Near Death Experience Speakers

Not everyone who has a near death experience becomes a speaker. So what exactly is a near death experience speaker? At its core, this is someone who has had a profound, often life-altering brush with death-and now shares that story publicly to educate, inspire, or provoke thought.

A near death experience (NDE) typically involves a person being clinically dead or close to death, then returning with vivid memories of what they experienced during that time. These accounts often include sensations like floating above the body, moving through a tunnel, encountering deceased loved ones, or feeling a deep sense of peace. While the specifics vary, the emotional and philosophical impact is usually profound.

A near death experience speaker takes that personal event and transforms it into a structured talk, keynote, or interview. They may speak at conferences, on podcasts, in corporate settings, or at spiritual retreats. Their goal isn't just to recount what happened-it's to explore what it means. Some focus on the spiritual implications, others on the neuroscience or psychological aftermath.

Importantly, these speakers often come from diverse backgrounds: doctors, pilots, artists, entrepreneurs. Their stories challenge assumptions about consciousness, death, and what it means to live fully. And while some are religious, many are not-they speak from experience, not doctrine.

In short, a near death experience speaker is someone who has faced death, returned, and now uses that experience to spark meaningful conversations about life, purpose, and the unknown.

When someone tells you they died and came back, your first instinct might be skepticism-or curiosity. That tension is exactly why a near death experience speaker is so crucial in today's conversations about life, death, and consciousness.

These speakers offer something unique: firsthand insight into what it feels like to cross the boundary between life and death. In a world increasingly driven by data and logic, their stories remind us of the deeply human, often unexplainable aspects of existence. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a spiritual seeker, or someone grieving a loss, hearing from someone who has 'been there' can be grounding and transformative.

They also serve as bridges between disciplines. For example, Dr. Bruce Greyson, a psychiatrist and researcher, uses NDE accounts to explore consciousness beyond the brain. Meanwhile, speakers like Howard Storm, a former atheist and professor, use their stories to discuss ethics, compassion, and personal transformation. These talks don't just entertain-they challenge worldviews.

In corporate settings, near death experience speakers are increasingly invited to speak about resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and navigating uncertainty. Their stories offer a powerful lens for rethinking success, burnout, and what really matters.

Ultimately, these speakers are important because they open up conversations that many people are afraid to have. They make the abstract personal. And in doing so, they help us all live a little more consciously.

Ever wondered what near death experience speakers actually do beyond telling a story? Their role goes far deeper than just sharing a personal narrative. Here's a breakdown of their key activities and contributions:

1. Share Transformative Stories
- They recount their near death experiences in a structured, emotionally resonant way.
- These talks often include vivid descriptions, emotional insights, and reflections on how the experience changed their life.

2. Educate and Inspire
- Many speakers incorporate research, spiritual teachings, or psychological frameworks to help audiences understand the broader implications of their experience.
- They often speak at conferences, universities, hospitals, and spiritual centers.

3. Facilitate Healing and Dialogue
- For audiences dealing with grief, trauma, or existential questions, these speakers provide comfort and perspective.
- They often lead Q&A sessions, workshops, or retreats where participants can explore their own beliefs and fears.

4. Collaborate Across Mediums
- Some write books, host podcasts, or appear in documentaries (e.g., Netflix's 'Surviving Death').
- Others consult with researchers studying consciousness, death, or the afterlife.

5. Adapt to Diverse Audiences
- A speaker might tailor their message for a corporate leadership summit one day and a hospice care training the next.
- They adjust tone, content, and focus depending on the audience's background and expectations.

So while it might seem like they just 'tell their story,' near death experience speakers actually operate at the intersection of education, inspiration, and transformation. They're not just recounting-they're reframing how we think about life and death.

Becoming a near death experience speaker isn't just about telling your story. It's about crafting a message that resonates, building credibility, and connecting with the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What exactly happened during your near death experience (NDE)?
- What insights or transformations did you gain?
- How can your story serve others-whether it's about healing, spirituality, science, or resilience?

