Getting Unstuck Speakers
You've locked in the event date, the audience is ready... but you still don't have the right speaker to help people actually move forward.
You want someone who knows how to talk about progress in a real, useful way.
But with so many voices out there, how do you find getting unstuck speakers who don't just tell stories but actually help people shift?
Getting unstuck speakers focus on helping others break through mental blocks, change direction, and take the next step.
Whether it's personal growth, career pivots, or creative burnout, they bring insights that actually land.
I've seen how one great talk can flip a mindset.
The best ones bring clarity, energy, and zero fluff.
This guide spotlights speakers who specialize in helping people get past what's holding them back.
You'll find voices that speak with honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom.
Perfect for conferences, interviews, summits, or panels where real progress matters.
Take a look, explore the getting unstuck speakers we've featured, and book someone who brings real movement to your next event.
Top Getting Unstuck Speakers List for 2026
Ken Gonyer
I help leaders get unstuck and become unstoppable.
Ken Williams
Get Unstuck, Rewrite Your Career Story - You Deserve Better!
Marc Wolfe
Transforming leaders from stuck to unstoppable - No More Yeah, Buts
Mutita Panmook
Mutita Panmook is the founder of Get Unstuck® Method where we help you design and build a business that supports your lifestyle.
Bradley Charbonneau
Turning "someday" into this weekend—one bold step at a time.
Lisa Giesler
Uncluttered and Finding joy and purpose in life's
Kelly Rudolph
From stuck and stressed to clear and confident about who you are, what you want, and how to get it - for women over 40
Kathi Burns
Transforming chaos into clarity, one system at a time!
What Makes a Great Getting Unstuck Speaker
Think of someone like Mel Robbins. Her '5 Second Rule' isn't just a catchy idea-it's a practical tool that helps people take immediate action. That's what separates a great getting unstuck speaker from a generic motivational one: they offer frameworks that are simple, repeatable, and grounded in real-life application. They're not just theorists-they're translators of action.
These speakers often bring a blend of personal experience and professional insight. Whether it's a startup founder who pivoted after failure, a therapist who's helped hundreds navigate life transitions, or a coach who's worked with high-performers stuck in self-doubt, the best getting unstuck speakers have lived the process themselves. They speak from the trenches, not the ivory tower.
Tone matters too. The best ones don't sugarcoat. They're honest, sometimes blunt, but always empathetic. They know how to challenge an audience without alienating them. And they're masters of pacing-knowing when to pause, when to push, and when to let silence do the heavy lifting.
Ultimately, a great getting unstuck speaker doesn't just leave you feeling good. They leave you doing something different. That's the real magic.
How to Select the Best Getting Unstuck Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience's 'Stuck Point'.
- Are they entrepreneurs in a plateau phase? Creatives battling imposter syndrome? Corporate leaders navigating change?
- The more specific you are, the easier it is to match with a speaker who resonates.
2. Search Beyond the Obvious.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to explore speaker profiles by niche.
- Look for people who've spoken on podcasts, summits, or panels about resilience, mindset shifts, or overcoming inertia.
- Don't just chase big names-chase relevance.
3. Review Their Delivery Style.
- Watch or listen to past talks. Are they conversational or lecture-like? Do they engage or preach?
- A great getting unstuck speaker knows how to adapt their message to different formats-especially audio or video interviews.
4. Check for Actionable Frameworks.
- Do they offer tools, not just tales? Look for guests who can break down their ideas into steps or systems.
- For example, someone who teaches a 3-step clarity method is more useful than someone who just shares their burnout story.
5. Reach Out with Context.
- When you contact them (or their team), reference a specific episode or quote you liked.
- Use your Talks.co speaker page to show credibility and make the pitch personal.
Bonus Tip: Rotate perspectives. One month, feature a clinical psychologist. Next, a startup founder. Then maybe a spiritual guide. Variety keeps your audience engaged and your show fresh.
How to Book a Getting Unstuck Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist.
- Use Talks.co to browse speaker categories like 'mindset', 'resilience', or 'personal growth'.
