Mindfulness Practice Speakers
You've got an audience that craves clarity, focus, and calm.
But finding mindfulness practice speakers who can actually hold that space? That's not so simple.
Do you go for clinical experience, personal storytelling, or meditation teachers with a following?
Or maybe you're wondering what even makes someone a truly great mindfulness practice speaker in the first place.
Not every speaker who talks about presence can connect with a live or digital crowd.
And not every meditation guide knows how to tailor a message to your type of event.
This guide will help clear that up.
You'll get a shortlist of mindfulness practice speakers who are experienced, engaging, and great at making complex ideas feel practical.
I've seen how the right speaker can shift the tone of an entire event, especially when they're grounded in mindfulness and know how to speak to real-world stress.
These speakers are perfect for conferences, podcasts, wellness summits, or leadership retreats.
Scroll through, explore the featured mindfulness practice speakers, and find someone who fits your audience and goals.
Top Mindfulness Practice Speakers List for 2025
Marci Kobayashi
Helping people find balance, space and abundance through the Japanese concept of "yoyu." 余裕
Dinesh Desai
Global Meditation Mentor & Motivational Storyteller Guiding Listeners from Stress to Serenity
Tom Pizio
Empowering growth through purpose, mindfulness, and collective success.
Roger Hawkins
Wellness Educator and Coach Empowering Seniors to Thrive With Vitality and Purpose
Karen DeBaun
Transforming lives through yoga practice that benefits body, mind and mood.
Michelle Thielen
Professional dancer, author, keynote speaker, humanitarian, depression-suicide survivor now thriving and founder of YogaFaith.
Theresa B. Skaar
Embrace life’s challenges with curiosity and joy.
Ann C.K. Nickell
Live on The Upside and create an amazing life story movie that leaves a legacy!
Aileen Xerri
Describing myself in 1 sentence is hard as there are many layers to me but I would say.... passionate, enthusiastic, loyal, friendly etc
What Makes a Great Mindfulness Practice Speaker
Take someone like Sharon Salzberg. She doesn't just talk about loving-kindness meditation-she lives it, and you feel it in every sentence. Great mindfulness speakers have this grounded energy that makes you want to slow down and listen. They're not rushing to fill silence. They're comfortable with it. That's rare.
But it's not just about tone or presence. Storytelling is key. The best speakers weave personal insights with practical tools. They might share how mindfulness helped them navigate burnout in Silicon Valley or how it transformed conflict resolution in a rural school district. These stories make the practice relatable, not theoretical.
And let's not forget adaptability. A great speaker knows how to read the room. They'll shift gears if the audience is restless or go deeper if the crowd is engaged. Whether they're speaking to corporate executives or a wellness retreat in Bali, they tailor their message without diluting its essence.
In short, a great mindfulness practice speaker is someone who doesn't just teach mindfulness-they transmit it. Through tone, timing, and truth, they create a space where people feel seen, heard, and ready to breathe a little deeper.
How to Select the Best Mindfulness Practice Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Intent.
- Are you speaking to busy entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, or high school educators? Each group has different needs.
- Decide if you want a speaker who focuses on stress reduction, performance, emotional intelligence, or spiritual growth.
2. Research Speaker Profiles.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker pages. Look for bios, past talks, and testimonials.
- Pay attention to their delivery style. Do they use science-backed data? Are they more experiential? Watch a few clips.
3. Check for Niche Expertise.
- Some speakers specialize in corporate mindfulness (like Rasmus Hougaard), while others focus on trauma-informed practices.
- If your show has a specific theme-like leadership or parenting-find someone who can speak directly to that.
4. Evaluate Engagement and Interaction.
- Do they offer guided practices? Can they adapt to live Q&A formats?
- Look for speakers who can hold attention virtually and in person. Engagement is key, especially for online summits.
5. Connect and Vet.
- Reach out via their Talks.co profile or personal website.
- Ask for a discovery call. This gives you a feel for their vibe and professionalism.
