Instructional Design Speakers

An instructional design speaker is someone who specializes in communicating the principles, strategies, and innovations of instructional design to a live or virtual audience. They're not just educators-they're translators of complex learning science into actionable insights.

At their core, instructional design speakers focus on how people learn and how to design experiences that support that learning. This could mean speaking about adult learning theory, digital course creation, corporate training systems, or even microlearning strategies. Their audience might include HR leaders, online educators, software developers, or nonprofit trainers.

Unlike traditional educators, instructional design speakers tailor their content for events-virtual summits, webinars, podcasts, or conferences. They're often invited to speak because of their ability to synthesize research and practice into clear, engaging presentations. Think of speakers like Patti Shank or Karl Kapp, who bring both academic rigor and real-world application.

These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds-some are former teachers, others are corporate consultants or edtech founders. What unites them is their focus on designing learning that works. Whether they're talking about gamification, scenario-based learning, or LMS implementation, their goal is to help others build better learning experiences.

So, if you're hosting an event that touches on education, training, or knowledge transfer, an instructional design speaker can bring depth, clarity, and credibility to your lineup.

When you're planning an event around learning, development, or transformation, the right instructional design speaker can be the difference between passive listening and active change.

Here's why they matter:

First, they bring evidence-based insight. Instructional design isn't guesswork-it's grounded in cognitive science, behavioral psychology, and user experience. A good speaker can explain why spaced repetition works better than cramming, or how multimedia principles affect learner retention. That kind of clarity helps your audience make smarter decisions.

Second, they bridge the gap between theory and application. Whether your audience is a group of course creators in Bali or L&D managers in Toronto, they need more than abstract models. Instructional design speakers show how to apply those models in real-world contexts-like onboarding systems, compliance training, or mobile learning apps.

Third, they elevate your event's credibility. Featuring a speaker who understands instructional design signals to your audience that your event is serious about learning outcomes. It's not just about motivation-it's about transformation.

And finally, they help your audience create better experiences for others. Whether it's a coach designing a group program or a nonprofit building a volunteer training, the ripple effect of good instructional design is huge. A strong speaker can spark that ripple.

In short, if your event is about helping people teach, train, or communicate more effectively, an instructional design speaker is not just helpful-they're essential.

Instructional design speakers do more than just talk about learning-they shape how audiences think about designing it.

Here's a breakdown of what they typically do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They present at conferences, summits, and corporate events, offering insights on topics like learner engagement, curriculum design, and digital pedagogy. For example, a speaker might lead a session on 'How to Design for Cognitive Load' at an edtech summit.

- Translate Research into Practice. They take academic theories-like Bloom's Taxonomy or Mayer's Multimedia Principles-and explain how to apply them in real-world settings. This is especially valuable for audiences who don't have a background in education but need to teach or train others.

- Consult and Advise. Some speakers also offer consulting services, helping organizations audit their training programs or design new ones. For instance, a speaker might help a SaaS company revamp its customer onboarding flow using instructional design principles.

- Create and Share Resources. Many speakers provide downloadable templates, checklists, or frameworks during their talks. These resources help attendees implement what they've learned.

- Inspire Innovation. By showcasing case studies, tools, and trends, they encourage audiences to rethink outdated training methods and embrace new approaches-like adaptive learning or scenario-based simulations.

Instructional design speakers are educators, yes-but they're also strategists, communicators, and change agents. Their job is to help others build learning experiences that actually work.

Ready to step onto the stage as an instructional design speaker? Here's a practical roadmap to get you started:

1. Define Your Niche and Expertise
- Instructional design is broad. Are you focused on corporate training, higher education, e-learning, or curriculum development?
- Choose a specialization that aligns with your experience and passion. For example, if you've worked in edtech, speak on gamification or microlearning.

2. Build Your Signature Talk
- Develop a compelling presentation that solves a real problem for your audience.
- Use storytelling, data, and actionable takeaways. Think of it as your 'anchor talk'-the one you'll refine and deliver repeatedly.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- This is your digital business card. Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile.
- Include your bio, topics, testimonials, past events, and a high-quality video reel.

