Executive Function Speakers

A executive function speaker is someone who specializes in communicating the science, strategies, and real-life implications of executive function skills to a live or virtual audience. These speakers often come from backgrounds in psychology, education, neuroscience, coaching, or even entrepreneurship, and they translate complex cognitive concepts into accessible, actionable insights.

Executive function refers to a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. These are the tools we use to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks. A executive function speaker helps audiences understand how these skills (or the lack of them) affect daily life-from managing time at work to helping kids with ADHD stay organized.

Unlike general motivational speakers, executive function speakers focus on a specific domain of brain-based learning and behavior. They might speak at teacher training events, corporate wellness programs, parenting summits, or virtual conferences on neurodiversity. Their goal is to educate, inspire, and equip people with tools to improve cognitive functioning.

Some well-known examples include Dr. Thomas E. Brown, who speaks on ADHD and executive function in adults, or Sarah Ward, who trains educators on executive skills coaching. Whether they're breaking down the prefrontal cortex or teaching how to build a visual schedule, these speakers bring clarity to a topic that's often misunderstood.

In short, a executive function speaker is a translator between neuroscience and everyday life-helping people understand how their brains work so they can work better.

When you're trying to solve a problem you can't quite name, a executive function speaker can be the missing link. Executive function challenges often fly under the radar. They're not always diagnosed, but they show up everywhere-from missed deadlines at work to kids melting down over homework.

A executive function speaker helps bring these invisible struggles into focus. They explain why someone might procrastinate even when they care deeply, or why a student with high IQ still forgets their backpack every morning. By naming the issue, they empower people to take action.

For educators, these speakers provide strategies that go beyond behavior charts and into brain-based supports. For businesses, they offer insights into productivity, time management, and neurodiversity in the workplace. For families, they offer hope and tools that actually work.

In a world where attention is fragmented and expectations are high, understanding executive function is no longer optional. A speaker who can break it down clearly-whether through a keynote, webinar, or podcast-can shift mindsets and spark real change.

And as more people recognize the role of executive function in mental health, learning, and leadership, the demand for these speakers is growing. They're not just educators-they're catalysts for better systems, habits, and outcomes.

Executive function speakers educate, engage, and empower audiences by breaking down the mechanics of how we plan, organize, and execute tasks. But their work goes far beyond just giving talks.

They often tailor their presentations to specific audiences:
- For educators, they might explain how to scaffold tasks for students with weak working memory.
- For corporate teams, they might teach strategies to improve focus and task management in high-pressure environments.
- For parents, they might offer practical tools to help kids build routines and reduce emotional outbursts.

Many executive function speakers also consult or coach. They might run workshops, create online courses, or offer one-on-one sessions. Some develop tools like planners, visual schedules, or apps designed to support executive skills.

They stay current with research in neuroscience, psychology, and education-often translating academic findings into usable strategies. For example, they might explain how dopamine affects motivation, or how sleep impacts cognitive flexibility.

In essence, executive function speakers act as bridges between science and real life. They help people understand why they struggle-and what they can do about it. Whether they're on stage at a conference or leading a Zoom session for a school district, their goal is the same: to make executive function skills accessible, actionable, and sustainable.

Becoming an executive function speaker isn't just about knowing the science of brain-based productivity. It's about communicating it in a way that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Develop deep expertise in executive function.
- Study neuroscience, psychology, and education theory. Certifications in ADHD coaching or cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful.
- Read foundational texts like 'Smart but Scattered' by Peg Dawson or 'The Executive Functioning Workbook for Teens' by Sharon A. Hansen.

2. Define your niche and audience.
- Are you speaking to parents, educators, corporate teams, or students?
- Tailor your message. For example, school districts may want practical classroom strategies, while tech companies may want productivity hacks.

3. Create a signature talk.
- Build a 30- to 60-minute presentation that showcases your unique approach.
- Include stories, data, and actionable takeaways. Use visuals that simplify complex concepts like working memory or cognitive flexibility.

4. Build your speaker profile.
- Set up a speaker page on Talks.co. Include your bio, talk titles, testimonials, and a demo reel.
- Make it easy for hosts to find and book you. Add keywords like 'executive function speaker for schools' or 'productivity coach for ADHD teams.'