Selecting the right speaker is about resonance. When their message aligns with your mission and your audience's needs, you've found your match.
How to Book a Mindfulness Practice Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist.
- Use Talks.co to browse and save potential speakers.
- Look for those who have experience with your format-virtual summits, podcasts, live events, etc.
2. Reach Out with a Clear Ask.
- Send a concise message outlining your event, audience, date, and topic focus.
- Example: "Hi [Speaker Name], I'm hosting a virtual wellness summit for remote workers on June 14. We'd love to feature you for a 30-minute session on mindfulness for productivity."
3. Discuss Format and Deliverables.
- Will it be a live talk, pre-recorded session, or interactive workshop?
- Clarify if you need a guided meditation, slides, or audience Q&A.
4. Confirm Logistics and Compensation.
- Some speakers work pro bono for visibility, others charge fees. Be upfront.
- Lock in time zones, tech requirements, and promotional expectations.
5. Send a Confirmation Packet.
- Include a calendar invite, speaker agreement, and promotional materials.
- Provide a checklist: bio, headshot, session title, and any links they want shared.
6. Follow Up and Support.
- Send reminders, tech checks, and audience info in the lead-up.
- After the event, thank them and share the replay or feedback.
Booking a speaker is more than a transaction-it's a collaboration. When done right, it sets the tone for a meaningful experience for everyone involved.
Common Questions on Mindfulness Practice Speakers
What is a mindfulness practice speaker
These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds-psychology, education, corporate leadership, or even the arts. What unites them is their ability to help people become more present, aware, and intentional in their lives. They might lead guided meditations, explain the neuroscience behind mindfulness, or share stories of transformation.
Unlike general wellness speakers, mindfulness practice speakers focus specifically on cultivating awareness through practices like breathwork, body scanning, mindful listening, and non-judgmental observation. Their talks often include experiential elements, allowing audiences to participate rather than just listen.
You'll find them at tech conferences, healthcare summits, leadership retreats, and even school assemblies. Whether they're helping CEOs manage stress or teaching teens how to focus, their goal is the same: to bring people back to the present moment.
So, when we talk about a mindfulness practice speaker, we're talking about someone who doesn't just speak about mindfulness-they facilitate it. They create space for reflection, clarity, and calm in a world that often feels anything but.
Why is a mindfulness practice speaker important
First, they help normalize mental wellness. When a respected speaker talks openly about mindfulness at a finance summit or tech expo, it signals that emotional regulation and self-awareness are not just personal issues-they're professional assets. This shift in culture is crucial for industries that have historically prioritized output over wellbeing.
Second, they translate complex ideas into digestible insights. Not everyone has time to read Jon Kabat-Zinn's entire bibliography. A skilled speaker can distill those teachings into a 20-minute keynote that sticks. That's powerful.
Third, they create shared experiences. Whether it's a group breathing exercise at a corporate retreat or a guided visualization at a virtual summit, these moments build connection. In remote work environments or high-stress fields, that connection is gold.
Finally, they act as catalysts. A single talk can spark a personal practice, a team-wide initiative, or even a company-wide wellness program. Their impact isn't just in what they say-it's in what they inspire others to do.
So, the importance of a mindfulness practice speaker lies not in their title, but in their ability to shift mindsets, open hearts, and start conversations that matter.
What do mindfulness practice speakers do
1. Educate and Inform.
- They explain the science and philosophy behind mindfulness in ways that are accessible to different audiences.
- For example, a speaker at a healthcare conference might focus on how mindfulness reduces cortisol levels, while one at a startup event might highlight its impact on decision-making.
2. Guide Experiential Practices.
- Many incorporate short meditations, body scans, or mindful breathing exercises into their sessions.
- These aren't just demos-they're designed to give the audience a felt sense of mindfulness in action.
3. Customize Content for Context.
- A speaker addressing a group of teachers might focus on classroom calm, while one speaking to first responders might address trauma resilience.
