Grooming Industry Speakers

A grooming industry speaker is a professional who shares insights, techniques, and trends related to grooming - whether that's pet grooming, barbering, salon services, or niche specialties like mobile grooming or eco-conscious practices.

These speakers typically have deep experience in their field. Some are master groomers, barbershop owners, or educators. Others might be product developers, business coaches for grooming professionals, or influencers with a strong industry following. What unites them is their ability to communicate knowledge in a compelling, educational way.

You'll find grooming industry speakers at trade shows, virtual summits, training workshops, and even podcasts. They might give a keynote on branding your grooming business, lead a live demo on creative coat styling, or host a panel on the future of grooming tech.

Importantly, these speakers don't just talk - they teach. They help professionals stay competitive by breaking down new tools, methods, and business models. Whether it's explaining the science behind hypoallergenic shampoos or the economics of running a mobile grooming van, they bring clarity and authority to the conversation.

In short, a grooming industry speaker is someone who turns expertise into impact - helping others grow their skills, businesses, and confidence in a fast-evolving field.

When grooming professionals gather - whether in-person or online - they're not just looking for inspiration. They're looking for actionable insights, and that's where a grooming industry speaker becomes essential.

First, grooming is a highly technical field. From blade lengths to skin sensitivities, the margin for error is small. A speaker who can break down complex techniques into practical takeaways can dramatically improve the quality of service across the industry. For example, a speaker at a pet grooming summit might explain how to safely groom brachycephalic breeds, which require special handling.

Second, the industry is evolving fast. Trends like cruelty-free products, AI-powered booking systems, and gender-neutral salon branding are reshaping how grooming businesses operate. A speaker who stays ahead of these trends helps attendees future-proof their careers.

Third, speakers create community. They bring people together around shared challenges and goals. Whether it's a local barbering event in Lagos or a global pet grooming summit streamed on Zoom, the speaker sets the tone and sparks the dialogue.

Finally, grooming industry speakers often serve as role models. They show what's possible - not just in technique, but in entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. That kind of visibility matters, especially for newcomers or underrepresented voices in the field.

So, while a speaker might only take the stage for 30 minutes, their impact can ripple across hundreds of careers and businesses.

Grooming industry speakers educate, inspire, and elevate professionals across the grooming world - but their roles go far beyond just giving talks.

1. Share Expertise.
- They deliver presentations, workshops, and demos on grooming techniques, business strategies, and industry trends.
- Example: A speaker might lead a session on scissor-over-comb techniques for barbers or demonstrate safe drying methods for double-coated dogs.

2. Translate Trends into Action.
- They help attendees understand how to apply trends like sustainable grooming, digital booking tools, or inclusive salon design.
- For instance, a speaker might explain how to switch to biodegradable grooming products without raising costs.

3. Engage Across Formats.
- Grooming industry speakers appear at live expos, online summits, podcasts, webinars, and even YouTube tutorials.
- On Talks.co, many speakers offer both live and pre-recorded sessions tailored to different audiences.

4. Build Community and Credibility.
- They often moderate panels, host Q&As, or participate in networking sessions.
- Their presence can boost event attendance and credibility, especially if they have a strong following or media presence.

5. Mentor and Motivate.
- Some speakers offer coaching or mentorship to grooming professionals looking to level up.
- They might share personal business journeys, lessons from failures, or tips for scaling a grooming brand.

In essence, grooming industry speakers act as bridges - connecting knowledge with action, and professionals with opportunities.

Becoming a grooming industry speaker isn't just about knowing how to clip a poodle or run a salon. It's about turning your expertise into a message that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- Are you a pet grooming specialist? A salon business coach? A product innovator? Get specific.
- Craft a signature talk that solves a problem or shares a unique insight. For example, 'Scaling a Mobile Grooming Business in Rural Areas' or 'The Future of Eco-Friendly Grooming Products'.

2. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include a high-quality headshot, bio, topics you speak on, and a short video reel.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you.

