Emotions Speakers

Not every speaker is built to move hearts. An emotions speaker is someone who specializes in delivering talks that focus on emotional intelligence, human connection, and the inner experiences that shape our lives.

Unlike motivational speakers who often focus on action and achievement, emotions speakers dive into the 'why' behind our behaviors. They explore topics like vulnerability, grief, joy, resilience, and empathy. Their goal isn't just to inform or entertain-it's to make people feel.

You'll find emotions speakers in a wide range of settings: corporate wellness retreats, mental health summits, educational conferences, and even startup culture events. Their talks often blend personal storytelling with psychological insights or cultural commentary. Think of speakers like Esther Perel, who brings emotional nuance to conversations about relationships and intimacy.

What sets emotions speakers apart is their ability to hold space. They're not just delivering content-they're guiding an emotional journey. And in a world where attention is scarce but connection is craved, that's a powerful skill.

So, if you're curating a show or event where emotional depth matters, an emotions speaker isn't just a good fit-they might be essential.

When was the last time you remembered a talk because of how it made you feel, not just what it said? That's where emotions speakers come in.

In today's world, audiences are craving more than facts. They want connection. Emotions speakers help bridge the gap between information and transformation. Whether it's a corporate team struggling with burnout or a group of students navigating identity, these speakers bring emotional clarity to complex experiences.

In business, for example, emotions speakers can help leaders understand the emotional undercurrents that affect team dynamics. In education, they can help teachers connect with students on a human level. And in healthcare, they can offer compassion-centered perspectives that go beyond clinical data.

They also play a crucial role in virtual events, where emotional presence is harder to convey. A skilled emotions speaker can cut through the digital noise and create moments of real resonance-even through a screen.

Ultimately, emotions speakers are important because they remind us of our shared humanity. They don't just speak to minds-they speak to hearts. And in doing so, they help audiences not only learn, but feel seen, heard, and understood.

Emotions speakers specialize in guiding audiences through emotional experiences using spoken word, storytelling, and psychological insight. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Craft Emotionally Resonant Talks. They design presentations that focus on emotional themes like vulnerability, grief, joy, resilience, or empathy. These talks are often structured to create an emotional arc-starting with connection, moving through tension, and ending with resolution.

- Facilitate Emotional Awareness. Many emotions speakers incorporate tools from emotional intelligence, psychology, or mindfulness to help audiences better understand their own feelings. For example, a speaker at a leadership retreat might teach how to recognize emotional triggers in high-stress situations.

- Adapt to Diverse Audiences. Whether they're speaking to a startup team in Berlin or a group of high school counselors in Atlanta, emotions speakers adjust their tone, language, and content to meet the emotional literacy of the audience.

- Use Personal and Cultural Narratives. They often share personal stories or culturally relevant examples to make emotional concepts relatable. This might include referencing global events, pop culture, or historical movements to ground their message.

- Create Safe Emotional Spaces. During live or virtual events, emotions speakers are often responsible for setting the tone. They may open with grounding exercises, invite audience reflection, or lead Q&A sessions that prioritize emotional safety.

In short, emotions speakers do more than talk-they create emotional experiences that stay with people long after the event ends.

Becoming an emotions speaker isn't just about sharing your feelings on stage. It's about mastering the art of emotional intelligence, storytelling, and connection. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Identify Your Emotional Expertise.
- Are you passionate about grief recovery, emotional resilience, or mental health advocacy? Pinpoint the emotional themes you connect with most.
- Tip: Look at your own life experiences or professional background. Therapists, educators, and coaches often transition into emotions speaking.

2. Develop Your Signature Talk.
- Craft a compelling narrative that weaves personal stories with actionable takeaways.
- Use frameworks like the Hero's Journey or the TED-style three-part structure.
- Example: Brené Brown's talks on vulnerability are powerful because they blend research with raw honesty.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Create a professional speaker profile on platforms like Talks.co. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a high-quality video reel.
- Tip: Keep your messaging clear. Focus on the emotional transformation you offer audiences.

4. Practice and Get Feedback.
- Start small: local meetups, schools, or webinars.
- Record your talks and ask for feedback from trusted peers or mentors.
- Join speaker communities or Toastmasters to refine your delivery.

5. Connect With Hosts and Event Organizers.
- Use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and conference planners.
- Reach out with a short pitch that highlights your unique emotional angle and audience impact.

6. Scale With Strategy.
- Once you've got momentum, build a lead magnet or online course around your topic.
- Consider hosting your own virtual summits to grow your audience and authority.

Remember, emotions speakers thrive when they're authentic, prepared, and aligned with the right audience. Start where you are, and build from there.