- They tailor their message to meet the emotional and professional needs of the audience.
4. Inspire Behavior Change.
- Through storytelling and practical tips, they motivate people to start or deepen their own mindfulness practice.
- They might share examples of how five minutes of daily breathwork transformed a CEO's leadership style or helped a parent manage bedtime chaos.
5. Collaborate with Hosts and Teams.
- They often work closely with event organizers to align their message with the event's goals.
- This could include co-creating session titles, providing pre-event resources, or offering post-event follow-ups.
In short, mindfulness practice speakers are facilitators of presence. They don't just talk about mindfulness-they help people experience it, understand it, and apply it in their own lives.
How to become a mindfulness practice speaker
1. Define Your Unique Voice.
- Ask yourself: What aspect of mindfulness are you most passionate about? Is it workplace stress, trauma recovery, parenting, or performance?
- Tip: Niche down. The more specific your focus, the more memorable you'll be to event organizers.
2. Build Your Expertise.
- Get certified in mindfulness-based programs like MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) or MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy).
- Read widely and attend workshops. Stay current with neuroscience, psychology, and meditation research.
3. Create Your Signature Talk.
- Structure a 20- to 45-minute talk that includes a personal story, practical takeaways, and a short guided mindfulness exercise.
- Practice it in front of small groups or online communities to refine your delivery.
4. Set Up Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to showcase your bio, topics, testimonials, and a demo video.
- Include downloadable one-sheets and a clear call-to-action for event organizers.
5. Start Booking Gigs.
- Reach out to wellness conferences, corporate HR departments, yoga studios, and online summits.
- Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for mindfulness experts. It's a great way to get discovered.
6. Grow Your Presence.
- Share clips of your talks on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.
- Collaborate with podcasters, write guest blogs, and join speaker directories.
7. Keep Evolving.
- Gather feedback after every event.
- Keep refining your message and delivery based on audience response.
Becoming a mindfulness practice speaker is a journey of both inner and outer growth. Start small, stay consistent, and let your voice make the impact.
What do you need to be a mindfulness practice speaker
1. Foundational Knowledge
You should have a solid understanding of mindfulness principles. This often comes from formal training like MBSR, meditation teacher certification, or psychology degrees. But lived experience also counts. If you've practiced mindfulness consistently and can articulate its impact, that's powerful.
2. Speaking Skills
You'll need to be comfortable on stage or camera. This means:
- Clear articulation.
- Engaging storytelling.
- The ability to guide a room through a mindfulness exercise without sounding robotic.
Consider joining Toastmasters or taking a public speaking course to sharpen your delivery.
3. A Speaker Platform
You need a place where hosts can find and book you. That's where Talks.co comes in. Build a speaker page with:
- Your bio and headshot.
- A list of talk topics.
- Testimonials or past event clips.
- A booking form or contact info.
4. A Clear Message
What makes your approach to mindfulness different? Maybe you focus on tech burnout, or maybe you help athletes stay present under pressure. Define your angle and make it clear in every talk.
5. Professional Materials
You'll want:
- A speaker one-sheet.
- A short demo video.
- A media kit if you're pitching to podcasts or summits.
Being a mindfulness practice speaker is about more than just knowing how to meditate. It's about translating that knowledge into transformation for your audience. With the right tools and intention, you can absolutely do it.
Do mindfulness practice speakers get paid
Let's look at the landscape:
- Corporate events: These often pay the most. Companies like Google, LinkedIn, and Salesforce have brought in mindfulness speakers for internal wellness programs.
- Wellness retreats and yoga festivals: These may offer lower fees but can include perks like travel, lodging, and exposure.
- Online summits and podcasts: These are often unpaid but offer visibility and lead generation opportunities.
Pros of being a paid mindfulness speaker:
- You're compensated for your time, expertise, and preparation.
- You gain credibility in the wellness and corporate space.
- You can scale your income by offering workshops or digital products post-talk.
