Getting Creative at Any Age Speakers
You've got an event or podcast coming up, and you want someone who can speak about creativity-but not just anyone.
You're looking for someone who proves that creativity doesn't have an expiration date.
So... where do you even start?
How do you find the right getting creative at any age speakers who actually connect with your audience?
Whether you're programming a summit, curating your podcast guest list, or organizing a panel, getting creative at any age speakers bring fresh energy and perspective rooted in lived experience.
They show that reinvention, innovation, and artistic spark can happen at 30, 50, 70, or beyond.
I've seen how these kinds of speakers can shift a room-from quiet nods to full-on engagement-because their stories feel real, grounded, and possible.
This guide helps you quickly find speakers who specialize in creativity across the decades-who they are, what they talk about, and why they work so well for events like yours.
Scroll through these getting creative at any age speakers and book someone who'll bring something real to your stage or show.
Top Getting Creative at Any Age Speakers List for 2026
Jenny Elinora
Empower Your Voice, Unleash Your Creative Power with Jenny Elinora ✨
Raini Steffen
Inspiring Women to Turn Disruption into a Confident New Beginning
Andre Walton
Creative thinking: Create new neural pathways to Banish Burnout, make better decisions, increase emotional intelligence and be happier!
Ortal Green
I help business owners develop their innovative problem-solving skills so they can take their business to the next level.
Marie Morgan
Redefining life after 60 as our Prime Time
Brian Fippinger
Speaker, Best Selling Author, and former Improv Actor who had been coaching leaders for 46 years.
Olga Alexeeva
Reigniting joy and purpose for vibrant lives after 50
Julie Jordan Scott
Empowering your story, igniting creativity, embracing your second or third act
Bettina Bennett
Storyteller & nerd, talking about friendship, female entrepreneurship, and the realities of aging in a world that still underestimates women
Ed Zinkiewicz
Navigate the challenges of aging with confidence and creativity
What Makes a Great Getting Creative at Any Age Speaker
Take someone like Lisa Congdon, who didn't start her art career until her 30s and now speaks globally about creative growth at any age. Or consider Sir Ken Robinson, whose TED Talk on creativity in education remains one of the most-watched of all time-he championed lifelong learning and creative expression well into his later years. These speakers connect because they're relatable, not just inspirational.
What sets them apart? They speak with authenticity. They don't sugarcoat the challenges of starting something new in your 50s or 60s. Instead, they share the messy middle-the doubts, the pivots, the breakthroughs. They use storytelling to bridge generational gaps, making their message resonate with a 25-year-old entrepreneur and a 70-year-old retiree alike.
Great getting creative at any age speakers also bring a multi-disciplinary lens. They might weave in neuroscience, education theory, or even pop culture references to show how creativity evolves. And they're not afraid to challenge the audience-asking tough questions like, 'When was the last time you tried something for the first time?'
In short, a great speaker in this space doesn't just talk about creativity-they spark it in real time. They leave audiences not just inspired, but activated.
How to Select the Best Getting Creative at Any Age Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Intent.
- Are you speaking to mid-career professionals, retirees launching second careers, or Gen Z creatives looking to collaborate with older mentors?
- Clarify whether your goal is to inspire, educate, or entertain-or a mix of all three.
2. Search Platforms That Curate Experts.
- Use Talks.co to browse speaker profiles with filters for topic, experience level, and availability.
- Look for speakers with video clips, testimonials, and past event listings. A strong speaker page should show range and relevance.
3. Evaluate Their Cross-Generational Appeal.
- Watch how they engage diverse age groups. Do they reference both analog and digital experiences? Can they connect with someone who grew up with vinyl and someone who grew up with TikTok?
- Bonus: Check if they've spoken at events like CreativeMornings or AARP's Innovation@50+.
4. Ask for a Pre-Call or Sample Clip.
- Before booking, request a 10-minute pre-call or a recent event recording. This gives you a feel for their tone, pacing, and adaptability.
5. Check for Alignment with Your Theme.
- If your summit is about reinvention, make sure their story includes a pivot. If it's about intergenerational collaboration, look for speakers who've worked across age groups.
Selecting the right speaker is about more than credentials-it's about chemistry with your audience. Take the time to vet thoroughly, and your event will thank you.
How to Book a Getting Creative at Any Age Speaker
1. Start with a Clear Brief.
- Outline your event goals, audience demographics, preferred format (keynote, panel, workshop), and budget range.
- Include your event date, time zone, and whether it's virtual or in-person.
