Empathy Speakers

An empathy speaker is someone who uses emotional intelligence, storytelling, and active listening to connect deeply with an audience - not just to inform, but to understand and be understood.

Unlike traditional keynote speakers who may focus solely on expertise or performance, empathy speakers prioritize the emotional landscape of their listeners. They're tuned in to the unspoken needs in the room, whether that's grief, burnout, hope, or resilience. Their talks are often shaped by lived experiences, social awareness, and a commitment to inclusion.

Empathy speakers can come from any background - mental health professionals, educators, DEI consultants, even entrepreneurs who've led with compassion. What unites them is their ability to create a safe space through words. They don't just deliver a message - they invite dialogue, reflection, and connection.

In a world increasingly driven by data and speed, empathy speakers remind us to slow down and feel. And that's not just a nice-to-have - it's a necessity in leadership, education, healthcare, and beyond.

When people feel heard, they listen differently. That's where an empathy speaker comes in - not just to speak, but to create space for others to feel seen.

Empathy speakers are crucial in contexts where emotional nuance matters. Think about a corporate team recovering from layoffs, a school navigating trauma, or a nonprofit addressing systemic injustice. In these moments, facts alone won't move the needle. You need someone who can hold space, validate emotion, and guide people toward healing or action.

They also help bridge divides. In multicultural teams or global events, empathy speakers can model inclusive communication that acknowledges diverse experiences. This is especially relevant in today's hybrid work environments, where emotional disconnect is a growing challenge.

And from a business standpoint? Empathy speakers can boost engagement, retention, and trust. Audiences remember how a speaker made them feel - and that emotional resonance can drive real change, whether it's a shift in mindset or a new organizational policy.

So whether you're running a summit, a team retreat, or a community forum, bringing in an empathy speaker isn't just thoughtful - it's strategic.

Empathy speakers do more than deliver talks - they facilitate emotional connection, foster understanding, and often catalyze change. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue.
Empathy speakers often open with personal stories or reflective questions that disarm defensiveness and invite openness. This is especially powerful in corporate DEI sessions or educational settings.

- Tailor Content to Emotional Contexts.
Whether speaking to healthcare workers post-pandemic or students facing mental health challenges, empathy speakers adjust their tone, language, and content to meet the emotional needs of the audience.

- Model Vulnerability and Authenticity.
They don't shy away from difficult topics like grief, bias, or burnout. Instead, they model how to talk about them with honesty and care - which encourages others to do the same.

- Facilitate Post-Talk Engagement.
Many empathy speakers stay for Q&As, breakout sessions, or follow-up workshops. Their role doesn't end at the mic - they often help guide the next steps.

- Collaborate with Hosts to Maximize Impact.
As mentioned in 'How to Book a empathy speaker', they often co-create sessions with organizers to ensure alignment with the event's goals and audience needs.

In short, empathy speakers are emotional translators. They take complex, often heavy human experiences and make them digestible, relatable, and actionable - one story, one moment, one connection at a time.

Becoming an empathy speaker isn't just about standing on a stage and talking about feelings. It's about connecting deeply with people, translating emotional intelligence into action, and offering real value. Here's a practical step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Define Your Empathy Niche.
- Are you focused on workplace empathy? Trauma-informed leadership? Cross-cultural understanding? Get specific.
- Example: Dr. Kristin Neff focuses on self-compassion, while someone like Simon Sinek leans into empathetic leadership.

2. Develop Your Story and Message.
- Your story is your power. Shape it into a compelling narrative that highlights your empathy journey.
- Tip: Use the 'hero's journey' structure to make your message relatable and memorable.

3. Build Your Speaking Assets.
- Create a speaker page with your bio, topics, testimonials, and a high-quality video reel.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with virtual event hosts and podcast producers.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Offer free talks at schools, nonprofits, or local meetups to refine your delivery.
- Record every session. Use the footage to improve and promote yourself.

5. Network Strategically.
- Join speaker communities, LinkedIn groups, and empathy-focused forums.
- Reach out to podcast hosts and virtual summit organizers. Talks.co is a great tool for this.

