Health Tech Speakers

A health tech speaker is someone who shares insights, innovations, and expertise at the intersection of healthcare and technology. They might be startup founders, clinicians, researchers, investors, or policy experts who understand how digital tools are transforming health systems.

These speakers typically present at conferences, webinars, podcasts, and virtual summits. Their topics can range from AI in diagnostics to wearable devices, blockchain in medical records, or the ethics of health data. What sets them apart is their ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that resonates with diverse audiences-whether it's a room full of clinicians or a virtual crowd of health tech investors.

Health tech speakers don't just report on trends. They often shape them. Many are involved in building or funding the very solutions they talk about. For example, someone like Dr. Eric Topol brings both clinical credibility and tech-savvy insights, making him a go-to voice in digital health.

In short, a health tech speaker is a communicator, educator, and thought leader who helps bridge the gap between innovation and implementation in healthcare. They're the ones helping us understand not just what's coming-but what it means for real people.

When you're navigating a world as fast-moving and high-stakes as health tech, having someone who can decode the noise is essential. That's where a health tech speaker comes in.

First, they help contextualize innovation. With new tools and platforms launching every week, it's easy to get overwhelmed. A skilled speaker can break down what actually matters-like how AI is being used in radiology today, not just in theory.

Second, they spark dialogue. Whether it's a corporate leadership summit or a grassroots health equity forum, a great speaker can frame the right questions. For example, what does digital health mean for underserved communities? Or how do we balance innovation with patient privacy?

Third, they inspire action. It's one thing to read a white paper. It's another to hear a compelling talk that moves you to pilot a new tool, invest in a startup, or rethink your care model. That's the power of a live voice.

And finally, they bring credibility. When a respected health tech speaker shares insights, it elevates your event. It tells your audience: this is worth your time. In a crowded content landscape, that kind of trust is gold.

Health tech speakers do more than just talk-they educate, influence, and connect.

They deliver keynotes, moderate panels, lead workshops, and participate in fireside chats. Whether it's a global conference like HIMSS or a niche virtual summit on digital therapeutics, they tailor their message to the audience. For example, a speaker might explain how remote patient monitoring is being used in rural clinics in Kenya, or how blockchain is securing health records in Estonia.

They also act as translators between worlds. A startup founder might explain their AI tool in a way that clinicians can understand. A physician might share frontline stories that help investors grasp the real-world impact of a new device. That bridge-building is critical in a sector where miscommunication can stall innovation.

Beyond events, many health tech speakers contribute to podcasts, write thought leadership articles, and advise organizations. Their influence often extends beyond the stage. They help shape public discourse, inform policy, and mentor the next generation of innovators.

In essence, health tech speakers are catalysts. They bring people together, spark ideas, and help move the industry forward-one conversation at a time.

Want to break into the world of health tech speaking? Here's a practical roadmap to help you get there, whether you're a clinician, startup founder, or tech-savvy researcher.

1. Define Your Niche.
- Health tech is broad. Are you into AI diagnostics, wearable tech, telemedicine, or digital therapeutics?
- Choose a focus that aligns with your expertise and passion. This helps you stand out and attract the right audience.

2. Build Credibility.
- Start by publishing thought leadership content on LinkedIn, Medium, or your own blog.
- Get featured on podcasts or contribute to industry publications like MedTech Dive or Healthcare IT News.
- Create a Talks.co speaker page to showcase your bio, topics, and past appearances. This acts as your digital resume for event organizers.

3. Start Speaking Locally.
- Look for meetups, university panels, or local health innovation events.
- Offer to speak for free initially to build your portfolio. Record these talks to use as proof of concept.

4. Connect with Hosts and Organizers.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and virtual event producers.
- Reach out with a clear pitch: who you are, what you talk about, and why their audience will care.

5. Scale Up.
- Once you've got a few talks under your belt, start applying to larger conferences like HLTH, HIMSS, or Health 2.0.
- Consider hiring a speaker agent or using a virtual assistant to help manage outreach.

