Travis Bradberry (USA)
- Co-founder of TalentSmart, a global EQ training firm.
- Speaks at major business and HR conferences worldwide.
5. Dr. Marc Brackett (USA)
- Active in education reform and emotional learning.
- Works with schools, governments, and nonprofits globally.
6. Dr. Susan David (South Africa/USA)
- Her work on emotional agility is used by Google, the World Economic Forum, and more.
7. Dr. Itamar Shatz (Israel)
- Researcher and speaker on emotional regulation and decision-making.
- Rising voice in academic and tech circles.
8. Vanessa Van Edwards (USA)
- Behavioral investigator and author of "Cues."
- Focuses on nonverbal communication and emotional signaling.
9. Michael Bungay Stanier (Canada)
- Known for his coaching style and emotional intelligence in leadership.
- Author of "The Coaching Habit."
10. Kemi Nekvapil (Australia)
- Speaker and coach focused on self-worth and emotional resilience.
- Popular in wellness and leadership events across Asia-Pacific.
These speakers are shaping how emotional intelligence is taught, understood, and applied across cultures and industries.
Common myths about emotional intelligence speakers
1. Myth: Emotional intelligence speakers only talk about 'feelings'.
This one's a classic misunderstanding. Sure, emotions are part of the conversation, but emotional intelligence (EQ) is about far more than just expressing or managing feelings. It includes self-awareness, empathy, decision-making, and conflict resolution. For example, Dr. Travis Bradberry, co-author of 'Emotional Intelligence 2.0', often speaks to corporate audiences about how EQ directly impacts leadership and performance metrics, not just interpersonal vibes.
2. Myth: EQ talks are too 'soft' for serious business environments.
Many assume that emotional intelligence is fluff. But research from Harvard Business Review and McKinsey shows that high-EQ leaders outperform their peers in productivity, retention, and innovation. Emotional intelligence speakers like Daniel Goleman have presented to Fortune 500 companies and military academies alike. EQ isn't soft - it's strategic.
3. Myth: Anyone with good people skills can be an emotional intelligence speaker.
Not quite. While charisma helps, EQ speakers need a deep understanding of psychology, neuroscience, and communication. They often tailor their content to specific industries, from healthcare to tech. For instance, an EQ speaker addressing burnout in Silicon Valley startups needs a very different toolkit than one working with educators in rural districts.
4. Myth: Emotional intelligence is innate, so it can't really be taught.
This belief is outdated. Studies from Yale and the University of London confirm that EQ can be developed over time. That's why emotional intelligence speakers are in demand: they offer frameworks, exercises, and real-world applications that help teams grow these skills intentionally.
5. Myth: EQ speakers are just motivational speakers in disguise.
While there's overlap, emotional intelligence speakers go beyond motivation. They often incorporate data, behavioral science, and coaching techniques into their sessions. Think of them as part educator, part strategist, part facilitator - not just someone hyping up a crowd.
Case studies of successful emotional intelligence speakers
Take Justin Bariso, for instance. He started as a business journalist and transitioned into speaking after his articles on emotional intelligence went viral. One of his most shared pieces, 'The Rule of Awkward Silence', led to invitations from tech companies in Germany and Singapore. His talks blend storytelling with science, helping leaders slow down and respond instead of react. His success shows how content-driven credibility can lead to a global speaking career.
Then there's Dr. Kandi Wiens, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania. She didn't set out to be a speaker, but her work on emotional intelligence and burnout in healthcare struck a nerve. After publishing in the Harvard Business Review, she began receiving requests from hospital systems across the U.S. Her talks now help medical professionals navigate emotional exhaustion with practical EQ tools. Her journey highlights how niche expertise can open unexpected doors.
In South Africa, Buhle Dlamini has built a reputation as a cross-cultural emotional intelligence speaker. He combines African proverbs, neuroscience, and corporate strategy to connect with audiences from Johannesburg to Toronto. His approach is deeply rooted in cultural context, showing that EQ isn't one-size-fits-all. His story underscores the importance of authenticity and local relevance.