2. Use a Speaker Connection Platform.
- Head to Talks.co and search for 'getting creative at any age' in the topic filter.
- Review speaker profiles, watch intro videos, and read reviews. Look for someone who has experience with your type of audience.
3. Reach Out with a Personalized Message.
- When you contact a speaker, reference something specific from their profile or past talks.
- Example: 'I saw your session at the Creative Aging Festival-your story about launching a design studio at 60 really resonated.'
4. Confirm Availability and Logistics.
- Once they express interest, confirm the date, time, tech setup, and deliverables (e.g., slides, Q&A, breakout sessions).
- Discuss fees, travel (if applicable), and any promotional expectations.
5. Lock It In with a Simple Agreement.
- Use a speaker agreement that outlines payment terms, cancellation policy, and content rights.
- Many speakers already have a template-just ask.
6. Promote the Speaker Early.
- Add them to your event page, share teaser clips, and tag them on social media. The earlier you promote, the more buzz you build.
Booking a speaker is part logistics, part relationship-building. Keep it professional but human, and you'll create a win-win experience for everyone involved.
Common Questions on Getting Creative at Any Age Speakers
What is a getting creative at any age speaker
They often come from diverse backgrounds-art, business, education, tech-and use their platform to show that creativity is a lifelong skill. Whether it's a 70-year-old launching a podcast or a 45-year-old pivoting into sculpture, these speakers highlight real-world examples of late bloomers and continuous creators.
Unlike general creativity speakers, getting creative at any age speakers focus specifically on the intersection of age and imagination. They explore how life experience can fuel originality, how older adults can collaborate with younger creatives, and how neuroplasticity supports learning new skills well into later decades.
They're often featured at conferences on aging, personal development summits, and industry events looking to spark innovation across generations. Think of them as the bridge between experience and experimentation-encouraging people to start where they are, not where they think they should have been.
In essence, a getting creative at any age speaker is a catalyst for possibility. They help audiences see that creativity isn't a phase-it's a practice.
Why is a getting creative at any age speaker important
These speakers help dismantle age-related biases that often limit innovation. In many corporate or entrepreneurial settings, there's an unspoken assumption that creativity peaks in youth. But research from institutions like Stanford's Center on Longevity shows that creative output can actually increase with age, especially when driven by purpose and experience.
By bringing in a speaker who focuses on creativity across the lifespan, you're not just offering inspiration-you're shifting mindsets. For example, in a company undergoing digital transformation, a getting creative at any age speaker can help older employees see themselves as innovators, not obstacles. In community programs, they can empower retirees to launch new ventures or mentor younger creators.
They also foster intergenerational dialogue. When a 60-year-old and a 25-year-old both feel empowered to contribute creatively, collaboration thrives. This is especially relevant in industries like design, education, and media, where diverse perspectives fuel better outcomes.
Ultimately, these speakers are important because they expand the definition of who gets to create-and when. They remind us that creativity doesn't retire.
What do getting creative at any age speakers do
- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They speak at conferences, virtual summits, and corporate events, often using storytelling, research, and interactive exercises to engage audiences.
- Facilitate Cross-Generational Collaboration. Many design sessions that bring together younger and older participants to brainstorm, co-create, or problem-solve. This is popular in innovation labs and community incubators.
- Coach or Mentor Creatives at Different Life Stages. Some offer one-on-one or group coaching for people looking to reignite their creativity later in life-whether that's starting a business, writing a book, or learning a new craft.
- Advocate for Lifelong Learning. They often work with educational institutions, nonprofits, or government programs to promote creative aging and continuous skill development.
- Create Content that Inspires. From podcasts to YouTube channels to online courses, many speakers extend their message beyond the stage. For example, someone like Julia Cameron, author of 'The Artist's Way', continues to inspire new generations through books and digital content.
In short, getting creative at any age speakers don't just talk about creativity-they model it, teach it, and build communities around it.
How to become a getting creative at any age speaker
1. Define Your Unique Message.
- What does 'getting creative at any age' mean to you? Are you a late-blooming artist, a retired engineer turned sculptor, or a young innovator breaking age stereotypes? Your story is your brand.
- Tip: Focus on transformation. Audiences love hearing how people rediscovered creativity later in life or broke into creative industries at unexpected ages.
2. Build Your Signature Talk.
- Structure your talk around a clear narrative: challenge, discovery, and impact.
- Include personal anecdotes, practical takeaways, and audience engagement moments.
- Example: A 72-year-old who became a viral TikTok painter could share how digital platforms unlocked new creative outlets.