Bonus Tip: Consistency is key. Keep refining your message, updating your speaker page, and sharing your insights online. The more visible you are, the more opportunities will come your way.

Being a health tech speaker isn't just about having a mic and a message. It's about combining industry insight with communication skills that resonate. Let's break down what you really need to step into this space confidently.

First, you need domain expertise. Health tech audiences are sharp. Whether you're a clinician-turned-entrepreneur or a data scientist working in predictive analytics, your credibility comes from real-world experience. You don't need to be a PhD, but you do need to speak from a place of authority.

Second, you need a clear message. What's your unique perspective? Maybe you've built a remote patient monitoring platform or led a hospital's digital transformation. Your story should have a throughline that connects with current trends and challenges in health tech.

Third, you need a platform. This is where Talks.co comes in. Building a speaker page helps you centralize your bio, topics, testimonials, and media. It also makes it easier for event hosts to find and book you. Think of it as your digital storefront.

Fourth, you need presentation skills. You don't have to be a TED-level orator, but you do need to engage an audience. Practice storytelling, use visuals wisely, and tailor your content to the event format-whether it's a 20-minute keynote or a 45-minute panel.

Finally, you need connections. Health tech is a community-driven space. Attend events, join Slack groups like Health Tech Nerds, and use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts and summit organizers. Relationships often lead to speaking gigs before applications do.

Yes, many health tech speakers do get paid-but it varies widely depending on experience, audience, and format. Let's break it down.
At the entry level, speakers might not receive a fee at all. Instead, they're compensated with exposure, networking, or a free conference pass. This is especially common at academic events or nonprofit summits.
Mid-tier speakers-those with a few years of experience and a niche following-can expect to earn between $500 and $2,000 per talk. Virtual events might pay less, but they often offer more frequent opportunities.
Top-tier health tech speakers, especially those with a strong media presence or leadership roles (think CEOs of unicorn startups or renowned researchers), can command $5,000 to $25,000 per keynote. Some even negotiate travel, accommodation, and licensing fees for recorded content.
Here's a quick comparison:

Speaker Level	Typical Fee Range	Common Event Types
Beginner	$0 - $500	Local meetups, webinars, podcasts
Mid-Level	$500 - $2,000	Industry panels, virtual summits
Expert/Influencer	$5,000 - $25,000+	Global conferences, corporate events

Pros:
- Speaking can be a direct revenue stream.
- Paid gigs often lead to consulting or product deals.
Cons:
- Not all events have budgets.
- Payment terms can vary (some pay months later).
If you're just starting out, focus on building your speaker page and getting testimonials. As your visibility grows, so will your rates.

Health tech speakers generate income in several ways, and it's often more than just the speaking fee. Let's take a closer look at the revenue streams they tap into:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements.
- This includes keynotes, panels, and workshops at conferences like HLTH, Web Summit, or BioTech Week.
- Corporate training sessions or internal innovation days can also be lucrative.

2. Sponsorships and Brand Deals.
- Some speakers partner with health tech companies to promote products or research.
- For example, a speaker might be paid to mention a wearable tech brand during a talk or webinar.

3. Consulting and Advisory Roles.
- Speaking often leads to consulting gigs. If you impress a room of decision-makers, don't be surprised if they ask you to advise their startup or join their board.

4. Digital Products and Courses.
- Many speakers monetize their expertise through online courses, eBooks, or paid newsletters.
- A Talks.co speaker page can link directly to these offers, making it easy for audiences to buy in.

5. Podcast and Summit Hosting.
- Some speakers flip the script and host their own events or shows. They monetize through sponsorships, ticket sales, or affiliate deals.

6. Media Licensing and Content Repurposing.
- Recorded talks can be sold or licensed to training platforms, universities, or corporate libraries.

The key is diversification. Top speakers don't rely on one income stream-they build an ecosystem around their voice and expertise.

The income potential for health tech speakers can range from modest to substantial, depending on several factors like reputation, audience size, and the type of event. Let's look at the numbers.