- Save profiles that align with your show's theme or audience pain points.
2. Vet Their Fit.
- Look at their past appearances. Have they spoken on podcasts or summits similar to yours?
- Read testimonials or reviews from other hosts.
- Check if they offer downloadable resources or frameworks-this adds post-show value.
3. Reach Out Professionally.
- Use the built-in messaging tools on Talks.co or email them directly.
- Include your show's name, audience size, topic focus, and why you think they're a fit.
- Be clear about the format (live, recorded, video, audio), duration, and dates.
4. Confirm the Details.
- Once they're in, send a calendar invite with timezone clarity.
- Share a prep doc with sample questions, your audience profile, and any tech requirements.
- If you're using a platform like Riverside or Zoom, test it beforehand.
5. Promote and Follow Up.
- Tag them in social posts before and after the episode drops.
- Send them a link to the episode and any promo assets.
- Ask if they'd like to share it with their list or network-it's a win-win.
Remember: The smoother your process, the more likely they'll refer other great speakers your way. As mentioned in 'How to Select the Best getting unstuck speaker for Your Show', relevance and professionalism go hand in hand.
Common Questions on Getting Unstuck Speakers
What is a getting unstuck speaker
These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds: psychology, business, education, coaching, or even entertainment. What unites them is their ability to identify mental, emotional, or behavioral blocks and offer practical ways to overcome them. They don't just talk about success-they talk about the messy middle, the part where people feel stuck and unsure.
Unlike general motivational speakers who aim to inspire broadly, getting unstuck speakers zoom in on the specific experience of being stuck. That might mean helping a solopreneur break through a creative block, guiding a team through a stalled project, or helping individuals navigate life transitions like career changes or burnout recovery.
They typically speak at events, summits, podcasts, or workshops where transformation is the goal. Their talks often include frameworks, real-life examples, and interactive exercises designed to shift mindset and spark action.
In short, a getting unstuck speaker is a catalyst for clarity and movement. They help people get out of their own way-and into forward motion.
Why is a getting unstuck speaker important
Stuckness can show up in many forms: a founder unsure of their next pivot, a team paralyzed by decision fatigue, or a creative professional overwhelmed by options. In these moments, people don't need more information-they need transformation. And that's what a getting unstuck speaker delivers.
These speakers bring clarity to chaos. They help audiences reframe problems, challenge limiting beliefs, and take small, strategic steps forward. Whether it's through a 20-minute keynote or a 60-minute podcast episode, their impact lies in helping people shift from analysis paralysis to aligned action.
In corporate settings, they can reignite stalled innovation. In education, they can help students and staff navigate burnout. In entrepreneurship, they can help founders reconnect with their 'why'. Their versatility makes them valuable across industries and cultures.
Ultimately, a getting unstuck speaker isn't just a nice-to-have-they're a strategic asset when momentum matters most. They don't just talk. They unlock.
What do getting unstuck speakers do
- Diagnose the Stuck Point. They help individuals or teams identify the root cause of inertia-whether it's fear, confusion, burnout, or misalignment.
- Deliver Frameworks and Tools. They share actionable strategies like decision-making models, mindset shifts, or productivity hacks. Think of tools like the Eisenhower Matrix for prioritization or the 'Two-Minute Rule' for overcoming procrastination.
- Engage Through Storytelling. These speakers use real-life examples-often their own or from clients-to make abstract concepts relatable. This emotional connection helps audiences internalize the message.
- Facilitate Breakthroughs. Through interactive exercises, live Q&A, or guided reflection, they create space for 'aha' moments. This is especially common in workshops or virtual summits.
- Adapt Across Contexts. Whether they're speaking to a room of startup founders in Berlin or a group of educators in rural Australia, they tailor their message to the audience's unique challenges.
- Inspire Sustainable Action. The goal isn't just to motivate for a day. It's to equip people with tools they'll use long after the talk ends.
So while their title might sound niche, their impact is anything but. Getting unstuck speakers are the ones who help people move from stuck to starting again-and that ripple effect can be massive.
