Novel Speakers

A novel speaker isn't just someone who talks-they're someone who brings fresh perspectives to the table. The term 'novel speaker' refers to individuals who offer unique, often unconventional viewpoints or experiences that challenge the status quo and spark new thinking.

Unlike traditional keynote speakers who may stick to well-trodden themes, novel speakers often come from unexpected backgrounds. Think of a climate activist from Nairobi, a neurodivergent coder from Berlin, or a street artist turned entrepreneur in São Paulo. Their stories don't just inform-they disrupt assumptions.

What makes someone a novel speaker isn't just their topic. It's how they approach it. They might blend personal narrative with data, or fuse cultural insight with business strategy. The novelty lies in their lens, not just their resume.

In the context of digital summits, podcasts, or virtual events, novel speakers are often the ones who leave audiences buzzing. They're the wildcard in your lineup-the one who doesn't just echo what others are saying but flips the script entirely.

So when you hear 'novel speaker,' think: fresh voice, unexpected angle, and a message that sticks.

When your audience has heard it all before, a novel speaker can be the difference between a forgettable session and a game-changing moment. Here's why they matter more than ever.

First, attention spans are shrinking. People tune out fast if they sense repetition. Novel speakers cut through the noise by offering something different-whether it's a new framework, a lived experience, or a cultural insight that hasn't been mainstreamed yet.

Second, diversity of thought drives innovation. A novel speaker might not have the biggest following, but they often bring the most original ideas. For example, a Syrian refugee turned fintech founder might offer a radically different take on financial inclusion than a Wall Street veteran.

Third, they challenge echo chambers. Especially in niche industries, it's easy to invite the same voices over and over. Novel speakers shake things up. They ask questions others won't. They connect dots others miss.

Finally, they elevate your brand. If you're curating a summit, podcast, or panel, bringing in novel speakers signals that you value fresh thinking. It tells your audience you're not just recycling ideas-you're leading the conversation.

In short, novel speakers aren't just nice to have. They're essential if you want your content to resonate, inspire, and spark real change.

Ever wonder what novel speakers actually bring to the table beyond just 'talking'? Their role is more layered than it seems.

1. They Introduce New Perspectives
- Novel speakers often come from underrepresented industries, regions, or life paths. They bring insights that challenge conventional wisdom.
- Example: A data scientist from Nairobi might approach AI ethics differently than a Silicon Valley engineer.

2. They Educate and Inspire
- Through storytelling, case studies, or lived experience, they help audiences learn something new-and feel something too.
- Whether it's a founder sharing lessons from failure or a cultural historian unpacking forgotten narratives, novel speakers leave a mark.

3. They Spark Dialogue
- Novel speakers don't just deliver monologues. They provoke questions, debates, and follow-up conversations.
- In virtual summits or live panels, they often become the speaker audiences quote or tweet about.

4. They Bridge Gaps
- By connecting different disciplines or cultural contexts, novel speakers help audiences see the bigger picture.
- Think of a climate scientist collaborating with an indigenous leader to talk about sustainability-that's a novel speaker moment.

5. They Elevate Events
- Their presence signals that your event values originality and depth. It's a strategic choice that boosts credibility and engagement.

So while their job title might be 'speaker,' what novel speakers actually do is far more impactful: they shift perspectives, ignite curiosity, and move conversations forward.

Ready to stand out as a novel speaker? Here's your step-by-step guide to getting started and building momentum in a way that actually works:

1. Define Your Unique Angle.
- What makes your story or expertise 'novel'? Maybe it's your background, your method, or your perspective. Think of speakers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie or Neil Gaiman - they bring something fresh to the stage.
- Tip: Use Talks.co to test your angle. Upload a short video and see how hosts respond.

2. Build a Speaker Page That Converts.
- Your speaker page is your storefront. Include a compelling bio, high-quality headshot, and a short reel (2-3 minutes) of you speaking.
- Highlight your 'novelty': Are you a futurist? A genre-breaking author? A tech innovator with a twist?

3. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Reach out to local events, podcasts, or niche virtual summits. Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for fresh voices.
- Each talk is a stepping stone. Record them, collect testimonials, and refine your pitch.

