Listening and Behavior Development Speakers

A listening and behavior development speaker is a professional who specializes in teaching individuals and organizations how to improve communication through better listening and behavioral awareness. These speakers often come from backgrounds in psychology, education, coaching, or leadership development.

They focus on helping audiences understand how listening impacts relationships, decision-making, and team dynamics. But they don't stop at theory-they provide practical tools to shift behavior in real-world settings. Whether it's active listening techniques, empathy training, or conflict resolution strategies, their content is actionable.

You'll often find these speakers at corporate retreats, leadership summits, educational conferences, and even virtual summits. They tailor their message to the audience-what works for a group of healthcare professionals might not land the same way with a team of software engineers.

Some well-known figures in this space include Celeste Headlee, who speaks on conversational intelligence, and Dr. Tasha Eurich, who focuses on self-awareness and behavioral change. These speakers don't just talk-they help people transform the way they interact.

In essence, a listening and behavior development speaker bridges the gap between knowing how to communicate and actually doing it effectively.

When teams misfire, relationships break down, or leaders struggle to connect, the root cause is often a failure to listen or understand behavior. That's where a listening and behavior development speaker becomes crucial.

First, they help organizations identify blind spots. Many people think they're good listeners-but research shows most of us overestimate our skills. A speaker in this field can break down the science behind listening and show how unconscious behaviors sabotage communication.

Second, they offer frameworks for change. Whether it's the HURIER model of listening or behavioral feedback loops, these speakers bring evidence-based tools that teams can apply immediately. This is especially valuable in high-stakes environments like healthcare, law enforcement, or executive leadership.

Third, they create a shared language. When everyone on a team understands what 'active listening' or 'behavioral triggers' mean, collaboration becomes smoother. This is particularly helpful in multicultural or remote teams where communication norms vary.

Finally, they drive measurable outcomes. Improved listening and behavior awareness can lead to higher employee engagement, better customer satisfaction, and fewer conflicts. In short, they don't just inspire-they equip people to do better work together.

So whether you're running a startup or managing a global team, bringing in a listening and behavior development speaker can be a game-changer for your culture and performance.

Listening and behavior development speakers educate, inspire, and train audiences to become more effective communicators by improving how they listen and how they respond to others' behavior. But their work goes far beyond giving a talk.

They design content that's both insightful and actionable. For example, a speaker might walk a sales team through the difference between passive and active listening, then role-play real sales calls to reinforce the lesson. Or they might guide a group of educators through behavioral cues in the classroom, helping them respond more empathetically to student needs.

These speakers also adapt their message to different industries. In tech, they might focus on how listening improves agile team collaboration. In healthcare, they might highlight how behavioral awareness reduces patient misunderstandings. In government or nonprofit settings, they often emphasize community engagement and trust-building.

They also serve as catalysts for internal change. After a keynote or workshop, many organizations follow up with coaching, policy shifts, or new training programs inspired by the speaker's message. In this way, the speaker becomes a spark for long-term development.

Ultimately, listening and behavior development speakers don't just talk about communication-they help people live it more consciously, whether in boardrooms, classrooms, or Zoom calls.

Becoming a listening and behavior development speaker isn't just about knowing how to talk - it's about knowing how to listen, analyze, and communicate behavioral insights in a way that moves people. Here's a practical step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Build Your Expertise
- Start by studying behavioral psychology, communication theory, and active listening techniques. You don't need a PhD, but certifications in behavioral science, coaching, or communication can boost your credibility.
- Read widely: books like 'The Power of Listening' by Lynne M. Baab or 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear can help you understand how behavior shifts over time.

2. Develop Your Signature Talk
- Craft a core message or framework. Maybe it's a 3-step method for improving team communication or a model for behavior change in schools.
- Test your talk in small venues: local meetups, webinars, or even internal company training sessions.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build your speaker profile. Include a short bio, your signature topics, testimonials, and a video clip of you speaking.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you. Include a booking form or calendar link.

4. Network with Hosts and Event Planners
- Reach out to podcast hosts, conference organizers, and workshop facilitators. Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and Talks.co to connect.
- Offer to speak for free at first to build your reel and reputation.

5. Get Feedback and Iterate
- After each talk, ask for feedback. What resonated? What didn't?
- Use this data to refine your delivery, content, and audience targeting.

6. Scale Your Impact
- Once you've got traction, consider creating digital products: online courses, books, or group coaching programs.
- These not only build authority but also open up passive income streams.

Remember, every great speaker started with one talk. Focus on delivering value, and the rest will follow.

