Freelancing Speakers

A freelancing speaker is someone who shares their expertise, insights, and experiences related to freelancing-often at virtual summits, podcasts, webinars, or live events. Unlike traditional keynote speakers tied to corporate roles or academic institutions, freelancing speakers typically operate independently. They've built their careers in the gig economy and speak from the trenches.

These speakers might specialize in areas like remote work, personal branding, pricing strategies, or client acquisition. For example, a freelancing speaker could be a UX designer who teaches others how to land high-ticket clients, or a copywriter who shares how to scale a solo business using automation.

What sets them apart is their flexibility. They're not just educators-they're practitioners. They often continue to freelance while speaking, which keeps their content fresh and relevant. This is especially valuable in fast-changing industries like tech, digital marketing, or e-commerce.

Freelancing speakers are also highly accessible. Thanks to platforms like Talks.co, they can be booked for virtual events across time zones and niches. Whether you're running a summit for Latin American freelancers or a podcast for European creatives, there's likely a freelancing speaker who fits the bill.

In short, a freelancing speaker is a subject matter expert who speaks from real-world experience, not theory. That's what makes their insights so actionable-and so in demand.

When you're building a summit, podcast, or virtual event around freelancing, the right freelancing speaker can be the difference between 'meh' and memorable. Here's why they matter.

First, they bring credibility. A freelancing speaker isn't just talking about theory-they're living it. Whether it's navigating Upwork, landing retainer clients, or scaling a solo business to six figures, they've walked the walk. This kind of real-world experience resonates with audiences who want practical, not hypothetical, advice.

Second, they bridge the gap between learning and doing. Unlike general business speakers, freelancing speakers tailor their content to the unique challenges of independent professionals. That means more relevant examples, more targeted strategies, and more actionable takeaways.

Third, they help build community. Freelancers often work in isolation. When a freelancing speaker shares their journey-failures included-it creates a sense of connection. Attendees realize they're not alone in their struggles, which can be incredibly motivating.

Finally, they drive engagement. Events that feature freelancing speakers tend to attract more niche, loyal audiences. That's good news for hosts looking to build email lists, sell premium offers, or grow a brand. As we discussed in 'What is a freelancing speaker', these speakers are also more likely to promote the event to their own networks, boosting visibility.

So if you're curating content for an audience of freelancers, don't just grab any expert. Choose someone who's been in the trenches-and knows how to talk about it.

Freelancing speakers wear multiple hats-but not in the cliché way. Their role is dynamic, practical, and deeply tied to the needs of modern independent professionals.

They educate. At the core, freelancing speakers share knowledge. This could be through keynotes, panels, or workshops at virtual events. Topics range widely-from pricing strategies and client onboarding to burnout recovery and building a personal brand. For example, a freelancing speaker might teach a session on how to transition from hourly billing to value-based pricing, using real client case studies.

They inspire. But it's not just about tactics. Freelancing speakers often share personal stories of resilience, reinvention, and growth. This emotional connection helps audiences feel seen and understood-especially in industries where isolation is common, like remote design or solo consulting.

They promote. Many freelancing speakers are also content creators, so they bring their own audience to the table. When booked for a summit or podcast, they often help promote the event through their email list, LinkedIn, or Instagram. This cross-promotion can significantly boost event reach.

They collaborate. Freelancing speakers frequently partner with hosts to co-create content, offer bonuses, or even bundle services. For instance, a speaker might offer a free template or mini-course to attendees, increasing engagement and perceived value.

They adapt. Whether speaking at a global summit or a niche mastermind, freelancing speakers tailor their message to the audience. They're used to working across time zones, industries, and formats-making them a versatile asset for any event.

In essence, freelancing speakers do more than talk. They teach, connect, and elevate the entire experience for both hosts and attendees.

Ready to step into the spotlight as a freelancing speaker? Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to help you launch and grow your speaking career on your own terms:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- Start by identifying what you want to speak about. Are you an expert in digital marketing, mental health, sustainability, or startup growth? Your niche should align with your experience and passion.
- Tip: The more specific your topic, the easier it is to stand out. For example, instead of 'leadership', try 'remote team leadership for SaaS startups'.