4. Get Listed and Get Found.
- Join speaker directories like Talks.co, SpeakerHub, and Women Who Keynote.
- Optimize your LinkedIn and website for speaker-related keywords. Make it easy for event planners to find you.

5. Pitch Strategically.
- Don't just say 'I'd love to speak.' Say what you'll deliver. Example: 'I help remote teams build creative rituals that boost productivity by 30%.'
- Customize your pitch for each event. Mention their audience, theme, and how your talk aligns.

6. Keep Improving.
- Watch your own recordings. Join a speaker mastermind. Get feedback from other speakers on Talks.co.
- Novel speakers evolve. Stay curious, stay weird, stay valuable.

Being a novel speaker isn't just about having something new to say - it's about how you say it, who you say it to, and how you connect. Here's what you really need to step into that role:

1. A Distinctive Voice
Novel speakers bring fresh perspectives. That could mean you're a scientist who uses storytelling, a poet who talks about AI, or a founder who failed spectacularly and lived to tell the tale. The key is originality - not just in content, but in delivery.

2. A Clear Message
You need a core message that's easy to understand and hard to forget. Think of Brené Brown's 'vulnerability is strength' or Simon Sinek's 'Start With Why'. Your message should be able to fit on a T-shirt or a tweet.

3. A Platform to Share From
Whether it's a TEDx stage, a podcast, or a virtual summit, you need a way to get in front of people. Tools like Talks.co help you connect with hosts looking for unique voices. Your speaker page there acts as a one-stop-shop for your bio, topics, and booking info.

4. Communication Skills
You don't need to be a polished orator, but you do need to be clear, engaging, and real. Practice helps. So does feedback. Join a Toastmasters group, rehearse with peers, or get coaching.

5. Proof of Value
Event organizers want to know you can deliver. That means testimonials, past talks, or even a short demo reel. If you're just starting out, record a mock talk or do a free webinar and capture the footage.

In short, being a novel speaker is about combining originality with clarity and connection. If you can bring something new and make it land with an audience, you're already halfway there.

Yes, novel speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's break it down:

1. Experience Level
- New speakers might start with unpaid gigs to build a portfolio.
- Mid-level speakers often earn $500 to $2,500 per talk.
- High-demand novel speakers (think bestselling authors or viral thought leaders) can command $10,000 or more.

2. Type of Event
- Corporate conferences usually pay more than nonprofit or academic events.
- Virtual summits may offer lower fees but higher exposure.
- Podcasts and webinars often offer no fee but can lead to paid leads.

3. Region and Industry
- In North America and Europe, speaker fees are generally higher.
- Tech, finance, and healthcare events tend to have larger budgets.
- Creative industries may offer lower fees but more flexible formats.

4. Novelty Premium
Being a novel speaker can actually increase your value. If your perspective is rare or your story is untold, you may be seen as a 'draw' - someone who can attract attendees or media attention.

Pros of Paid Speaking:
- Revenue stream.
- Validation of your expertise.
- Opportunity to scale into consulting or product sales.

Cons:
- Payment timelines can be slow (30-90 days).
- Some events offer exposure instead of cash.

Bottom line: Yes, novel speakers get paid, but your income depends on your positioning, pitch, and platform. As mentioned in 'How to become a novel speaker', building your Talks.co profile can help you land more paid gigs.

Novel speakers don't just make money from speaking fees. In fact, the most successful ones turn their talks into multiple income streams. Here's how they do it:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct route. Event organizers pay you to speak at conferences, summits, or corporate trainings. Fees vary by experience, industry, and audience size.

2. Licensing Content
Some novel speakers license their talks or frameworks to companies. For example, a speaker with a unique mental health model might license it to HR departments for internal training.

3. Books and Publications
Many novel speakers are also authors. They use their talks to drive book sales - and vice versa. A compelling keynote can boost book sales by thousands.

4. Online Courses and Workshops
You can turn your talk into a digital product. Platforms like Teachable or Thinkific let you package your ideas into a course. Promote it during or after your talk.

5. Consulting and Coaching
After hearing you speak, companies may want to bring you in for deeper work. This can lead to high-ticket consulting gigs or 1:1 coaching packages.

6. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
If you have a niche audience, brands may pay you to mention their product during your talk or on your speaker page. This works especially well in tech, wellness, and education.

7. Virtual Summits and Collaborations
Using platforms like Talks.co, you can co-host events or get paid to appear on others' stages. These gigs often come with affiliate commissions or lead-sharing agreements.

So while speaking fees are great, the real money often comes from what happens after the talk. Smart novel speakers treat each stage as a launchpad for long-term revenue.

The income of novel speakers can vary dramatically depending on their niche, experience, and business model. Let's look at some real-world numbers and trends:
Typical Fee Ranges

Speaker Level	Fee per Talk
Beginner	$0 - $500
Emerging	$500 - $2,500
Established	$2,500 - $10,000
Celebrity/Expert	$10,000 - $50,000+

Annual Income Estimates
- A part-time novel speaker doing 1-2 talks/month at $1,000 each could earn $12,000-$24,000/year.
- A full-time speaker with multiple income streams (talks, books, courses) can earn $100,000+.
- Top-tier speakers like Malcolm Gladwell or Brené Brown reportedly earn six figures per keynote.
Factors That Affect Earnings
- Niche Demand: Tech and finance pay more than education or nonprofit.
- Geographic Reach: International speakers can command higher fees, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
- Platform Leverage: Speakers who use Talks.co or similar platforms to get consistent gigs tend to earn more.
Revenue Diversification
As covered in 'How do novel speakers make money', many speakers supplement fees with books, consulting, and digital products. These can double or triple their income.
In short, novel speakers can earn anywhere from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars per year. The key is to treat speaking as both a stage and a strategy.

If you're looking to hire a novel speaker, pricing can range widely depending on who you're booking and for what type of event. Here's a breakdown:
1. Event Type and Budget
- Local Meetup or Podcast: $0 - $500. Many novel speakers speak for free at smaller events to build exposure.
- Virtual Summit or Webinar: $500 - $2,000. These often include a mix of paid and unpaid speakers.
- Corporate Conference: $2,500 - $15,000. Companies pay more for speakers who can tie their message to business outcomes.
- Keynote at Major Event: $10,000 - $50,000+. High-profile novel speakers with a strong brand or bestselling book can command top dollar.
2. Add-On Costs
- Travel and Accommodation: Often covered by the event host.
- Custom Content: If you want a tailored workshop or training, expect to pay more.
- Licensing or Recording Rights: Some speakers charge extra if you want to record and distribute their talk.
3. Booking Platforms
Using platforms like Talks.co can help you find novel speakers across different price points. You can filter by topic, fee, and availability.
Cost Comparison Table

Speaker Type	Cost Range
New/Emerging	$0 - $1,000
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000
High-Demand	$5,000 - $20,000
Celebrity/Expert	$20,000 - $50,000+

Hiring a novel speaker can be a smart investment if their message aligns with your audience. Just make sure to clarify deliverables, rights, and expectations upfront.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful novel speakers ever - people who brought something truly original to the stage and changed how we think:

- Maya Angelou. Poet, author, and speaker whose storytelling blended personal history with universal truths. Her cadence and presence were unmatched.

- Steve Jobs. Not a traditional speaker, but his product launches were masterclasses in narrative and innovation. His 2005 Stanford commencement speech is still widely quoted.

- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Her TED Talk 'The Danger of a Single Story' is a brilliant example of how a novel speaker can shift global conversations.

- Alan Watts. A philosopher who brought Eastern thought to Western audiences in a way that was both profound and accessible.

- Carl Sagan. A scientist who made the cosmos feel personal. His ability to blend science with wonder made him a novel voice in education.

- Toni Morrison. Though more known for her writing, her lectures and interviews were powerful, poetic, and deeply original.

- James Baldwin. His debates and speeches in the 1960s and 70s were not just political - they were literary, emotional, and razor-sharp.

- Malcolm X. His speeches were raw, rhythmic, and revolutionary. He redefined what it meant to speak truth to power.

- Buckminster Fuller. An architect and futurist whose talks were decades ahead of their time.

