Hobby Speakers

Not every speaker is trying to sell a product or pitch a service. Some just want to share what they love. That's where hobby speakers come in.

A hobby speaker is someone who talks publicly about a personal interest or leisure activity, often outside their primary profession. Whether it's birdwatching, 3D printing, or salsa dancing, their expertise comes from hands-on experience and genuine passion rather than formal credentials.

Unlike keynote speakers or industry experts, hobby speakers are often community-driven. They might speak at local meetups, host YouTube tutorials, or appear on niche podcasts. Their goal? To share knowledge, spark curiosity, and connect with others who share their enthusiasm.

You'll find hobby speakers across all kinds of platforms - from virtual summits to hobbyist conventions to livestreams. Some are influencers in their niche, like Casey Neistat in the vlogging world, while others are grassroots educators who teach workshops in their local towns.

In short, a hobby speaker is someone who turns personal passion into public value. They're not just talking about what they do - they're inviting others to join in.

When people hear the term 'speaker', they often think of business conferences or TED Talks. But hobby speakers fill a completely different and equally valuable space.

First, they make niche knowledge accessible. Whether it's restoring vintage cars or growing bonsai trees, hobby speakers break down complex skills into relatable, engaging content. This helps beginners get started and keeps long-time enthusiasts inspired.

Second, they build community. Hobby speakers often act as connectors - bringing together people who might otherwise never meet. Think of a knitting podcast that reaches listeners in rural Canada and urban Tokyo. That's the power of shared passion.

Third, they drive engagement. Shows, events, and platforms that feature hobby speakers often see higher interaction rates. Why? Because audiences feel like they're learning from a peer, not a lecturer. It's more personal, more authentic.

Finally, hobby speakers help diversify the conversation. They bring in voices from different backgrounds, regions, and age groups. A retired engineer talking about amateur astronomy offers a different lens than a 20-something TikToker teaching calligraphy. Both are valuable - and together, they enrich the ecosystem of content.

So while they may not always have a book deal or a blue checkmark, hobby speakers are essential to creating vibrant, inclusive, and curious communities.

Ever wondered what hobby speakers actually spend their time doing? It's more than just talking into a microphone.

Hobby speakers share their passion through a variety of formats:

- Guest on Podcasts or Webinars. They appear on shows to discuss their hobby, offer tips, or share personal stories. For example, a home chef might talk about fermentation techniques on a culinary podcast.

- Teach or Demonstrate. Many hobby speakers run workshops, livestream tutorials, or create how-to videos. Think of someone like Bob Ross - his painting lessons were hobby speaking in action.

- Inspire and Motivate. They often encourage others to try something new. A speaker passionate about hiking might share how it improved their mental health, inspiring others to hit the trail.

- Answer Questions and Offer Guidance. On forums, social media, or during Q&A sessions, hobby speakers help others troubleshoot problems or explore new techniques.

- Build Community. They moderate groups, organize meetups, or host online challenges. Whether it's a LEGO-building contest or a photography scavenger hunt, these activities bring people together.

In essence, hobby speakers are educators, entertainers, and community builders - all rolled into one. They don't just talk about their hobbies. They make them come alive for others.

Ready to dip your toes into the world of public speaking without going full-time? Becoming a hobby speaker is a great way to share your knowledge, build your confidence, and connect with like-minded people. Here's a practical step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Pick Your Topic Niche
- Choose something you're passionate about and have experience in. It could be anything from gardening to blockchain to parenting.
- Ask yourself: What do people ask me for advice on? What could I talk about for 30 minutes without notes?

2. Create a Simple Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a clean, professional speaker profile.
- Include your bio, speaking topics, a headshot, and a short video of you speaking (even if it's just recorded on your phone).

3. Practice Locally or Online
- Start small. Offer to speak at local meetups, community centers, or online summits.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts looking for guest speakers in your niche.

4. Build Your Talk
- Structure your talk with a clear opening, 2-3 key points, and a strong close.
- Use stories or examples to make your message memorable.

5. Ask for Feedback and Referrals
- After each talk, ask attendees or hosts what they liked and what could be improved.
- If they loved it, ask them to refer you to other event organizers.

6. Stay Consistent
- Even if you're only speaking a few times a year, consistency builds credibility.
- Keep your Talks.co profile updated and share your speaking engagements on social media.

Becoming a hobby speaker isn't about perfection. It's about showing up, sharing your voice, and growing with each opportunity.

Being a hobby speaker doesn't require a fancy degree or a bestselling book. But there are a few key elements you'll want to have in place to make the most of your speaking journey.

1. A Clear Message
At the heart of every great speaker is a clear, compelling message. Whether you're talking about personal finance, mental health, or photography, your message should be easy to understand and relevant to your audience.