2. Build Your Signature Talk.
- Create a compelling keynote or workshop that showcases your expertise. Structure it with a clear opening, core message, and actionable takeaways.
- Include real-world examples, case studies, or data to back up your points. This builds credibility and keeps audiences engaged.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, videos, and availability.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you or book you directly. Think of it as your digital storefront.

4. Start Small and Practice Often.
- Look for local meetups, podcasts, webinars, or virtual summits where you can speak for free or low fees. These gigs help you refine your delivery and build a portfolio.
- Record every talk. Use the best clips to create a speaker reel.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Organizers.
- Use Talks.co or LinkedIn to find event hosts in your niche. Send personalized pitches explaining how your talk adds value to their audience.
- Follow up professionally and be open to feedback.

6. Collect Testimonials and Referrals.
- After each event, ask for a testimonial and a referral. Positive reviews build trust and social proof.
- Tip: Add these to your Talks.co profile to boost your visibility.

7. Scale Up.
- Once you've built a solid foundation, start charging higher fees, offering workshops, or creating digital products. You can also pitch to larger conferences or corporate events.

Becoming a freelancing speaker isn't about waiting for permission. It's about showing up, delivering value, and building momentum one talk at a time.

Being a freelancing speaker means you're not tied to a bureau or agency. You're running the show yourself. But what does it actually take to succeed in this space?

First, you need expertise. You don't have to be the world's top authority, but you should have real-world experience or insight that others find valuable. Whether you're a cybersecurity consultant, a wellness coach, or a startup founder, your unique perspective is your biggest asset.

Second, communication skills are non-negotiable. You need to be able to engage an audience, tell a story, and deliver your message clearly. This doesn't mean you have to be theatrical or overly polished. Authenticity often wins over perfection. Practice helps, and so does feedback from early gigs.

Third, you'll need a professional presence. This includes:
- A speaker page (like the ones on Talks.co) with your bio, topics, testimonials, and a reel.
- A clear value proposition: what you speak about, who it's for, and what outcomes you deliver.
- A way to get booked: email, booking form, or calendar link.

Fourth, you need to be proactive about outreach. Unlike speakers represented by agencies, freelancing speakers need to pitch themselves. That means researching events, connecting with hosts, and following up. Tools like Talks.co help by connecting speakers with event organizers directly.

Finally, you need systems. From tracking leads to managing invoices and contracts, freelancing speakers wear multiple hats. Using tools like Notion, Calendly, and Stripe can streamline your workflow.

In short, being a freelancing speaker is part performance, part business. You need the message, the delivery, and the hustle to make it work.

Yes, freelancing speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors including experience, niche, audience size, and event type.

Let's break it down:

- Entry-level speakers often start by speaking for free or for exposure, especially at local events or online summits. This helps build credibility and a portfolio.
- Mid-tier speakers with a few years of experience and a solid niche can earn between $500 to $2,500 per talk.
- Top-tier freelancing speakers who have a strong brand, published books, or media presence can command $5,000 to $20,000+ per keynote.

According to SpeakerFlow's 2023 report, about 60% of independent speakers earn under $50,000 per year from speaking alone, while the top 10% earn six figures or more. The key difference? Diversified income streams and consistent marketing.

Pros:
- You set your own rates.
- You can choose gigs that align with your brand.
- Potential for global reach via virtual events.

Cons:
- No guaranteed income.
- You handle your own outreach and contracts.
- Payment timelines can vary (some events pay 30-60 days after).

Platforms like Talks.co are helping bridge the gap by connecting speakers directly with hosts, making it easier to find paid opportunities without relying on agencies.

So yes, freelancing speakers do get paid-but like any freelance career, it takes strategy, persistence, and a clear value proposition to earn consistently.

Freelancing speakers make money in a variety of ways, and the most successful ones diversify their income streams to avoid relying solely on keynote fees. Here's a breakdown of how they generate revenue:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements.
- This includes keynotes, panels, workshops, and webinars. Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event type.
- Example: A tech speaker might earn $3,000 for a virtual keynote at a SaaS conference.