- Jane Goodall. Her talks about primates and conservation were groundbreaking in both content and delivery.

These speakers didn't just inform - they transformed. That's the hallmark of a truly novel speaker.

Looking for today's top novel speakers? These are the voices making waves globally with fresh ideas and unique delivery styles:

- Amanda Gorman. Poet and activist whose performance at the U.S. Presidential Inauguration showcased the power of spoken word as public discourse.

- Yuval Noah Harari. Historian and futurist who blends philosophy, data, and storytelling in talks that challenge how we see the future.

- Hasan Minhaj. Comedian and speaker who uses humor and personal narrative to tackle complex social issues. His Netflix special 'Homecoming King' is a masterclass in novel storytelling.

- Arlan Hamilton. Venture capitalist who speaks on inclusion and startup culture from a perspective rarely heard on tech stages.

- Rana el Kaliouby. AI researcher and speaker who brings emotional intelligence to the tech world. Her talks on empathy and machines are both technical and deeply human.

- Jay Shetty. Former monk turned motivational speaker who blends ancient wisdom with modern life hacks. His viral videos and talks reach millions.

- Valerie Kaur. Civil rights activist and lawyer whose 'Revolutionary Love' framework has redefined activism and public speaking.

- Bozoma Saint John. Marketing executive and speaker known for her bold, unapologetic style and insights on branding and leadership.

- Seth Godin. Marketing guru whose talks are packed with metaphors, insights, and challenges to conventional thinking.

- Luvvie Ajayi Jones. Author and speaker who combines humor, truth-telling, and cultural critique in a way that's both entertaining and enlightening.

These speakers are shaping conversations across industries - from tech to activism to business. If you're curating a lineup or just looking for inspiration, this is a great place to start.

Let's break down some of the most persistent misconceptions about novel speakers-the kind of speakers who bring fresh, unconventional perspectives to the stage.

1. Myth: Novel speakers are just inexperienced or unpolished.
This one pops up a lot, especially in traditional corporate circles. The assumption is that if someone is doing something different-using storytelling formats, integrating multimedia, or challenging norms-they must be amateurs. But look at speakers like Amanda Gorman or Hasan Minhaj. They broke the mold with poetry and comedic storytelling, respectively, and were anything but unpolished. Novel doesn't mean unprepared. It means they're innovating.

2. Myth: You need a bestselling book or celebrity status to be a novel speaker.
Not true. While some novel speakers do have big platforms, many start by owning a unique niche or solving a specific problem in a new way. Think of people like Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa, who brought a fresh voice to medical equity through spoken word and advocacy. Her TEDx talk went viral not because she was famous, but because her message was different and deeply resonant.

3. Myth: Novel speakers can't succeed in 'serious' industries.
Actually, novel speakers are often the ones who get remembered in fields like finance, healthcare, or law. Why? Because they break through the noise. For example, fintech speaker Cleve Mesidor uses storytelling and cultural context to talk about blockchain in a way that's accessible and engaging. That's novel-and effective.

4. Myth: Novel speakers are a trend that will fade.
This is like saying innovation has an expiration date. Audiences are craving authenticity and originality more than ever. Novel speakers aren't a phase-they're a response to a saturated market of cookie-cutter presentations. And with platforms like Clubhouse, TikTok, and virtual summits, their reach is only growing.

5. Myth: Novel speakers are only for creative or entertainment events.
Not even close. Novel speakers are showing up at leadership retreats, B2B SaaS conferences, and even government panels. Their value lies in their ability to reframe problems and inspire action-something every industry needs.

When you think of a novel speaker, you might imagine someone who breaks the mold-someone who doesn't just deliver information, but transforms how it's received. Let's look at a few real-world examples that show how this plays out.

In 2018, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie delivered a talk at the Harvard University Class Day. She didn't follow the usual graduation speech formula. Instead, she blended humor, cultural critique, and personal anecdotes to challenge assumptions about identity and success. Her talk wasn't just memorable-it sparked global conversations about race, gender, and storytelling.

Then there's Eddie Obeng, a British organizational theorist who's known for turning business presentations into live-action theater. At TEDGlobal, he used props, interactive visuals, and rapid-fire delivery to explain complex ideas about change in the digital age. His novel approach didn't just entertain-it helped corporate leaders rethink how they manage innovation.