According to industry data and speaker bureaus, here's a general breakdown:

- Entry-Level Speakers: $0 to $1,000 per event.
- Often unpaid or compensated with travel and exposure.
- Common at academic panels, local meetups, or early-stage virtual summits.

- Mid-Tier Speakers: $1,000 to $5,000 per event.
- These speakers usually have a niche following or a strong LinkedIn presence.
- They're invited to speak at regional conferences, corporate webinars, or industry panels.

- Top-Tier Speakers: $5,000 to $25,000+ per event.
- These include CEOs of health tech companies, bestselling authors, or media personalities.
- They often keynote at global events like CES Digital Health or HIMSS.

Additional income can come from:
- Consulting gigs (ranging from $200/hour to $10,000/month retainers).
- Online courses ($50 to $500 per student).
- Sponsored content or affiliate marketing.

So how much can a successful health tech speaker make annually? If you're doing 2-3 paid gigs a month at $3,000 each, that's over $70,000 a year-before you even count consulting or digital products. The ceiling is high, but it takes time to build up to those numbers.

If you're looking to book a health tech speaker, pricing can vary dramatically based on who you're hiring, the format, and the audience. Here's a breakdown to help you budget smartly.
Factors That Affect Cost:
- Experience Level: A first-time speaker might charge $500, while a seasoned CEO could ask for $20,000.
- Event Type: Virtual events usually cost less than in-person keynotes.
- Customization: If the speaker needs to tailor content or create a workshop, expect higher fees.
- Travel Requirements: Flights, hotels, and per diems are often billed separately.
Typical Cost Ranges:

Speaker Type	Cost Range	Example Use Case
Emerging Expert	$500 - $1,500	Startup pitch events, podcasts
Mid-Level Specialist	$2,000 - $7,000	Industry panels, virtual summits
Celebrity/Influencer	$10,000 - $30,000+	Global conferences, corporate retreats

Tips for Organizers:
- Use Talks.co to browse speaker profiles and filter by budget.
- Negotiate package deals if you want multiple sessions or follow-up content.
- Offer value beyond cash: audience reach, media exposure, or strategic connections.
Bottom line: There's a speaker for every budget, but clarity on goals and audience will help you get the most value.

Here's a curated list of standout health tech speakers who've made a lasting impact on the industry. These aren't just good presenters-they've shaped conversations and driven innovation.

- Eric Topol - A cardiologist and digital health evangelist, Topol is known for his work on AI in medicine and his bestselling book 'Deep Medicine'.

- Esther Dyson - A visionary investor and founder of Wellville, Dyson has been a long-time advocate for preventive health and data-driven care.

- Daniel Kraft - Founder of Exponential Medicine, Kraft blends futurism with clinical insight. His talks on the future of health are staples at TED and Singularity University.

- Atul Gawande - Surgeon, author, and former WHO executive, Gawande's talks on healthcare systems and patient safety are both sobering and inspiring.

- Regina Herzlinger - Often called the 'godmother of consumer-driven healthcare', Herzlinger's academic work has influenced generations of health tech entrepreneurs.

- Aneesh Chopra - The first U.S. Chief Technology Officer, Chopra has been instrumental in pushing open data and innovation in public health.

- Vinod Khosla - While not a clinician, Khosla's provocative talks on AI replacing doctors have sparked global debate.

- Lucien Engelen - Based in the Netherlands, Engelen focuses on patient empowerment and digital health transformation in Europe.

Each of these speakers brings a unique lens-policy, clinical, entrepreneurial, or academic-and their influence continues to shape the health tech narrative worldwide.

Looking for the top health tech speakers making waves right now? These global voices are not only experts in their fields, but also engaging communicators who know how to connect with diverse audiences.

- Dr. Meskó Bertalan (The Medical Futurist) - Based in Hungary, Dr. Meskó is a physician and researcher who breaks down complex health tech trends for global audiences. His YouTube channel and keynote talks are widely followed.