2. A Platform to Showcase Yourself
You don't need a full website, but you do need a place where event organizers can learn about you. That's where a speaker page on Talks.co comes in handy. It acts as your digital business card, showcasing your bio, topics, and past talks.

3. Presentation Skills
You don't need to be Tony Robbins, but you should be able to engage an audience. Practice speaking in front of friends, record yourself, or join a group like Toastmasters to build confidence.

4. A Willingness to Start Small
Most hobby speakers begin with local events, online webinars, or niche summits. These smaller gigs are perfect for honing your message and building your reputation.

5. A Way to Connect with Hosts
You'll need to find and pitch yourself to event organizers. Talks.co makes this easier by connecting speakers with hosts actively looking for guests. You can also network in Facebook groups, LinkedIn, or through local associations.

In short, you need a message, a platform, some basic skills, and the drive to get out there. Everything else can be learned along the way.

The short answer: sometimes. Hobby speakers typically fall into a gray area between unpaid volunteers and professional speakers. Whether or not they get paid depends on the event, the speaker's niche, and their perceived value.

Factors That Influence Payment:
- Event Type: Corporate conferences are more likely to offer honorariums or travel stipends than local meetups or community events.
- Speaker Experience: If you've built a reputation or have a strong Talks.co profile with testimonials and videos, you're more likely to be compensated.
- Topic Demand: Speakers on trending or technical topics (e.g., AI, cybersecurity, wellness) often get paid more than general interest topics.

Pros of Speaking for Free:
- Build your portfolio and confidence.
- Get exposure to new audiences.
- Network with other speakers and organizers.

Cons of Speaking for Free:
- Time and travel costs can add up.
- It may undervalue your expertise if done too often.

Some hobby speakers choose to speak for free strategically, especially when they can promote a product, service, or brand. Others negotiate non-monetary perks like free tickets, promotion, or access to exclusive events.

So yes, hobby speakers can get paid, but it's not guaranteed. If you're strategic about where and how you speak, it can lead to both direct and indirect income opportunities.

Hobby speakers don't always rely on speaking fees alone. In fact, many use their talks as a launchpad for other income streams. Here's a breakdown of how hobby speakers turn their passion into profit:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
Some hobby speakers do get paid directly for their talks, especially if they're speaking at industry events, corporate workshops, or online summits. Rates vary widely based on experience and topic.

2. Promoting Products or Services
Many hobby speakers use their platform to promote something they offer:
- A coaching program
- An online course
- A book or eBook
- A physical product (e.g., handmade crafts, fitness gear)

3. Affiliate Marketing
Speakers often recommend tools or services during their presentations. If they're affiliate partners, they earn a commission on any sales. For example, a hobby speaker on podcasting might recommend a specific mic or hosting platform.

4. Consulting or Freelancing
After a talk, audience members may reach out for one-on-one help. This can lead to paid consulting gigs or freelance work.

5. Sponsorships
If you have a niche audience and a strong online presence, sponsors may pay you to mention their brand during your talks or webinars.

6. Hosting Your Own Events
Some hobby speakers eventually host their own virtual summits or workshops. Using platforms like Talks.co, they can attract other speakers, charge for tickets, and even upsell VIP access.

So while the talk itself might be free, the ripple effects can be lucrative. The key is to align your speaking with a broader strategy.

Hobby speakers earn a wide range of income depending on their niche, audience, and speaking frequency. Unlike full-time professionals, hobby speakers often speak part-time or occasionally, which affects their earning potential.

Typical Income Ranges:
- Free to $250 per talk: Common for local meetups, online panels, or first-time speakers.
- $250 to $1,000 per talk: For speakers with a niche topic, a strong Talks.co profile, or some prior experience.
- $1,000 to $5,000+ per talk: Rare for hobby speakers, but possible if they have a large following, speak at corporate events, or offer high-value expertise (e.g., cybersecurity, leadership training).

Additional Revenue Streams:
- Product sales (books, courses): $100 to $5,000+ monthly.
- Consulting or coaching: $50 to $300 per hour.
- Affiliate income: Varies widely, from $50 to $2,000+ per month.

Variables That Impact Earnings:
- Location: Speakers in major cities or tech hubs may command higher rates.
- Industry: Tech, finance, and health tend to pay more than arts or education.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences often mean more opportunities for sales or leads.

So while hobby speakers aren't typically raking in six figures from speaking alone, many earn a few hundred to a few thousand dollars a month when combining speaking with related income streams.

If you're an event organizer or summit host, you might be wondering what it costs to bring in a hobby speaker. The good news? Hobby speakers are often more affordable and flexible than full-time pros.