To be a successful listening and behavior development speaker, you need more than just a good voice and a microphone. This role blends psychology, communication, and performance. Let's break down what it really takes:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You need a solid foundation in behavioral science, active listening, and communication strategies. This could come from formal education (like a degree in psychology or communications), but many speakers also build expertise through coaching certifications, real-world experience, or research.

2. Communication Skills
Being able to explain complex behavioral concepts in a relatable way is crucial. You'll need to adapt your language for different audiences - from corporate executives to school administrators. Storytelling is a big plus.

3. A Clear Niche and Message
What's your unique angle? Maybe you focus on listening in leadership, or behavior development in early childhood education. Define your niche and craft a message that solves a real problem.

4. A Platform to Showcase Your Work
You'll need a professional speaker page - Talks.co is a great option. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a demo video. This is your digital business card for event organizers.

5. Networking and Outreach Skills
You've got to be proactive. Reach out to podcast hosts, summit organizers, and conference planners. Talks.co helps by connecting speakers with hosts, but you'll still need to build relationships and pitch your value.

6. Continuous Learning and Feedback
The best speakers are lifelong learners. Attend other talks, read new research, and always ask for feedback. Your message should evolve as your audience does.

Being a listening and behavior development speaker is about creating transformation through insight. If you can help people understand themselves and others better, you're on the right track.

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

The Demand
Behavioral science and communication are hot topics in today's workplace. From DEI training to leadership development, organizations are investing in speakers who can help teams listen better and behave more intentionally.

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Free Talks: Common early on. Great for exposure and testimonials.
- Low-Paid Gigs: Community events or small businesses might offer $200-$500.
- Mid-Tier Events: Conferences and corporate workshops often pay $1,000-$5,000.
- High-End Keynotes: Top speakers can earn $10,000-$50,000 per talk.

Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience and Reputation: New speakers earn less. Established names command more.
- Audience Size and Budget: A Fortune 500 company pays more than a local nonprofit.
- Format: Keynotes usually pay more than breakout sessions or panels.

Pros
- High earning potential once established.
- Opportunities for recurring gigs (e.g., annual trainings).

Cons
- Inconsistent income early on.
- Travel and prep time can be extensive.

In short, yes - they get paid. But if you're just starting out, be prepared to mix free exposure with paid opportunities until your brand is strong enough to command top rates.

Listening and behavior development speakers have multiple income streams - and the most successful ones diversify. Here's how they typically earn:

1. Speaking Engagements
This is the most obvious source. Speakers get paid to deliver keynotes, workshops, or breakout sessions at:
- Corporate events
- Industry conferences
- Educational summits
- Online summits

2. Consulting and Training
Many speakers offer follow-up services:
- One-on-one coaching for executives or educators
- Team training programs
- Organizational behavior audits

3. Digital Products
Speakers often turn their frameworks into scalable products:
- Online courses (e.g., on Teachable or Kajabi)
- Ebooks and workbooks
- Toolkits for HR or school administrators

4. Licensing Content
Some speakers license their curriculum to companies or schools. This creates recurring revenue without additional time investment.

5. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
If they have a strong platform (like a podcast or YouTube channel), they can:
- Promote tools related to listening or behavior change
- Partner with brands for sponsored content

6. Hosting Events or Summits
Using platforms like Zoom, speakers can host their own virtual events, bringing in other experts and charging for access or sponsorships.

In essence, speaking is just the tip of the iceberg. The real money often comes from what happens before and after the talk.

Earnings for listening and behavior development speakers vary widely, depending on experience, niche, and business model. Let's look at the numbers:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Per Talk: $0 to $1,000
- Annual Income: $5,000 to $30,000 (part-time)
- These speakers are often building their brand, speaking at local events or online summits.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Per Talk: $1,000 to $5,000
- Annual Income: $50,000 to $150,000
- They've built a reputation, have a speaker page (like on Talks.co), and get repeat bookings.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Per Talk: $10,000 to $50,000+
- Annual Income: $200,000 to $1M+
- These are thought leaders with books, courses, and corporate clients.
Other Factors That Influence Income

Factor	Impact
Niche	Corporate-focused speakers often earn more than those in education.
Location	U.S. and Europe tend to pay more than developing markets.
Format	In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual talks.
Additional Offers	Speakers who sell courses or coaching earn more overall.

So while some speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build full-scale businesses around it. The ceiling is high - if you're strategic.