Cons to consider:
- Early on, you might speak for free to build your portfolio.
- Some wellness communities expect mindfulness to be 'shared freely,' which can lead to undervaluing your work.
Data snapshot:
| Event Type | Average Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Corporate Keynote | $2,000 - $10,000 |
| Wellness Retreat | $500 - $2,000 |
| Online Summit (Free) | $0 - $500 |
| University Workshop | $300 - $1,500 |
How do mindfulness practice speakers make money
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Corporate wellness programs, leadership retreats, and healthcare conferences often pay top dollar for mindfulness talks.
- Example: A speaker might earn $5,000 for a 60-minute keynote at a tech company's annual offsite.
2. Workshops and Training Sessions
- These are more interactive and often span half-day or full-day formats.
- Speakers charge per participant or a flat rate. For example, $3,000 for a 3-hour workshop for 20 managers.
3. Online Courses and Memberships
- Many speakers create digital programs teaching mindfulness techniques.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi help monetize these. A $97 course sold to 200 people? That's $19,400.
4. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book boosts credibility and creates passive income.
- Think of Jon Kabat-Zinn's 'Wherever You Go, There You Are' - it's a staple in the mindfulness space.
5. Affiliate Marketing and Brand Partnerships
- Speakers may partner with meditation apps or wellness brands.
- They earn commissions or flat fees for promoting products aligned with their message.
6. Consulting and Coaching
- Some speakers offer 1:1 coaching or consult with organizations on integrating mindfulness into their culture.
7. Talks.co and Other Platforms
- Listing on Talks.co helps speakers get discovered by event hosts. It's a direct path to more bookings and revenue.
In short, mindfulness practice speakers diversify their income streams. The more value you provide, the more opportunities you create.
How much do mindfulness practice speakers make
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $100 to $500 per event.
- Often speak at local wellness centers, schools, or online summits.
- May accept unpaid gigs to build credibility and testimonials.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per talk.
- Speak at corporate events, regional conferences, or industry-specific retreats.
- Often supplement income with workshops or coaching.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Can command $10,000 to $25,000+ per keynote.
- Speak at global conferences, Fortune 500 events, or government wellness programs.
- Usually have books, media appearances, and a strong online presence.
Annual Income Estimates:
| Speaker Level | Avg. Events/Year | Avg. Fee/Event | Estimated Annual Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 10 | $300 | $3,000 |
| Mid-Level | 25 | $2,000 | $50,000 |
| Top-Tier | 40 | $10,000 | $400,000 |
- Niche focus (e.g. corporate vs. spiritual audiences).
- Marketing reach and platform (like Talks.co).
- Additional offerings (courses, books, coaching).
So while some mindfulness practice speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build six-figure businesses around it. The key is positioning, consistency, and value delivery.
How much do mindfulness practice speakers cost
Typical Price Ranges:
| Event Type | Speaker Level | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Keynote | Top-Tier | $10,000 - $25,000+ |
| Corporate Workshop | Mid-Level | $2,000 - $7,500 |
| Wellness Retreat | Beginner to Mid | $500 - $3,000 |
| Virtual Summit Session | Beginner to Mid | Free - $1,000 |
| University Lecture | Mid-Level | $500 - $2,000 |
- Experience and Reputation: A speaker with a bestselling book or TEDx talk will charge more.
- Customization: Tailored talks or workshops cost more than off-the-shelf presentations.
- Travel and Logistics: In-person events may include travel, lodging, and per diem costs.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences often mean higher fees.
Tips for Event Planners:
- Use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles and get transparent pricing.
- Some speakers offer discounts for nonprofits or educational institutions.
- Consider bundling services (e.g. keynote + breakout session) for better value.
Hiring a mindfulness practice speaker can be a powerful investment in your team's wellbeing or your event's impact. Just be clear on your goals and budget, and you'll find the right fit.
Who are the best mindfulness practice speakers ever
Thich Nhat Hanh. Vietnamese Zen master and peace activist. His teachings on presence and compassion influenced millions.