3. Start Speaking Locally.
- Reach out to pet expos, grooming schools, and local business meetups.
- Offer to speak for free at first to build your portfolio and get testimonials.
- Record every talk. Even a 2-minute clip can boost your credibility.

4. Network with Hosts and Other Speakers.
- Use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and other speakers.
- Attend virtual summits and grooming conferences. Ask questions, follow up, and pitch yourself.

5. Collect Social Proof and Scale.
- Ask for reviews, LinkedIn endorsements, and referrals.
- Once you've done 5-10 talks, start charging. Update your speaker page with new topics and testimonials.

Remember, grooming industry speakers are educators and entertainers. Your job is to inform, inspire, and leave people wanting more. Start small, stay consistent, and keep refining your message.

To be a grooming industry speaker, you need more than just grooming skills. You need a combination of expertise, communication ability, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down:

Industry Expertise
You must have deep knowledge of the grooming world. That could mean years of hands-on experience, running a successful grooming business, or innovating in pet care products. Whether you're a dog show stylist or a grooming educator, your credibility starts with what you know.

A Clear, Valuable Message
What do you want to say that others need to hear? Maybe it's how to avoid burnout in a high-volume salon or how to train new groomers efficiently. Your message should solve a problem or offer a fresh perspective. The more niche your insight, the more valuable it becomes to the right audience.

Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TED Talk veteran, but you do need to engage an audience. Practice storytelling, use visuals, and learn to pace your delivery. Consider joining Toastmasters or watching top-rated grooming talks online to study what works.

A Professional Presence
This includes a speaker page (Talks.co is a great place to start), a polished bio, and a few video clips of you speaking. Event organizers want to see what you're like on stage or on camera before they book you.

Connections and Visibility
Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event hosts and podcast producers. Attend grooming expos, join Facebook groups for pet professionals, and stay active on LinkedIn. The more visible you are, the more likely you'll be invited to speak.

In short, to be a grooming industry speaker, you need to be an expert, a communicator, and a connector. Each of these can be developed with intention and practice.

Yes, grooming industry speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's look at the data and dynamics:
Payment Models
- Flat Speaking Fees: Common at trade shows and grooming expos. Fees can range from $250 for local events to $2,500+ for national conferences.
- Revenue Share: At virtual summits or online workshops, speakers may earn a percentage of ticket sales or upsells.
- Lead Generation: Some speakers waive fees in exchange for access to attendee emails or the chance to pitch a product or course.
Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience Level: First-time speakers often speak for free or low fees. Established names can command premium rates.
- Event Type: In-person conferences tend to pay more than podcasts or webinars.
- Audience Size: The larger the audience, the more value you bring as a speaker.
Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Opportunity to earn while sharing expertise	Not all events pay
Builds authority and leads to other income streams	Travel and prep time can be significant
Can lead to product sales or consulting gigs	Payment terms vary widely

So yes, grooming industry speakers can and do get paid, but the path to consistent income often involves a mix of paid gigs, free exposure, and strategic positioning. As mentioned in 'How do grooming industry speakers make money', speaking is often one piece of a broader income puzzle.

Grooming industry speakers make money in a variety of ways, and often the speaking itself is just the tip of the iceberg. Here's a breakdown of the most common revenue streams:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
These include grooming expos, pet industry conferences, and online summits. Fees vary based on experience, topic, and audience size. For example, a keynote speaker at Groom Expo West might earn $1,500 to $3,000, while a breakout session speaker might earn $500.

2. Product or Course Sales
Many speakers use their stage time to promote their own products. This could be:
- Online grooming courses
- Ebooks on pet care
- Branded grooming tools
- Membership communities for salon owners

3. Consulting and Coaching
After a talk, audience members often want more. Speakers can offer:
- Business coaching for grooming salons
- One-on-one mentorship for aspiring groomers
- Staff training packages

4. Affiliate Marketing
Speakers may earn commissions by recommending tools or platforms. For instance, promoting a grooming software like MoeGo or a pet shampoo brand with an affiliate link.

