Masculinity Speakers

A masculinity speaker is someone who specializes in discussing, challenging, and redefining traditional ideas of masculinity through public speaking. These individuals often come from diverse backgrounds - psychology, education, activism, entertainment - but they share a common goal: to open up conversations about what it means to be a man in today's world.

Unlike general motivational speakers, masculinity speakers focus specifically on topics like emotional expression, gender roles, fatherhood, vulnerability, and healthy relationships. They might speak at schools, corporate events, virtual summits, or community forums. Their audiences range from teenage boys to HR leaders to parents and educators.

What sets masculinity speakers apart is their ability to bridge theory and lived experience. They often draw on personal stories, cultural insights, and research to challenge outdated norms and offer new frameworks. For example, a speaker like Jackson Katz might explore how media shapes male identity, while someone like Ashanti Branch might focus on emotional literacy in young men.

In a world where conversations around gender are evolving rapidly, masculinity speakers help audiences navigate complexity with clarity. They don't offer one-size-fits-all answers - they invite reflection, dialogue, and growth. Whether speaking to a global audience or a local classroom, their role is to spark awareness and inspire change.

When conversations around gender identity and societal roles are shifting faster than ever, the role of a masculinity speaker becomes increasingly relevant. These speakers help unpack the often-unspoken expectations placed on men - expectations that can lead to emotional suppression, strained relationships, and even mental health challenges.

One reason masculinity speakers are so crucial is because they create safe spaces for dialogue. In many cultures, men are discouraged from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. Masculinity speakers challenge that narrative by modeling openness and encouraging others to do the same. This can be especially powerful in environments like schools, sports teams, or corporate leadership training.

They also play a key role in education and prevention. For instance, speakers addressing masculinity in the context of gender-based violence or workplace equity help audiences understand how unconscious biases and social conditioning contribute to larger systemic issues. By connecting the dots between personal behavior and collective outcomes, they drive meaningful change.

Moreover, masculinity speakers support healthier communities. When men are empowered to express themselves authentically, relationships improve - not just with partners or peers, but also with children, colleagues, and themselves. This ripple effect can be seen in everything from improved mental health stats to more inclusive workplaces.

In short, masculinity speakers matter because they help us rethink what strength, leadership, and connection really look like - and that benefits everyone, not just men.

Masculinity speakers engage audiences in conversations that challenge, redefine, and expand traditional views of masculinity. Their work spans multiple formats and settings, but the core of what they do can be broken down into a few key functions:

- Educate Through Speaking Engagements. They deliver talks, workshops, and keynotes at conferences, schools, corporate events, and online summits. These sessions often explore topics like emotional intelligence, fatherhood, mental health, and gender roles.

- Facilitate Dialogue and Reflection. Rather than lecturing, many masculinity speakers use interactive formats to encourage audience participation. This might include group exercises, Q&A sessions, or storytelling circles that invite attendees to share their own experiences.

- Advocate for Cultural Change. Many masculinity speakers are also activists or educators who work to shift societal norms. They might consult with organizations on inclusive policies, contribute to curriculum development, or collaborate with nonprofits focused on youth development or gender equity.

- Create Content and Resources. Beyond live events, masculinity speakers often produce books, podcasts, videos, or online courses. These resources help extend their message to wider audiences and provide tools for ongoing learning.

- Mentor and Support Communities. Some speakers run mentorship programs or support groups, especially for young men or marginalized communities. They provide guidance, accountability, and a sense of belonging.

In essence, masculinity speakers are catalysts for change. They don't just talk about masculinity - they help people live it in healthier, more conscious ways.

Becoming a masculinity speaker isn't about fitting into a mold. It's about finding your voice and sharing a message that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What does masculinity mean to you? Is it about emotional intelligence, leadership, fatherhood, or breaking stereotypes?
- Choose a niche that aligns with your values. For example, some speakers focus on masculinity in the workplace, while others explore it through mental health or cultural identity.

2. Build Your Expertise.
- You don't need a PhD, but you do need credibility. Start by reading widely, interviewing experts, and maybe even getting certified in coaching or psychology.
- Share your insights through blog posts, podcasts, or YouTube videos. This builds your authority and helps you refine your message.