Sharon Salzberg. Co-founder of Insight Meditation Society. Known for her work on loving-kindness and resilience.
Jack Kornfield. A clinical psychologist and Buddhist teacher who blends Western psychology with Eastern wisdom.
Tara Brach. Psychologist and meditation teacher. Her talks on radical acceptance are widely followed.
Eckhart Tolle. Author of 'The Power of Now'. While not a traditional mindfulness teacher, his influence on presence is undeniable.
Pema Chödrön. An American Buddhist nun whose teachings on mindfulness and suffering resonate deeply.
Dan Harris. ABC News anchor turned mindfulness advocate. His book '10% Happier' brought mindfulness to skeptics.
Andy Puddicombe. Co-founder of Headspace. Made guided meditation accessible to millions via tech.
S.N. Goenka. Brought Vipassana meditation to the West. His 10-day retreats are globally respected.
Who are the best mindfulness practice speakers in the world
Dr. Shauna Shapiro (USA). Stanford professor and speaker known for her research on mindfulness and neuroplasticity.
Mo Gawdat (UAE/UK). Former Google X exec turned happiness and mindfulness speaker. His talks blend tech and awareness.
Dr. Patrizia Collard (UK). Psychotherapist and author of 'The Little Book of Mindfulness'. Popular in Europe.
Dr. Craig Hassed (Australia). Integrates mindfulness into medical education. A pioneer in the Southern Hemisphere.
Vidyamala Burch (UK). Founder of Breathworks. Focuses on mindfulness for chronic pain and disability.
Dr. Chade-Meng Tan (Singapore/USA). Former Google engineer and creator of 'Search Inside Yourself'.
Roshi Joan Halifax (USA). Zen priest and speaker on mindfulness in healthcare and end-of-life care.
Dr. Itai Ivtzan (UK/Israel). Positive psychologist and speaker on mindfulness and spirituality.
Dr. Elizabeth Stanley (USA). Georgetown professor and expert on mindfulness and trauma resilience.
Common myths about mindfulness practice speakers
This one pops up a lot. People assume that if you're speaking about mindfulness, you must live in a constant state of peace. Reality check: mindfulness practice speakers are human. They get stressed, frustrated, and overwhelmed like anyone else. What sets them apart is that they've developed tools to notice those emotions and respond intentionally. Take Dan Harris, former ABC news anchor and author of '10% Happier'. He had a panic attack on live TV. That moment didn't disqualify him from becoming a mindfulness advocate - it launched his journey.
Myth 2: You need to be a certified meditation teacher to speak on mindfulness.
Not true. While formal training can add credibility, it's not a requirement. Many successful mindfulness practice speakers come from backgrounds in psychology, education, corporate leadership, or even sports. What matters more is your ability to communicate clearly, connect with your audience, and offer practical insights. For example, Arianna Huffington speaks on mindfulness and well-being from a business and personal burnout perspective, not as a meditation guru.
Myth 3: Mindfulness talks are only relevant in wellness or spiritual circles.
This is a narrow view. Mindfulness is now a hot topic in sectors like tech, finance, education, and healthcare. Google's 'Search Inside Yourself' program is a prime example of how mindfulness has entered the corporate mainstream. Mindfulness practice speakers are being booked for leadership retreats, startup accelerators, and even military training programs.
Myth 4: You have to speak in a soft, slow voice to be taken seriously.
Nope. Delivery style doesn't define your impact. Some mindfulness practice speakers are calm and measured, sure. But others are dynamic, funny, even edgy. Think of someone like Jay Shetty - his energy is high, his storytelling is sharp, and he still delivers powerful mindfulness messages. The key is authenticity, not tone.
Myth 5: Mindfulness talks are just guided meditations.
Guided meditations can be part of a talk, but they're not the whole show. Great mindfulness practice speakers weave in science, personal stories, audience interaction, and actionable takeaways. They might lead a short breathing exercise, but they'll also explain the neuroscience behind it or how it applies to managing team conflict. It's about context, not just calm.