3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel.
- Make it easy for event organizers to find and book you.
4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Begin with local events: libraries, community centers, online summits.
- Record your talks and gather testimonials.
- As your confidence and reputation grow, pitch to larger conferences, podcasts, and virtual summits.
5. Network and Collaborate.
- Connect with other speakers and event hosts on Talks.co or LinkedIn.
- Offer to guest on podcasts or co-host webinars.
- Collaboration builds credibility and opens doors.
6. Keep Evolving.
- Stay current with trends in creativity, aging, and personal development.
- Update your talk regularly to reflect new insights or audience feedback.
Becoming a getting creative at any age speaker is about showing others that creativity has no expiration date. Your voice matters-share it.
What do you need to be a getting creative at any age speaker
First, you need a defined niche within the broader theme. 'Getting creative at any age' can mean many things: rediscovering art in retirement, launching a business at 60, or mentoring young creatives as a seasoned professional. Your niche should reflect your lived experience and the audience you want to serve.
Second, you'll need a strong presentation. This includes a well-structured talk, a memorable title, and a few signature stories or case studies. Visuals help too-slides, props, or even live demonstrations can make your talk more engaging. If you're speaking virtually, make sure your tech setup (camera, mic, lighting) is solid.
Third, build your speaker presence. Create a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co, where you can showcase your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel. This acts as your digital calling card for event hosts. You can also use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and other speakers.
Finally, you need credibility. This can come from past speaking gigs, published work, media appearances, or even a strong social media presence. If you're just starting out, guest on podcasts or speak at local events to build that track record.
Being a getting creative at any age speaker is about showing that creativity is timeless-and proving it through your own journey and the value you bring to others.
Do getting creative at any age speakers get paid
Let's break it down:
- Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs: Many new speakers start with unpaid or low-paid opportunities to build their portfolio. Community events, podcasts, and online summits often offer exposure rather than cash. As your reputation grows, so do your fees.
- Virtual vs. In-Person: In-person keynotes at conferences or corporate events tend to pay more than virtual appearances. However, virtual summits can offer broader reach and recurring opportunities.
- Industry Variation: In personal development and wellness, speakers often get paid through product sales or coaching upsells. In corporate training, flat speaking fees are more common.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Event Type | Typical Pay Range |
|---|---|
| Local Meetup | $0 - $250 |
| Online Summit | $0 - $500 |
| Corporate Workshop | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Keynote at Conference | $2,500 - $20,000+ |
| Podcast Guest | Usually unpaid |
How do getting creative at any age speakers make money
1. Speaking Fees: This includes keynotes, panel appearances, and workshops. Rates vary widely based on experience and audience size.
2. Courses and Workshops: Many speakers create online courses or host live workshops teaching creativity, mindset, or personal reinvention. Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi make this easy.
3. Books and eBooks: Publishing a book-whether self-published or traditionally-adds credibility and generates passive income. Titles like 'Creative After 60' or 'The Art of Reinvention' appeal to niche audiences.
4. Coaching or Consulting: Some speakers offer one-on-one coaching or group programs. For example, a retired architect turned painter might coach others on transitioning careers creatively.
5. Affiliate Marketing: Promoting tools or platforms they use (like Talks.co, Canva, or creative writing apps) can earn them affiliate commissions.
6. Sponsorships and Brand Deals: If they have a strong social media presence, they might partner with brands aligned with creativity or aging well-think AARP, Adobe, or wellness companies.
7. Virtual Summits and Events: Hosting their own events allows them to earn from ticket sales, upsells, and sponsorships. Talks.co helps connect hosts and speakers, making this easier to manage.
In short, the most successful getting creative at any age speakers treat speaking as a platform-not just a paycheck. They build ecosystems around their message.
How much do getting creative at any age speakers make
- Entry-Level Speakers: Those just starting out may earn between $0 and $500 per event. Many begin with unpaid gigs to build their portfolio.
- Mid-Level Speakers: With a few years of experience and a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co), they can command $1,000 to $5,000 per talk, especially for corporate or association events.
- Top-Tier Speakers: Well-known names or those with bestselling books, TEDx talks, or media coverage can earn $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
Here's a breakdown by income tier:
| Speaker Tier | Annual Income Estimate |
|---|---|
| Beginner | $0 - $10,000 |
| Intermediate | $10,000 - $75,000 |
| Advanced | $75,000 - $250,000 |
| Celebrity/Expert | $250,000+ |
- Number of Events: More bookings = more income.