2. Craft a Signature Talk.
- Structure your story with a clear beginning, middle, and takeaway.
- Include emotional beats, but balance them with practical insights.
- Practice with small groups or online meetups to refine your delivery.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include a compelling bio, high-quality headshots, a video reel (even a Zoom recording works to start), and testimonials if you have them.

4. Start Booking Small Events.
- Reach out to local spiritual centers, wellness retreats, podcasts, or online summits.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts looking for unique stories.
- Offer to speak for free at first to build your portfolio.

5. Collect Feedback and Iterate.
- After each talk, ask for feedback from hosts and attendees.
- Use that input to refine your message, pacing, and delivery.

6. Grow Your Presence.
- Share clips or quotes from your talks on social media.
- Guest on podcasts or write guest blogs in the wellness or spirituality space.
- Consider publishing a short ebook or guide to deepen your authority.

7. Scale Up.
- Once you've built a reputation, start charging for your talks.
- Apply to speak at larger conferences or virtual summits.
- Partner with agencies or use Talks.co's matchmaking tools to get discovered by bigger organizers.

Remember, your story is powerful-but it's the way you share it that turns it into a career.

Being a near death experience speaker requires more than just having had an NDE. It's about translating that deeply personal event into a message that others can connect with, learn from, and be inspired by. Let's break down what you actually need:

First, you need clarity on your story. A near death experience can be emotionally complex and spiritually profound. To speak about it effectively, you need to process it fully and understand the key themes. Are you focusing on the afterlife? A renewed sense of purpose? Healing from trauma? Your clarity will shape your talk.

Second, communication skills are essential. You don't need to be a polished TED speaker from day one, but you should be able to hold an audience's attention. This includes pacing, tone, and the ability to read a room-whether virtual or in-person. Many speakers start by practicing in local groups or recording themselves to get comfortable.

Third, you'll need a platform. This is where tools like Talks.co come in handy. A speaker page on Talks.co acts as your digital business card. It helps event organizers see who you are, what you speak about, and how to book you. It also connects you with hosts looking for speakers in your niche.

Fourth, credibility matters. This doesn't mean academic credentials (though they help), but rather social proof. Testimonials, media appearances, podcast interviews, or even a well-reviewed book can boost your authority.

Finally, you need a purpose-driven mindset. Speaking about a near death experience isn't just about reliving the moment-it's about helping others through your insights. Whether your audience is spiritual seekers, medical professionals, or skeptics, your goal is to offer value, not just a story.

Yes, many near death experience speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's unpack this with a bit of analysis.

First, the speaking industry is tiered. At the top, you have keynote speakers who command thousands per talk. In the middle, there are semi-professional speakers who earn modest fees plus travel. At the entry level, many speak for free or in exchange for exposure, especially at spiritual retreats or podcasts.

According to data from SpeakerHub and Talks.co, the average paid speaking fee for niche speakers (like those in wellness or spirituality) ranges from $500 to $5,000 per event. However, near death experience speakers often find more consistent income through volume-doing multiple smaller events rather than a few big ones.

Pros:
- Unique story makes them highly memorable.
- Demand in spiritual, wellness, and personal growth circles.
- Opportunities for recurring bookings at retreats and summits.

Cons:
- Niche topic may not appeal to corporate audiences.
- Some events offer only exposure or travel reimbursement.
- Requires strong marketing to stand out.

In short, yes, they get paid-but the income is often tied to how well they position themselves, their audience fit, and their ability to diversify income streams (see next section).

Near death experience speakers make money in a few different ways, and the most successful ones don't rely on just one stream. Here's a breakdown of the most common income sources:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements.
- Conferences, spiritual expos, wellness retreats, and online summits often pay speakers, especially those with a unique story.
- Rates vary widely: $500 for a small event, up to $10,000+ for headliners.