5. Start small and scale.
- Offer free workshops at local schools or libraries. Record them.
- Use those recordings to pitch paid gigs. Reach out to event organizers, podcast hosts, and conference planners.

6. Network with intention.
- Join communities like Talks.co to connect with other speakers and event hosts.
- Attend virtual summits or co-host webinars to grow your visibility.

7. Collect feedback and iterate.
- Ask for reviews after every talk. Use that feedback to refine your delivery and content.
- Stay updated with new research and trends in executive function.

This path isn't linear, but with consistency and clarity, you'll build both credibility and a loyal audience.

To be an executive function speaker, you need more than just public speaking skills. You need a solid foundation in cognitive science, a clear message, and a way to connect with your audience. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
Executive function refers to a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. To speak on this topic credibly, you should understand how these skills develop, how they impact learning and productivity, and how to support individuals who struggle with them. This might come from:
- A background in psychology, education, or neuroscience.
- Certifications in ADHD coaching, special education, or executive function coaching.
- Real-world experience working with students, professionals, or clinical populations.

2. Communication Skills
You'll need to translate complex ideas into relatable, engaging content. That means:
- Using analogies and stories to explain concepts like task initiation or cognitive flexibility.
- Adapting your tone for different audiences, from educators to corporate teams.
- Creating engaging visuals or handouts that reinforce your message.

3. A Platform to Share Your Voice
You need a way to get booked. That's where a speaker page on Talks.co can help. It acts as your digital storefront:
- Showcase your expertise, topics, and testimonials.
- Make it easy for event hosts to find and contact you.

4. A Unique Perspective
What sets you apart? Maybe you specialize in executive function for multilingual learners, or you bring a tech background to productivity coaching. Your niche is your strength.

5. A Growth Mindset
This field evolves. New research, tools, and strategies emerge constantly. The best executive function speakers stay curious, keep learning, and adapt their message to stay relevant.

Bottom line: You need a mix of knowledge, clarity, and connection. When you bring those together, you're not just speaking... you're making an impact.

Yes, executive function speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience, and delivery format. Let's break it down.

The Short Answer:
Most established executive function speakers earn income from speaking engagements, workshops, consulting, and digital products. However, early-career speakers may start with unpaid gigs to build credibility.

Factors That Influence Pay:
- Experience Level: New speakers might earn $250-$500 per talk, while seasoned experts can command $2,000-$10,000+.
- Audience Type: Corporate clients usually pay more than schools or nonprofits.
- Format: Keynotes and full-day workshops pay more than webinars or panels.

Pros of Being a Paid Speaker:
- You get to monetize your expertise.
- Speaking builds your authority and can lead to consulting or coaching clients.
- You can scale your income with digital products or group programs.

Cons to Consider:
- It can take time to build a reputation that commands high fees.
- Travel and prep time can cut into your hourly rate.
- Some organizations expect speakers to present for free, especially in education.

Talks.co Tip:
Using a platform like Talks.co helps you connect directly with event organizers who are actively looking for speakers. It also gives you a professional speaker page that can justify your rate.

So yes, executive function speakers get paid. But like any speaking niche, it's a mix of strategy, visibility, and value delivery.

Executive function speakers make money through a variety of income streams, and the most successful ones diversify their offerings. Here's a breakdown of how they do it:
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct revenue stream. Speakers are hired to deliver keynotes, workshops, or breakout sessions at:
- Education conferences
- Corporate training events
- Parent advocacy groups
- Mental health summits
2. Online Courses and Digital Products
Many speakers turn their expertise into scalable products:
- Self-paced courses on executive function strategies
- Downloadable toolkits for teachers or parents
- Webinars and recorded trainings
3. Coaching and Consulting
Some speakers offer 1:1 or group coaching:
- Executive function coaching for students or professionals
- Consulting for schools or companies on productivity systems
4. Book Sales and Licensing
Publishing a book can open doors to paid speaking gigs and passive income:
- Sell books at events or online
- License your curriculum to schools or training centers
5. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
If you have an audience, you can earn by promoting tools or services:
- Productivity apps
- ADHD coaching platforms
- Educational software
6. Hosting or Appearing on Virtual Summits
Platforms like Zoom make it easy to get booked or even host your own summit. You can:
- Charge for access
- Sell replays
- Upsell coaching or courses
Comparison Table:

Income Stream	Scalability	Upfront Effort	Avg. Earnings
Speaking Engagements	Medium	High	$500-$10,000+
Online Courses	High	High	Varies widely
Coaching/Consulting	Medium	Medium	$100-$300/hr
Book Sales	Low	High	$1-$10/book
Affiliate/Sponsorship	Medium	Low	% of sales

In short, executive function speakers make money by combining thought leadership with smart business models. The more value you offer, the more income streams you can build.

The income of executive function speakers varies widely depending on experience, niche, and business model. Let's look at the numbers and what drives them.

Typical Earnings by Experience Level:
- Beginner (0-2 years): $0-$500 per talk. Many start with free gigs to build credibility.
- Intermediate (2-5 years): $500-$2,500 per talk. Often includes workshops and small conferences.
- Advanced (5+ years): $3,000-$10,000+ per keynote. These speakers often have books, media appearances, or a strong online presence.

Annual Income Ranges:
Depending on how diversified their income streams are, executive function speakers can earn:
- Part-time speakers: $10,000-$50,000/year.
- Full-time professionals: $75,000-$250,000/year.
- Top-tier experts: $300,000+ with books, courses, and consulting.

Income Influencers:
- Audience: Corporate clients pay more than schools or nonprofits.
- Format: In-person keynotes pay more than virtual panels.
- Reputation: TEDx speakers or published authors command higher fees.

Real-World Examples:
- A speaker specializing in executive function for tech teams might charge $5,000 for a 90-minute workshop.
- A coach who speaks at ADHD conferences and sells online courses could earn six figures annually.

Talks.co Insight:
Speakers who use platforms like Talks.co often report higher booking rates and better visibility, especially when they optimize their speaker page with testimonials and video clips.

Bottom line: Executive function speakers can earn a modest side income or build a thriving business. It all depends on how you position yourself and the value you deliver.

Hiring an executive function speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the speaker's experience, the event type, and the format. Here's a breakdown to help you budget smartly.
Typical Price Ranges:

Event Type	Cost Range
Local school workshop	$300-$1,000
Virtual webinar (60 mins)	$500-$2,000
Full-day training session	$2,000-$6,000+
Keynote at a national event	$5,000-$15,000+

What Affects the Price?
- Speaker's Reputation: A published author or TEDx speaker will cost more than a local coach.
- Customization: Tailored content for your audience (e.g., executive function in bilingual classrooms) may come at a premium.
- Travel & Logistics: In-person events often include travel, lodging, and per diem expenses.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences or events with media coverage may increase the rate.
Tips for Booking Within Budget:
- Consider virtual sessions to save on travel.
- Book early to avoid rush fees.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles and rates.
Value vs. Cost:
While $5,000 might seem steep, a high-impact speaker can shift mindsets, boost productivity, or improve classroom outcomes. That ROI often outweighs the upfront cost.
In short, executive function speakers are an investment. But with the right fit, they deliver value far beyond the invoice.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful executive function speakers ever. These individuals have shaped how we understand and teach executive function, blending research with real-world application.

- Dr. Peg Dawson
Co-author of 'Smart but Scattered', Dawson is a pioneer in executive skills coaching. Her talks blend research with practical strategies for educators and parents.

- Dr. Russell Barkley
A leading authority on ADHD and executive function, Barkley's lectures are packed with data and clinical insights. His presentations are staples at psychology and education conferences.

- Dr. Thomas E. Brown
Known for his work on executive function impairments in ADHD, Brown's talks often focus on the emotional and cognitive aspects of executive dysfunction.

- Sarah Ward, MS, CCC-SLP
Co-developer of the 360 Thinking Model, Ward is known for her dynamic, strategy-rich presentations aimed at educators and therapists.