5. Sponsorships
If you have a large following, brands may pay you to speak and mention their products. This is common in YouTube grooming channels or Instagram Lives.

6. Virtual Summits and Podcasts
While many of these are unpaid, they often lead to paid opportunities. Talks.co helps speakers connect with hosts and monetize appearances through exposure and lead generation.

In short, grooming industry speakers make money by combining visibility with value. The more you diversify your income streams, the more sustainable your speaking career becomes.

The income of grooming industry speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and business strategy. Here's a closer look at the numbers and what influences them:

Average Speaking Fees
- Beginner Speakers: $0 to $500 per event. Often unpaid or compensated with travel and exposure.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $500 to $2,000 per event. These speakers have a niche, a speaker page, and some video content.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $2,000 to $10,000+ per event. These are keynote-level speakers with a strong brand and following.

Annual Income Potential
Assuming a speaker does 2 events per month:
- Low end: 24 events x $500 = $12,000/year
- High end: 24 events x $3,000 = $72,000/year

Additional Income Streams (as covered in 'How do grooming industry speakers make money') can add significantly:
- Online course sales: $10,000 to $100,000+/year
- Consulting: $100/hour to $300/hour
- Product sales: Variable, but some grooming tool brands report six-figure annual sales from speaker-led promotions

Key Influencing Factors
- Niche: A speaker focused on grooming business growth may earn more than one focused solely on technique.
- Audience: B2B audiences (salon owners, product distributors) tend to be more lucrative than B2C (pet owners).
- Marketing: Speakers with a Talks.co profile, strong social media, and a lead magnet convert more leads into income.

So while not every grooming industry speaker is making six figures, those who treat it like a business and diversify their income can earn a solid living.

Hiring a grooming industry speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on several variables. Here's a breakdown to help event organizers or business owners budget effectively:

Typical Fee Ranges
- Local Events or Workshops: $200 to $1,000. These are often half-day sessions or single-topic talks at grooming schools or community expos.
- Regional Conferences: $1,000 to $3,000. Includes travel, prep time, and sometimes a workshop add-on.
- National or International Events: $3,000 to $10,000+. These speakers are often keynote-level with a strong reputation.

Virtual Speaking Engagements
- Podcasts or Webinars: Often free, especially if the speaker is promoting a product.
- Virtual Summits: $250 to $2,000 depending on the audience size and speaker's draw.

What Influences Cost
- Speaker's Experience and Brand: A well-known grooming educator or influencer will charge more.
- Customization Level: Talks tailored to your audience or business come at a premium.
- Travel and Logistics: In-person events require covering travel, lodging, and sometimes per diem.

Cost-Saving Tips
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget.
- Offer value beyond cash: professional video footage, access to leads, or product sponsorships.
- Book early. Last-minute bookings often cost more.

In summary, grooming industry speakers are an investment. The right speaker can elevate your event, educate your audience, and even boost product sales. Just make sure their message aligns with your goals.

- Jodi Murphy: A world-renowned competitive groomer and educator. Her seminars on breed-specific grooming and mobile grooming business strategies are highly rated.
- Melissa Verplank: Author of 'Notes from the Grooming Table' and founder of Paragon School of Pet Grooming. Known for her clear teaching style and business acumen.
- Sue Zecco: A grooming competition legend and speaker at major expos like SuperZoo and Groom Expo. Her talks blend humor with high-level technique.
- Jay Scruggs: Co-creator of 'Super Styling Sessions'. His live demos and grooming tutorials have influenced thousands globally.
- Olga Zabelinskaya: A multiple Best in Show winner and speaker known for her creative grooming and international appeal.
- Angela Kumpe: A pioneer in creative grooming and a frequent speaker at global events. Her sessions are both artistic and practical.
- Jonathan David: Celebrity groomer and judge on Animal Planet's 'Groomer Has It'. His talks often focus on branding and professionalism.
- Christein Pearson: A grooming educator and advocate for safety and ergonomics in the salon. Her workshops are popular among new groomers.
- Lisa Leady: A third-generation groomer and speaker who blends tradition with modern techniques.
- Dr. Cliff Faver: A veterinarian and grooming speaker who bridges the gap between health and grooming practices.