How to become a getting unstuck speaker
1. Define Your 'Unstuck' Niche.
- Are you helping people overcome burnout? Pivot careers? Rebuild after failure? Be specific.
- Example: If you're a former startup founder who bounced back from bankruptcy, your story could resonate with entrepreneurs stuck in fear or indecision.
2. Build Your Signature Talk.
- Structure your talk around a clear framework: story, struggle, shift, strategy.
- Use personal insights, client results, or case studies to make it relatable.
- Tip: Keep it tight. A 20-minute version is perfect for podcasts and summits.
3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Include your bio, headshot, talk topics, testimonials, and a video clip.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to showcase your profile and get discovered by event hosts.
4. Get on Virtual Summits and Podcasts.
- Start with niche events or shows aligned with your message.
- Use Talks.co to connect with summit hosts looking for fresh voices.
- Tip: Offer a freebie or lead magnet to grow your email list from each appearance.
5. Collect Social Proof.
- Ask for testimonials after every talk or interview.
- Share clips and quotes on LinkedIn, Instagram, or your website.
6. Pitch Strategically.
- Reach out to event organizers, corporate HR teams, or podcast hosts.
- Keep your pitch short: who you are, what you talk about, and why their audience will care.
7. Keep Evolving.
- Update your talk based on feedback.
- Add new stories, stats, or frameworks that reflect your growth.
Becoming a getting unstuck speaker isn't about being perfect. It's about being real, relevant, and ready to serve. Start small, stay consistent, and let your message do the heavy lifting.
What do you need to be a getting unstuck speaker
1. A Clear Transformation Message
At the heart of every getting unstuck speaker is a transformation. You've gone from stuck to unstuck, and now you help others do the same. Your message should be specific, repeatable, and emotionally resonant. Think of Mel Robbins' '5 Second Rule' or Lisa Nichols' journey from welfare to wealth. It's not just the story, it's the clarity of the shift.
2. Speaking Skills That Connect
You don't need to be a TEDx veteran, but you do need to speak with clarity, confidence, and connection. Practice storytelling, pacing, and audience engagement. Tools like Toastmasters or virtual speaker bootcamps can help you sharpen your delivery.
3. A Platform to Share From
You need visibility. That means having a speaker page (like the ones on Talks.co), a LinkedIn profile that reflects your expertise, and ideally a few videos of you speaking. These assets help event organizers and podcast hosts vet you quickly.
4. A Repeatable Framework or Method
Audiences love frameworks. Whether it's a 3-step mindset shift or a 5-part action plan, having a repeatable process makes your message more tangible and memorable. It also makes it easier to turn your talk into a workshop, book, or course.
5. A Way to Connect With Hosts and Audiences
Use platforms like Talks.co to connect directly with summit organizers and podcast hosts. Build relationships, not just pitches. And always have a way to capture leads-like a free guide or quiz-so your audience can stay in touch after your talk.
In short, you need a message that matters, a voice that resonates, and a system that scales. With those in place, you're well on your way to becoming a sought-after getting unstuck speaker.
Do getting unstuck speakers get paid
Short Answer: Yes, but it depends.
Getting unstuck speakers can absolutely get paid, but how much and how often depends on factors like their niche, audience, platform, and experience level. Here's a breakdown:
1. Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Many new speakers start with unpaid gigs-especially virtual summits or podcasts-to build credibility.
- Mid-level speakers may receive honorariums ($250-$1,000) for webinars or breakout sessions.
- Established speakers can command $5,000-$25,000+ per keynote, especially in corporate or association settings.
2. Factors That Influence Pay
- Audience Size: The larger the audience, the more value you bring.
- Event Type: Corporate events tend to pay more than community or nonprofit events.
- Your Offer: If you have a backend offer (like coaching or a course), you might waive your fee in exchange for leads.
3. Talks.co and Monetization
Speakers on platforms like Talks.co can list their speaking topics, connect with hosts, and negotiate terms directly. Some events offer affiliate commissions or bundled offers instead of direct pay.
Pros of Paid Speaking
- Direct income.
- Higher perceived authority.
- More selective opportunities.
