Men's Work Speakers
You've booked the venue, lined up your audience, and now you need a speaker who can really speak to men's transformation, growth, and leadership.
But how do you even begin to find the right men's work speakers?
Are they therapists? Coaches? Leaders? Do they talk about fatherhood, purpose, or emotional health? Maybe all of the above?
This guide helps you cut through the noise and get clear on who men's work speakers are, what they bring to the mic, and which ones are a strong fit for your event, podcast, or show.
Some focus on healing and emotional intelligence, others on mentorship, rites of passage, or accountability.
What they have in common? They help men show up more fully in life and in community.
I've seen how powerful these conversations can be when the right voice is in the room.
Whether you're hosting a summit, producing a podcast, or programming a thematic series, these men's work speakers bring real depth and connection.
Take a look, explore the lineup, and book someone who'll bring the real talk your audience is looking for.
Top Men's Work Speakers List for 2025
Leisa Reid
I train Coaches & Entrepreneurs how to use speaking to attract their ideal clients
Tyler Martin
Driven entrepreneur with a proven track record of success and a passion for helping others succeed.
Marie Morgan
Redefining life after 60 as our Prime Time
Mike Pelt
Empowering men to reclaim their true identities and purpose
Theo Kapodistrias
Award-winning Speaker + Lawyer, TEDx professional, and MC
Debra Russell
Transforming passion into profit for small business owners, creatives, and athletes
Bryan Hardy
Revitalize Your Health: Transforming Lives Through Personalized Wellness
What Makes a Great Men's Work Speaker
Take someone like Connor Beaton, founder of ManTalks. He doesn't just speak to men - he speaks with them. A great men's work speaker knows how to hold a room, whether it's a virtual summit or a live retreat in the woods. They don't rely on flashy slides or buzzwords. Instead, they bring presence, groundedness, and lived experience. They've done their own inner work, and it shows.
These speakers often blend storytelling with practical tools. They might share a story about their journey through fatherhood, addiction recovery, or redefining masculinity - but they always tie it back to something actionable. They don't just inspire. They equip.
And here's the twist: the best ones aren't always the most polished. Sometimes, the most impactful men's work speakers are the ones who speak with raw honesty, even if their delivery isn't TED-stage perfect. Because in men's work, authenticity beats perfection every time.
So if you're looking for a great men's work speaker, look beyond the resume. Look for someone who's walked the path, who's willing to be real, and who can guide others to do the same.
How to Select the Best Men's Work Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Intent.
- Are you speaking to entrepreneurs, fathers, athletes, or a general audience of men seeking growth?
- Clarify the emotional tone you want: deep and introspective, high-energy and motivational, or somewhere in between.
2. Browse Speaker Platforms Like Talks.co.
- Use filters to narrow down by topic, tone, and availability.
- Check out speaker pages to see past talks, testimonials, and video clips.
- Look for speakers who've been featured on similar shows or podcasts.
3. Evaluate Their Message.
- Watch at least two full-length talks or interviews.
- Ask yourself: Do they offer fresh insights or repeat generic advice?
- Do they balance vulnerability with authority?
4. Check Their Engagement Style.
- Some men's work speakers thrive in interactive formats, others are better in keynote-style delivery.
- Think about your show's format - is it conversational, panel-based, or solo guest?
5. Reach Out and Ask the Right Questions.
- What's their core message?
- How do they tailor their content to different audiences?
- Are they open to pre-show collaboration or Q&A?
Bonus Tip: Don't overlook emerging voices. While big names like Preston Smiles or Mark Groves are powerful, newer speakers can bring fresh energy and unique perspectives - especially if they're active in local communities or niche circles.
By taking the time to align values, style, and message, you'll not only find a great men's work speaker - you'll create a conversation that sticks with your audience long after the episode ends.
How to Book a Men's Work Speaker
1. Start with Research.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse verified speaker profiles.
- Look for speakers who specialize in men's emotional health, conscious masculinity, or leadership development.
- Read reviews, watch videos, and check their availability.
2. Reach Out with a Clear Ask.
- Send a concise email or message outlining:
- Who you are and what your show is about.
