Internet Speakers

An internet speaker is someone who delivers talks, presentations, or interviews through digital platforms to a remote audience. Unlike traditional speakers who present on physical stages, internet speakers operate in virtual environments-think webinars, online summits, podcasts, livestreams, and virtual conferences.

Digital-First Communication
Internet speakers are skilled at using video conferencing tools, streaming platforms, and podcasting software to connect with audiences across the globe. They understand how to maintain engagement without physical presence, often using visuals, tone, and interactivity to keep attention.

Diverse Formats
They might appear as keynote speakers at online events, guest experts on YouTube shows, or panelists in virtual roundtables. Some specialize in live formats with real-time Q&A, while others focus on pre-recorded content that can be distributed on demand.

Global Reach, Niche Focus
Because geography is no longer a barrier, internet speakers often serve highly specific niches. For example, a fintech expert in Singapore might speak to startup founders in Toronto, while a wellness coach in Cape Town might lead a meditation session for a U.S.-based corporate retreat.

In essence, an internet speaker is a communicator who thrives in the digital age-someone who knows how to make their message resonate through a screen.

When your event lives online, the speaker is the heartbeat of the experience. A skilled internet speaker doesn't just fill a time slot-they shape how your audience feels, learns, and remembers your event.

They Drive Engagement
In a virtual setting, attention spans are shorter. A great internet speaker knows how to hold that attention with dynamic delivery, storytelling, and interaction. Whether it's a live chat during a webinar or a call to action in a podcast, they keep the audience involved.

They Build Credibility
Bringing in a respected voice-like a bestselling author, industry leader, or niche expert-adds authority to your event. It tells your audience, 'This is worth your time.' For example, having someone like Neil Patel speak at a digital marketing summit instantly elevates the perceived value.

They Expand Reach
Many internet speakers have their own followings. When they promote their appearance on your show, you tap into their audience. That's free exposure and potential new leads.

They Deliver Value at Scale
Unlike in-person events, internet speakers can reach thousands without travel costs or venue limits. That means more impact, less overhead.

So if you're building a virtual event, summit, or podcast, investing in the right speaker isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a strategic move that can define your success.

Internet speakers specialize in delivering impactful messages through digital platforms, but their role goes far beyond just talking into a webcam.

They Educate and Inspire
Many internet speakers are subject-matter experts who break down complex topics into digestible insights. For example, a cybersecurity expert might explain how small businesses can protect customer data, while a mindset coach might guide an audience through overcoming imposter syndrome.

They Customize Content for Virtual Audiences
Unlike traditional speakers, internet speakers tailor their delivery for online formats. They use screen sharing, chat polls, breakout rooms, and even virtual whiteboards to keep things interactive. They also adapt to different time zones and cultural contexts, especially for global events.

They Collaborate with Hosts and Organizers
Internet speakers often co-create session outlines, participate in tech checks, and help promote the event. On platforms like Talks.co, they may even be matched with ideal hosts based on audience fit and topic relevance.

They Build Their Own Brands
Many internet speakers are also content creators. They repurpose their talks into blog posts, YouTube clips, or lead magnets. This helps them grow their audience while providing ongoing value to event organizers.

In short, internet speakers are digital communicators, educators, and collaborators who know how to make a message land through a screen.

Becoming an internet speaker isn't just about having something to say - it's about knowing how to say it, where to say it, and who to say it to. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- What do you want to be known for? Whether it's digital marketing, mental health, entrepreneurship, or climate activism, clarity is key.
- Tip: Look at successful internet speakers like Gary Vaynerchuk (marketing) or Mel Robbins (motivation) to see how they carved out their space.

2. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics you speak on, past appearances, and a clear call to action for event hosts.
- Bonus: Add a short video clip showcasing your speaking style.

3. Start Speaking - Anywhere.
- Host webinars, go live on Instagram or LinkedIn, or join virtual summits. Don't wait for a big invitation. Create your own stage.
- Tip: Use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts and virtual event organizers looking for speakers.

4. Collect Testimonials and Recordings.
- After each talk, ask for feedback and permission to use the recording. These are gold for your credibility.
- Even a 10-minute podcast clip can become a powerful promo asset.

5. Promote Yourself Consistently.
- Share clips, quotes, and insights from your talks on social media. Tag the hosts and use relevant hashtags.
- Consider building an email list to keep your audience engaged between talks.

6. Pitch Strategically.
- Reach out to event organizers, podcast hosts, and summit creators with a tailored pitch. Show them how your message fits their audience.
- Use your Talks.co speaker page as your digital resume.

Remember, every great internet speaker started with zero followers and no stage. Consistency, clarity, and connection are your best tools.