3. Craft Your Signature Talk.
- Develop a 30- to 60-minute talk that tells a story, delivers value, and inspires action.
- Use frameworks like the Hero's Journey or TED-style storytelling to keep your audience engaged.

4. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video clip of you speaking.
- Make it easy for hosts to find and book you. Think of this as your digital business card.

5. Start Speaking - Anywhere.
- Begin with local meetups, schools, or online summits. Don't wait for a TEDx invite.
- Use Talks.co to connect with virtual event hosts who are actively looking for speakers in your niche.

6. Collect Feedback and Iterate.
- After each talk, ask for feedback. What landed? What didn't?
- Use that data to tweak your delivery, slides, and structure.

7. Scale Your Reach.
- Once you've got momentum, pitch yourself to podcasts, conferences, and corporate events.
- Build a mailing list and grow your community. The more people who know your message, the more opportunities will come your way.

Remember, masculinity is a nuanced topic. The more authentic and thoughtful you are, the more impact you'll have.

To be a masculinity speaker, you need more than just a microphone and an opinion. This role requires a blend of personal insight, cultural awareness, and communication skills. Here's what it takes:

1. A Clear Point of View
Masculinity is a complex and evolving topic. Whether you're challenging toxic norms or exploring healthy masculinity in different cultures, your perspective needs to be well-formed and backed by research or lived experience. Audiences are looking for clarity, not clichés.

2. Communication Skills
You don't have to be a polished TED speaker from day one, but you do need to know how to connect with people. That means storytelling, active listening, and being able to adjust your tone depending on the audience - whether it's a corporate boardroom or a youth summit.

3. Cultural Competency
Masculinity looks different in Nairobi than it does in New York. Being a masculinity speaker means understanding how gender roles play out across different communities and being respectful of those differences. This is especially important if you're speaking on global platforms or to diverse audiences.

4. A Platform
You need a way to get your message out. That could be a podcast, a YouTube channel, or a Talks.co speaker page. The key is visibility. Hosts want to see that you're active, relevant, and ready to deliver.

5. A Willingness to Grow
This space is constantly evolving. New research, shifting cultural norms, and audience feedback will challenge you. The best masculinity speakers are lifelong learners who adapt their message as they grow.

If you're just starting out, Talks.co is a great place to build your speaker profile and connect with event hosts looking for fresh voices. It's not about being perfect - it's about being real, informed, and ready to lead meaningful conversations.

Yes, masculinity speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's break it down:
Market Demand
Masculinity is a hot topic in leadership, education, mental health, and DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) circles. As more organizations seek to address gender dynamics and emotional intelligence, demand for masculinity speakers has grown. That said, it's still a niche compared to broader categories like business or motivation.
Experience Level
New speakers might start unpaid or with small honorariums ($100-$500), especially at community events or podcasts. Mid-level speakers with a few years of experience and a solid portfolio can command $1,000 to $5,000 per talk. Top-tier speakers with books, media appearances, or a strong online following can earn $10,000 or more per keynote.
Event Type
- Corporate Trainings: Often the highest paying, especially if you're customizing content for leadership teams or HR.
- Conferences: Pay varies widely, from travel-only to $10K+ for headliners.
- Virtual Summits: May offer lower fees but higher exposure. Some use revenue-share models.
- Schools/Nonprofits: Usually lower budgets, but great for impact and credibility.
Revenue Averages

Speaker Level	Typical Fee Range
Beginner	$0 - $500
Intermediate	$1,000 - $5,000
Advanced/Expert	$5,000 - $15,000+

So yes, masculinity speakers get paid - but your earnings will reflect your niche, reputation, and how you position yourself in the market.

Masculinity speakers don't just make money from speaking gigs. In fact, the most successful ones diversify their income streams. Here's how they typically earn:

1. Keynote Speaking
This is the most direct path. Speakers are invited to conferences, corporate events, or summits to deliver a talk. Fees vary based on experience and audience size, as explained in the 'Do masculinity speakers get paid' section.

2. Workshops and Trainings
Many masculinity speakers offer in-depth workshops on topics like emotional literacy, healthy masculinity in leadership, or fatherhood. These are often booked by HR departments, schools, or nonprofits. Rates can range from $500 for a short session to $10,000+ for multi-day programs.