6. Get Feedback and Iterate.
- Ask for honest feedback after every talk. What moved people? What fell flat?
- Use this to tweak your content and delivery.

7. Monetize and Position Yourself.
- Once you've got traction, start charging for keynotes, workshops, and consulting.
- Position yourself as a thought leader by publishing articles, hosting webinars, or launching a podcast.

Empathy speakers are in demand across industries-from healthcare to tech to education. The key is to start where you are, build credibility, and keep showing up with heart and clarity.

To be an empathy speaker, you need more than just a good story or a microphone. It's about cultivating a unique blend of emotional intelligence, communication skills, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down:

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Empathy speakers must be able to read a room, understand diverse perspectives, and respond with compassion. This means actively developing your EQ through mindfulness, active listening, and self-awareness practices.

A Clear, Authentic Message
You need a message that resonates. Whether you're speaking about grief, inclusion, or leadership, your message should be rooted in personal truth and backed by insight. Think of Brené Brown-her vulnerability is her strength, and it's what makes her message stick.

Public Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TED Talk pro from day one, but you do need to be able to hold attention, structure your talk, and speak with clarity. Consider taking a speaking course or joining Toastmasters to refine your delivery.

A Platform to Share From
Having a speaker page is essential. This is your digital handshake. It should include:
- A compelling bio
- Speaking topics
- Testimonials
- A video reel
- Links to Talks.co or other platforms where hosts can book you

Credibility and Experience
You don't need a PhD, but you do need credibility. This could come from lived experience, professional background, or thought leadership. Publishing articles, appearing on podcasts, or hosting your own events can all build your authority.

Connection Tools
Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event hosts, podcast producers, and virtual summit organizers. These tools streamline the process and help you get booked faster.

In short, being an empathy speaker is about combining heart with strategy. It's not just what you say-it's how you say it, who you say it to, and how you show up consistently.

Yes, empathy speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's look at the landscape.

Market Demand
In today's world, empathy is a hot topic. Companies are investing in emotional intelligence training, schools are prioritizing social-emotional learning, and virtual events are hungry for speakers who can connect on a human level. That means there's real demand for empathy speakers across industries.

Experience and Niche
New speakers might start out doing free gigs or small honorariums, but seasoned empathy speakers-especially those with a strong brand or unique angle-can command significant fees.

Virtual vs. In-Person
Virtual events typically pay less than in-person keynotes, but they're more frequent and easier to scale. Many empathy speakers use virtual talks to build their brand and funnel into higher-ticket offerings like workshops or consulting.

Typical Payment Models
- Flat keynote fee (e.g., $500 to $10,000+)
- Workshop facilitation (hourly or per session)
- Panel appearances (often unpaid but high visibility)
- Paid podcast appearances (less common, but growing)

Pros
- Growing demand in corporate and education sectors.
- Multiple income streams possible (see next section).
- Opportunity to build a personal brand.

Cons
- Competitive space-storytelling and positioning matter.
- Some events offer exposure instead of payment.
- Requires ongoing marketing and outreach.

So yes, empathy speakers absolutely get paid-but the ones who do it consistently treat it like a business, not a hobby.

Empathy speakers make money in a variety of ways, and the most successful ones diversify their income streams. Here's a breakdown of the most common revenue models:

1. Keynote Speaking
This is the bread and butter for many empathy speakers. Corporations, schools, and conferences often pay for keynote addresses that focus on emotional intelligence, inclusion, or mental health.
- Example: A speaker might earn $2,500 for a 45-minute keynote at a corporate wellness summit.

2. Workshops and Training Sessions
Empathy speakers often run half-day or full-day workshops for HR teams, educators, or healthcare professionals.
- These sessions can command higher fees-anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the client and scope.

3. Consulting and Coaching
Some speakers offer 1-on-1 coaching or organizational consulting on empathy-driven leadership or DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) strategies.
- This model provides recurring income and deeper client relationships.

4. Online Courses and Digital Products
Creating a course on platforms like Teachable or Kajabi allows speakers to scale their message.
- Example: A course on 'Empathy in the Workplace' priced at $199 could generate passive income.