To be an emotions speaker, you need more than just a compelling story. You need a toolkit that blends emotional intelligence, communication skills, and strategic positioning.

First, let's talk about emotional literacy. This means being able to recognize, understand, and articulate emotions-both your own and others'. It's the foundation of your message. Whether you're speaking on trauma recovery, empathy in leadership, or emotional wellness, your credibility comes from your ability to navigate complex feelings with clarity.

Next, you need strong public speaking skills. This includes vocal control, body language, pacing, and audience engagement. You don't have to be theatrical, but you do need to be present and persuasive. Practice is key. Platforms like Toastmasters or speaker coaching programs can help you refine your delivery.

You'll also need a clear brand and message. What's your core emotional theme? Who is your audience? Are you speaking to corporate teams about burnout, or to teens about self-worth? Your speaker page-especially on platforms like Talks.co-should reflect this. Include your bio, speaking topics, testimonials, and a video clip that captures your style.

Finally, you need a network. Emotions speakers often get booked through referrals, podcast appearances, or virtual summits. Talks.co is a great place to connect with hosts and event organizers who are looking for emotionally-driven content. Building relationships in the wellness, education, or personal development spaces can also open doors.

In short, to be an emotions speaker, you need emotional depth, communication skills, a strong message, and a platform to share it. Combine those, and you're on your way.

Yes, emotions speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors, including their niche, experience, and audience. Let's break it down.

First, emotions speakers who focus on corporate wellness, leadership development, or mental health in the workplace often command higher fees. Companies are increasingly investing in emotional intelligence training and employee well-being. According to a 2023 report by HR.com, 74% of HR leaders said emotional intelligence is a top priority in leadership training.

On the other hand, speakers who focus on youth empowerment, grief support, or community healing may find more opportunities in nonprofit or educational settings, where budgets can be tighter. These gigs may offer lower fees but can lead to long-term partnerships or product sales.

Pros:
- High demand in corporate and wellness sectors.
- Opportunities for recurring gigs (e.g., annual retreats, leadership programs).
- Can monetize through books, coaching, or courses.

Cons:
- Inconsistent income, especially when starting out.
- Some events offer exposure instead of pay.
- Requires ongoing marketing and networking.

In short, yes, emotions speakers get paid-but the income varies widely. The key is to align your message with the right audience and value proposition. As mentioned in 'How do emotions speakers make money', multiple income streams can make this career sustainable.

Emotions speakers make money through a mix of direct speaking fees and supplemental income streams. Let's look at the main ways they generate revenue:

1. Speaking Engagements.
- This includes keynotes, workshops, panels, and webinars.
- Corporate events tend to pay the most, especially for topics like emotional intelligence, burnout prevention, or leadership empathy.
- Example: A speaker at a Fortune 500 leadership summit might earn $5,000 to $15,000 for a 60-minute keynote.

2. Online Courses and Coaching.
- Many emotions speakers package their expertise into digital products.
- For instance, a speaker on emotional resilience might offer a 6-week coaching program or a self-paced course.
- This creates passive income and deepens audience transformation.

3. Book Sales.
- Publishing a book can boost credibility and income.
- Speakers often sell books at events or use them as lead magnets.
- Example: Susan David's book 'Emotional Agility' helped her land more speaking gigs and media appearances.

4. Virtual Summits and Podcasts.
- Hosting or guesting on summits and podcasts builds visibility.
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with hosts and monetize through affiliate offers or upsells.

5. Consulting and Retainers.
- Some speakers offer consulting to organizations on emotional culture, DEI, or trauma-informed leadership.
- These retainers can be lucrative and stable.

In short, emotions speakers make money by diversifying their offerings. Speaking is just the start-building a business around your message is where the real growth happens.

The income of emotions speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and business model. Let's break it down with some real-world figures and scenarios.
Entry-Level Speakers:
- Typically earn $500 to $2,000 per talk.
- Often speak at schools, nonprofits, or local events.
- May supplement income with coaching or part-time work.
Mid-Level Speakers:
- Earn $2,000 to $7,500 per engagement.
- Speak at conferences, corporate trainings, or wellness retreats.
- Often have a book or course that adds to their revenue.
Top-Tier Speakers:
- Can command $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- Regularly speak at global summits, Fortune 500 events, or TEDx stages.
- Often have multiple income streams: consulting, licensing, online programs.
Here's a quick comparison table:

Speaker Level	Typical Fee	Other Income Sources
Beginner	$500-$2,000	Coaching, local gigs
Intermediate	$2,000-$7,500	Books, courses, podcasts
Expert	$10,000+	Consulting, licensing

Keep in mind, location and industry matter. A speaker in Silicon Valley talking about emotional intelligence in tech leadership may earn more than someone doing community talks in rural areas. But both can build sustainable careers with the right strategy. As mentioned in 'How do emotions speakers make money', diversifying income is key.