Cost Breakdown:
- Free: Many hobby speakers are happy to speak for free, especially if they're building their portfolio or promoting a product.
- $100 - $500: Common for experienced hobby speakers who have a Talks.co profile, a polished presentation, and some testimonials.
- $500 - $1,500: For niche experts, technical topics, or speakers with a strong online presence.

Other Costs to Consider:
- Travel and Accommodation: If the event is in-person, you may need to cover transportation and lodging.
- Tech Requirements: For virtual events, some speakers may request a professional streaming setup or tech support.
- Promotion: Some hobby speakers ask for promotional support, like being featured in your email list or social media.

Cost vs. Value:
Hobby speakers can offer incredible value at a fraction of the cost of professional speakers. They often bring fresh perspectives, niche expertise, and authentic passion. Plus, if you're using Talks.co, you can filter by budget and find speakers who match your needs without the guesswork.

In short, hobby speakers are a budget-friendly way to bring engaging voices to your event, especially if you're running a virtual summit or community gathering.

While most famous speakers are full-time professionals, some of the most impactful voices started as hobby speakers. Here's a list of individuals who either began as hobby speakers or maintained speaking as a side passion while excelling in other careers:

- Susan Cain: Author of 'Quiet', she began speaking about introversion while still working in law. Her TED Talk has over 30 million views.
- Tim Urban: The creator of Wait But Why started giving talks on procrastination and human behavior as a side project. His TED Talk became a viral hit.
- Ken Robinson: Though he became a full-time speaker later, his early talks on education reform were passion-driven and delivered at academic events.
- Ze Frank: A pioneer of online storytelling, he gave early talks on creativity and digital culture while working in design.
- Linda Liukas: A Finnish programmer and author who started speaking about coding for kids before launching her books and workshops.
- Emily Graslie: A science communicator who started making YouTube videos and speaking about natural history while working at a museum.
- Chris Guillebeau: Known for The Art of Non-Conformity, he started speaking at meetups and small events while traveling the world.
- Austin Kleon: An artist and writer who shares ideas about creativity and work-life balance, often speaking at events as a side pursuit.

These speakers prove that you don't need to be a full-time pro to make a lasting impact. Many of them used speaking to amplify their message, build communities, and inspire change.

Looking for inspiration from hobby speakers who are making waves today? These individuals may not speak full-time, but their talks are insightful, engaging, and often rooted in personal passion or expertise.

- Ali Abdaal (UK): A doctor-turned-YouTuber who speaks about productivity, learning, and creativity. His talks often stem from his own experiences balancing medicine and content creation.
- Marie Forleo (USA): While she runs a business, her speaking engagements are often passion-driven. She talks about entrepreneurship, mindset, and personal growth.
- Ankur Warikoo (India): A former CEO who now speaks about self-awareness, decision-making, and career growth. His talks are relatable and grounded in real-life lessons.
- Seth Godin (USA): Though widely known, Godin often speaks at niche or community events for the love of sharing ideas. His talks on marketing and creativity are legendary.
- Maya Penn (USA): A young entrepreneur and environmental activist who began speaking at age 10. She continues to speak at events while running her eco-friendly brand.
- Shivani Siroya (USA/India): Founder of Tala, she speaks about financial inclusion and tech for good, often at mission-driven events.
- Gitanjali Rao (USA): A teen scientist and inventor who speaks at schools and youth events about innovation and STEM.
- Kaitlyn McQuin (USA): A writer and mental health advocate who speaks at small events and podcasts about grief, healing, and creativity.
- Yassmin Abdel-Magied (Australia): An engineer and writer who speaks about diversity, identity, and social justice, often as a side pursuit.

These hobby speakers bring fresh energy to the stage, often blending personal stories with practical insights. They remind us that you don't need to go full-time to make your voice heard.

Let's break down a few common misconceptions that keep people from stepping up to the mic as hobby speakers. These myths can be surprisingly limiting, especially for those just starting out or coming from non-traditional backgrounds.

1. You need to be a professional to speak publicly.
This is one of the biggest blockers. Many assume that unless you're a paid keynote speaker or have a TEDx under your belt, you shouldn't be on stage. Not true. Hobby speakers thrive in community meetups, niche conferences, online summits, and podcasts. Think of the thousands of creators on YouTube or Twitch who speak regularly without ever calling themselves 'professionals'.

2. You must have a dramatic personal story to be interesting.
Nope. While compelling stories help, audiences also crave practical insights, relatable experiences, and niche expertise. A retired teacher sharing classroom hacks, a beekeeper explaining hive behavior, or a gamer breaking down strategy-all of these can captivate the right crowd. It's about relevance, not drama.

3. Only extroverts make good speakers.
This myth is persistent, but introverts often make some of the most thoughtful and impactful speakers. Susan Cain, author of 'Quiet', is a great example. Her TED Talk on introversion has over 30 million views. Preparation, not personality type, is what makes a speaker shine.