3. Online Courses and Memberships
Some speakers turn their frameworks into digital products. For example, a masculinity speaker might create a course on 'Redefining Masculinity in the Modern World' and sell it through platforms like Teachable or Kajabi. Membership communities can also generate recurring revenue.

4. Books and Publishing
Publishing a book can boost credibility and open new doors. While book royalties alone might not be huge, they often lead to more speaking invites and consulting gigs.

5. Consulting and Coaching
Experienced masculinity speakers often work one-on-one with executives, athletes, or educators. Some also consult with brands on gender messaging and inclusive campaigns.

6. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
If you've built a strong online presence, brands may pay you to promote their products or services that align with your message. This is more common among speakers with podcasts or large social media followings.

7. Talks.co and Virtual Events
Platforms like Talks.co allow speakers to connect with virtual event hosts. Some events offer speaker fees, while others use affiliate or revenue-share models.

In short, masculinity speakers who treat their work like a business - not just a passion project - have multiple ways to earn.

The income of masculinity speakers varies widely, depending on their experience, niche, and business model. Here's a closer look at the numbers:
Entry-Level Speakers
Those just starting out may earn between $0 and $500 per event. Many begin by speaking at local events, podcasts, or virtual summits for free to build credibility. Some may receive travel stipends or small honorariums.
Mid-Tier Speakers
Speakers with a few years of experience, a defined message, and a growing audience can earn $1,000 to $5,000 per talk. These speakers often supplement their income with coaching, online courses, or book sales.
Top-Tier Speakers
Established masculinity speakers with bestselling books, media appearances, or a strong corporate client base can command $10,000 to $25,000 per keynote. Some even exceed that, especially when bundled with workshops or consulting.
Annual Income Estimates

Speaker Type	Estimated Annual Income
Beginner	$0 - $10,000
Mid-Level	$20,000 - $100,000
High-Level	$100,000 - $500,000+

Factors That Influence Income
- Number of Events: A speaker doing 50 paid gigs a year at $2,000 each earns $100K.
- Diversified Revenue: Courses, books, and coaching can double or triple income.
- Brand Partnerships: Influential speakers may land sponsorships or brand deals.
So while some masculinity speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build full-time, six-figure businesses around it.

Hiring a masculinity speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown:
1. Experience and Reputation
- New Speakers: $0 - $500. Often speak for exposure, especially at community events or online panels.
- Emerging Voices: $1,000 - $5,000. These speakers have some media features, a Talks.co profile, or a growing following.
- Established Experts: $5,000 - $15,000+. Includes authors, TEDx speakers, or those with corporate experience.
2. Event Type
- Virtual Events: Typically lower fees ($500 - $5,000), but easier logistics.
- Corporate Keynotes: High-end range ($10,000+), especially if tailored to leadership or DEI training.
- Nonprofits/Schools: Often negotiate reduced rates or request pro bono appearances.
3. Location and Travel
If the speaker needs to travel internationally or stay overnight, expect to cover airfare, hotel, and per diem. Some speakers include travel in their fee, others bill it separately.
4. Add-Ons
- Workshops: Add $2,000 - $10,000 depending on duration and customization.
- Panel Moderation or Breakout Sessions: May cost less than a keynote but still add value.
- Licensing Content: If you want to record and reuse the talk, expect to pay extra.
Sample Pricing Table

Speaker Level	Typical Fee Range
Beginner	$0 - $500
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000
Expert	$5,000 - $15,000+

If you're booking through a platform like Talks.co, you can often filter by budget and see speaker profiles with pricing upfront. That transparency helps you match the right speaker to your event goals.