4. Practice and Record
- Host free webinars, speak at local meetups, or guest on podcasts to gain experience.
- Record everything. Even a 5-minute clip can help you land your next gig.

5. Connect with Event Hosts
- Use Talks.co to connect with summit organizers, podcast hosts, and conference planners.
- Personalize your outreach. Mention how your talk fits their audience and why it matters now.

6. Collect Feedback and Iterate
- After each talk, ask for feedback. What resonated? What fell flat?
- Use this input to sharpen your message and delivery.

7. Scale Up
- Once you've got traction, pitch larger events, apply to speak at global summits, or host your own virtual series.
- Consider publishing a book or launching a course to boost your credibility.

Becoming an instructional design speaker isn't about being famous. It's about being relevant, clear, and valuable to the right audience. Start small, stay consistent, and let your impact grow.

To be an instructional design speaker, you need more than just a background in education or training. You need a blend of expertise, communication skills, and visibility. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need a PhD, but you do need real-world experience. Whether you've led corporate training programs, built e-learning modules, or designed academic curricula, your insights should be grounded in practice. Audiences want speakers who've done the work, not just studied it.

2. A Unique Point of View
What makes your perspective different? Maybe you focus on inclusive design, or you've implemented instructional strategies in remote villages or high-tech startups. Your unique lens is what sets you apart.

3. Communication Skills
You must be able to translate complex ideas into engaging, digestible content. That means clear visuals, compelling stories, and a confident delivery. Practice is key-start with webinars or small workshops to hone your voice.

4. A Platform to Showcase Your Work
A speaker page is essential. Tools like Talks.co make it easy to build a profile that includes your bio, topics, testimonials, and video clips. This is what event organizers look at when deciding who to book.

5. A Network of Hosts and Peers
Speaking is a relationship business. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and other speakers. Collaborate, guest speak, and cross-promote.

In short, to be an instructional design speaker, you need credibility, clarity, and connection. It's not about being the loudest voice in the room-it's about being the most helpful.

Yes, instructional design speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's look at the landscape.
1. Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Unpaid: Many new speakers start by speaking for free at webinars, podcasts, or local events. These gigs help build credibility and a portfolio.
- Paid: As your reputation grows, you can command fees for keynotes, workshops, and corporate trainings.
2. Variables That Affect Payment
- Experience: A seasoned speaker with a track record commands higher fees.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences typically pay more than academic panels or nonprofit events.
- Audience Size: The bigger the audience, the higher the potential fee.
- Region: Speakers in North America or Europe often earn more than those in developing regions, though virtual events are leveling the field.
3. Data Snapshot
According to SpeakerHub and other industry sources:
- Entry-level speakers: $0 to $1,000 per talk.
- Mid-level (3-5 years speaking): $1,000 to $5,000.
- High-demand experts: $5,000 to $20,000+.
4. Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Exposure to new audiences	Inconsistent income
Opportunities to upsell services	Travel and prep time
Builds authority and trust	High competition

So yes, instructional design speakers get paid-but it's a journey. The key is to treat speaking like a business, not a hobby.

Instructional design speakers don't just earn from speaking fees. They diversify their income across multiple streams. Here's a breakdown of how they make money:

1. Speaking Fees
- Paid keynotes at conferences, corporate events, and virtual summits.
- Panel discussions or breakout sessions at industry expos.

2. Workshops and Training
- Half-day or full-day workshops for companies or universities.
- Custom training programs for HR departments or L&D teams.

3. Online Courses and Memberships
- Many speakers turn their talks into online courses.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi help monetize content.
- Some create membership communities for ongoing learning.

4. Consulting and Coaching
- Offering 1:1 or group coaching for instructional designers.
- Consulting on curriculum development or learning strategy.

5. Books and Digital Products
- Publishing a book boosts credibility and creates passive income.
- Selling templates, slide decks, or toolkits related to instructional design.

6. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- Recommending tools like Articulate, Canva, or LMS platforms.
- Partnering with brands for sponsored content or event appearances.

7. Hosting Events or Summits
- Running your own virtual summit using platforms like Zoom.
- Charging for access, upselling VIP passes, or bringing in sponsors.

The most successful instructional design speakers treat their brand like a business. They don't rely on one income stream-they build an ecosystem.

The income of instructional design speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and business model. Let's break it down with some real-world context.
1. Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $1,000 per talk.
- Often speak for free to build credibility and collect testimonials.
- May earn indirectly through leads for consulting or courses.
2. Mid-Level Speakers (3-5 years experience)
- Can command $1,000 to $5,000 per keynote.
- Often supplement income with workshops, coaching, or online products.
- Annual income: $40,000 to $100,000 depending on volume.
3. High-Demand Experts
- These speakers are often authors, thought leaders, or influencers.
- Keynote fees range from $5,000 to $20,000+.
- Annual income can exceed $200,000 when combining speaking, consulting, and digital products.
4. Factors That Influence Earnings
- Niche: Corporate training pays more than K-12 education.
- Region: Speakers in the U.S., Canada, and Australia tend to earn more.
- Platform: Speakers with a Talks.co page and video reel get booked more often.
5. Example Income Mix

Revenue Stream	Monthly Avg
Speaking Fees	$5,000
Online Courses	$3,000
Consulting	$4,000
Total	$12,000

Instructional design speakers who treat their speaking as a business and diversify their offerings tend to earn significantly more over time.

If you're looking to hire an instructional design speaker, pricing can vary dramatically based on several factors. Here's what you can expect:
1. Speaker Level and Experience
- New Speakers: $0 to $1,000. Often willing to speak for free in exchange for exposure or testimonials.
- Mid-Level Professionals: $1,000 to $5,000. These speakers have a few years of experience and a solid speaker page, possibly on Talks.co.
- Top-Tier Experts: $5,000 to $20,000+. These are published authors, TEDx speakers, or consultants with a global following.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual Events: Typically cost less due to no travel or lodging expenses. Expect 20-30% lower fees.
- In-Person Conferences: Higher cost due to travel, prep time, and logistics.
- Workshops or Trainings: May charge per hour or per day. Rates range from $2,000 to $10,000+ depending on customization.
3. Additional Costs
- Travel and Accommodation: Usually covered by the event host.
- Materials: If the speaker provides handouts, toolkits, or custom content, there may be extra fees.
- Licensing: Some speakers charge for recording rights or post-event access.
4. Sample Pricing Table

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote	Workshop (Full Day)
New Speaker	$500	$1,000	$2,000
Mid-Level Speaker	$2,000	$4,000	$6,000
Top-Tier Speaker	$5,000+	$10,000+	$15,000+

Hiring an instructional design speaker is an investment in your audience's learning experience. Choose based on fit, not just fee.

Here's a curated list of some of the most influential instructional design speakers ever-those who've shaped the field and inspired thousands:

- Dr. Ruth Colvin Clark: Author of 'e-Learning and the Science of Instruction', she's a pioneer in evidence-based instructional design.

- Michael Allen: Founder of Allen Interactions and creator of the ADDIE model's successor, SAM. His talks on interactive learning design are legendary.

- Connie Malamed: Known as 'The eLearning Coach', she's been a go-to speaker on visual design and cognitive load theory.

- Julie Dirksen: Author of 'Design for How People Learn', her sessions are a masterclass in user-centered design.

- Clark Quinn: A thought leader in learning technology and author of 'Learning Science for Instructional Designers'.

- Thiagi (Sivasailam Thiagarajan): Famous for his work on interactive learning and games-based instruction.

- Patti Shank: Her research-driven approach to instructional design has made her a respected voice at conferences worldwide.

- Jane Bozarth: A champion of social and informal learning, she's known for making complex ideas accessible.