2. Workshops and Training Sessions.
- These are often more lucrative than keynotes because they're longer and more interactive.
- Corporate clients often pay $5,000 to $15,000 for a full-day training.

3. Virtual Summits and Online Events.
- Freelancing speakers can get paid to speak or earn affiliate commissions by promoting the event.
- Platforms like Talks.co make it easier to find these gigs.

4. Books and Digital Products.
- Many speakers write books or create online courses that complement their talks.
- Example: A leadership speaker might sell a $199 course on remote team management.

5. Consulting and Coaching.
- After a talk, some audience members or companies may want to hire the speaker for 1:1 coaching or strategic consulting.

6. Sponsorships and Brand Deals.
- If a speaker has a strong personal brand, they can partner with companies to promote products or services during talks.

7. Memberships and Communities.
- Some speakers build paid communities or masterminds around their niche.

By combining these revenue streams, freelancing speakers can build a sustainable and scalable business. The key is to treat speaking not just as a gig, but as a platform for broader monetization.

The income of freelancing speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and business strategy. Let's break it down with some numbers and context.
- Beginners: Freelancers just starting out may earn between $0 to $500 per talk. Many begin by speaking for free to build credibility and collect testimonials.
- Intermediate speakers: With a few years of experience and a niche audience, they can earn $1,000 to $5,000 per engagement.
- Established experts: Those with a strong brand, book, or media presence can command $10,000 to $25,000 per keynote.
According to the National Speakers Association, the average speaker fee in the U.S. is around $4,500. But that's just one piece of the puzzle. Many freelancing speakers supplement their income with:
- Online courses (earning $10,000+ per launch).
- Consulting packages ($2,000 to $20,000+).
- Affiliate commissions from virtual summits.
Here's a quick comparison table:

Experience Level	Avg. Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Intermediate	$1,000 - $5,000	$20,000 - $75,000
Established Expert	$10,000+	$100,000+

Keep in mind, income also depends on how many gigs you book. A speaker doing 4 paid talks a month at $2,500 each can hit six figures annually. But that requires consistent outreach, marketing, and delivery.
So while the ceiling is high, freelancing speakers need to be strategic to reach it.

If you're looking to hire a freelancing speaker, the cost can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown of what you might expect:
1. Experience Level
- New or Emerging Speakers: $0 - $1,000. These speakers may be building their portfolio and willing to speak for free or low fees.
- Mid-Level Professionals: $1,000 - $5,000. These individuals have a few years of experience, a speaker page, and some testimonials.
- Established Experts: $5,000 - $25,000+. These speakers often have books, media appearances, or a strong personal brand.
2. Event Type
- Virtual Events: Typically less expensive. Rates range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the speaker and audience size.
- In-Person Conferences: Higher fees due to travel and prep time. Expect $2,000 to $20,000+.
- Workshops or Trainings: These are often priced higher than keynotes because they're longer and more interactive.
3. Location and Industry
- Speakers in tech or finance may charge more than those in education or non-profit sectors.
- Hiring a speaker for a corporate event in New York will likely cost more than a community event in a rural area.
4. Add-Ons
- Travel and accommodation (if not included).
- Customization of content.
- Post-event consulting or Q&A sessions.
Sample Cost Ranges:

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Talk
Beginner	$0 - $500	$500 - $1,000
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $3,000	$2,000 - $5,000
Expert	$5,000+	$10,000+

If you're using a platform like Talks.co, you can filter speakers by budget, making it easier to find someone who fits your needs without the back-and-forth.

- Tony Robbins. Known for his high-energy delivery and massive global impact, Robbins built his speaking empire independently before becoming a household name.
- Brené Brown. Her TEDx talk on vulnerability went viral, launching her into the speaking stratosphere. She's a great example of someone who started outside the traditional speaking circuit.
- Simon Sinek. Famous for 'Start With Why', Sinek's freelance-style speaking career began with small events and YouTube videos before he became a global keynote figure.
- Mel Robbins. A former lawyer turned motivational speaker, Mel built her brand through viral content and self-booked gigs.
- Gary Vaynerchuk. Though he runs a media company, Gary Vee's speaking career took off through self-promotion and direct outreach-classic freelancing speaker tactics.
- Marie Forleo. She carved out a niche in entrepreneurship and personal development, speaking at events like SXSW and building her own audience.
- Jay Shetty. Starting as a digital content creator, Jay transitioned into speaking through viral videos and self-managed bookings.
- Lisa Nichols. A powerful voice in personal transformation, Lisa built her speaking business from scratch, often booking her own gigs.
- Eric Thomas. Known as the 'Hip-Hop Preacher', Eric's rise came from grassroots speaking engagements and YouTube virality.
- Seth Godin. While he's also an author and marketer, Seth's speaking gigs are often self-managed and aligned with his personal brand.