Hiring an emotions speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the speaker's experience, the event type, and the audience size.

Here's a breakdown of typical costs:

- Local or Emerging Speakers: $500 - $2,000.
These are often newer speakers or professionals who speak part-time. Great for schools, community events, or small business workshops.

- Mid-Level Speakers: $2,000 - $7,500.
These speakers have a solid track record, a speaker page (often on platforms like Talks.co), and some media exposure. Ideal for corporate wellness days or industry conferences.

- High-Profile Speakers: $10,000 - $50,000+.
These are bestselling authors, TEDx speakers, or media personalities. They're often booked for major events, leadership retreats, or global summits.

Other factors that influence cost:
- Location: Virtual talks are often cheaper than in-person ones.
- Customization: A tailored workshop or keynote may cost more than a standard talk.
- Add-ons: Travel, book bundles, or follow-up coaching can increase the total fee.

If you're an event organizer, it's smart to use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles, fees, and availability. You can often negotiate packages that include multiple sessions or digital content.

Bottom line: Emotions speakers vary in price, but the right one can deliver lasting value to your audience.

Brené Brown. Known for her groundbreaking work on vulnerability and shame, her TED Talk 'The Power of Vulnerability' has over 60 million views.

Tony Robbins. While often categorized as a motivational speaker, Robbins dives deep into emotional mastery and personal transformation.

Susan David. A Harvard psychologist and author of 'Emotional Agility', her work bridges science and emotion in a powerful way.

Oprah Winfrey. A media icon who has consistently used her platform to explore emotional healing, trauma, and self-worth.

Daniel Goleman. Author of 'Emotional Intelligence', his research reshaped how we think about emotions in leadership and education.

Lisa Nichols. A dynamic speaker who focuses on emotional breakthroughs and self-empowerment, especially for women of color.

Iyanla Vanzant. Known for her spiritual and emotional guidance on shows like 'Iyanla: Fix My Life'.

Nick Vujicic. Born without limbs, his emotional storytelling and resilience have inspired millions globally.

Mel Robbins. Blends neuroscience with emotional coaching, known for her '5 Second Rule' and relatable delivery.

Dr. Gabor Maté. A physician and speaker who connects trauma, addiction, and emotional health in a deeply human way.

Jay Shetty. Former monk turned global speaker, his talks blend emotional wisdom with modern storytelling.

Esther Perel. A psychotherapist and speaker who explores emotional dynamics in relationships and workplaces.

Mo Gawdat. Former Google X executive who speaks on happiness and emotional resilience after personal tragedy.

Najwa Zebian. Lebanese-Canadian poet and speaker who brings emotional healing to the forefront of her talks.

Dr. Thema Bryant. President of the American Psychological Association, her talks on trauma and healing are both academic and soulful.

Preethaji. Indian spiritual teacher and speaker who focuses on emotional consciousness and inner peace.

Trent Shelton. Former NFL player turned speaker, known for raw, emotional messages on self-worth and purpose.

Marisa Peer. British therapist and speaker who focuses on emotional reprogramming and self-belief.

Yung Pueblo. Poet and speaker whose emotional insights resonate with global audiences, especially millennials.

Lori Gottlieb. Therapist and author of 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone', her talks bridge clinical insight with emotional storytelling.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions floating around about emotions speakers. These myths not only mislead aspiring speakers but also undervalue the depth and impact of emotional communication.

1. Myth: Emotions speakers are just motivational speakers with a softer tone.
- This one comes up a lot. While both may inspire audiences, emotions speakers focus on emotional intelligence, empathy, and psychological insight. Think Brené Brown versus Tony Robbins. Brown dives into vulnerability and shame with research-backed insights, while Robbins leans into peak performance and energy. Different tools, different outcomes.

2. Myth: You need a psychology degree to be an emotions speaker.
- Not true. While a background in psychology can help, many successful emotions speakers come from diverse fields like education, leadership, healthcare, or even the arts. What matters more is emotional fluency, storytelling ability, and the capacity to connect deeply with audiences.

3. Myth: Emotions speakers only talk about sadness or trauma.
- Emotions aren't just about tears. Joy, awe, courage, empathy, and even humor are all part of the emotional spectrum. Emotions speakers often explore the full range to help people understand themselves and others better. For example, Simon Sinek speaks about purpose and belonging-both deeply emotional topics that aren't necessarily heavy.