Hiring a listening and behavior development speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown:

1. Speaker Experience Level
- New Speakers: $0 to $1,000. Often looking for exposure or testimonials.
- Established Professionals: $2,000 to $10,000. These speakers have a track record, a Talks.co page, and strong references.
- Celebrity Experts: $15,000 to $50,000+. These are authors, TED speakers, or media personalities.

2. Type of Event
- Webinars or Online Summits: $500 to $5,000.
- Corporate Keynotes: $5,000 to $25,000.
- Workshops or Trainings: $2,000 to $15,000, depending on duration and customization.

3. Location and Logistics
- In-person events may include travel, lodging, and per diem costs.
- Virtual events are cheaper but may still require tech support or studio time.

4. Customization and Prep Time
- A speaker who tailors content to your audience will charge more than someone delivering a standard talk.

5. Add-ons
- Want a post-event Q&A, coaching session, or access to their course? That's extra.

Hiring a speaker is an investment. If you want someone who can truly shift behavior and improve communication, it's worth paying for quality.

Stephen R. Covey: Author of 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People', Covey emphasized listening as a leadership skill and helped millions rethink behavior in both personal and professional life.

Marshall Rosenberg: Founder of Nonviolent Communication, Rosenberg's work on empathetic listening and behavior change has influenced educators, therapists, and corporate trainers worldwide.

Brené Brown: Known for her research on vulnerability and shame, Brown's talks often center on emotional intelligence and listening as a tool for connection.

Tony Robbins: While more known for motivation, Robbins integrates behavioral psychology and listening techniques into his coaching and seminars.

Carl Rogers: A pioneer in humanistic psychology, Rogers emphasized 'active listening' in therapy, which laid the groundwork for modern communication training.

Simon Sinek: His talks on leadership and communication often highlight the importance of listening to understand, not just to respond.

Barbara Coloroso: An expert in parenting and education, she's known for her work on behavior development in children and teens.

Julian Treasure: His TED Talk 'How to Speak So That People Want to Listen' is a masterclass in both speaking and listening.

Daniel Goleman: Author of 'Emotional Intelligence', Goleman's work connects listening skills with behavioral outcomes in leadership.

Susan Cain: Her focus on introversion and quiet leadership has reshaped how we think about listening and behavior in group dynamics.

Dr. Tasha Eurich: An organizational psychologist and author of 'Insight', she specializes in self-awareness and listening as tools for leadership growth.

Michael Bungay Stanier: Author of 'The Coaching Habit', he teaches managers how to listen better and ask the right questions to drive behavior change.

Celeste Headlee: A journalist and communication expert, her TED Talk '10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation' is a global favorite.

Dr. Laura Janusik: Known as 'The Listening Doctor', she combines academic research with practical training for better workplace communication.

Oscar Trimboli: An Australian speaker and author of 'Deep Listening', he works with global companies to improve listening culture.

Nancy Kline: Creator of the 'Time to Think' method, she emphasizes listening as the foundation of effective thinking and behavior change.

Dr. Mark Goulston: A psychiatrist and business consultant, he teaches listening techniques that de-escalate conflict and improve team dynamics.

Heather Younger: A leadership speaker focused on employee engagement, she connects listening with organizational behavior and retention.

Julian Treasure: Still active globally, his work continues to influence how organizations train people to listen and behave more effectively.

Dr. Beverly Kaye: A pioneer in talent development, she focuses on listening as a tool for career growth and behavioral alignment in the workplace.

Myth 1: Listening and behavior development speakers only work with children.
While it's true that many professionals in this space focus on early childhood, the reality is much broader. Listening and behavior development speakers are increasingly active in corporate training, leadership development, and even conflict resolution in adult settings. For example, companies like Google and Microsoft have brought in experts to help teams improve communication and behavioral awareness, especially in cross-functional or remote teams.

Myth 2: You need a psychology degree to be credible.
This is a common misconception. While formal education helps, many successful speakers in this niche come from diverse backgrounds-education, coaching, HR, or even performing arts. What matters most is your ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into relatable, actionable insights. Take someone like Dr. Gabor Maté: his influence stems from experience and clarity, not just credentials.

Myth 3: These talks are too 'soft' for business audiences.
Some assume that listening and behavior development is too touchy-feely for boardrooms. But look at how Brené Brown's work on vulnerability and empathy has reshaped leadership training globally. Listening and behavioral insights are now seen as strategic tools for performance, not just personal growth.

Myth 4: It's all about theory, not practice.
Actually, the best speakers in this space are deeply practical. They use real-life scenarios, role-playing, and interactive exercises to help audiences apply what they learn. Whether it's helping teachers manage classroom behavior or guiding executives through active listening drills, the focus is on implementation.