- Why you think they're a fit.
- What format you're inviting them to (e.g., 45-minute podcast, 30-minute summit talk).
- Proposed dates and time zones.
3. Discuss Logistics Early.
- Confirm technical setup (Zoom, StreamYard, Riverside, etc.).
- Ask if they require a prep call or outline.
- Clarify whether they charge a fee or speak pro bono.
4. Use a Booking Tool.
- Tools like Calendly make it easy.
- Send a calendar invite with all details: time, platform link, topic, and any prep materials.
5. Confirm and Follow Up.
- Send a reminder 48 hours before the event.
- Include any promotional graphics or social media copy if you want them to share.
- After the event, send a thank-you note and link to the recording.
Pro Tip: If you're hosting a virtual summit, consider batching your outreach and using a spreadsheet to track responses. And always have a backup speaker or two in mind - life happens.
As mentioned in 'How to Select the Best men's work speaker for Your Show', alignment is key. Booking is just the logistics - the real magic happens when the right voice meets the right audience.
Common Questions on Men's Work Speakers
What is a men's work speaker
Unlike general wellness speakers, men's work speakers often draw from specific frameworks like shadow work, rites of passage, or somatic practices. They may have backgrounds in coaching, psychology, spirituality, or lived experience in men's circles. Their core mission is to help men reconnect with themselves and others in more authentic, grounded ways.
These speakers show up in a variety of formats: podcasts, retreats, online summits, corporate panels, and even prison rehabilitation programs. For example, someone like Justin Baldoni might speak on redefining masculinity in media, while someone like Stefanos Sifandos might focus on trauma integration and conscious relationships.
What makes them distinct is their focus on the inner landscape of men - not just what men do, but who they are becoming. They often speak to themes like fatherhood, vulnerability, anger, sexual integrity, and leadership from the inside out.
In short, a men's work speaker is a catalyst for change in how men see themselves and how they show up in the world.
Why is a men's work speaker important
First, they help dismantle outdated narratives. For decades, men have been told to 'man up' or suppress emotions. A skilled men's work speaker challenges those norms, offering alternative models of strength rooted in vulnerability, empathy, and self-awareness.
Second, they serve as cultural translators. In diverse communities - from rural Australia to urban Detroit - men's experiences vary widely. A men's work speaker can bridge those gaps, speaking to both the universal and the specific. They help men see that their struggles are not isolated, and that healing is possible.
Third, they influence ripple effects. When one man begins to shift, his relationships shift too - with his partner, children, colleagues, and community. That's why organizations like Everyman or Sacred Sons invest in speakers who can spark that first moment of reflection.
Finally, in a world where mental health issues among men are rising, especially post-pandemic, these speakers offer tools and language that many men were never taught. They normalize emotional literacy, which is foundational for personal and collective growth.
So whether it's on a stage, a podcast, or a Zoom room, a men's work speaker plays a crucial role in reshaping how men relate to themselves and the world around them.
What do men's work speakers do
- Deliver Transformational Talks. They speak at events, summits, and podcasts on topics like emotional resilience, fatherhood, conscious masculinity, and inner leadership. These talks often include personal stories, psychological insights, and practical tools.
- Facilitate Group Experiences. Many men's work speakers also lead workshops, retreats, or online circles. They guide breathwork sessions, shadow work exercises, or group dialogues that help men process emotions and connect with others.
- Educate and Train. Some speakers offer structured programs or courses. For example, they might teach a 6-week course on emotional intelligence for men in leadership roles, or run a mentorship program for young men transitioning into adulthood.
- Collaborate with Organizations. In corporate or nonprofit settings, they may consult on male engagement strategies, lead diversity and inclusion sessions focused on gender, or help design wellness programs tailored to male employees.
- Advocate and Normalize. Through social media, books, and interviews, they challenge harmful stereotypes and promote healthier models of masculinity. They often speak out on issues like mental health, domestic violence, or fatherhood policies.
Whether they're on stage or behind the scenes, men's work speakers are actively shaping a more conscious and connected version of manhood - one conversation at a time.