Cons of Paid Speaking (Early On)
- Fewer gigs available.
- Harder to break in without a track record.
In summary, getting unstuck speakers do get paid-but often after proving their value through consistent delivery, audience engagement, and a clear message. Many start unpaid, but with the right strategy, the paychecks follow.
How do getting unstuck speakers make money
1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious source. Keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and corporate trainings can range from $500 to $25,000+ depending on the speaker's reputation and the event type. Corporate wellness programs and leadership retreats are especially lucrative.
2. Virtual Summits and Podcasts
While many of these are unpaid, they're powerful lead generators. Speakers often offer a freebie (like a guide or quiz) to capture emails, then upsell coaching, courses, or memberships. On Talks.co, speakers can connect with hosts looking for experts on mindset, productivity, and transformation.
3. Coaching and Consulting
Many getting unstuck speakers offer 1:1 or group coaching programs. For example, a speaker who helps mid-career professionals pivot might offer a 12-week coaching package for $2,000-$5,000.
4. Digital Products and Courses
Online courses, eBooks, and templates are scalable income streams. Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi make it easy to launch a course based on your talk framework.
5. Affiliate Marketing
Speakers often promote tools, books, or services they believe in and earn a commission. For example, a speaker might recommend journaling apps or productivity tools as part of their unstuck strategy.
6. Books and Licensing
Publishing a book can open doors to paid gigs and media appearances. Some speakers also license their frameworks to companies or other coaches.
7. Membership Communities
Recurring revenue from a membership group (e.g., monthly mindset calls, exclusive content) can provide stable income.
In short, speaking is the front door-but the real money often comes from what happens after the talk. Smart getting unstuck speakers build ecosystems, not just events.
How much do getting unstuck speakers make
| Speaker Level | Avg. Speaking Fee | Annual Income Range |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | $0 - $500 | $0 - $20,000 |
| Intermediate | $500 - $2,500 | $20,000 - $100,000 |
| Established/Expert | $2,500 - $10,000+ | $100,000 - $500,000+ |
- Number of Gigs: A speaker doing 50 paid talks at $2,000 each earns $100,000. But many supplement with coaching or courses.
- Backend Offers: Some speakers earn more from selling a $997 course to 5% of a 1,000-person audience than from the speaking fee itself.
- Niche and Market: Corporate and tech audiences tend to pay more than wellness or education sectors.
Examples:
- A mindset coach who speaks at HR conferences might earn $3,000 per talk and upsell a $5,000 corporate package.
- A speaker featured on Talks.co might land 10 virtual summits, generate 2,000 leads, and convert 5% into a $297 course-earning nearly $30,000 without a speaking fee.
So while some getting unstuck speakers earn modestly, others have built six- and seven-figure businesses around their message. The key is leveraging your talk into multiple revenue streams.
How much do getting unstuck speakers cost
Typical Price Ranges:
- New or Emerging Speakers: $0 - $500. Often speak for exposure, testimonials, or lead generation.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $500 - $5,000. These speakers have a few years of experience, a clear message, and some media or event appearances.
- Top-Tier or Celebrity Speakers: $5,000 - $25,000+. These include authors, TEDx speakers, or those with large followings.
Factors That Affect Cost:
- Event Type: Corporate events pay more than community meetups or podcasts.
- Format: Keynotes cost more than panels or workshops.
- Customization: A tailored talk or training may increase the fee by 20-50%.
- Travel: In-person events may require covering travel, lodging, and per diem.
Virtual vs. In-Person:
- Virtual talks are generally more affordable. A $5,000 in-person keynote might cost $1,500 virtually.
Negotiation Tips:
- Some speakers offer discounts for nonprofits or bundled packages (e.g., keynote + breakout + Q&A).
- Platforms like Talks.co allow you to connect directly with speakers and negotiate terms transparently.
Hiring a getting unstuck speaker is an investment in transformation. Whether you're running a leadership retreat, a virtual summit, or a team offsite, the right speaker can shift mindsets and spark action.