- Product Ecosystem: Courses, books, and coaching can 3x or 5x earnings.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences often mean higher fees.
- Niche Demand: Topics like aging and creativity are growing, especially in wellness, education, and HR sectors.
So while there's no fixed number, the potential is real-especially if you build a brand and diversify your revenue streams.
How much do getting creative at any age speakers cost
Here's a general pricing guide:
| Event Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Community Event | $0 - $500 |
| Online Summit Appearance | $0 - $1,000 |
| Corporate Workshop | $1,000 - $7,500 |
| Conference Keynote | $2,500 - $25,000+ |
| Private Coaching Session | $100 - $500/hour |
- Experience and Reputation: A speaker with a TEDx talk or bestselling book will charge more than someone just starting out.
- Customization: Tailored talks or workshops often cost more than off-the-shelf presentations.
- Travel and Logistics: In-person events may include travel fees, accommodation, and per diem.
- Virtual vs. In-Person: Virtual talks are generally more affordable, though high-profile speakers may still charge premium rates.
Where to Find Speakers:
- Platforms like Talks.co allow you to browse speaker profiles, check availability, and compare pricing. You can also connect directly with speakers or their agents.
So whether you're organizing a local event or a global summit, there's likely a getting creative at any age speaker who fits your budget.
Who are the best getting creative at any age speakers ever
Ira Glass: Host of 'This American Life', Glass often speaks about storytelling and creativity as a lifelong pursuit. His insights resonate with both young creatives and seasoned professionals.
Grandma Moses (Anna Mary Robertson Moses): Though not a traditional speaker, her late-in-life painting career has been referenced in countless talks about age and creativity. Her story is often cited by speakers in this niche.
Ken Robinson: Known for his TED Talk on creativity and education, Robinson emphasized that creativity doesn't diminish with age-it evolves. His legacy continues to influence speakers globally.
Elizabeth Gilbert: Author of 'Big Magic', Gilbert speaks powerfully about creative living beyond fear. Her talks often include examples of people finding creativity later in life.
Rick Rubin: Legendary music producer who speaks about the creative process as a lifelong journey. His recent book and interviews have inspired a new wave of age-inclusive creativity.
Maya Angelou: Though best known as a poet and author, Angelou was a powerful speaker on creativity, resilience, and self-expression across decades of life.
Twyla Tharp: Renowned choreographer who continues to create and speak about the discipline of creativity well into her 70s and 80s.
David Bowie: His interviews and public talks often addressed reinvention and creativity at every age. A cultural icon for lifelong artistry.
Who are the best getting creative at any age speakers in the world
Sir Ken Robinson (UK): A global voice in creativity and education, his talks continue to inspire educators and creatives of all ages.
Marie Forleo (USA): Entrepreneur and speaker who encourages people to start 'before you're ready'-a message that resonates with late bloomers and career changers.
Masako Wakamiya (Japan): Created her first iPhone app at 81 and now speaks globally about tech, aging, and creativity. A true example of late-in-life innovation.
Benjamin Zander (UK/USA): Conductor and speaker who uses classical music to teach creativity and possibility, regardless of age.
Lisa Congdon (USA): Artist and author who began her creative career in her 30s and now speaks about embracing creativity later in life.
Chris Guillebeau (USA): Known for unconventional career paths and creative entrepreneurship, his talks appeal to multi-generational audiences.
Dr. Edith Eger (USA/Hungary): Holocaust survivor and psychologist who began her speaking and writing career in her 80s, focusing on healing and creative freedom.
Yayoi Kusama (Japan): While not a traditional speaker, her art installations and public appearances have inspired many talks on aging and creativity.
Rick Rubin (USA): His recent public speaking and interviews on the creative process have made him a global voice for timeless artistry.
Common myths about getting creative at any age speakers
1. You're too old to start speaking publicly.
This one comes up all the time. People assume that if you didn't start your speaking career in your 30s, you've missed the boat. That's just not true. Take Ernestine Shepherd, who became a fitness icon and motivational speaker in her 70s. Or consider Diana Nyad, who completed her record-breaking swim from Cuba to Florida at 64 and now speaks globally about resilience. Age isn't a barrier, it's a badge of experience.
2. Creativity declines with age.
This myth is rooted more in outdated psychology than reality. Research from the University of California shows that older adults often have higher levels of divergent thinking, which is key to creativity. Think about artists like Yayoi Kusama or speakers like Ken Robinson, who continued to innovate well into their later years. Creativity doesn't disappear - it evolves.