5. Books and Publications
Publishing a book can boost credibility and bring in royalties. Self-publishing is common, but traditional deals are possible for those with a strong platform.

6. Virtual Events and Summits
Using platforms like Zoom, empathy speakers can host or participate in virtual summits. These can be monetized through ticket sales, sponsorships, or upsells.

7. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
Speakers with a strong following can partner with brands that align with their message.
- Example: Promoting a mindfulness app during a webinar.

In short, empathy speakers who treat their craft like a business-and build multiple income streams-are the ones who thrive financially.

Empathy speakers can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars per event to six figures annually, depending on their experience, niche, and business model. Let's break it down by tier:

Experience Level	Typical Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Intermediate	$500 - $2,500	$10,000 - $75,000
Established Expert	$2,500 - $10,000	$75,000 - $250,000+
Celebrity/Author	$10,000 - $50,000+	$250,000 - $1M+

Key Factors That Influence Earnings
- Niche Appeal: Empathy in tech leadership? High demand. Empathy in parenting? Also valuable, but different audience.
- Geographic Reach: Speakers who can present globally (virtually or in-person) have more opportunities.
- Marketing and Visibility: Those with a strong online presence and media exposure tend to command higher fees.
- Product Ecosystem: Speakers who also sell courses, books, or consulting packages earn more over time.
Example Scenarios
- A mid-level empathy speaker doing 2 paid talks per month at $1,500 each could earn $36,000 annually.
- An established speaker with a $5,000 keynote fee and 20 bookings per year would make $100,000, not including workshops or digital products.
The bottom line: empathy speakers can make a solid income-but it requires strategic positioning, consistent outreach, and diversified offerings.

Hiring an empathy speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several variables. Here's a breakdown of what influences pricing:
1. Speaker Experience and Reputation
- New or local speakers: $250 - $1,000 per talk.
- Mid-level professionals: $1,000 - $5,000.
- High-profile experts or authors: $5,000 - $25,000+.
- Celebrity-level speakers: $25,000 - $100,000+.
2. Type of Engagement
- Keynote speeches: Typically the highest cost per hour.
- Workshops or training sessions: May be priced per half-day or full-day.
- Panel discussions or virtual events: Often lower-cost, sometimes free.
3. Format and Delivery
- In-person events: Include travel, lodging, and per diem expenses.
- Virtual sessions: Lower logistical costs, often priced 20-40% less.
4. Industry and Budget
- Corporate clients: Usually have larger budgets and expect polished delivery.
- Nonprofits or schools: May negotiate lower rates or offer honorariums.
5. Add-ons and Licensing
- Want to record the session for internal use? That might cost extra.
- Need a custom workshop or follow-up coaching? Expect add-on fees.
Sample Pricing Table

Engagement Type	Cost Range
Virtual Keynote	$500 - $7,500
In-Person Keynote	$2,000 - $25,000
Half-Day Workshop	$1,500 - $10,000
Full-Day Training	$3,000 - $20,000

Hiring an empathy speaker is an investment in culture, connection, and communication. The price reflects not just the time on stage, but the years of experience and emotional labor behind it.

Brené Brown. Known for her groundbreaking work on vulnerability and shame, Brené's TED Talk 'The Power of Vulnerability' has over 60 million views. She's arguably the most influential empathy speaker of our time.

Fred Rogers (Mister Rogers). Though not a traditional speaker, his public addresses and TV presence modeled empathy for generations. His 1969 Senate testimony is legendary.

Maya Angelou. As a poet and speaker, Angelou's words on compassion, race, and humanity continue to resonate. Her quote 'People will forget what you said... but never how you made them feel' is a cornerstone of empathy-based communication.

Desmond Tutu. The South African archbishop and human rights activist spoke globally about forgiveness and reconciliation. His messages were deeply rooted in empathy and justice.

Marshall Rosenberg. Founder of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Rosenberg taught empathy as a skill. His workshops and books laid the foundation for many modern empathy speakers.