Case studies of successful mindfulness practice speakers
Then there's Tamara Levitt, the voice behind many of Calm's guided meditations. Her background in music and storytelling helped her connect deeply with audiences. She transitioned from writing and producing to speaking at wellness events and corporate mindfulness summits. Her success shows that creative professionals can find a unique voice in this space.
In the corporate world, Rasmus Hougaard stands out. As the founder of Potential Project, he's delivered mindfulness-based leadership training to companies like Accenture and Cisco. His talks blend data, case studies, and practical tools - a style that resonates with results-driven audiences. He didn't just talk about mindfulness; he showed how it improves performance.
And don't overlook speakers like Sah D'Simone, who brings a mix of spiritual insight, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and high-energy delivery. His talks challenge norms and invite diverse audiences into the mindfulness conversation. He's spoken at events from Mindvalley to international wellness festivals.
What ties these stories together? None of these speakers followed a single formula. They each leveraged their unique background - science, art, business, or activism - and built a message that felt personal and relevant. That's what makes a mindfulness practice speaker successful: not just what they say, but how they say it and who they say it for.
Future trends for mindfulness practice speakers
- Integration into hybrid work cultures. As remote and hybrid teams become the norm, companies are looking for speakers who can address digital burnout, Zoom fatigue, and the mental load of constant connectivity. Mindfulness practice speakers who can tailor their message to virtual teams will be in demand.
- Data-backed storytelling. Audiences want more than feel-good messages. They want evidence. Speakers who can cite neuroscience, behavioral economics, or workplace studies - and translate that into relatable stories - will stand out. Think of how Dr. Judson Brewer combines clinical research with real-life examples in his talks.
- Niche verticals. Instead of general wellness talks, we're seeing a rise in specialized mindfulness content: for educators managing classroom stress, for healthcare workers facing compassion fatigue, for founders navigating uncertainty. Speakers who can speak the language of a specific industry will have more impact.
- Cross-cultural mindfulness. There's growing awareness that mindfulness isn't one-size-fits-all. Speakers who can honor its Eastern roots while adapting it to different cultural contexts - or who bring in indigenous or non-Western practices - will resonate with global audiences.
- Tech-enhanced delivery. From AR meditation experiences to AI-powered feedback tools, technology is changing how mindfulness is taught and experienced. Speakers who embrace these tools - or at least understand them - will be better positioned for interactive keynotes and workshops.
In short, the future of mindfulness practice speakers lies in relevance, research, and resonance. It's not about being the calmest voice in the room... it's about being the most useful one.
Tools and resources for aspiring mindfulness practice speakers
- Insight Timer. More than just a meditation app, this platform allows teachers and speakers to publish talks, courses, and live sessions. It's a great way to build an audience and test your content.
- Mindful.org. A treasure trove of articles, research, and speaker profiles. Use it to stay current on trends, find inspiration, or even pitch your own guest article to build credibility.
- LinkedIn Audio Events. This underused feature lets you host live audio sessions on mindfulness topics. It's a great way to practice your delivery, engage with a professional audience, and build your network.
- Zoom Webinars. If you're planning to run your own virtual events, Zoom's webinar tools give you more control than standard meetings. You can manage Q&A, registration, and even integrate polls or breakout rooms.
- The Speaker Lab. While not mindfulness-specific, this site offers solid training on building a speaking business. Their podcast and blog are packed with tips on pricing, positioning, and pitching.
- Canva. Yes, design matters. Use Canva to create polished slide decks, speaker one-sheets, and social media graphics that reflect your brand.
- Google Scholar. Want to back up your talk with real science? Use this to find peer-reviewed studies on mindfulness, attention, stress reduction, and more. It helps you stand out from speakers who rely on vague claims.
Whether you're prepping your first keynote or refining your niche, these tools will help you show up with clarity, confidence, and credibility.