How to become a men's work speaker
1. Clarify Your Message and Audience
- Define your core message: Is it about emotional resilience, fatherhood, masculinity in modern society, or healing trauma?
- Identify your audience: Are you speaking to corporate teams, men's circles, youth groups, or spiritual retreats?
- Tip: Keep it niche at first. You can always expand later.
2. Build Credibility Through Experience and Training
- Facilitate or attend men's groups, retreats, or workshops. This gives you real-world insight and stories.
- Consider certifications in coaching, psychology, or facilitation. Not mandatory, but helpful.
- Example: Many speakers start by leading local meetups or volunteering at men's events.
3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile.
- Include a bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a speaker reel (even if it's just a Zoom talk for now).
- Pro tip: Use high-quality photos and keep your tone aligned with your brand.
4. Start Speaking - Anywhere
- Offer to speak at local events, online summits, podcasts, and community groups.
- Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for speakers in the men's development space.
- Record every talk. Build your portfolio.
5. Network and Collaborate
- Connect with other men's work leaders. Attend summits, join online communities, and engage on social media.
- Collaboration leads to referrals. Many events book speakers through word-of-mouth.
6. Refine and Scale
- Gather feedback after every talk. What landed? What didn't?
- As you grow, consider creating your own events or online programs.
- Eventually, you can pitch yourself to larger conferences or corporate wellness programs.
Becoming a men's work speaker is as much about consistency as it is about passion. Start small, stay authentic, and keep showing up.
What do you need to be a men's work speaker
1. A Deep Understanding of Men's Work
Men's work is a broad field. It can include emotional intelligence, rites of passage, fatherhood, trauma healing, masculinity studies, and more. To speak on these topics, you need to have done the inner work yourself. That means:
- Participating in men's groups or circles.
- Engaging in therapy, coaching, or personal development.
- Studying thought leaders like Robert Bly, David Deida, or Gabor Maté.
2. Communication Skills
You don't need to be a polished TED speaker, but you do need to communicate clearly and with presence. This includes:
- Storytelling that connects emotionally.
- Active listening (especially in workshops or Q&A).
- The ability to adapt your message to different audiences.
3. A Platform to Be Found
To get booked, people need to find you. That's where a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co comes in. It's your digital business card. Include:
- Your bio and speaking topics.
- Testimonials or past speaking gigs.
- A short video of you speaking.
4. A Network
Most speaking gigs come through relationships. Connect with podcast hosts, event organizers, and other speakers in the space. Use Talks.co to find and pitch to aligned events.
5. A Clear Offer
What are you offering? A keynote? A workshop? A panel discussion? Define your formats and pricing. Make it easy for hosts to say yes.
In short, to be a men's work speaker, you need inner depth, outer clarity, and a way for people to find and trust you. The rest builds from there.
Do men's work speakers get paid
The Paid vs. Unpaid Divide
Many new speakers start by offering free talks to build credibility. Think local meetups, podcasts, or online summits. But as your reputation grows, so does your earning potential.
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: Established speakers with a track record can command higher fees.
- Event Type: Corporate wellness events tend to pay more than grassroots retreats.
- Audience Size: A keynote at a 1,000-person conference pays more than a 20-person workshop.
- Geography: Speakers in North America, Australia, and parts of Europe often see higher rates due to demand and budget sizes.
Typical Payment Models
- Flat Fee: A set amount for a talk or workshop (e.g., $500 to $5,000).
- Revenue Share: Common in online summits or retreats where the speaker gets a cut of ticket sales.
- Upsell Opportunity: Some events don't pay upfront but allow speakers to pitch their coaching or courses.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Can be lucrative with the right niche | Inconsistent income at first |
Builds authority and leads to other offers | Some events only offer exposure |
Opportunity to scale with online programs | Travel and prep time can be unpaid |
How do men's work speakers make money
1. Speaking Engagements
This is the most obvious one. Speakers are paid to deliver keynotes, workshops, or panels at events like:
- Personal development retreats
- Corporate wellness programs
- Online summits and webinars
- Conferences focused on leadership, masculinity, or mental health
2. Coaching and Consulting
Many speakers offer one-on-one or group coaching programs. These might focus on:
- Emotional intelligence
- Relationship dynamics
- Career and purpose alignment
Some also consult for organizations on how to create healthier environments for men, especially in male-dominated industries.