These speakers didn't wait for a bureau to discover them. They built their platforms, refined their messages, and booked themselves into success.

- Vusi Thembekwayo (South Africa). A global business speaker and entrepreneur, Vusi started as a self-booked speaker and now commands stages worldwide.
- Jessica Huie (UK). A communications expert and author, Jessica speaks on entrepreneurship and diversity, often through independent channels.
- Daniel Priestly (Australia/UK). Author of 'Key Person of Influence', Daniel built his speaking career through his own events and partnerships.
- Dorie Clark (USA). A marketing strategist and author, Dorie books her own talks globally and has spoken at places like Google and Harvard.
- Ankur Warikoo (India). A startup mentor and content creator, Ankur speaks on productivity and entrepreneurship, often at universities and corporate events.
- Tara Mohr (USA). Known for her work on women's leadership, Tara speaks at conferences and organizations worldwide, often through direct outreach.
- Fredrik Haren (Singapore/Sweden). A global speaker on creativity and innovation, Fredrik has spoken in over 70 countries, largely through his own efforts.
- Natalie Sisson (New Zealand). The 'Suitcase Entrepreneur' built her speaking career around digital nomadism and online business.
- Andrew Griffiths (Australia). A small business expert, Andrew built his speaking business independently and now teaches others how to do the same.
- Shivvy Jervis (UK). A futurist and innovation speaker, Shivvy books her own talks and works with global brands like Ericsson and the UN.

These freelancing speakers prove that you don't need to be based in the U.S. or signed to a bureau to make a global impact. They've built their brands, booked their gigs, and earned their place on the world stage.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about freelancing speakers. These myths can hold people back from even trying, or worse, lead them down the wrong path.

- Myth #1: Freelancing speakers can't make a stable income.
This one's a classic. The idea that speaking gigs are too sporadic to provide a reliable income is outdated. Many freelancing speakers build recurring revenue streams through online summits, digital courses, coaching, and retainer-based speaking contracts. For example, speakers in the health and wellness space often combine live talks with paid memberships or group coaching, creating consistent monthly income.

- Myth #2: You need to be famous to get booked.
Not true. While name recognition helps, niche authority is more powerful. A cybersecurity expert in Nairobi might not be a household name globally, but if they consistently deliver value to tech startups in East Africa, they'll get booked again and again. Event organizers care more about relevance and results than celebrity.

- Myth #3: You have to travel constantly.
With the rise of virtual events, many freelancing speakers now work entirely from home. Platforms like Zoom, Hopin, and Airmeet have made it easy to deliver high-impact talks remotely. In fact, some speakers prefer virtual gigs because they can do three in a day without leaving their desk.

- Myth #4: Speaking is just about motivation.
This myth limits the scope of what speakers can offer. Sure, motivation is part of it, but freelancing speakers often deliver tactical workshops, strategic insights, and hands-on training. Think of a digital marketing freelancer who teaches small businesses how to run Facebook ads effectively. That's not just hype - it's skill transfer.

- Myth #5: You need a speaker bureau to get started.
While bureaus can help, they're not essential. Many successful freelancing speakers build their own platforms through LinkedIn outreach, podcast guesting, and summits. Tools like Talks.co make it easier to connect with event hosts directly, bypassing the gatekeepers entirely.

When you look at the journeys of successful freelancing speakers, one thing becomes clear: there's no single path to the top. Different industries, different backgrounds, but a shared commitment to delivering value.