3. You need a professional background in the arts to be a creative speaker.
Not at all. Creativity isn't limited to painting or poetry. A retired engineer who reimagines how to teach math through storytelling? That's creative. A former nurse who uses improv to teach empathy in healthcare? Also creative. Creativity is about perspective, not profession.
4. Only tech-savvy people can build a speaking platform today.
Sure, tech helps. But you don't need to be a digital native to succeed. Many speakers partner with virtual assistants or use user-friendly platforms like Talks.co to get booked. Plus, audiences often crave authenticity over flashy slides. A compelling story told well always wins.
5. There's no demand for older creative voices.
Actually, there's growing demand for diverse perspectives, especially from those with lived experience. Conferences, podcasts, and online summits are actively seeking voices that break the mold. If you've got a story and a unique way to tell it, there's a stage for you.
Case studies of successful getting creative at any age speakers
At 65, Phyllis Smith left her job as a school administrator and started speaking about the intersection of aging and digital creativity. She had no formal tech background, but she began experimenting with TikTok to share her journey. Her talks now focus on how older adults can reclaim digital spaces, and she's been featured on panels alongside Gen Z influencers. Her message? You're never too old to go viral.
Then there's Jorge Mendoza, a former factory worker from Mexico who discovered storytelling through community theater in his 50s. He began speaking at local events about how creativity helped him process trauma and build confidence. Word spread. Soon, he was invited to speak at regional conferences on mental health and creativity. Jorge's talks blend humor, vulnerability, and cultural pride - a combination that resonates across borders.
In Australia, Margaret Liu, a retired pharmacist, started giving talks on creative journaling as a tool for emotional resilience. What began as a workshop at her local library turned into a national speaking tour. She now collaborates with wellness brands and offers online courses. Her story shows how a small idea can scale when it taps into a universal need.
These speakers didn't start with massive platforms or polished reels. They started with a message and a willingness to share it. Their success proves that creativity doesn't retire - it reinvents.
Future trends for getting creative at any age speakers
First, we're seeing a rise in intergenerational storytelling. Audiences are hungry for narratives that bridge age gaps, especially in sectors like education, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Speakers who can connect the dots between decades of experience and today's challenges are gaining traction.
Second, platforms are decentralizing. You no longer need a TEDx stage to be heard. Virtual summits, like those hosted by Entrepreneurs HQ, are giving niche voices global reach. Podcasts, YouTube channels, and even LinkedIn Live events are becoming go-to stages for creative speakers of all ages.
Third, there's a growing emphasis on neurodiversity and cognitive longevity. Talks that explore how creativity evolves with age, or how older adults can tap into new learning styles, are resonating in both corporate and wellness circles. This opens doors for speakers with backgrounds in psychology, education, or lived experience.
Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Hybrid speaking formats: Combining live and pre-recorded content to reach broader audiences.
- AI-assisted storytelling: Tools like ChatGPT are helping speakers brainstorm, script, and refine their talks.
- Community-led events: Local and grassroots events are prioritizing diverse, age-inclusive lineups.
- Micro-niche topics: Talks that focus on specific intersections, like 'creative aging in rural communities' or 'art therapy for retired veterans', are gaining popularity.
The future isn't about fitting into a mold. It's about finding your unique voice and using the tools available to amplify it. And for getting creative at any age speakers, that future looks wide open.
Tools and resources for aspiring getting creative at any age speakers
1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a game-changer. It connects speakers with podcast hosts looking for fresh voices. Perfect for building credibility and reaching niche audiences.
2. Canva. Not just for designers. Use it to create engaging slide decks, social media promos, and speaker one-sheets. Their templates make it easy to look pro without hiring a designer.
3. Otter.ai. Great for transcribing your practice talks or interviews. You can repurpose transcripts into blog posts, social captions, or even a book.
4. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can list your speaking profile, browse opportunities, and connect with event organizers. Especially useful for those just starting out.
5. Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual speaking gigs. Use features like breakout rooms and polls to make your sessions interactive.
6. Notion. Organize your talk ideas, track outreach, and plan your content calendar. It's flexible and beginner-friendly.
7. Coursera - Creative Aging Courses. Look for courses on creativity, aging, or communication. Learning from experts can sharpen your message and give you fresh frameworks to share.
8. Toastmasters International. A classic for a reason. Local clubs offer a supportive space to practice public speaking and get feedback. Many clubs now run online meetings too.
Tip: Don't try to master everything at once. Pick two tools that align with your current goals - maybe Talks.co to get booked and Canva to polish your materials - and build from there. The key is consistency, not perfection.