To be an internet speaker, you need more than just a webcam and a good mic. It's about combining technical tools, personal branding, and strategic networking. Here's what it takes:

1. A Clear Message and Audience
You need to know what you're talking about and who you're talking to. Are you helping startup founders scale? Teaching mindfulness to remote workers? The more specific, the better.

2. The Right Tech Setup
- A quality microphone (like the Blue Yeti or Shure MV7) makes a huge difference.
- Good lighting (ring lights or softboxes) helps you look professional.
- A stable internet connection is non-negotiable.
- Optional: A branded virtual background or a clean, distraction-free space.

3. A Speaker Platform
Tools like Talks.co let you build a speaker page that acts as your digital calling card. It helps you:
- Showcase your topics and experience.
- Connect with event hosts and podcast producers.
- Get booked without cold pitching every time.

4. Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TEDx veteran, but you do need to:
- Speak clearly and confidently.
- Engage your audience (even if it's virtual).
- Handle Q&A sessions with ease.

5. Content and Proof
Start building a portfolio:
- Record your talks, even if they're on Zoom.
- Collect testimonials from hosts and attendees.
- Share clips on social media to build authority.

Being an internet speaker is about creating value and visibility. With the right tools and mindset, you can turn your voice into a business.

Yes, internet speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's break it down:

1. Experience and Authority
- New speakers might speak for free to build their portfolio.
- Mid-level speakers often earn $250 to $2,000 per talk.
- High-demand experts or influencers can command $5,000 to $25,000+ per appearance.

2. Type of Event
- Corporate webinars and virtual conferences tend to pay more than community meetups or podcasts.
- Paid summits often offer speaker fees or revenue shares.

3. Monetization Strategy
Some internet speakers use speaking as a lead generator rather than a direct income stream. For example:
- A business coach might speak for free but land $10,000 clients from the audience.
- A SaaS founder might present at a virtual event to drive product signups.

Pros of Paid Speaking
- Direct income.
- Builds credibility and authority.
- Can lead to recurring gigs.

Cons
- Not all events have budgets.
- Payment terms can vary (net-30, net-60, etc.).
- Requires negotiation skills.

In short, yes, internet speakers get paid - but many also use speaking as a strategic marketing tool. Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with paid opportunities and clarify expectations upfront.

Internet speakers have multiple income streams. While some rely on direct speaking fees, others turn their talks into business growth engines. Here's a breakdown:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Virtual conferences, webinars, and corporate training sessions often pay speakers directly.
- Rates vary based on expertise, audience size, and industry.

2. Product or Service Promotion
- Many speakers use their platform to promote their own offerings: courses, coaching, books, or software.
- Example: A productivity expert might speak at a remote work summit and pitch their online course at the end.

3. Affiliate Marketing
- Some speakers earn commissions by recommending tools or services during their talks.
- Example: A tech speaker might mention their favorite email platform and share an affiliate link.

4. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
- Influential speakers with large followings may partner with brands for sponsored webinars or content.
- These deals can be lucrative, especially in niches like finance, health, or tech.

5. Revenue Sharing from Events
- On platforms like Talks.co, some virtual summits offer revenue-sharing models where speakers earn a cut of ticket sales or upsells.

6. Memberships and Subscriptions
- Some speakers build communities (e.g., private Slack groups, Patreon) and charge monthly fees for access to exclusive content.

In essence, internet speakers monetize both their voice and their visibility. The smartest ones diversify their income and treat speaking as part of a broader business strategy.

The income of internet speakers varies widely depending on niche, experience, and monetization strategy. Here's a closer look at the numbers:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per talk.
- Often speak for free to build credibility and collect testimonials.
- May generate indirect income through leads or exposure.
Mid-Tier Speakers
- Earn between $500 and $5,000 per appearance.
- Often have a solid online presence, a Talks.co speaker page, and a few notable events under their belt.
- May also earn through product sales, affiliate links, or coaching offers.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Can make $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- Often have bestselling books, large audiences, or corporate partnerships.
- Example: Simon Sinek and Brené Brown reportedly command high five-figure fees for virtual appearances.
Additional Income Streams

Source	Potential Monthly Income
Online Courses	$1,000 - $100,000+
Coaching/Consulting	$2,000 - $50,000+
Affiliate Marketing	$500 - $10,000+
Sponsorships	$1,000 - $25,000+

The most successful internet speakers treat their speaking as part of a larger ecosystem. They don't just get paid to speak - they speak to get paid in other ways.

If you're looking to hire an internet speaker, costs can range dramatically based on their experience, audience reach, and the nature of your event. Here's a breakdown:

Free to $500
- New or emerging speakers.
- Often willing to speak for exposure, testimonials, or lead generation.
- Great for podcasts, community events, or niche summits.

$500 to $5,000
- Mid-level professionals with a Talks.co speaker page and a few notable gigs.
- May include Q&A sessions, custom presentations, or promotional support.
- Suitable for corporate webinars, virtual panels, or industry-specific events.