Who are the best getting unstuck speakers ever
Lisa Nichols: From single mom on welfare to motivational powerhouse, Lisa's story of transformation has inspired audiences globally. Her talks focus on self-worth, clarity, and action.
Mel Robbins: Creator of the '5 Second Rule', Mel has helped people overcome procrastination and fear with a simple, science-backed method. Her TEDx talk has over 30 million views.
Les Brown: A classic voice in motivational speaking, Les's message 'You gotta be hungry!' has helped people push past doubt and inertia for decades.
Brené Brown: While known for vulnerability research, Brené's work on shame and courage has helped countless people get unstuck emotionally and professionally.
Zig Ziglar: A pioneer in personal development, Zig's timeless advice on attitude and action continues to guide people out of ruts and into results.
Marie Forleo: With her 'Everything is Figureoutable' philosophy, Marie empowers creatives and entrepreneurs to move past fear and indecision.
Eric Thomas: Known as the 'Hip-Hop Preacher', Eric's raw, passionate delivery helps people break through excuses and take control of their lives.
Nick Vujicic: Born without limbs, Nick's message of hope and purpose has inspired millions to overcome extreme adversity.
Jim Rohn: A mentor to many modern speakers, Jim's teachings on discipline, mindset, and personal growth remain foundational for getting unstuck.
Who are the best getting unstuck speakers in the world
Robin Sharma (Canada): Author of 'The 5AM Club', Robin teaches high performers how to break through stagnation and lead without a title.
Vishen Lakhiani (Malaysia/USA): Founder of Mindvalley, Vishen speaks on breaking free from 'brules' (bullsh*t rules) and designing your own life systems.
Julian Treasure (UK): Known for his TED talks on conscious listening and speaking, Julian helps people get unstuck in communication and connection.
Marie Forleo (USA): A global voice in creative entrepreneurship, Marie's message resonates with people stuck in indecision or fear of failure.
Bozoma Saint John (Ghana/USA): A powerhouse speaker on resilience and reinvention, Bozoma shares how to thrive through personal and professional upheaval.
Mo Gawdat (Egypt/UK): Former Google X exec and author of 'Solve for Happy', Mo speaks on overcoming grief and engineering happiness.
Sadhguru (India): Though spiritual in tone, Sadhguru's talks help people get unstuck by shifting perception and embracing inner stillness.
Trent Shelton (USA): Former NFL player turned motivational speaker, Trent's raw, real talks on self-worth and healing resonate globally.
Lisa Nichols (USA): Continues to be a dominant voice in transformation, speaking at global events and coaching leaders worldwide.
Common myths about getting unstuck speakers
This is a common misunderstanding. While energy and inspiration are part of the package, the best getting unstuck speakers go far beyond hype. They offer frameworks, tools, and real strategies. Think of Mel Robbins and her 5 Second Rule - it's not just a pep talk, it's a cognitive behavioral trick backed by neuroscience. These speakers often blend psychology, business acumen, and storytelling to create transformation, not just motivation.
Myth 2: You need to have hit rock bottom to be a getting unstuck speaker.
Not true. While some speakers share dramatic personal stories, many effective voices in this space come from backgrounds in coaching, leadership, or even corporate consulting. Their value comes from helping others navigate transitions, not necessarily surviving trauma. For example, Simon Sinek didn't have to lose everything to teach people how to find their 'why'.
Myth 3: It's only relevant for personal development events.
Actually, getting unstuck speakers are increasingly in demand in corporate, educational, and even healthcare settings. Why? Because 'stuck' shows up everywhere - in team dynamics, innovation blocks, leadership burnout. Organizations bring in these speakers to shift mindset and unlock momentum. Think of how Brené Brown's vulnerability research moved from TEDx to Fortune 500 boardrooms.
Myth 4: You have to be an extrovert to succeed.
Nope. Some of the most impactful getting unstuck speakers are introverts who've mastered the art of intentional delivery. Susan Cain, author of 'Quiet', is a perfect example. Her talks resonate deeply not because she's loud, but because she's thoughtful and authentic. What matters more than personality type is clarity, empathy, and the ability to connect.
Myth 5: Once you've got a keynote, you're set.