2. Workshops and Retreats.
- Some speakers host their own events or partner with coaches and healers to lead sessions.
- These can be in-person or virtual and often include ticket sales, upsells, or VIP packages.

3. Books and Digital Products.
- Publishing a memoir or guidebook is a common path. Self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP make this accessible.
- Others create online courses, meditations, or guided journaling programs.

4. Podcast and Media Appearances.
- While most podcasts don't pay, they build your audience and lead to paid opportunities.
- Some speakers monetize through affiliate links or sponsorships.

5. Private Coaching or Consulting.
- Speakers with a therapeutic or spiritual background often offer 1:1 sessions.
- This works well for those who help others process trauma, grief, or spiritual awakening.

6. Platform Partnerships.
- Sites like Talks.co help speakers get discovered by event hosts.
- Some speakers also join speaker bureaus or agencies that take a commission.

Diversification is key. The most financially stable speakers combine several of these methods, tailoring their offers to different audiences-from local churches to global online summits.

Earnings for near death experience speakers vary significantly based on experience, audience, and business strategy. Let's break it down with some real-world context.
At the entry level, speakers just starting out may earn between $0 and $500 per event. Many begin by speaking for free to build their portfolio, especially on podcasts or at local spiritual centers.
Mid-tier speakers who have a polished talk, a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co, and some media exposure can earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per event. These speakers often supplement their income with book sales, coaching, or online courses.
Top-tier speakers-those with bestselling books, viral videos, or a strong following-can command $10,000 to $25,000 per keynote. Anita Moorjani, for example, reportedly earns in this range due to her global recognition and bestselling book.
Here's a quick comparison table:

Level	Per Talk Fee	Annual Income Range*
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Mid-Tier	$1,000 - $5,000	$20,000 - $100,000
Top-Tier	$10,000+	$100,000 - $500,000+

*Assumes 1-4 talks/month plus other income streams.
Ultimately, how much you make depends on how you package your story, the audiences you serve, and how well you market yourself.

Hiring a near death experience speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the speaker's reputation, the event type, and the format (virtual vs. in-person).

Here's a breakdown:

- Local or Emerging Speakers: $250 - $1,000.
- Ideal for community events, small retreats, or podcasts.
- May include travel reimbursement if speaking in person.

- Experienced Speakers: $1,000 - $5,000.
- Often have a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co.
- Includes polished delivery, media presence, and possibly a book.

- High-Profile Speakers: $10,000 - $25,000+.
- Includes bestselling authors or viral figures like Anita Moorjani or Eben Alexander.
- Typically booked for large conferences or international summits.

Factors that influence cost:
- Event Size: Larger audiences usually mean higher fees.
- Location: International travel increases cost.
- Customization: If the speaker tailors content to your theme, expect a premium.
- Add-ons: Workshops, book signings, or panel participation may cost extra.

For virtual events, costs are often lower-sometimes 30-50% less-since there's no travel involved. Using a platform like Talks.co can also help you find speakers within your budget by filtering based on fee range and availability.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful near death experience speakers ever-those who've shaped the conversation globally and inspired millions:

- Anita Moorjani: Author of 'Dying to Be Me', Anita shares her NDE after battling cancer. Her TEDx talks and Hay House appearances have made her one of the most sought-after speakers in this space.

- Dr. Eben Alexander: A neurosurgeon whose NDE challenged his scientific worldview. His book 'Proof of Heaven' became a bestseller, and he's spoken at major medical and spiritual conferences.

- Dannion Brinkley: Known for his book 'Saved by the Light', Dannion has had multiple NDEs and speaks about life after death, healing, and service to others.

- Mary Neal, MD: An orthopedic spine surgeon who experienced an NDE during a kayaking accident. Her talks blend science and spirituality in a compelling way.

- Howard Storm: A former atheist whose NDE led to a complete transformation. His story is often featured in documentaries and spiritual summits.