- Dr. Ari Tuckman
A psychologist and author, Tuckman brings humor and clarity to complex topics like time management and working memory.

- Dr. Laura Honos-Webb
Author of 'The Gift of ADHD', she reframes executive function challenges as strengths in disguise. Her talks are popular with parents and educators.

- Dr. George McCloskey
A professor and researcher, McCloskey's talks are data-driven and often used in professional development for school psychologists.

- Dr. Lynn Meltzer
Founder of the Research Institute for Learning and Development, Meltzer's work focuses on metacognition and learning strategies.

These speakers have not only educated thousands but also influenced curriculum design, coaching methods, and public policy. Their legacy continues to shape the field.

Looking globally, these executive function speakers are making waves across continents, industries, and languages. Their work spans education, corporate training, and mental health advocacy.

- Dr. Peg Dawson (USA)
Still one of the most requested speakers worldwide, especially in North America and Europe.

- Sarah Ward (USA)
Her workshops are in demand globally, including in Australia, Canada, and the UK. Known for practical tools like the 'Get Ready-Do-Done' model.

- Dr. Anne-Lise Ducanda (France)
A pediatrician raising awareness about screen time and executive function in young children. Her talks have gone viral in Europe.

- Dr. Fumiko Hoeft (Japan/USA)
A neuroscientist and speaker who bridges Eastern and Western perspectives on cognitive development and executive function.

- Dr. Thomas E. Brown (USA)
Frequently invited to speak at international ADHD and psychology conferences.

- Dr. Adele Diamond (Canada)
A cognitive neuroscientist whose TEDx talks and global keynotes focus on executive function in early childhood.

- Dr. Russell Barkley (USA)
His work is translated into multiple languages, and he's a keynote fixture in global psychology events.

- Dr. Anneke Smits (Netherlands)
An educational researcher who speaks on executive function and literacy in multilingual classrooms.

- Dr. Silvia Bunge (USA/Argentina)
A cognitive neuroscientist whose global research collaborations inform her talks on brain development and learning.

These speakers are not just experts-they're educators, researchers, and advocates whose voices are shaping how executive function is understood and supported around the world.

Let's break down some of the most common misconceptions floating around about executive function speakers. These misunderstandings can hold people back from either stepping into the role or hiring the right expert. So here's what's often assumed-and why it's off base.

1. Myth: Executive function speakers are only for students with ADHD.
This is a narrow view. While executive function challenges are often discussed in the context of ADHD or learning differences, the truth is that executive function skills-like time management, planning, emotional regulation-are relevant across all ages and industries. Corporate leaders, athletes, and even entrepreneurs benefit from speakers who help them sharpen these skills. For example, companies like Google and Deloitte have brought in executive function experts to improve team productivity and decision-making.

2. Myth: You need a psychology degree to be an executive function speaker.
Not necessarily. While a background in psychology or education can help, many successful speakers come from coaching, consulting, or even tech. What matters more is your ability to translate complex cognitive concepts into actionable strategies. Take Seth Perler, for instance-he's an executive function coach who built a speaking career through his work with parents and educators, not through a traditional academic path.

3. Myth: Executive function speakers just talk about planners and checklists.
That's like saying chefs only talk about knives. Sure, tools like planners come up, but the real value lies in helping people build systems for prioritization, self-monitoring, and goal-setting. Speakers often dive into neuroscience, habit formation, and even emotional intelligence. It's a much deeper game than just organizing your calendar.

4. Myth: It's a niche with no real demand.
This one's flat-out wrong. Demand is growing, especially in corporate wellness, education reform, and even parenting communities. With burnout and attention fatigue on the rise, organizations are hungry for experts who can help people function better-not just work harder.

5. Myth: You have to be neurodivergent to speak on executive function.
While lived experience can be powerful, it's not a requirement. What matters is empathy, clarity, and the ability to connect with diverse audiences. Many speakers build credibility through research, coaching results, and relatable storytelling-regardless of their personal neurotype.

When you think of executive function speakers, you might picture someone in a classroom or maybe a clinical setting. But the truth is, some of the most impactful voices in this space have carved out unique paths that blend education, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.