$5,000 to $25,000+
- High-demand speakers with large followings or bestselling books.
- Often include pre-event strategy calls, custom content, and post-event promotion.
- Ideal for large-scale virtual conferences or brand-sponsored events.

Factors That Influence Cost
- Duration of the talk (keynote vs. panel).
- Level of customization required.
- Whether the speaker promotes the event to their audience.
- Live vs. pre-recorded format.

Cost-Saving Tips
- Consider offering revenue share or affiliate commissions.
- Book early to avoid rush fees.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget.

Ultimately, the cost of an internet speaker reflects their value, reach, and relevance to your audience.

Here's a curated list of some of the most impactful internet speakers ever - people who've shaped how we think, learn, and connect online:

1. Gary Vaynerchuk - Known for his no-fluff style, Gary Vee built his brand through YouTube and social media, becoming a go-to speaker on entrepreneurship and marketing.

2. Brené Brown - Her TEDx talk on vulnerability went viral and launched a global speaking career. She's a master at blending research with relatability.

3. Tony Robbins - Though he started offline, Robbins transitioned to digital events and now hosts massive virtual seminars with thousands of attendees.

4. Simon Sinek - His 'Start With Why' TED Talk became one of the most-watched ever. He continues to inspire leaders through online keynotes and interviews.

5. Mel Robbins - From YouTube clips to Instagram Lives, Mel has built a powerful speaking brand focused on mindset and motivation.

6. Jay Shetty - Former monk turned internet philosopher, Jay's videos rack up millions of views, and he's a frequent guest on virtual summits.

7. Marie Forleo - A digital business coach who uses speaking to fuel her online empire. Her clarity and charisma make her a standout.

8. Eric Thomas (ET the Hip Hop Preacher) - His energetic style and viral videos have made him a favorite in education and sports circles.

9. Seth Godin - Though more understated, Seth's online talks and interviews are packed with insight. He's a thought leader's thought leader.

10. Lisa Nichols - A dynamic speaker who uses storytelling to connect deeply with virtual audiences, especially in personal development spaces.

Looking at the global stage, these internet speakers are making waves across industries and continents:

1. Vusi Thembekwayo (South Africa) - A powerhouse business speaker, Vusi blends economics, entrepreneurship, and motivation in his online keynotes.

2. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee (UK) - A medical doctor turned wellness speaker, Rangan's podcasts and virtual talks reach millions across the globe.

3. Sadhguru (India) - With a massive YouTube presence, Sadhguru speaks on spirituality, leadership, and well-being to a global audience.

4. Ali Abdaal (UK) - A former doctor turned productivity guru, Ali's YouTube channel and online talks make him a favorite among young professionals.

5. Dorie Clark (USA) - A strategic communication expert, Dorie speaks at virtual summits worldwide and helps professionals build thought leadership.

6. Nuseir Yassin (Nas Daily, Israel/Singapore) - Known for his viral one-minute videos, Nas is a compelling speaker on storytelling and global citizenship.

7. Vanessa Van Edwards (USA) - A behavioral researcher who teaches communication skills through online courses and virtual keynotes.

8. Julian Treasure (UK) - His TED Talks on sound and communication have millions of views, and he continues to speak virtually on how to be heard.

9. Bozoma Saint John (USA/Ghana) - A bold voice in marketing and culture, Bozoma's online talks are as inspiring as they are insightful.

10. Hamza Khan (Canada) - A leadership speaker focused on burnout and productivity, Hamza's virtual presence is growing fast across industries.

These speakers aren't just popular - they're influential, diverse, and deeply connected to their audiences through the power of the internet.

Let's break down a few misconceptions that keep popping up around internet speakers. These myths can hold people back from stepping into the digital spotlight or mislead them about what success really looks like.

- Myth 1: You need a massive following to be an internet speaker.
This one trips up a lot of beginners. The truth? You don't need 100,000 followers to get booked or make an impact. What matters more is your niche, your message, and how well you connect with your audience. For example, Dr. Shante Cofield (aka The Movement Maestro) built a thriving speaking career in the health and wellness space with a highly engaged but relatively small audience. Quality over quantity wins every time.

- Myth 2: Internet speakers just talk into a mic from their bedroom.
Sounds easy, right? But successful internet speakers are strategic. They plan content, research their audience, optimize for SEO, and often repurpose talks across platforms. Think of someone like Pat Flynn, who built Smart Passive Income by combining podcasting, webinars, and live virtual events. It's not just talking... it's a business.

- Myth 3: You have to be super polished and charismatic.
Nope. Authenticity beats polish. Some of the most successful internet speakers are introverts or people who speak plainly and directly. Take Brene Brown's TEDx talk: it wasn't flashy, but it was real. That's what resonated. If you're clear, passionate, and helpful, people will listen.