- Karl Kapp: A gamification expert whose talks blend academic rigor with real-world application.

- Donald Clark: A UK-based speaker who challenges traditional learning models with data and tech-forward insights.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but also authored foundational texts and led innovation in the field.

Looking for today's top instructional design speakers making waves globally? Here are standout voices currently shaping the conversation:

- Connie Malamed (USA): Continues to speak at major events like DevLearn and Learning Solutions. Her focus on visual design and cognitive science is globally relevant.

- Karl Kapp (USA): A regular at international conferences, Karl's gamification talks are popular in both corporate and academic circles.

- Jo Cook (UK): Known for her work in virtual classroom delivery and instructional strategy. She's a frequent speaker across Europe.

- Alexander Salas (USA): A bilingual speaker and instructional designer with a strong presence in Latin America and the U.S. His talks on learning tech are in high demand.

- Mirjam Neelen (Netherlands): Co-author of 'Evidence-Informed Learning Design', she's a rising star in the European L&D scene.

- Tim Slade (USA): A former corporate trainer turned speaker and author. His sessions on eLearning design are practical and polished.

- Sharon Boller (USA): Co-author of 'Play to Learn', she speaks globally on game-based learning and instructional strategy.

- Saul Carliner (Canada): A respected academic and speaker whose work bridges theory and practice.

- Bianca Baumann (Canada): A marketing-savvy instructional designer who brings a unique lens to learning design, especially in corporate settings.

- Njeri Mwagiru (South Africa): A futurist and learning strategist, she brings a global south perspective to instructional design and speaks on inclusive learning futures.

These speakers are not just experts-they're educators, innovators, and connectors who bring global relevance to every stage they step on.

Let's break down some of the most persistent misconceptions about instructional design speakers. These myths can limit how people view the field, and worse, discourage new voices from stepping up.

- Myth 1: Instructional design speakers only talk about e-learning tools.
This is a narrow view. While tools like Articulate or Adobe Captivate might come up, top instructional design speakers dive into learning theory, behavioral science, accessibility, and even cross-cultural communication. For example, speakers like Dr. Patti Shank often focus on evidence-based learning strategies, not just tech demos.

- Myth 2: You need a PhD to be taken seriously.
Academic credentials help, but they're not the only path. Many successful speakers come from corporate training, UX design, or even K-12 education. What matters more is your ability to translate complex learning concepts into actionable insights. Take Tim Slade, for instance. He built his reputation through practical experience and a strong online presence, not academic titles.

- Myth 3: It's a niche with no real audience.
Wrong again. Instructional design is relevant across industries: healthcare, finance, government, tech. Conferences like DevLearn and Learning Solutions draw thousands. Plus, with the rise of remote work and digital learning, demand for instructional design expertise is growing globally.

- Myth 4: You have to be a natural public speaker.
Not true. Many instructional design speakers are introverts who've honed their skills over time. They rely on structured storytelling, visuals, and audience interaction-not charisma alone. Tools like speaker coaching and virtual rehearsals make it easier than ever to build confidence.

- Myth 5: Speaking is just a side gig.
For some, yes. But others turn it into a full-time career. They offer workshops, consult with organizations, or create online courses. Instructional design speakers often monetize their expertise in multiple ways, especially when they build a strong personal brand.

When Devlin Peck first stepped onto the virtual stage, he wasn't aiming to become a keynote speaker. He was just sharing tips on how to build a portfolio. But his clarity, practical advice, and approachable style struck a chord. Within a year, he was speaking at industry events, running a thriving YouTube channel, and mentoring others in the learning design space. His journey shows how authenticity and consistency can turn a niche into a platform.

Then there's Bianca Baumann, who blends marketing strategy with instructional design. Her talks at ATD and Learning Technologies London brought a fresh perspective: treating learners like customers. She challenged traditional approaches, arguing that engagement starts with understanding your audience's motivations. Her sessions often include real-world case studies from global brands, making her insights immediately applicable.