- Robert Bly: Author of 'Iron John', Bly was a pioneer in the mythopoetic men's movement. His poetic, Jungian approach to masculinity influenced generations.
- Tony Porter: Co-founder of A Call to Men, Porter is known for his TED Talk 'A Call to Men' and his work on redefining manhood to prevent violence against women.
- Jackson Katz: A leading voice in gender violence prevention, Katz has spoken globally about how traditional masculinity contributes to societal issues.
- Justin Baldoni: Actor and filmmaker, Baldoni uses his platform to challenge toxic masculinity and promote emotional vulnerability among men.
- Warren Farrell: Author of 'The Myth of Male Power', Farrell has been both praised and critiqued for his controversial takes on men's rights and gender roles.
- Lewis Howes: Host of 'The School of Greatness' podcast, Howes speaks openly about masculinity, vulnerability, and success.
- Terry Real: A psychotherapist and author, Real is known for his work on relational life therapy and healthy masculinity in relationships.
- Dax Shepard: While not a traditional speaker, Shepard's podcast 'Armchair Expert' often explores masculinity through candid interviews.
- Stefan Babcock: Lead singer of PUP, Babcock has spoken at events about masculinity in punk culture and mental health.
- Richard Reeves: Brookings Institution scholar and author of 'Of Boys and Men', Reeves brings data-driven insights to the conversation on modern masculinity.

- Tony Porter (USA): Globally recognized for his work with A Call to Men, Porter speaks at the UN, NFL, and Fortune 500 companies.
- Jackson Katz (USA): International speaker on masculinity and violence prevention, with engagements in over 30 countries.
- Justin Baldoni (USA): His TED Talk 'Why I'm done trying to be man enough' has millions of views and global impact.
- Dr. Michael Kimmel (USA): Sociologist and founder of the Center for the Study of Men and Masculinities. Has spoken across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
- Richard Reeves (UK/USA): His book 'Of Boys and Men' has sparked global dialogue on education, fatherhood, and gender equity.
- Andrew Reiner (USA): Author of 'Better Boys, Better Men', Reiner lectures internationally on masculinity and emotional health.
- Mark Greene (USA): Known for his work on emotional suppression in men, Greene speaks at global conferences and writes for major outlets.
- Dr. Zac Seidler (Australia): Clinical psychologist and researcher, Seidler is a leading voice in men's mental health and masculinity in Oceania.
- Eduardo Garcia (Mexico): A rising voice in Latin America, Garcia speaks on masculinity and social justice in Spanish-speaking communities.
- Craig Wilkinson (South Africa): Founder of Father A Nation, Wilkinson speaks across Africa on fatherhood and positive masculinity.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around when it comes to masculinity speakers. These assumptions can hold people back from stepping into the space or from understanding the value these voices bring to the table.

- Myth 1: Masculinity speakers promote toxic masculinity.
This is a common misunderstanding. While some critics assume masculinity speakers are reinforcing outdated norms, most are actually doing the opposite. For example, speakers like Justin Baldoni and Lewis Howes openly challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and empathy in men. Their talks often focus on redefining strength, not suppressing it.

- Myth 2: You need to be a psychologist or therapist to speak on masculinity.
Not true. While academic credentials can add credibility, many impactful masculinity speakers come from diverse backgrounds-sports, entertainment, business, or even education. What matters more is lived experience, thoughtful insight, and the ability to connect with an audience. Take someone like Terry Crews. He's not a licensed therapist, but his talks on masculinity and vulnerability have resonated globally.

- Myth 3: The audience for masculinity talks is only men.
This one's limiting. Yes, men are often the primary audience, but masculinity affects everyone. Women, non-binary folks, educators, parents, and HR professionals all benefit from these conversations. Many speakers tailor their message to mixed audiences to foster broader understanding and allyship.

- Myth 4: Masculinity speakers are all about motivational hype.
Some are, sure. But many go deeper. They speak on trauma, identity, fatherhood, mental health, and cultural expectations. It's not just about pumping people up-it's about unpacking complex issues. Speakers like Dr. Niobe Way and Jason Wilson bring research and real-world stories to the stage, making their sessions both emotional and educational.

- Myth 5: There's no demand for masculinity speakers.
Actually, demand is growing. From corporate DEI events to school assemblies and global conferences, more organizations are recognizing the need to address gender dynamics and redefine leadership. Masculinity speakers are being booked for panels, keynotes, and workshops across industries-from tech to education to wellness.

When you look at the journeys of successful masculinity speakers, you start to see a pattern: authenticity, clarity of message, and a willingness to challenge norms. Let's explore a few standout examples.

In the UK, poet and activist JJ Bola turned his lived experience as a Congolese immigrant into a powerful platform. His TEDx talk on redefining masculinity blends personal narrative with cultural critique. He didn't start with a massive following. What set him apart was his ability to speak directly to young men navigating identity in multicultural societies. His book 'Mask Off: Masculinity Redefined' became a key resource in schools and community programs.