3. Online Courses and Memberships
Digital products are a scalable way to monetize your expertise. Think:
- Pre-recorded video courses on fatherhood or emotional mastery
- Monthly men's groups or masterminds
- Subscription-based communities
4. Books and Publications
Publishing a book can boost credibility and generate passive income. While not always a huge moneymaker directly, it opens doors to higher-paying gigs.
5. Affiliate and Partner Revenue
Some speakers partner with platforms like Talks.co or coaching networks. They earn commissions by referring clients or promoting aligned products.
6. Hosting Events
Running your own retreats or summits can be profitable if done well. You control the ticket pricing, upsell opportunities, and brand experience.
In summary, men's work speakers make money by combining speaking with coaching, digital products, and strategic partnerships. The more value you offer, the more income streams you can unlock.
How much do men's work speakers make
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typical Range: $0 to $500 per talk
- Often unpaid or compensated with exposure, especially at community events or podcasts.
- May earn through upsells like coaching or courses.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Typical Range: $500 to $2,500 per engagement
- These speakers have a clear niche, a speaker page (like on Talks.co), and a few testimonials.
- They may also earn $2,000 to $10,000/month from coaching or digital products.
Established Speakers
- Typical Range: $3,000 to $10,000+ per keynote
- Often booked for corporate events, international retreats, or major summits.
- Many have books, online programs, and a strong personal brand.
Other Income Sources
Source | Monthly Potential |
---|---|
Group Coaching | $1,000 - $15,000 |
Online Courses | $500 - $20,000 |
Retreats | $2,000 - $50,000+ (per event) |
- Geography: Speakers in the US, UK, and Australia often command higher fees.
- Audience Size: Bigger audiences mean more visibility and upsell potential.
- Niche: Topics like emotional intelligence or trauma healing often attract premium clients.
So while some men's work speakers make a few hundred bucks a month, others are building six- or even seven-figure businesses. It all depends on how you package your value.
How much do men's work speakers cost
1. Free to $500
- Who: Emerging speakers or those looking to build their portfolio.
- Where: Community events, podcasts, online summits.
- Why: They may be willing to speak for free in exchange for exposure or the opportunity to pitch their services.
2. $500 to $2,500
- Who: Mid-level speakers with a few years of experience and a clear niche.
- Where: Local conferences, online workshops, corporate wellness sessions.
- What's Included: A 30- to 60-minute talk, possibly a Q&A or breakout session.
3. $3,000 to $10,000+
- Who: Established speakers with a strong brand, published work, or a large following.
- Where: National conferences, international retreats, corporate leadership events.
- What's Included: Keynote, workshop facilitation, travel, and sometimes post-event consulting.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel and Accommodation: Often covered by the event host.
- Custom Content: If you want a talk tailored to your audience, expect to pay more.
- Follow-Up Services: Some speakers offer post-event coaching or training.
Tips for Booking
- Use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles and pricing.
- Be clear on your budget and expectations upfront.
- Ask about packages: some speakers offer discounts for multiple sessions or bundled services.
Bottom line: You can find a men's work speaker for almost any budget, but the investment usually reflects the depth of experience and the value they bring.
Who are the best men's work speakers ever
- David Deida: Known for 'The Way of the Superior Man', Deida's work blends spirituality, sexuality, and masculine/feminine dynamics. His talks are often intense and transformative.
- John Eldredge: Author of 'Wild at Heart', Eldredge brought Christian perspectives into men's work, emphasizing adventure, purpose, and faith.
- Warren Farrell: A former feminist turned men's rights advocate, Farrell's data-driven talks on fatherhood, education, and gender roles have been both praised and controversial.
- Michael Meade: A mythologist and storyteller, Meade uses ancient myths and rituals to explore modern masculinity. His speaking style is deeply narrative and symbolic.