In the startup world, Arlan Hamilton has become a standout speaker by flipping the script on venture capital. She doesn't just talk about funding-she talks about being a Black, queer woman who built a VC firm from scratch. Her talks are raw, direct, and deeply personal. That's what makes them novel. She's not just sharing data-she's shifting paradigms.

And let's not forget Muniba Mazari, the Pakistani artist and activist who speaks from a wheelchair after a life-changing accident. Her talks are a blend of art, resilience, and social commentary. She uses painting as part of her storytelling, creating a multisensory experience that's both emotional and unforgettable.

These speakers didn't follow a template. They created their own. And that's what makes them novel-not just in style, but in substance. They connect with audiences by being unapologetically original, and that's what sets them apart.

Novel speakers are not just disrupting stages-they're reshaping how we think about public speaking altogether. As we look ahead, several trends are emerging that will define the next wave of standout voices.

First, expect to see more hybrid storytelling formats. Speakers are blending live performance with digital media, like integrating short films, live polling, or augmented reality into their talks. This isn't just for show-it's about creating immersive experiences that stick. Think of how multimedia artist JR uses massive visuals to tell human rights stories, or how futurist Amy Webb uses data visualizations to make complex trends digestible.

Second, niche expertise is becoming more valuable than general charisma. Audiences are gravitating toward speakers who bring deep, specific knowledge-especially if it's from underrepresented fields or communities. For example, Indigenous climate activists or neurodivergent entrepreneurs are gaining traction because they offer fresh, authentic perspectives that challenge the status quo.

Third, platforms are shifting. While TEDx and conference stages still matter, novel speakers are building influence through podcasts, YouTube, and even Twitch. These platforms allow for more experimentation and direct audience feedback. It's not about waiting to be invited-it's about creating your own stage.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- AI-assisted storytelling. Tools like ChatGPT and Synthesia are helping speakers prototype scripts, generate visuals, or even create virtual co-presenters.
- Global-local fusion. Speakers are blending global issues with hyperlocal stories, making their message both relatable and scalable.
- Audience co-creation. Interactive formats where the audience shapes the talk in real-time are gaining popularity, especially in virtual summits.
- Authenticity over polish. Raw, unfiltered delivery is resonating more than overly rehearsed speeches. Think Instagram Live over studio production.

The future belongs to those who can adapt, experiment, and connect in unexpected ways. Novel speakers aren't just keeping up-they're setting the pace.

If you're looking to step into the world of novel speaking-that is, bringing fresh, unconventional ideas to the stage-there are some killer tools and platforms that can help you build your voice, find your audience, and get booked. Here's a curated list to get you started:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for novel speakers. It connects you with podcast hosts looking for unique voices. Great for testing your message, refining your delivery, and building authority in your niche.

2. Canva. For novel speakers who use visuals creatively, Canva is a must. Design slides, social media promos, or even interactive PDFs without needing a graphic designer. Pro tip: Use Canva's video features to create teaser clips of your talks.

3. Otter.ai. Record your practice sessions or live talks, then get instant transcripts. This is huge for refining your message, creating content from your talks, or even turning speeches into blog posts or LinkedIn articles.

4. Miro. If your speaking style involves frameworks, mind maps, or collaborative storytelling, Miro lets you map it all out visually. It's especially useful for virtual workshops or interactive sessions.

5. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for international gigs or niche events.

6. Descript. Edit your audio and video content like a text document. Perfect for creating highlight reels, cutting out filler words, or turning your talk into a podcast episode.

7. Notion. Organize your speaking calendar, pitch templates, talk outlines, and feedback in one place. If you're juggling multiple events or formats, this keeps you sane.

8. TED Masterclass. While not free, this course breaks down how TED speakers craft and deliver powerful talks. It's especially helpful for novel speakers who want to balance originality with structure.

Use these tools not just to prepare, but to experiment. Novel speakers thrive on creativity, and these platforms give you the flexibility to try new formats, test ideas, and connect with audiences in ways that traditional speakers often miss.