- Chrissa McFarlane - CEO of Patientory, McFarlane speaks on blockchain in healthcare and data privacy. She's been featured at SXSW and Forbes summits.

- Dr. Ali Parsa - Founder of Babylon Health in the UK, Parsa is a bold voice on AI-driven primary care and health equity.

- Lisa Suennen - Known as the 'Venture Valkyrie', Suennen blends investment savvy with healthcare strategy. Her talks are insightful and often humorous.

- John Nosta - A digital health strategist and Forbes contributor, Nosta is known for his sharp takes on innovation and disruption.

- Dr. Ruchika Mishra - Based in India, Mishra focuses on telehealth, maternal care, and rural digital health access. She's a rising voice in global health equity.

- Dr. Daniel Kraft - Still a major player, Kraft continues to lead conversations on exponential technologies in medicine.

- Dr. Karen DeSalvo - Former U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health, DeSalvo now leads health strategy at Google. Her talks bridge public health and big tech.

- Dr. Aenor Sawyer - A leader in digital orthopedics and remote monitoring, Sawyer is a go-to speaker for clinical innovation.

- Dr. Shafi Ahmed - A UK-based surgeon using VR and AR in medical education, Ahmed's talks are futuristic and hands-on.

These speakers represent a mix of regions, disciplines, and perspectives-making them some of the most compelling voices in global health tech today.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about health tech speakers. Whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game for a while, you've probably heard at least one of these.

1. You need to be a doctor or engineer to be a credible health tech speaker.
This one's persistent, but it's simply not true. While having a clinical or technical background can help, many successful health tech speakers come from business, design, or even journalism. What matters more is your ability to translate complex ideas into accessible insights. For example, Daniel Kraft is a physician, yes, but his success as a speaker comes from his storytelling and futurist lens, not just his MD.

2. Health tech speakers only talk about AI and wearables.
Sure, those are hot topics, but the field is much broader. Health tech includes telemedicine, digital therapeutics, blockchain in healthcare, mental health apps, and even robotics in elder care. Speakers like Chrissa McFarlane, who focuses on health equity and blockchain, or Shiv Gaglani from Osmosis, who emphasizes medical education tech, show that the scope is wide.

3. You have to speak at big conferences to be taken seriously.
Not at all. Many respected health tech speakers build their credibility through podcasts, webinars, LinkedIn Lives, and niche virtual summits. Especially post-2020, digital platforms have leveled the playing field. A well-executed TEDx talk or a viral YouTube explainer can carry just as much weight as a keynote at HLTH.

4. Health tech speakers are only relevant in Western markets.
Absolutely false. Some of the most innovative health tech conversations are happening in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Think of Sneh Khemka's work in India or the rise of mobile diagnostics in Kenya. Speakers from these regions are bringing fresh, scalable solutions to the global stage.

5. You have to be a full-time speaker to make an impact.
Many health tech speakers are founders, researchers, or consultants who speak part-time. Their real-world involvement actually boosts their credibility. Speaking is often a channel to amplify their work, not the work itself. So if you're juggling roles, you're in good company.

When you look at the journeys of standout health tech speakers, you'll notice something: there's no single path to success. Let's dive into a few stories that show the range of what's possible.

Take Dr. Meskó Bertalan, also known as The Medical Futurist. He started as a medical doctor in Hungary but quickly realized that his passion was in forecasting the future of medicine. His talks blend science fiction with grounded research, and he's spoken at events from Stanford to the World Health Organization. What sets him apart? He makes complex tech feel human and relatable.

Then there's Chrissa McFarlane, founder of Patientory. She didn't come from a traditional tech background, but she saw a gap in how patient data was handled. Her blockchain-based solution got attention fast, and so did her voice. She's now a go-to speaker on decentralized health systems, especially in conversations about underserved populations. Her TEDx talk opened doors to global panels and investor summits.