Thich Nhat Hanh. A Vietnamese Zen master who spoke globally on mindfulness and compassion. His talks blended spirituality with practical empathy.

Barack Obama. While primarily a political leader, Obama's speeches often centered on empathy, especially in moments of national crisis.

Jane Goodall. Known for her work with chimpanzees, Goodall's talks often emphasize empathy across species and environmental stewardship.

Simon Sinek. Though more known for leadership, his 'Start With Why' philosophy is rooted in understanding others' motivations-a key form of empathy.

Oprah Winfrey. Her interviews and speeches consistently model empathetic listening and emotional intelligence.

Dr. Kristin Neff (USA). A pioneer in self-compassion research, Neff speaks globally on the science and practice of empathy toward oneself.

Jay Shetty (UK/India). Former monk turned speaker and author, Shetty blends ancient wisdom with modern storytelling to promote empathy and mindfulness.

Leymah Gbowee (Liberia). Nobel Peace Prize winner who speaks on peacebuilding, trauma, and empathy in conflict zones.

Yassmin Abdel-Magied (Australia/Sudan). An engineer and activist, she speaks on empathy in diversity, inclusion, and cross-cultural understanding.

Dr. Edith Eger (USA/Hungary). Holocaust survivor and psychologist, Eger speaks with profound empathy about trauma, healing, and forgiveness.

Van Jones (USA). Political commentator and activist, Jones delivers powerful talks on empathy across political and racial divides.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria). Her TED Talk 'The Danger of a Single Story' is a masterclass in empathetic storytelling.

Mo Gawdat (Egypt/UK). Former Google X executive turned happiness speaker, Gawdat's talks focus on emotional resilience and empathy in tech.

Valeria Luiselli (Mexico/USA). A novelist and speaker who addresses empathy in immigration, storytelling, and social justice.

Sophie Andrews (UK). Founder of The Silver Line, she speaks on empathy in elder care and mental health support.

Myth 1: Empathy speakers are just motivational fluff.
This one's common, especially among skeptics in corporate or tech circles. The assumption is that empathy speakers deliver feel-good talks without substance. But take someone like Brené Brown. Her talks on vulnerability and empathy are grounded in decades of research, and she's been invited to speak at Fortune 500 companies, military academies, and global conferences. Her work has influenced leadership training programs and HR policies. That's not fluff - that's impact backed by data.

Myth 2: You have to be a therapist or psychologist to be an empathy speaker.
Not true. While some empathy speakers do come from clinical backgrounds, many come from business, education, healthcare, or even entertainment. What matters is your ability to connect, communicate, and translate emotional intelligence into practical insights. For example, actor and activist America Ferrera has spoken powerfully about empathy and representation, drawing from her lived experience, not a psychology degree.

Myth 3: Empathy speaking is only relevant in nonprofit or social sectors.
Actually, empathy is becoming a competitive advantage in business. In customer experience, team leadership, and brand storytelling, empathy drives loyalty and innovation. Think about Satya Nadella at Microsoft - his leadership style, rooted in empathy, transformed the company culture and boosted performance. Empathy speakers are increasingly being brought into boardrooms, not just community centers.

Myth 4: Empathy speakers are always soft-spoken and passive.
This stereotype misses the mark. Empathy doesn't mean weakness. It means understanding others deeply - and that can be delivered with strength and conviction. Speakers like Simon Sinek or Priya Parker bring intensity and clarity to their talks, challenging audiences while staying grounded in empathy.

Myth 5: You can't make a living as an empathy speaker.
Plenty of speakers build thriving businesses around empathy-focused keynotes, workshops, and consulting. The key is positioning. Empathy is a lens - not a limitation. When combined with a clear niche (like leadership, education, or DEI), it becomes a powerful differentiator in the speaking world.

When a former nurse from Melbourne stepped onto the TEDx stage, few expected her talk on patient dignity to go viral. But it did. Her name is Kate Granger, and her message was simple: healthcare needs more empathy. Drawing from her own experience as a terminal cancer patient, she launched the #hellomynameis campaign, urging medical professionals to introduce themselves to patients. It sparked a global movement and changed hospital policies across the UK and beyond.