In the corporate world, Karl Kapp stands out. Known for gamification and learning science, he's spoken at conferences across North America and Europe. But what sets him apart is his ability to connect theory with practice. Whether he's breaking down cognitive load or showing how to design better simulations, Karl makes complex ideas stick.

And let's not forget voices from outside the U.S. In India, Aditi Sharma has built a reputation for championing inclusive design. Her sessions highlight how language, culture, and accessibility intersect in digital learning. She's spoken at regional EdTech summits and collaborates with NGOs to improve rural education through mobile-first learning design.

These stories aren't just about individual success. They show the diversity of paths available to instructional design speakers. Whether you come from academia, corporate training, or freelance design, there's room to grow-and audiences ready to listen.

So, what's next for instructional design speakers? If you're looking to stay ahead of the curve, here are a few shifts that are already reshaping the landscape.

First, expect a stronger focus on data-driven storytelling. Audiences want more than theories-they want proof. Speakers who can link learning outcomes to business metrics or user behavior will stand out. Think dashboards, A/B testing results, and learner analytics. It's not just about what works, but why.

Second, hybrid delivery is becoming the norm. Whether you're speaking at a conference in Berlin or hosting a webinar for a remote team in Brazil, you need to master both in-person and virtual formats. That means investing in better lighting, sound, and interactivity tools. Tools like Miro or Slido are becoming staples for engaging global audiences.

Third, diversity of voice and context is gaining traction. Organizers are actively seeking speakers from underrepresented regions and industries. If you have insights from rural education, indigenous communities, or non-Western learning models, there's a growing appetite for that perspective.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- AI-powered learning design. Instructional designers are using tools like ChatGPT and Synthesia to prototype faster. Speakers who can demystify these tools will be in high demand.
- Microlearning and just-in-time content. Audiences want to hear how to design for short attention spans and mobile-first environments.
- Neuroscience-informed design. Talks that connect brain science to learning design-without the fluff-are gaining popularity.
- Sustainability in learning. How do we design learning that lasts? Speakers who tackle this from an environmental or cognitive load angle are getting noticed.

In short, the bar is rising. But so is the opportunity. Instructional design speakers who stay curious, adapt quickly, and speak with clarity will thrive in this evolving space.

If you're looking to break into the world of instructional design speaking, you don't need to reinvent the wheel. There are some fantastic tools and platforms out there to help you build your voice, connect with event organizers, and sharpen your message.

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for new speakers. You can pitch yourself to relevant shows, build credibility, and practice articulating your ideas in a low-pressure format. Tip: Start with niche podcasts focused on learning, HR, or digital transformation.

2. Slidebean. Not a designer? No problem. Slidebean helps you create clean, professional slide decks quickly. Use it to build your signature talk or workshop presentation. Bonus: It also helps with pitch decks if you're proposing sessions to conferences.

3. SessionLab. This tool is perfect for planning interactive workshops or breakout sessions. It lets you map out timing, activities, and transitions. Great for instructional design speakers who want to go beyond lectures.

4. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can list your speaking profile, browse events, and connect with organizers. Make sure your profile includes a short video clip-organizers love seeing you in action.

5. Miro. Ideal for virtual sessions. Use it to facilitate collaborative exercises, map out learning journeys, or gather live feedback. It adds a layer of interactivity that keeps online audiences engaged.

6. Canva. For designing visuals, social media promos, or even speaker one-sheets. Canva's templates are easy to customize, and it's especially helpful if you're building your personal brand.

7. ATD Events Calendar. Stay updated on upcoming conferences and calls for speakers. Whether it's TechKnowledge or the ATD International Conference, this is where many instructional design speakers get their start.

8. LinkedIn Learning. Not just for learners-many speakers use it to publish courses and build authority. It's also a great place to study how top instructional designers structure their content.

Use these tools strategically. Start small, build your presence, and keep refining your message. The more you speak, the more you learn what resonates-and that's what makes a great instructional design speaker.