These speakers have shaped the industry through education, innovation, and mentorship. Many of them are still active and can be found on platforms like Talks.co or at major grooming expos.

- Veronica Frosch (Germany): An international grooming judge and speaker known for her expertise in European grooming standards and salon efficiency.
- Colin Taylor (UK): A charismatic speaker and author of 'What Would Colin Do?'. He travels globally to speak on grooming technique and industry trends.
- Misael Guerrero (Mexico): A bilingual grooming educator and speaker who bridges North and Latin American grooming communities.
- Suesan Watson (Canada): A respected speaker at Canadian Pet Expo and known for her work in grooming education and certification.
- Yuko Sato (Japan): A leader in Asian Fusion grooming and a frequent speaker at international grooming shows.
- Paola Acco (Brazil): A grooming competition judge and speaker with a strong presence in South America. She speaks on grooming business growth and creative styling.
- Barbara Bird (USA): Known as 'The Grooming Tutor', she speaks on skin and coat care, product chemistry, and salon best practices.
- Markie Ramone (Australia): A rising voice in the grooming scene Down Under, known for his edgy style and talks on grooming culture.
- Teri DiMarino (USA): A veteran speaker and judge with decades of experience. She's known for her no-nonsense delivery and deep knowledge.

These speakers represent the global grooming community, each bringing a unique perspective shaped by their region, culture, and grooming philosophy. Whether you're organizing an international summit or looking for diverse voices, these names are worth exploring.

Myth #1: Grooming industry speakers only talk about pet care.
It's easy to assume that if someone speaks in the grooming industry, they're just giving tips on brushing dogs or trimming nails. But that's a narrow view. Grooming industry speakers often cover a wide range of topics: business growth, branding, customer retention, mental health for groomers, and even sustainability in grooming practices. For example, speakers like Khris Berry have addressed the emotional toll of burnout in grooming salons, while others focus on scaling mobile grooming businesses.

Myth #2: You need to be a celebrity groomer to get speaking gigs.
Not true. While big names might headline major expos, many conferences and virtual summits are hungry for fresh, relatable voices. If you've built a loyal client base, launched a successful mobile grooming service, or innovated with eco-friendly products, you have something valuable to share. Platforms like Talks.co make it easier than ever for emerging experts to connect with event organizers.

Myth #3: Speaking in the grooming industry doesn't pay.
Sure, not every event pays upfront. But many grooming industry speakers monetize through back-end offers: online courses, consulting, or product lines. Some even land brand sponsorships. Think of speaking as a visibility engine. It's not just about the honorarium... it's about the doors it opens.

Myth #4: You need to be extroverted to be a good speaker.
Plenty of successful speakers are introverts. What matters most is clarity, authenticity, and preparation. In fact, introverted speakers often connect deeply with audiences because they're thoughtful and intentional. If public speaking feels intimidating, start with webinars or podcasts to build confidence.

Myth #5: There's no room for new voices.
The grooming industry is evolving. New techniques, tools, and customer expectations mean there's always room for fresh perspectives. Whether you're a rural groomer using solar-powered vans or a city-based salon owner embracing AI scheduling tools, your insights are needed.

When Angela Kumpe first stepped onto a stage, she wasn't trying to become a speaker. She was just sharing how she turned creative grooming into a profitable niche. Her vibrant designs and business savvy caught attention, and soon she was invited to speak at grooming expos across the U.S. What started as a side passion became a platform for influence. Today, Angela not only educates on artistic grooming but also mentors others on monetizing their creativity.