Another example is Shiv Gaglani, co-founder of Osmosis. He started by creating medical education videos for students, and his ability to simplify dense topics made him a hit. As his platform grew, so did his speaking invitations. He's now a regular on podcasts and at EdTech and MedTech conferences, often bridging the gap between education and innovation.

And let's not forget about speakers like Dr. Aditi Joshi, who became a leading voice in telehealth during the pandemic. Her on-the-ground experience as an ER physician gave her talks urgency and authenticity. She didn't just talk theory-she lived it. That made her insights incredibly valuable to hospital systems and policy makers alike.

Each of these speakers carved their niche by leaning into their unique perspective. Whether through futurism, entrepreneurship, education, or clinical experience, they found a way to connect their expertise with the audience's curiosity. That's the real key.

If you're eyeing the health tech speaking circuit, it's worth knowing where the conversation is headed. The topics that wowed audiences five years ago might not cut it today. So what's next?

First, expect a shift from hype to impact. Audiences are getting savvier. They don't just want to hear about AI-they want to know how it's actually improving patient outcomes. Speakers who can bring real-world case studies, especially from underserved or global communities, will stand out. Think less 'what's possible' and more 'what's working'.

Second, cross-industry fluency is becoming a must. The most compelling health tech speakers are pulling insights from fintech, edtech, and even climate tech. Why? Because health is no longer siloed. For example, wearable tech is now tied to insurance premiums, and climate change is affecting disease patterns. Speakers who can connect these dots will lead the conversation.

Third, there's a growing appetite for ethics and equity. With algorithms deciding treatments and access to care, audiences want to hear about bias, transparency, and inclusion. Speakers who can navigate these topics with nuance-especially those from underrepresented backgrounds-are in high demand.

Here are a few trends to watch:
- Decentralized care models: From home diagnostics to virtual-first clinics, this is reshaping how we think about access.
- Mental health tech: Still booming, but now with a focus on cultural relevance and long-term efficacy.
- Data ownership and privacy: As patients demand more control, speakers who can explain blockchain, consent frameworks, and interoperability will shine.
- AI explainability: Not just what AI does, but how it makes decisions-especially in diagnostics and treatment planning.
- Global health innovation: Solutions from the Global South are gaining traction. Speakers who can spotlight these stories are bringing fresh energy to the stage.

Bottom line: the future belongs to speakers who can blend credibility with clarity, and who aren't afraid to challenge the status quo.

Getting into the health tech speaking world? You don't need to reinvent the wheel. Here's a curated list of tools and resources that can help you build authority, connect with event organizers, and sharpen your message.

1. Talks.co. This is a podcast guest matching tool that helps you get booked on relevant shows. Health tech is a niche with tons of active podcasts, and this platform helps you find the right ones. Tip: Start with smaller shows to refine your message, then scale up.

2. SpeakerHub. A speaker directory where you can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event planners. Use keywords like 'digital health', 'telemedicine', or 'AI in healthcare' to boost visibility.

3. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Not technically a tool, but turning on Creator Mode gives you access to features like newsletters and live video. Share short takes on trending topics in health tech to build your audience and credibility.

4. Canva. For slide design that doesn't look like it was made in 2002. Use their templates to create clean, visual decks that support your talk without overwhelming it. Pro tip: Use the 'Charts' and 'Infographics' sections to simplify data-heavy content.

5. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, pitch templates, and event contacts in one place. You can even build a public speaker page with embedded videos and testimonials.

6. HealthTech Alpha. A data platform that tracks startups, funding rounds, and market trends in health tech. Use it to back up your talks with fresh stats or to identify emerging themes.

7. TEDx Speaker Guide. Even if you're not applying to TEDx, their guide is gold for structuring a compelling talk. It walks you through idea development, storytelling, and delivery.

8. Otter.ai. Record and transcribe your practice sessions. Reviewing your own delivery is one of the fastest ways to improve pacing, clarity, and tone.

These tools won't make you a great speaker overnight, but they'll seriously accelerate your growth. Combine them with consistent practice and a clear message, and you'll be stage-ready in no time.