- Betty Eadie: Author of 'Embraced by the Light', Betty's story has been widely circulated and remains one of the most referenced NDE accounts.

- George Ritchie: One of the earliest documented NDE speakers, his story influenced Raymond Moody's foundational research on the topic.

- Tricia Barker: A former English professor who shares her NDE and focuses on healing through education and service.

These speakers have not only shared their stories but also helped shape the global dialogue around consciousness, death, and healing.

Looking at the current global landscape, these near death experience speakers are making waves across continents and platforms:

- Anita Moorjani (Hong Kong/USA): Continues to speak internationally at events like IANDS, Hay House summits, and TEDx. Her cross-cultural background gives her a unique global appeal.

- Dr. Eben Alexander (USA): Still active in both scientific and spiritual circles, speaking at medical symposiums and consciousness conferences worldwide.

- Mellen-Thomas Benedict (USA): Known for his deep dive into the science-spirituality bridge, Mellen-Thomas has spoken across Europe and Asia.

- Rajiv Parti, MD (India/USA): A former anesthesiologist whose NDE led him to become a spiritual teacher. He speaks in both Western and Eastern contexts.

- Pim van Lommel (Netherlands): A cardiologist who didn't have an NDE himself but is a major voice in the field. He often shares the stage with NDE speakers to provide scientific context.

- Nicole Kerr (USA): A newer voice in the space, Nicole blends trauma recovery with her NDE insights, speaking at mental health and wellness events globally.

- Jeff Olsen (USA): A business executive turned spiritual speaker after a tragic accident and NDE. His talks resonate with both corporate and spiritual audiences.

- Tricia Barker (USA): Active in the online summit space, Tricia brings her message to global audiences through podcasts, YouTube, and virtual retreats.

- Peter Panagore (USA/Canada): A minister and broadcaster whose NDE story has been featured on national TV and international podcasts.

These speakers are not only sharing their stories-they're shaping global conversations around consciousness, healing, and what it means to truly live.

Let's get real about what it means to be a near death experience speaker. There's a lot of misunderstanding floating around, and it's time to clear some of it up with facts, not fluff.

- Myth 1: Near death experience speakers are all spiritual gurus.
Not even close. While some speakers do approach their stories through a spiritual or religious lens, many others focus on science, psychology, or personal transformation. For example, Dr. Mary Neal, an orthopedic surgeon, shares her NDE from a medical and scientific perspective, while others like Anita Moorjani blend Eastern philosophy with personal healing. The diversity of backgrounds is actually what makes this niche so compelling.

- Myth 2: You need to have a dramatic, movie-worthy story to be a speaker.
A powerful story doesn't mean it has to be cinematic. What matters is authenticity and clarity. Some of the most impactful speakers share quiet, reflective experiences that resonate deeply because of how relatable they are. It's not about the drama, it's about the transformation.

- Myth 3: These speakers only talk about death.
This is a big one. Near death experience speakers often focus more on life than death. They talk about what their experience taught them about relationships, purpose, and living with intention. Their talks are often more about hope, healing, and resilience than the moment of crisis itself.

- Myth 4: There's no audience for this kind of talk.
Actually, there's a growing global interest in consciousness, life after death, and personal transformation. Events like the IANDS (International Association for Near-Death Studies) conferences draw thousands. Podcasts, YouTube channels, and even corporate wellness programs are opening up to these conversations.

- Myth 5: You have to be a professional speaker to get started.
Nope. Many near death experience speakers begin by sharing their story on podcasts, local meetups, or even social media. The key is clarity and connection, not polish. Tools like Talks.co (more on that later) make it easier than ever to get booked even if you're just starting out.

Imagine waking up in a hospital bed, heart stopped minutes earlier, and realizing everything you thought you knew about life had changed. That's where many near death experience speakers begin-but where they go from there is what sets them apart.