Then there's Emmanuel Acho. A former NFL linebacker, he pivoted into media and launched 'Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man' during the height of racial tensions in the US. His calm, empathetic tone made difficult topics accessible. He wasn't preaching - he was inviting. That series led to a bestselling book and speaking engagements at universities, corporations, and even the White House.

In the corporate world, Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia, has become a sought-after speaker on empathetic leadership. Her talks blend neuroscience, HR strategy, and personal storytelling. She's helped redefine what leadership looks like in high-pressure, fast-paced environments. Her sessions are now used as onboarding material in several startups.

And don't overlook grassroots voices. In Nairobi, Achieng Otieno runs empathy workshops for educators and speaks at local conferences about trauma-informed teaching. Her work has influenced curriculum design in rural schools and earned her a spot on regional education panels. She doesn't have a global platform - yet - but her impact is undeniable.

These stories show that empathy speakers don't come from one mold. They come from lived experience, professional insight, and a desire to connect. Whether it's healthcare, sports, media, or education, empathy has a voice - and it's being heard.

Empathy speakers are stepping into a new era, shaped by shifting workplace dynamics, global uncertainty, and the rise of AI. What's ahead? Let's break it down.

First, hybrid work environments are creating empathy gaps. With fewer in-person interactions, companies are turning to empathy speakers to help rebuild connection and trust. Expect more demand for talks that address remote team dynamics, psychological safety, and inclusive communication.

Second, AI and automation are changing how we work - and how we relate. Empathy speakers are increasingly being asked to help leaders humanize tech-driven workplaces. This includes guiding ethical decision-making, designing emotionally intelligent user experiences, and training teams to balance efficiency with empathy.

Third, Gen Z is entering the workforce with different expectations. They value authenticity, mental health, and social responsibility. Empathy speakers who can speak their language - literally and culturally - will be in high demand. Think less 'top-down keynote' and more 'interactive storytelling with real talk'.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-keynotes and snackable content. Short, high-impact talks tailored for internal Slack channels, LinkedIn Lives, or virtual town halls.
- Cultural fluency. Speakers who can navigate cross-cultural empathy will be booked more often, especially in global companies.
- Data-backed empathy. Talks that combine emotional intelligence with behavioral science or business metrics will resonate more with analytical audiences.
- Empathy-as-a-service. Some speakers are evolving into consultants or facilitators, embedding empathy into product design, hiring practices, and leadership training.

The bottom line? Empathy speakers who adapt their format, language, and delivery to meet emerging needs will stay relevant - and booked.

- Talks.co. A smart platform that helps speakers get matched with podcast hosts. Great for building visibility and practicing your message in a conversational format. Tip: Use it to test different angles of your empathy story and see what resonates.

- StoryCorps. While not a speaker tool per se, this archive of human stories is a goldmine for empathy-driven narratives. Listen to how others frame emotional experiences - it'll sharpen your own storytelling.

- SpeakerHub. A directory where you can list your profile, pitch to event organizers, and access speaking opportunities. Bonus: Their blog has solid tips on branding and positioning.

- Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg. This book is foundational for anyone wanting to speak with clarity and compassion. It's especially useful if you're navigating conflict-heavy topics or want to lead workshops.

- The Empathy Edge Podcast. Hosted by Maria Ross, this show dives into how empathy drives success in business. Listening to how guests articulate empathy in different industries can help you refine your own niche.

- Canva. For creating slide decks that don't look like they were made in 2003. Clean visuals help reinforce emotional messages without overwhelming your audience. Use their templates for storytelling frameworks.

- Zoom Events. If you're hosting your own virtual talks or workshops, Zoom's event platform lets you manage registration, engagement, and follow-up. Pro tip: Use breakout rooms for empathy exercises - they work wonders.

- LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn it on to showcase your speaking topics, add a call-to-action, and build a following. Share short video clips of your talks or behind-the-scenes prep to build credibility.

Whether you're just starting out or refining your brand, these tools can help you connect, grow, and deliver talks that actually stick.