- Terrence Real: A psychotherapist and author of 'I Don't Want to Talk About It', Real's work focuses on men's depression, emotional suppression, and relational healing.
- Justin Baldoni: An actor and speaker, Baldoni challenges toxic masculinity and encourages emotional vulnerability. His TED Talk 'Why I'm done trying to be man enough' went viral.
- Lewis Howes: Host of 'The School of Greatness', Howes speaks openly about trauma, vulnerability, and redefining success for men.
- Tony Porter: Co-founder of A Call to Men, Porter's talks focus on ending violence against women by redefining manhood.
- Richard Rohr: A Franciscan friar and author, Rohr's work on male spirituality has influenced both religious and secular men's circles.
Who are the best men's work speakers in the world
- Stefanos Sifandos (Australia/Greece): A relationship coach and speaker, Sifandos blends Eastern philosophy with Western psychology. He's known for his work on trauma and sacred masculinity.
- Traver Boehm (USA): Creator of the 'Man UNcivilized' movement, Boehm speaks at retreats and summits on primal masculinity, emotional depth, and leadership.
- Elliott Hulse (USA): A former strength coach turned spiritual teacher, Hulse speaks on embodiment, archetypes, and men's rites of passage.
- Jayson Gaddis (USA): Founder of The Relationship School, Gaddis focuses on emotional mastery and relational intelligence for men.
- Ben Bidwell (UK): Known as 'The Naked Professor', Bidwell speaks on vulnerability, mental health, and conscious masculinity.
- Mark Groves (Canada): A human connection specialist, Groves speaks on relationships, self-worth, and communication. His talks blend humor with depth.
- Preston Smiles (USA): A dynamic speaker and coach, Smiles brings high energy to topics like self-love, fatherhood, and conscious leadership.
- Luke Burgis (USA): Author of 'Wanting', Burgis explores mimetic desire and how it shapes male identity and ambition.
- Mubarak Muyika (Kenya): While not a traditional men's work speaker, Muyika speaks on entrepreneurship and resilience, offering a powerful model of masculine leadership in emerging markets.
Common myths about men's work speakers
This is a common misunderstanding. While many men's work speakers do focus on emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and redefining masculinity, their scope is much broader. Some dive into leadership, fatherhood, trauma recovery, career transitions, and even spiritual growth. For example, someone like Connor Beaton of ManTalks covers everything from high-performance habits to shadow work. The content is often tailored to the audience-corporate teams, retreats, or online summits-so it's far from one-dimensional.
Myth 2: You need to be a therapist or psychologist to be a men's work speaker.
Not true. While some speakers have clinical backgrounds, many come from coaching, entrepreneurship, or even the arts. What matters most is lived experience, a commitment to growth, and the ability to facilitate transformation. For instance, Preston Smiles built his platform through motivational speaking and personal development, not formal therapy credentials.
Myth 3: Men's work is only relevant in Western cultures.
This myth ignores the global rise in men's circles and emotional wellness movements. In South Africa, for example, organizations like Brothers for Life use culturally grounded messaging to engage men in conversations about responsibility and health. In Japan, there's a growing interest in 'ikigai' (life purpose) workshops for men navigating midlife. The themes may vary, but the need for connection and growth is universal.
Myth 4: Men's work speakers are anti-feminist or exclusionary.
This couldn't be further from the truth for most reputable speakers. In fact, many are outspoken allies of gender equity and see their work as complementary to feminist movements. They often emphasize that healing and empowering men leads to healthier relationships, families, and communities. It's not about dominance-it's about wholeness.
Myth 5: It's a niche with no real audience.
Actually, the demand is growing. Online summits, podcasts, and coaching programs focused on men's development are booming. Platforms like The Art of Manliness and Modern Wisdom regularly feature men's work topics and draw huge audiences. If anything, the niche is expanding into mainstream awareness.
Case studies of successful men's work speakers
First, there's Traver Boehm. He started out as a strength coach and acupuncturist, then pivoted after a personal crisis into creating The UNcivilized Man movement. What's compelling is how he combined gritty storytelling with deep emotional work. He didn't try to be polished-he was raw, real, and that resonated. His book and podcast became tools for men who felt disconnected from traditional self-help.