Take Howard Storm. Once a staunch atheist and art professor, his near death experience completely shifted his worldview. Today, he speaks internationally, not only about what he saw on the 'other side' but how it reshaped his values and relationships. His talks blend philosophy, theology, and personal growth, attracting audiences from universities to spiritual retreats.

Then there's Dr. Eben Alexander, a neurosurgeon whose NDE challenged everything he believed about consciousness. His book 'Proof of Heaven' became a bestseller, but it's his speaking engagements-at medical conferences, tech summits, and wellness expos-that have helped bridge the gap between science and spirituality. He doesn't just tell a story-he invites debate, reflection, and curiosity.

In a different lane, you've got people like Tricia Barker, who took her experience into the classroom. As a college professor, she began integrating her NDE insights into her teaching, then expanded into public speaking and podcasting. Her talks often focus on healing from trauma and finding purpose, resonating with younger audiences and educators alike.

What's common across these cases? They didn't just tell a story-they built a message. They found their unique angle, whether it was scientific, spiritual, or educational, and they tailored it to different audiences. That's the real takeaway: success as a near death experience speaker isn't about the event itself, but how you translate it into something that helps others live better lives.

So where's this all heading? The world of near death experience speakers is expanding-and not just in size, but in scope, format, and audience. Here's what's coming next:

- Hybrid storytelling formats. More speakers are blending live talks with multimedia-think visuals, soundscapes, and even VR. Imagine sharing your NDE through a 360-degree immersive experience. It's already happening in wellness retreats and tech-forward conferences.

- Cross-industry relevance. NDE speakers are moving beyond spiritual and wellness events. Corporate leadership summits, mental health forums, and even military resilience trainings are tapping into these stories for their insights on courage, clarity, and purpose.

- Global voices rising. We're seeing more speakers from non-Western countries sharing culturally unique NDEs. This adds depth and diversity to the conversation, challenging Western-centric narratives and opening up new markets. Speakers from India, Brazil, and Nigeria are gaining traction on international stages.

- Data-driven storytelling. With the rise of neuroscience and consciousness studies, speakers who can bridge personal experience with research are in high demand. Expect more collaborations between speakers and academic institutions, especially as interest in consciousness and near-death studies grows.

- Community-first platforms. Instead of just keynote stages, speakers are building communities around their message. Think private membership groups, online courses, and interactive Q&As. The future isn't just about speaking-it's about ongoing engagement.

So if you're thinking about stepping into this space, know this: the audience is growing, the formats are evolving, and the opportunities are wider than ever. Whether you're a scientist, a survivor, or a seeker, there's room for your voice-especially if you're ready to innovate how you share it.

Getting started as a near death experience speaker? You don't need to reinvent the wheel. Here's a curated list of tools and resources to help you build your platform, find your audience, and refine your message.

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest matching platform that helps you get booked on relevant shows. Perfect for early-stage speakers looking to share their story and build credibility. Tip: Filter by spirituality, wellness, or personal development categories to find the right fit.

2. SpeakerHub. A directory and marketplace for speakers. You can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. Bonus: They offer training resources on how to pitch yourself.

3. Canva. Use it to design your speaker one-sheet, social media graphics, or even slide decks. Clean visuals go a long way in making your message memorable.

4. Otter.ai. Record and transcribe your talks, podcast interviews, or practice sessions. Reviewing transcripts helps you refine your message and spot patterns in how you tell your story.

5. Zoom. Not just for meetings-use it to host virtual talks, Q&A sessions, or even mini-workshops. Record your sessions to build a content library.

6. Teachable. If you want to turn your message into a course or workshop, this is a user-friendly platform to start with. Some NDE speakers create courses on healing, purpose, or mindfulness based on their experience.

7. Meetup. Start a local or virtual group around your topic. It's a great way to test your message, build community, and get speaking practice in a low-pressure setting.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose-from visibility to content creation to community building. Use them strategically, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident, booked-out near death experience speaker.