Empathy Speakers
You've got an audience craving more than buzzwords and bullet points.
They want depth. They want real.
But finding empathy speakers who actually connect with a room? That's not always easy.
Maybe you're wondering, how do I even spot a great empathy speaker?
Is it about personal stories, emotional intelligence, vulnerability, or all of the above?
And how do I know if they'll be a good fit for my audience?
This guide helps you figure that out.
We're talking about empathy speakers who know how to hold space, communicate with clarity, and make people feel seen.
Whether you're building a podcast lineup, organizing a summit, or looking for someone to bring emotional intelligence to your next panel-this list will point you in the right direction.
I've seen how the right speaker can shift the tone of an entire event.
And when someone brings empathy to the mic, people listen differently. They remember it.
Take a look through these empathy speakers and see who might be the right fit for your next event or show.
Top Empathy Speakers List for 2025
William Davis
Authoring the Blueprint for Transformational Leadership.
Sandy Gerber
Speaker, Communication & EQ Trainer and Author making communication tools simple, fun, and ridiculously effective.
Mell 'B' Balment
Empath Expert, life-curiositer, sparkle enthusiast & cat-mum, guiding emotionally divergent-preneurs to switch sensitivities to strengths
Creg Effs
Unlocking Potential, Cultivating Resilience, Inspiring Growth - Your Empowerment Expert
Gissele Taraba
Empowering hearts through love, compassion, and courageous stories.
Kim Hodous
From grief to happiness: Helping moms heal and connect directly with their child on the other side.
Rene Remington
Trust Your Heart. It Knows The Way" ~ Rene Remington ~
Kishford Frank
Empowering Preachers/Speakers To Engage, Inspire, and Transform Their Audience
Alice Van Blokland
Empowering joy, unleashing potential—let's transform together!
What Makes a Great Empathy Speaker
Think about Brené Brown. She doesn't just share research on vulnerability - she opens up about her own struggles, making her audience feel seen. That's what sets great empathy speakers apart: they don't perform, they connect. Their stories aren't polished for perfection, they're shared for resonance. And that authenticity? It's magnetic.
But it's not just about being relatable. A great empathy speaker also knows how to balance emotional intelligence with actionable insight. They don't leave audiences with just a warm feeling - they leave them with a new lens, a fresh perspective, and often, a call to action. Whether it's a DEI leader speaking to corporate teams or a mental health advocate addressing high school students, the best empathy speakers tailor their message to the moment.
And finally, great empathy speakers are generous. With their time, their stories, and their presence. They don't rush through Q&As or dodge hard questions. They lean in. Because for them, speaking isn't a gig - it's a responsibility. And they treat it that way, every single time.
How to Select the Best Empathy Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience's Emotional Needs.
- Are your attendees corporate leaders navigating burnout? Or are they educators dealing with student trauma? Knowing the emotional context helps you filter for speakers who specialize in those spaces.
- Pro tip: Look at past feedback from your events. What resonated? What was missing?
2. Search with Purpose on Platforms Like Talks.co.
- Use Talks.co's filters to narrow down speakers by topic, tone, and audience type.
- Check out their speaker page. Look for testimonials that mention emotional connection, not just content delivery.
3. Watch Full Talks, Not Just Reels.
- Highlight reels can be misleading. Watch a full 20-minute talk to see how they build trust, handle silence, and respond to the room.
- Look for moments where the speaker adjusts based on audience reaction - that's a sign of real empathy in action.
4. Ask for a Pre-Call.
- A 15-minute Zoom can reveal a lot. Are they asking questions about your audience? Are they listening more than pitching?
- This is also a great time to gauge their flexibility and willingness to customize.
5. Check for Alignment with Your Show's Mission.
- Whether you're running a wellness summit or a startup podcast, the speaker's values should align with your brand.
- If your show emphasizes inclusion, for example, look for speakers who have worked across diverse communities or global audiences.
Remember: the best empathy speaker for your show is the one who can meet your audience where they are - emotionally, culturally, and intellectually.
How to Book a Empathy Speaker
1. Start with a Clear Brief.
- Outline your event's theme, audience demographics, format (virtual or in-person), and your goals.
- Include emotional tone: Are you looking for inspiration, healing, motivation, or reflection?
2. Use a Platform Like Talks.co to Streamline Discovery.
- Talks.co connects hosts and speakers directly, cutting out the middle layers.
- Browse empathy speakers by industry, topic, or even delivery style (e.g. interactive vs. keynote).
3. Reach Out with a Personalized Message.
- Don't just say "We'd love to have you." Mention why you think they're a fit based on a past talk or shared value.
- Example: "Your story about leading through grief really resonated with our team's current challenges."
4. Discuss Customization and Logistics Early.
- Ask if they're open to tailoring their talk. Great empathy speakers often prefer to co-create.
- Clarify tech needs, time zones, and Q&A preferences.
5. Confirm with a Speaker Agreement.
- Even if it's a free or community event, put expectations in writing.
- Include deliverables (e.g. slides, promo videos), timelines, and cancellation terms.
6. Prep Together.
- Schedule a pre-event call to align on tone, audience expectations, and flow.
- Share any sensitive topics to avoid or themes to emphasize.
Booking an empathy speaker is more than a transaction - it's a collaboration. Treat it like one, and you'll create something truly memorable.
Common Questions on Empathy Speakers
What is a empathy speaker
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.
Why is a empathy speaker important
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.
What do empathy speakers 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.
How to become a empathy speaker
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.
What do you need to be a empathy speaker
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.
Do empathy speakers get paid
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.
How do empathy speakers make money
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.
How much do empathy 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 |
Established Expert | $2,500 - $10,000 | $75,000 - $250,000+ |
Celebrity/Author | $10,000 - $50,000+ | $250,000 - $1M+ |
- 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.
How much do empathy speakers cost
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 |
Who are the best empathy speakers ever
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.
Who are the best empathy speakers in the world
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.
Common myths about empathy speakers
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.
Case studies of successful empathy speakers
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.
Future trends for empathy speakers
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.
Tools and resources for aspiring empathy speakers
- 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.