Take Sarah Ward, for example. She started as a speech-language pathologist and co-founded Cognitive Connections. Her talks are now staples at education conferences across North America. What sets her apart? She uses real-life simulations-like teaching students to 'time travel' mentally-to help them visualize future tasks. It's not just theory. It's practical, sticky, and memorable.

Then there's Brendan Mahan, host of the ADHD Essentials podcast. Brendan transitioned from school counselor to full-time speaker and coach. His storytelling style resonates with both parents and educators. He doesn't just explain executive function-he makes it human. One of his most popular talks breaks down the 'Wall of Awful,' a metaphor for the emotional barriers that prevent task initiation. It's been cited by therapists, teachers, and even HR departments.

In the corporate world, Dr. Peg Dawson has made waves with her work on executive skills in the workplace. Her book, 'Smart but Scattered,' became a springboard for speaking engagements with Fortune 500 companies. She doesn't just talk about executive function in kids-she connects it to adult productivity, leadership, and team dynamics.

And let's not forget international voices. In Australia, coach and speaker Dana Rayburn has built a thriving business helping adults with ADHD master executive function. Her online workshops attract global audiences, and she's been featured in productivity summits and mental health conferences alike.

What unites all these speakers? They didn't wait for permission. They found their angle, built a platform, and kept refining their message. Whether through podcasts, books, or live events, they turned expertise into influence-and impact.

The landscape for executive function speakers is shifting-fast. As more people recognize the link between cognitive skills and performance, the demand for nuanced, engaging, and cross-disciplinary voices is rising. So what's next?

First, expect a broader audience. Executive function isn't just a school issue anymore. It's a workplace issue, a parenting issue, even a leadership issue. Companies are starting to see that productivity isn't just about tools-it's about how people think, plan, and regulate themselves. Speakers who can bridge the gap between neuroscience and business strategy will be in high demand.

Second, digital delivery is becoming the norm. With virtual summits, webinars, and hybrid events on the rise, executive function speakers need to adapt their content for screens. That means shorter segments, interactive tools, and asynchronous learning options. Platforms like Talks.co are already helping speakers get matched with podcast hosts and event organizers looking for niche expertise.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Cross-sector relevance. Executive function talks are moving beyond education into tech, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
- Neurodiversity inclusion. More events are prioritizing speakers who can speak to diverse cognitive experiences, not just clinical definitions.
- Data-backed storytelling. Audiences want more than anecdotes. Speakers who can blend personal insight with research will stand out.
- Micro-learning formats. Think 10-minute keynotes, TikTok-style explainers, and bite-sized workshops.
- Global accessibility. With translation tools and international platforms, speakers can now reach audiences in Nairobi, New York, or New Delhi-without leaving home.

In short, the future belongs to executive function speakers who are agile, authentic, and audience-aware. If you can teach people how to think better-not just work harder-you're already ahead of the curve.

If you're looking to break into the world of executive function speaking, you don't need to reinvent the wheel. There are some powerful tools and platforms that can help you build your brand, book gigs, and sharpen your message. Here's a curated list to get you started:

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest matching tool that connects speakers with hosts looking for niche expertise. Great for building your credibility and getting your message out to targeted audiences.

2. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for those just starting out and looking for visibility.

3. Canva. Use it to create polished slide decks, social media graphics, and downloadable resources. Visuals matter, especially when explaining complex executive function concepts.

4. Zoom and Loom. For delivering virtual talks or recording mini-training videos. Loom is great for building a library of short, shareable content that showcases your style.

5. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, audience personas, and outreach strategies in one place. You can even use it to build a lightweight website or speaker portfolio.

6. Teachable. Want to turn your talk into a course? Teachable lets you package your content into an online program you can sell or offer as a lead magnet.

7. Grammarly. Whether you're writing your speaker bio, pitch emails, or blog posts, this tool helps keep your writing sharp and professional.

Pro tip: Use a mix of visibility tools (like Talks.co and SpeakerHub), content tools (like Canva and Loom), and organization tools (like Notion) to build a system that supports your speaking career long-term. And remember, your message matters-but how you deliver it matters just as much.