Myth 5: The market is too niche to grow a speaking career.
Not true. With rising interest in emotional intelligence, DEI, and workplace wellness, demand for listening and behavior development speakers is expanding across industries-from healthcare to tech to education. The key is to tailor your message to the audience's context and needs.

In 2018, a former elementary school teacher from Toronto transitioned into full-time speaking. She had spent years developing classroom strategies for managing disruptive behavior through active listening and emotional regulation. Her first big break came when a local school district invited her to lead a professional development day. Word spread. Within two years, she was speaking at national education conferences and consulting for edtech startups designing behavior tracking tools.

Meanwhile, in South Africa, a corporate coach with a background in behavioral science began offering workshops on 'listening leadership' for mid-size companies. His sessions combined neuroscience, storytelling, and cultural sensitivity. One of his clients, a logistics firm with high employee turnover, reported a 30% improvement in team retention after implementing his communication framework.

Then there's the case of a U.S.-based speaker who started out in the nonprofit sector. She focused on trauma-informed listening practices and how they affect workplace dynamics. After publishing a white paper that went viral in HR circles, she was invited to speak at SHRM and later launched her own online course. Her audience now includes healthcare administrators, social workers, and corporate wellness teams.

Each of these speakers found success not by casting a wide net, but by going deep into a specific audience's needs. They built trust by showing up consistently, sharing real tools, and adapting their message to different cultural and organizational contexts.

Their stories show that whether you're starting from a classroom, a clinic, or a corporate boardroom, there's a path to becoming a sought-after voice in listening and behavior development. It just takes clarity, consistency, and a commitment to learning from your audience as much as they learn from you.

The landscape for listening and behavior development speakers is shifting in some fascinating ways. As organizations grapple with hybrid work, cultural complexity, and mental health awareness, the need for nuanced communication and behavioral insight is growing fast.

Here's what's on the horizon:

- AI and Human Behavior. With AI tools like ChatGPT entering the workplace, there's a renewed focus on what makes human interaction unique. Speakers who can bridge the gap between tech and empathy-helping teams stay human in digital environments-will be in high demand.

- Cross-Cultural Listening. Global teams are the norm now. That means listening isn't just about hearing words-it's about decoding cultural context. Speakers who can teach adaptive listening across cultural lines will find eager audiences in multinational firms and NGOs.

- Neuroscience-Informed Talks. Expect more speakers to integrate brain science into their sessions. Understanding how the brain processes conflict, attention, and trust can make talks more compelling and credible. Think of it as the next evolution of emotional intelligence.

- Microlearning and Modular Content. Long keynotes are giving way to bite-sized, high-impact sessions. Speakers who can deliver value in 15-minute bursts-whether via webinars, internal LMS platforms, or social media-will have a competitive edge.

- Behavioral Inclusion. DEI is no longer just about demographics. It's about behavior: how we listen, how we interrupt, how we include. Speakers who can link listening habits to inclusive leadership will be especially relevant in HR and leadership circles.

The future is less about being a 'sage on the stage' and more about being a facilitator of change. If you're adaptable, research-driven, and audience-aware, there's a lot of opportunity coming your way.

Talks.co. This is a smart way to get matched with podcast hosts looking for guests in your niche. Perfect for building authority and reaching new audiences without cold pitching. Tip: Use the advanced filters to find shows that focus on education, leadership, or wellness.

The Gottman Institute. While originally focused on relationships, their research on communication patterns and emotional regulation is gold for anyone teaching listening skills. Their blog and training materials can help you deepen your content.

MindTools. Offers practical frameworks for behavior change, active listening, and emotional intelligence. Great for building out workshop content or adding structure to your keynotes.

Coursera - Listening and Communication Courses. Courses from institutions like the University of Colorado or Yale can help you sharpen your academic grounding. Look for ones that include peer-reviewed assignments to get feedback.

Otter.ai. Use this tool to transcribe your talks and analyze your own speaking patterns. You can also use it to pull quotes or create content snippets for social media.

Behavioral Science in the Wild. A curated collection of case studies showing how behavioral science is applied in real-world settings. Useful for adding credibility and examples to your presentations.

Slidebean. If design isn't your strength, this tool helps you create clean, professional slides quickly. Their templates are especially helpful for structuring behavior models or communication frameworks.

LinkedIn Learning. Offers a range of short courses on public speaking, behavior change, and leadership communication. Ideal for brushing up on delivery skills or learning how to tailor your message to different audiences.