Take the story of a former HR consultant from Manila who transitioned into a full-time freelancing speaker. She started by hosting free webinars on employee engagement, which led to invitations from local business chambers. Within a year, she was speaking at regional conferences across Southeast Asia, charging $2,000 per session. Her secret? She focused on solving specific problems for growing companies, not just sharing general advice.

Then there's the tech founder from Berlin who pivoted into speaking after exiting his startup. He began by sharing his founder journey at meetups, then packaged his insights into a talk on 'Scaling Culture in Remote Teams'. That talk got picked up by virtual summits and HR podcasts. Today, he earns more from speaking and consulting than he did as a CEO.

In the creative space, a graphic designer from São Paulo built a speaking career by teaching branding to solopreneurs. She started with Instagram Lives, then launched a mini-course, and eventually got invited to speak at design schools and online business events. Her talks are now translated into three languages.

What ties these stories together isn't fame or luck. It's clarity of message, consistency in showing up, and a willingness to adapt. Whether it's through summits, podcasts, or workshops, these freelancing speakers built trust by being visible, helpful, and focused on outcomes.

And here's the kicker: none of them waited for permission. They created their own stages first, then got invited to bigger ones later. That's the real playbook.

Freelancing speakers are navigating a landscape that's shifting in some fascinating ways. If you're building a speaking career, or thinking about it, here's what's coming down the pipeline.

First, hybrid events are becoming the norm. Organizers are no longer choosing between in-person or virtual - they're doing both. That means freelancing speakers need to master both formats. You might be on stage in front of 50 people while streaming to 5,000 online. The skillsets are different: camera presence, tech setup, and engagement tools matter just as much as stage charisma.

Second, micro-niching is gaining traction. Generalist talks are losing steam. Event hosts want speakers who can go deep on specific topics. Think 'AI ethics for non-profits' or 'emotional resilience for remote teams'. The more targeted your expertise, the more likely you'll get booked repeatedly.

Third, content repurposing is becoming a revenue stream. Speakers are turning their talks into courses, newsletters, and paid communities. This isn't just about passive income - it's about building a brand that lives beyond the stage. Platforms like Gumroad, Circle, and Substack are making this easier than ever.

Here are a few trends to watch:
- AI-assisted speechwriting: Tools like Jasper and ChatGPT are helping speakers draft, refine, and personalize their talks faster.
- Global demand for local voices: Events in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are actively seeking regional experts, not just Western voices.
- Speaker marketplaces: Platforms like Talks.co are streamlining how speakers get discovered and booked, especially for virtual summits and podcasts.
- On-demand speaking: Some platforms are experimenting with Netflix-style libraries of speaker content that organizations can license. Think 'bingeable keynotes'.

The bottom line? Freelancing speakers who treat their craft like a business - with systems, assets, and a clear niche - will thrive in this new era.

If you're looking to build or grow your career as a freelancing speaker, having the right tools in your corner can make all the difference. Here's a curated list of platforms and resources that can help you get booked, get paid, and get better.

1. Talks.co
- A podcast guest matching tool that connects speakers with show hosts. Great for building authority and getting your message out to targeted audiences. Tip: Use it to test new talk titles and refine your messaging before pitching larger events.

2. SpeakerHub
- A global directory where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for international exposure.

3. Canva
- Not just for slides. Use Canva to design your speaker one-sheet, social media graphics, and branded templates. Consistent visuals help you stand out.

4. Zoom
- Still the gold standard for virtual speaking. Learn to master breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing. Pro tip: Always record your sessions to build a demo reel.

5. Otter.ai
- Transcribe your talks automatically. This is a game-changer for repurposing content into blog posts, LinkedIn articles, or course material.

6. Calendly
- Simplifies scheduling with event organizers, podcast hosts, and coaching clients. Set up different event types for discovery calls, pre-event briefings, and post-talk debriefs.

7. Notion
- Organize your speaking topics, pitch templates, testimonials, and event notes in one place. Think of it as your speaker HQ.

8. Loom
- Record short video pitches for event organizers. A 2-minute personalized video can beat a cold email any day.

These tools won't do the work for you, but they'll make your workflow smoother and your brand more professional. Start with one or two, get comfortable, then layer in more as you grow.