4. You have to speak on big stages to make an impact.
Hobby speakers often underestimate the power of small rooms. A local library talk, a Zoom workshop, or a podcast interview can reach the exact people who need your message. Micro-audiences can be more engaged and loyal than massive, impersonal crowds.

5. There's no real value in being a hobby speaker.
Actually, hobby speakers often build credibility, grow their networks, and even land unexpected opportunities. Whether it's a book deal, a consulting gig, or a new community, speaking-even casually-can open doors. Just ask any creator who started by sharing tips on Instagram Lives and ended up launching a course or community.

In a quiet suburb of Melbourne, a retired engineer named Priya started giving talks at her local community center about sustainable home energy. She wasn't aiming for fame. She just wanted to share what she'd learned from retrofitting her own home. Her sessions started with five people. Within a year, she was speaking at regional events, and her YouTube channel had 10,000 subscribers. She never charged a dime, but her influence helped shape local policy on solar incentives.

Then there's Marcus, a high school history teacher in Ohio. He began recording short video lectures on obscure historical events-think the 1893 World's Fair or the history of bread riots. His passion was obvious, and his delivery was quirky but magnetic. A podcast invited him on. Then another. Today, he's a regular guest on history panels and runs a Patreon-supported podcast. Still a teacher. Still a hobby speaker. But with a global audience.

Or take Lila, a self-taught baker in Nairobi. She started hosting Instagram Lives during the pandemic, teaching people how to make sourdough with local ingredients. Her following grew fast. She was invited to speak at a virtual food summit, then asked to guest on a culinary podcast based in the UK. She now runs monthly online baking workshops and speaks at food entrepreneurship events across Africa.

These aren't headline-makers, but they're powerful examples. Each of them started with a niche, a passion, and a willingness to share. None of them set out to be 'speakers'. But by showing up consistently and speaking with authenticity, they became exactly that.

What ties them together? They didn't wait for permission. They didn't need a stage. They just started talking-and people listened.

The landscape for hobby speakers is shifting in some interesting ways. Not because of a single big change, but due to a mix of tech, audience behavior, and the rise of niche communities. Here's what's coming next:

- Decentralized speaking platforms. Hobby speakers are no longer tied to physical events or traditional webinars. With platforms like Clubhouse, Twitter Spaces, and LinkedIn Audio, anyone can host a talk. Expect more speakers to build followings through these casual, low-barrier formats.

- AI-assisted content prep. Tools like ChatGPT (yes, like me) are helping speakers brainstorm outlines, refine their messaging, and even simulate Q&A sessions. This makes it easier for hobby speakers to prepare without needing a full team or coaching package.

- Hyper-niche audiences. As online communities become more fragmented, speakers who focus on very specific topics-like 3D printing for cosplay or permaculture in urban gardens-will find loyal, engaged listeners. The smaller the niche, the more powerful the connection.

- Virtual summits and micro-events. Hobby speakers are increasingly invited to speak at online summits, often organized by creators or educators. These events are low-cost, global, and accessible. They're also a great way to test your message before going bigger.

- Monetization through community. While many hobby speakers don't charge for talks, more are monetizing through memberships, Patreon, or digital products. Speaking becomes a way to attract and nurture a community, not just a one-off performance.

In short, the future is more open, more tech-enabled, and more community-driven. Whether you're in a rural town or a major city, if you've got something to say, there's a space for you to say it-and people ready to listen.

If you're looking to sharpen your skills or land your first speaking gig, the right tools can make a huge difference. Here's a curated list of platforms and resources to help you grow as a hobby speaker:

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest matching tool that helps you find shows aligned with your expertise. Great for hobby speakers looking to build credibility and reach new audiences without needing a big platform.

2. Canva. For creating beautiful, simple slide decks. Even if you're not a designer, Canva's templates make it easy to create visuals that support your message.

3. Otter.ai. Use this to transcribe your practice sessions or live talks. Reviewing transcripts can help you spot filler words, improve pacing, and repurpose content for blogs or social posts.

4. Meetup. A goldmine for finding local or virtual speaking opportunities. Look for groups in your niche and offer to run a session. Many organizers are thrilled to have fresh voices.

5. Toastmasters International. A classic for a reason. Toastmasters clubs offer structured practice, feedback, and a supportive environment. Especially helpful if you're nervous about public speaking.

6. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, track pitches, and store feedback. Notion is flexible enough to serve as your speaker HQ.

7. Eventbrite. Browse upcoming events in your area or niche. Reach out to organizers and pitch a short talk or workshop. Many are open to new voices, especially for breakout sessions.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you feel 'ready'. Use these tools to start small, iterate fast, and build momentum. The best way to become a better speaker is to speak-again and again, in as many formats as you can.