- Myth 4: Internet speakers can't earn real money.
This one's outdated. Virtual summits, paid webinars, affiliate partnerships, and brand sponsorships have opened up multiple revenue streams. Speakers like Amy Porterfield and Neil Patel have monetized their online presence through courses, events, and strategic speaking gigs. The ceiling is high if you build smart.

- Myth 5: You need to be tech-savvy to get started.
Not true. Tools like Zoom, StreamYard, and Riverside.fm are user-friendly. And platforms like Talks.co match you with podcast hosts so you don't even need to run your own show. You can grow into the tech as you go. What matters most is your message and your willingness to show up.

When you think of internet speakers, you might picture someone with a slick studio setup and a million YouTube subscribers. But the real stories behind successful internet speakers are often more grounded... and more inspiring.

Take Mignon Fogarty, better known as Grammar Girl. She started with a simple podcast to help people write better. No fancy gear, no celebrity connections. Just clear, useful advice. Her podcast exploded, leading to book deals, speaking invitations, and a loyal global audience. All from a niche that most people thought was too 'boring' to go big.

Then there's Jay Shetty. A former monk turned storyteller, Jay began posting short, thoughtful videos on Facebook. His calm delivery and relatable wisdom caught fire. He didn't start with a media empire. He built it by consistently showing up online, sharing stories that mattered. Today, he's a bestselling author and one of the most booked internet speakers worldwide.

In the business world, there's Rand Fishkin. Known for his work with Moz, Rand used webinars and whiteboard videos to demystify SEO. His Whiteboard Friday series became a staple in the digital marketing space. He wasn't flashy, but he was consistent, informative, and approachable. That's what built trust.

And don't overlook regional voices. In India, speaker and educator Gaur Gopal Das has grown a massive following through YouTube and Instagram, blending spiritual wisdom with modern life advice. He speaks in English and Hindi, reaching diverse audiences across continents.

These stories show that internet speakers don't follow one path. Some start with podcasts, others with video. Some are educators, others entertainers. But they all share one thing: they deliver value, over and over again, to the people who need it most.

The landscape for internet speakers is shifting, and if you're paying attention, it's full of opportunity. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, here's what's coming next.

First, expect more hybrid speaking models. Events are blending in-person and online formats, and speakers who can adapt to both will thrive. Think of it like this: a keynote might happen on stage in Sydney, but the replay gets streamed to thousands globally. If you can deliver impact through a webcam as well as a podium, you're ahead of the curve.

Second, personalization is becoming the norm. Audiences want content that speaks directly to their needs. Internet speakers are using tools like AI-generated transcripts, segmented email lists, and interactive webinars to tailor their message. It's not just about broadcasting anymore... it's about conversation.

Third, niche authority is beating generalist appeal. Speakers who go deep on specific topics-like remote team culture, ethical AI, or Gen Z marketing-are getting more traction than those who try to speak to everyone. If you can own a niche, you can own the room.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- AI-assisted content creation. Tools like ChatGPT and Descript are helping speakers script, edit, and repurpose talks faster.
- Virtual summits and micro-events. These are growing as lead-gen machines and community builders.
- Multilingual content. More speakers are reaching global audiences by translating or subtitling their talks.
- Interactive formats. Live Q&A, polls, and audience-driven content are becoming standard.
- Decentralized platforms. Speakers are moving beyond YouTube and Zoom to platforms like Circle, Discord, and even blockchain-based spaces.

Bottom line: the future belongs to agile, audience-focused speakers who embrace tech without losing their voice. Stay nimble, stay human.

- Talks.co. A powerful matchmaking tool that connects speakers with podcast hosts. Great for building your credibility and getting booked without cold outreach. Tip: Create a compelling speaker profile with a clear niche and sample topics.

- StreamYard. A browser-based live streaming studio. Perfect for hosting webinars, interviews, or virtual keynotes. Tip: Use the branding features to keep your visuals consistent across platforms.

- Descript. An all-in-one audio and video editor that lets you edit content like a doc. Ideal for cleaning up your talks, adding captions, or repurposing clips. Tip: Use the Overdub feature to fix small mistakes without re-recording.

- Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual speaking gigs. Tip: Use Zoom's webinar mode for more control over audience engagement and analytics.

- Canva. For designing speaker decks, social media graphics, and branded visuals. Tip: Create a consistent slide template for all your talks to build recognition.

- Notion. A great tool for organizing your speaking topics, event calendars, and outreach lists. Tip: Build a content bank of stories, stats, and quotes you can pull from quickly.

- Otter.ai. Transcribes your talks in real time. Useful for creating blog posts, show notes, or captions. Tip: Use it during practice sessions to refine your delivery.

These tools don't just make your life easier-they help you show up more professionally and consistently. Whether you're pitching podcasts or running your own summit, having the right stack can save you hours and boost your visibility.