Then you've got Rainier Wylde. His approach is more poetic, almost philosophical. He blends mysticism, relationship dynamics, and personal growth into a narrative that feels both ancient and modern. He doesn't just speak-he invites reflection. His Instagram captions alone read like mini sermons, and that's helped him build a loyal, thoughtful following.
Another example is Jeddy Azuma, founder of The Rising Man. He leaned into mentorship and rites of passage, creating a community that feels like a digital tribe. His podcast became a launchpad for deeper offerings like wilderness retreats and online brotherhoods. What's interesting is how he scaled intimacy-keeping the work personal while reaching thousands.
And don't overlook the corporate crossover. Justin Baldoni, known for his acting career, used his platform to launch conversations around masculinity in both entertainment and business. His TED Talk and book 'Man Enough' opened doors to speaking gigs at companies and universities. He showed that men's work doesn't have to stay in the retreat space-it can show up in boardrooms and media panels.
Each of these speakers took a different route: some went grassroots, others leveraged media. But they all shared one thing: clarity of message. They knew who they were speaking to and why it mattered. That's what made them successful.
Future trends for men's work speakers
- Hybrid experiences will become the norm. Retreats and live events aren't going away, but they'll be paired with digital communities, livestreams, and on-demand courses. Think of it like the Tony Robbins model, but tailored to emotional growth and brotherhood.
- Intersectionality will take center stage. The next wave of speakers won't just talk about masculinity in isolation. They'll weave in race, class, sexuality, and neurodiversity. This means more nuanced conversations and broader audiences. For example, speakers like Yung Pueblo and Mark Groves already touch on emotional health in ways that resonate across identities.
- Corporate wellness will open new doors. As companies invest more in mental health and DEI, men's work speakers are being invited into spaces that once felt off-limits. Expect to see more talks on emotional intelligence, vulnerability in leadership, and healthy masculinity in the workplace.
- AI and personalization will shape delivery. Imagine a men's work speaker offering a chatbot that guides you through daily reflection prompts or a personalized video series based on your growth goals. It's not far off. Tools like Mindvalley and Insight Timer are already experimenting with this.
- Younger voices will rise. Gen Z men are engaging with emotional content on TikTok, YouTube, and Discord. They're not looking for gurus-they want relatable guides. Speakers who can meet them where they are, with humor and humility, will thrive.
In short, the future of men's work speaking is more inclusive, tech-savvy, and integrated into everyday life. It's not about standing on a stage anymore-it's about creating ecosystems of growth.
Tools and resources for aspiring men's work speakers
- Circle.so. A community platform perfect for building your own men's group or mastermind. You can host discussions, events, and even courses. Tip: Use it to create a post-event container for your talks, where attendees can continue the conversation.
- Podia. An all-in-one platform for selling digital products, courses, and memberships. Ideal if you want to monetize your content beyond speaking gigs. Tip: Bundle your talks into a mini-course or offer a follow-up coaching program.
- Calendly. Simple but powerful. Use it to streamline booking calls with event organizers or coaching clients. Tip: Create different event types for podcast interviews, discovery calls, and workshop inquiries.
- The Art of Charm Podcast. While not exclusively about men's work, this podcast covers social dynamics, leadership, and self-improvement-all relevant themes. Tip: Study how guests position themselves and tell their stories.
- Insight Timer. If you're into guided meditations or reflective content, this is a great place to publish and grow an audience. Tip: Use it to share short talks or breathwork sessions as a teaser for your deeper work.
- Notion. A flexible workspace for organizing your speaking topics, audience personas, and outreach strategy. Tip: Create a 'Speaker Hub' with bios, talk titles, testimonials, and pitch templates.
- Eventbrite. Useful for hosting your own workshops or retreats. Tip: Start with low-cost virtual events to test your content and build a mailing list.
These tools give you the infrastructure to grow, connect, and deliver. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, having the right stack makes the journey smoother.