And let's not forget Lisa Feldman Barrett. Though primarily a neuroscientist, her TED talks and books have made her a sought-after speaker on emotional intelligence. She challenges traditional views of emotion, offering a brain-based perspective that fascinates both academic and corporate audiences. Her case proves that thought leadership can fuel a speaking career, even without a traditional 'speaker' background.
These stories aren't just inspiring - they're instructive. They show that emotional intelligence speakers can emerge from journalism, academia, healthcare, or cross-cultural consulting. What they share is a commitment to clarity, relevance, and evidence-based insight.
Future trends for emotional intelligence speakers
First, there's a growing demand for virtual and hybrid delivery. Post-pandemic, companies are no longer flying in speakers for every event. Emotional intelligence speakers are adapting by creating interactive digital experiences - think breakout rooms, live polling, and real-time coaching. This shift is especially relevant for global teams across time zones.
Second, EQ is being tied more directly to metrics. Companies want to see ROI. That means emotional intelligence speakers are partnering with HR and L&D teams to track outcomes: reduced turnover, improved engagement, better team performance. Expect more speakers to offer pre- and post-session assessments, or even integrate with platforms like Culture Amp or 15Five.
Third, there's a trend toward industry-specific EQ content. A generic keynote isn't enough anymore. Speakers are customizing their message for sectors like fintech, education, or logistics. For example, an EQ talk for a cybersecurity firm might focus on managing stress under pressure, while one for a school district might emphasize empathy in conflict resolution.
Here are a few key trends to watch:
- AI-enhanced coaching tools. Emotional intelligence speakers are starting to use tools like BetterUp or CoachHub to extend their impact beyond the stage.
- Cultural intelligence integration. EQ is being blended with CQ (cultural intelligence) to support global teams. Speakers who can navigate both are in high demand.
- Micro-learning formats. Instead of hour-long keynotes, companies want snackable content: 10-minute EQ bursts for onboarding or leadership huddles.
- Youth and education focus. More speakers are targeting schools and universities, helping Gen Z build emotional skills early.
In short, emotional intelligence speakers are evolving from stage presenters to strategic partners. The ones who stay ahead will be those who combine insight with innovation.
Tools and resources for aspiring emotional intelligence speakers
1. Talks.co. This is a podcast guest matching platform that helps you get booked on shows aligned with your niche. It's a great way to test your message, build authority, and reach new audiences.
2. Six Seconds. One of the most respected EQ organizations globally. They offer certifications, assessments, and research-backed frameworks you can use in your talks. Their global network also opens doors to speaking opportunities in education, government, and business.
3. Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves. Not just a book, but a toolkit. It includes an online EQ assessment you can reference or recommend in your sessions.
4. LinkedIn Learning. There are excellent courses on public speaking, emotional intelligence, and instructional design. Use these to sharpen your delivery and structure your content for different audiences.
5. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can list your speaker profile, browse events, and connect with event organizers. It's especially useful for newer speakers looking to build a portfolio.
6. EQ-i 2.0 Certification. If you want to go deep, this is one of the most widely used EQ assessments in the world. Getting certified allows you to use data in your sessions and offer coaching add-ons.
7. Canva. For creating visually engaging slides that don't look like they were made in 2003. Use templates designed for speakers and educators.
8. Zoom Events. If you're doing virtual speaking, this platform offers more control and branding than basic Zoom meetings. Great for hosting your own workshops or mini-summits.
Pro tip: Combine these tools strategically. For example, use Talks.co to land podcast interviews, then direct listeners to a free EQ self-assessment from Six Seconds. Or design a short EQ workshop using content from LinkedIn Learning and deliver it via Zoom Events. The key is to build a flywheel that reinforces your brand and value as an emotional intelligence speaker.