4. Myth: Emotional content is too 'soft' for corporate settings.
- Actually, emotional intelligence is one of the most in-demand leadership skills today. Emotions speakers are increasingly booked for leadership retreats, HR summits, and DEI events. Companies like Google and Microsoft have hosted speakers on empathy, resilience, and psychological safety.

5. Myth: If you're not naturally emotional, you can't be an emotions speaker.
- Emotional expression is a skill, not a personality trait. Some of the best speakers are introverts who've learned to tap into their emotional experiences and share them authentically. It's not about being dramatic-it's about being real.

In 2010, Brené Brown gave a TEDx talk on vulnerability that she almost didn't publish. She thought it was too personal, too raw. But that talk went viral, now with over 60 million views. Her willingness to speak openly about shame and imperfection didn't just launch her speaking career-it shifted the global conversation about emotional resilience. What started as academic research turned into bestselling books, Netflix specials, and corporate keynotes.

Then there's Jay Shetty. A former monk turned storyteller, Jay blends ancient wisdom with modern emotional challenges. His talks on love, purpose, and self-awareness resonate with audiences across cultures. He didn't come from a traditional speaking background-he built his platform through YouTube and social media, proving that digital-first emotions speakers can thrive globally.

In the corporate world, Dr. Susan David, a Harvard psychologist and author of 'Emotional Agility', has become a go-to speaker for Fortune 500 companies. Her talks on emotional truth and adaptability have helped leaders navigate change and uncertainty. She's not flashy. She's precise, grounded, and deeply impactful.

From a different angle, South African speaker Vusi Thembekwayo integrates emotional storytelling with business strategy. His talks often begin with personal stories of adversity, then pivot into lessons on leadership and innovation. His emotional authenticity builds trust before he even gets to the data.

These speakers didn't follow a single path. Some came from academia, others from spirituality or entrepreneurship. What they share is the ability to connect emotion to action-to help audiences feel something, then do something.

The landscape for emotions speakers is shifting, and if you're paying attention, you'll see some fascinating patterns emerging. Here's what's shaping the next wave:

- Hybrid speaking formats are becoming the norm. More organizers are blending in-person and virtual events. Emotions speakers who can adapt their delivery to both formats-without losing emotional depth-will stand out.

- Data-backed emotional storytelling is gaining traction. Audiences want to feel, but they also want proof. Speakers who combine personal stories with neuroscience, psychology, or behavioral data (like Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett does) are getting more bookings, especially in corporate and healthcare sectors.

- Cultural intelligence is becoming essential. As global audiences become more diverse, emotions speakers need to be fluent not just in feelings, but in context. What vulnerability means in Tokyo might differ from what it means in Toronto. Speakers who can navigate these nuances will have broader reach.

- AI and emotional tech are opening new doors. Tools that measure audience sentiment in real-time or help speakers refine their emotional tone are emerging. While this tech is still early-stage, forward-thinking speakers are experimenting with it to improve delivery and engagement.

- Micro-niche emotional topics are rising. Instead of general talks on 'emotional intelligence', we're seeing more demand for focused topics like 'emotional safety in remote teams' or 'navigating grief in leadership'. The more specific your angle, the more likely you'll resonate with targeted audiences.

Looking ahead, emotions speakers who blend authenticity with adaptability, and insight with innovation, will lead the charge. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, keeping an eye on these trends can help you stay relevant and resonant.

If you're looking to step into the world of emotions speaking, having the right tools can make a huge difference. Here's a curated list of platforms, books, and resources to help you build your skills, find gigs, and grow your audience:

1. Talks.co. A smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts. Great for emotions speakers looking to build credibility and reach new audiences through intimate, emotionally rich conversations.

2. Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks. This book is a goldmine for learning how to tell emotionally compelling stories. Dicks breaks down how to find and shape stories that resonate, even if you think your life isn't 'storyworthy'.

3. Emotion Wheel by Plutchik. A visual tool that helps you identify and articulate complex emotions. Use it to deepen your content or help audiences name what they're feeling.

4. LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on emotional intelligence, storytelling, and public speaking. Especially useful for beginners or those transitioning from other careers.

5. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. Tailor your profile to highlight your emotional expertise and niche.

6. The Moth. Not just a podcast-it's a storytelling movement. Listening to The Moth can help you understand how to structure emotional narratives. You can also pitch your own story or attend a workshop.

7. Notion. Use it to organize your talk outlines, emotional story banks, audience feedback, and research. It's flexible and perfect for building a content library over time.

8. Canva. Design emotionally resonant slide decks or social media posts that support your message. Visuals matter, especially when you're dealing with subtle emotional themes.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose-some help you get booked, others help you craft your message. Start with one or two, and build your toolkit as you grow.