Then there's Carlos Andrés Gómez, a former social worker and award-winning poet from the US. His performances combine spoken word with deep emotional storytelling. He's been featured on HBO's 'Def Poetry Jam' and has spoken at hundreds of universities. Carlos built his reputation through grassroots touring and consistent messaging around emotional literacy and healthy masculinity.

In Australia, Hunter Johnson co-founded The Man Cave, a non-profit that delivers emotional intelligence workshops to teenage boys. Rather than positioning himself as a traditional speaker, Hunter built a scalable model that trains facilitators and partners with schools. His approach shows that masculinity speakers don't always need to be on big stages-impact can come from creating systems that reach thousands.

And let's not forget Darnell Moore, whose work intersects race, gender, and sexuality. His talks often explore how masculinity is shaped by systemic forces. Darnell's success came through writing, activism, and media appearances, proving that being a masculinity speaker doesn't always mean keynotes-it can mean podcasts, panels, and published essays.

Each of these speakers carved their own lane. They didn't follow a template. They found their voice, connected with their audience, and stayed consistent. That's the real takeaway here: success as a masculinity speaker isn't about fitting a mold-it's about breaking one.

Looking ahead, the landscape for masculinity speakers is shifting in a few key ways. As conversations around gender, identity, and mental health become more nuanced, the expectations for speakers in this space are evolving too.

First, we're seeing a rise in intersectional approaches. Masculinity is no longer being discussed in isolation. Speakers are weaving in race, class, neurodiversity, and sexuality to paint a fuller picture. This means audiences are expecting more depth and context. For example, talks that explore how Black masculinity is portrayed in media or how Indigenous communities define manhood are gaining traction.

Second, digital-first formats are becoming the norm. With platforms like YouTube, Instagram Live, and Clubhouse, masculinity speakers are reaching global audiences without ever stepping on a stage. Short-form content-like reels or TikToks that challenge stereotypes-can go viral and spark meaningful dialogue. This trend favors speakers who are agile, tech-savvy, and willing to experiment.

Third, corporate interest is growing. Companies are bringing in masculinity speakers for leadership training, DEI workshops, and employee wellness programs. But they're not looking for lectures-they want interactive sessions that drive behavior change. Speakers who can facilitate group discussions, use data, and offer actionable takeaways will stand out.

Here are a few trends to watch:
- More collaborations between masculinity speakers and mental health professionals.
- Increased demand for bilingual or culturally specific speakers in non-Western markets.
- Growth of masculinity-focused podcasts and online communities.
- Expansion into youth education, especially in middle and high schools.

The takeaway? The future belongs to those who can adapt, go deep, and meet people where they are-whether that's in a boardroom, a classroom, or on a smartphone.

If you're looking to step into the world of masculinity speaking, you don't have to start from scratch. There are some powerful tools and platforms out there to help you refine your message, grow your audience, and land speaking gigs. Here's a curated list to get you going:

1. Talks.co - A smart podcast guest-matching platform that connects speakers with relevant shows. Great for building credibility and reaching niche audiences. Tip: Use their filters to find podcasts focused on gender, wellness, or education.

2. SpeakerHub - A directory where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for emerging speakers looking to build visibility.

3. LinkedIn Creator Mode - Not a tool in the traditional sense, but turning on Creator Mode on LinkedIn helps you showcase your speaking topics, grow your following, and publish thought leadership posts. Use hashtags like #masculinity, #menshealth, and #emotionalintelligence to reach the right crowd.

4. Canva - For creating professional-looking speaker decks, social media graphics, and workshop materials. Their templates make it easy to stay on-brand even if you're not a designer.

5. Zoom - Still the go-to for virtual workshops and keynotes. Learn how to use breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing effectively to keep your sessions interactive.

6. Mailerlite - A beginner-friendly email marketing tool to build your list and stay in touch with your audience. Share insights, upcoming talks, or new content.

7. Eventbrite - Useful for hosting your own virtual or in-person events. You can test new material, build a local following, or create a recurring series.

Pro tip: Don't try to master everything at once. Pick two or three tools that align with your current goals-whether that's building an audience, refining your message, or booking gigs-and go deep. The rest can come later.