Then there's Colin Taylor. Originally from the UK, Colin built a reputation as a top-tier groomer, but it was his no-nonsense speaking style that set him apart. He began speaking at international events, blending humor with hard truths about pricing, client boundaries, and professionalism. His talks resonated with both newcomers and veterans, and he eventually launched his own educational platform.

In Asia, Yuko Harada became a sought-after speaker after pioneering a holistic grooming approach in Japan. Her focus on animal behavior, stress reduction, and aromatherapy in grooming caught the attention of wellness-focused pet owners. She now speaks at events across Asia and Europe, often bridging cultural practices in grooming.

And let's not forget mobile grooming entrepreneur Jonathan David. After building a thriving mobile grooming brand in Florida, he began speaking about scaling service-based businesses. His sessions often include real-world numbers, hiring strategies, and tech tools that helped him grow. He's been featured on international panels and virtual summits, proving that operational excellence can be just as compelling as creative flair.

These stories show that grooming industry speakers don't follow one path. Some start with a niche, others with a business breakthrough. What they share is a willingness to teach, evolve, and show up for their community.

As the grooming industry expands globally, the role of speakers is shifting. It's not just about technique anymore. Audiences are craving insights into business models, digital tools, and wellness practices. So what's next for grooming industry speakers?

First, expect more virtual-first events. Even as in-person expos return, hybrid formats are here to stay. Speakers who can adapt their delivery for both live and digital audiences will have a competitive edge. Think interactive webinars, live Q&A sessions, and on-demand masterclasses.

Second, sustainability is becoming a hot topic. Groomers are asking: How can I reduce water waste? What eco-friendly products actually work? Speakers who can address these questions with data and practical solutions will be in demand.

Third, there's a rising interest in mental health and workplace culture. With burnout rates high among groomers, events are inviting speakers who can talk about boundaries, self-care, and team dynamics. This opens doors for professionals outside the grooming world-therapists, coaches, and HR consultants-to collaborate with grooming insiders.

Fourth, AI and automation are creeping into grooming operations. From smart scheduling tools to customer communication bots, tech is changing how salons run. Speakers who can demystify these tools will be valuable at both tech-forward and traditional events.

Key trends to watch:
- Growth of niche summits (e.g., mobile grooming, cat grooming, holistic grooming)
- Cross-industry collaborations (e.g., pet nutritionists, behaviorists, tech developers)
- Demand for bilingual or multicultural speakers
- Rise of speaker-led product lines and memberships

The grooming industry is becoming more interconnected. Speakers who can bridge gaps between grooming, wellness, tech, and entrepreneurship will shape the next decade of conversations.

Talks.co. This platform connects speakers with podcast hosts, virtual summits, and event organizers. It's especially useful for grooming professionals looking to break into the speaking world without a huge network. Tip: Create a compelling speaker profile with a short video intro.

Pet Pro Supply Co. Blog. While not a speaker platform, this blog covers trends and tools in the grooming industry. Referencing their data or insights in your talks can boost credibility.

Canva. Need to design a slick presentation or speaker one-sheet? Canva makes it easy, even if you're not a designer. Use their templates to create branded slides that match your grooming business aesthetic.

Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual workshops and webinars. If you're just starting out, host a free grooming Q&A or mini-training to build your speaking chops. Record it, get feedback, and improve.

Eventbrite. Search for grooming expos, pet industry events, or local business meetups. Many of these events are looking for speakers and accept pitches through their site.

SpeakerHub. A directory where you can list yourself as a speaker. While not grooming-specific, it's a good place to gain visibility and find cross-industry opportunities.

LinkedIn. Don't underestimate the power of a well-optimized LinkedIn profile. Join grooming groups, share short videos or tips, and connect with event organizers. Use the 'Featured' section to showcase past talks or interviews.

Google Alerts. Set alerts for terms like 'grooming conference speaker call' or 'pet industry summit'. This helps you catch speaking opportunities early, especially for niche or regional events.