The truth? Great getting unstuck speakers evolve constantly. They test new material, adapt to different audiences, and refine their message. Stagnation is the enemy of relevance. Just like their audiences, they have to keep getting unstuck themselves.
Case studies of successful getting unstuck speakers
Then there's Nick Santonastasso. Born with a rare condition that left him with one arm and no legs, Nick could've easily been boxed into the 'inspirational story' category. But he flipped the script. His talks focus on mindset, discipline, and overcoming excuses - not sympathy. He's spoken at business conferences, military bases, and high schools, proving that getting unstuck isn't just about overcoming adversity, it's about owning your narrative.
In the business world, Dorie Clark stands out. A former journalist turned branding strategist, Dorie helps professionals pivot and reinvent themselves. Her talks at Google, the World Bank, and Harvard Business School are packed with actionable insights. She doesn't just talk about getting unstuck - she maps out how to do it, step by step. Her success shows that credibility and clarity can be just as powerful as charisma.
From a global lens, consider Vusi Thembekwayo, a South African entrepreneur and speaker. He's known for helping audiences break through limiting beliefs, especially in emerging markets. His talks blend economic insight with personal development, making him a unique voice in the getting unstuck space. He's proof that this message resonates far beyond Western audiences.
These speakers didn't follow a single formula. Some came from academia, others from hardship, and others from business. What they share is a commitment to helping people move forward - with clarity, courage, and a plan.
Future trends for getting unstuck speakers
1. Hybrid delivery is the new normal.
Virtual keynotes, interactive webinars, and on-demand courses are now expected. Speakers who can adapt their message across formats - from a 60-minute live session to a 5-minute TikTok - will thrive. Audiences want flexibility, and speakers need to meet them where they are.
2. Data-backed storytelling is gaining traction.
It's not enough to say 'you can do it'. Audiences want to know why it works. Speakers who integrate behavioral science, neuroscience, or even performance metrics into their talks are standing out. Think of how Adam Grant weaves research into his storytelling - that's the bar.
3. Niche expertise is beating general inspiration.
The era of the 'one-size-fits-all' motivational speaker is fading. Getting unstuck speakers who focus on specific audiences - like burned-out healthcare workers, stalled startup founders, or mid-career professionals - are seeing more traction. Tailored content wins.
4. Global relevance is rising.
Speakers who can address cross-cultural challenges are in demand. As remote work and global teams become standard, the ability to speak to diverse experiences of 'stuckness' - from economic instability to generational shifts - is a major asset.
5. Interactive formats are here to stay.
Audiences don't just want to listen - they want to engage. From live Q&A to breakout exercises and digital workbooks, the most effective getting unstuck speakers are creating participatory experiences.
In short, the future belongs to speakers who are agile, evidence-driven, and deeply audience-aware. The message of momentum is timeless - but how it's delivered is evolving fast.
Tools and resources for aspiring getting unstuck speakers
SpeakerHub. A directory and booking platform for speakers. You can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. Bonus: They offer webinars and resources on speaker marketing.
Canva. Not just for designers. Use it to create high-impact slide decks, speaker one-sheets, and social media promos. Tip: Use the 'Presentations' template and customize it with your brand colors.
Notion. Organize your talk outlines, audience research, and feedback in one place. It's like a digital brain for your speaking business. You can even build a content calendar to track your outreach.
TEDx Speaker Guide. Even if you're not applying to TEDx yet, their speaker prep guide is gold. It teaches you how to craft a compelling idea worth spreading - a skill every getting unstuck speaker needs.
Zoom Events. If you're hosting your own virtual workshops or keynotes, Zoom's event platform lets you manage registration, engagement, and follow-up. Tip: Use breakout rooms for small-group exercises.
LinkedIn Learning. Courses on public speaking, storytelling, and audience engagement from top instructors. Great for brushing up on skills or learning new techniques.
Otter.ai. Record and transcribe your practice sessions or live talks. Reviewing your delivery is one of the fastest ways to improve. Tip: Use transcripts to repurpose content into blog posts or social media clips.