Parenting Support Speakers

A parenting support speaker is someone who specializes in delivering talks, workshops, or interviews focused on helping parents navigate the challenges of raising children. But they're not just giving advice - they're offering guidance rooted in expertise, experience, and empathy.

These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds: some are child psychologists, others are educators, authors, or even experienced parents who've turned their journey into a mission. What unites them is their ability to translate complex parenting topics into accessible, actionable insights.

They might speak on topics like managing screen time, fostering emotional intelligence, or supporting children with learning differences. Some focus on early childhood, while others specialize in parenting teens or blended families. Their talks can be grounded in research, personal experience, or cultural traditions - and often, a mix of all three.

Unlike general motivational speakers, parenting support speakers tailor their content to the lived realities of family life. They understand that parenting isn't one-size-fits-all, and they speak to a range of experiences - from single-parent households to co-parenting across continents.

In short, a parenting support speaker is a communicator, educator, and advocate rolled into one - someone who helps parents feel seen, supported, and equipped to raise thriving kids.

When families are overwhelmed, isolated, or simply unsure of what to do next, a parenting support speaker can be the voice that cuts through the noise. They don't just deliver information - they offer clarity in a world full of conflicting advice.

Parenting today is more complex than ever. Between digital distractions, shifting gender roles, and evolving family structures, parents are navigating uncharted territory. A parenting support speaker brings context to these challenges. They help audiences understand not just what to do, but why it matters.

Take, for example, a speaker who specializes in trauma-informed parenting. They might explain how early childhood stress affects brain development, then offer practical tools for building resilience. That kind of insight can change how a parent interacts with their child - not just for a day, but for a lifetime.

These speakers also create community. Whether they're speaking at a local PTA meeting or a global virtual summit, they remind parents that they're not alone. That shared experience can be incredibly powerful, especially for those who feel isolated or judged.

Finally, parenting support speakers help bridge the gap between research and real life. They take what's happening in academic journals or policy debates and make it relevant to the parent trying to get their toddler to sleep. That translation work is essential - and often overlooked.

Parenting support speakers educate, inspire, and equip parents with tools to navigate the ever-evolving journey of raising children. But their role goes far beyond just giving a talk.

They design content tailored to specific audiences. For example, a speaker addressing a group of foster parents in rural Australia will craft a very different message than one speaking to tech-savvy millennial parents in Silicon Valley. They adapt their language, examples, and strategies to meet people where they are.

They also stay informed. Parenting support speakers often keep up with the latest research in child development, psychology, and education. Some even collaborate with universities or advocacy groups to ensure their content is evidence-based and up to date.

In addition to speaking engagements, many of them write books, host podcasts, or run online communities. Their influence often extends beyond the stage. They might consult with schools, contribute to parenting blogs, or appear on media panels to discuss current issues like parental burnout or digital safety.

And perhaps most importantly, they listen. Before and after their talks, they engage with parents, answer questions, and offer support. They're not just presenters - they're facilitators of dialogue and change. Whether it's through a keynote, a Q&A session, or a one-on-one conversation after an event, parenting support speakers create space for growth, connection, and healing.

Becoming a parenting support speaker isn't just about having kids or reading a few books on child development. It's about building credibility, crafting your message, and connecting with the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step roadmap to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- Are you focused on single parents? Neurodiverse children? Gentle parenting? Pick a lane.
- Clarify your core message. What transformation can your audience expect after hearing you speak?

2. Build Your Credibility.
- Get certified or trained in parenting-related fields (e.g., child psychology, family therapy, coaching).
- Volunteer or work with parenting organizations, schools, or nonprofits to gain hands-on experience.

3. Create Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile.
- Include a bio, headshot, sample topics, testimonials, and a short video of you speaking.

4. Start Speaking Locally.
- Reach out to local schools, libraries, parenting groups, and community centers.
- Offer free workshops or webinars to build your portfolio and collect feedback.

5. Network with Hosts and Event Organizers.
- Use Talks.co to connect with summit hosts, podcast producers, and conference planners.
- Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities where parenting professionals hang out.

6. Get Featured.
- Pitch yourself to podcasts, online summits, and virtual conferences.
- Write guest blogs or contribute to parenting magazines to boost your visibility.

7. Refine and Scale.
- After a few gigs, refine your talk based on feedback.
- Create a signature keynote or workshop and start charging for it.

The key is consistency. The more you speak, the more you'll be invited to speak. And with platforms like Talks.co, you can accelerate that journey by getting in front of the right people faster.

To be a parenting support speaker, you need more than just a passion for helping families. You need a blend of expertise, communication skills, and visibility. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need a PhD, but you do need credibility. That could come from:
- Professional experience (e.g., therapist, educator, coach).
- Personal experience backed by research and training.
- Certifications in parenting education, child development, or coaching.

2. Communication Skills
You must be able to speak clearly, confidently, and with empathy. Parenting is a sensitive topic. Your tone matters. Practice public speaking, storytelling, and audience engagement. Toastmasters, improv classes, or speaker coaching can help.

3. A Clear Offer
What do you speak about? What outcomes do you deliver? Parenting support speakers often cover topics like:
- Discipline without punishment.
- Supporting kids with ADHD.
- Co-parenting after divorce.
- Raising emotionally intelligent children.

4. A Speaker Platform
You need a place where event organizers can find you. Talks.co is a great tool for this. Build a speaker page that includes:
- Your bio and credentials.
- Speaking topics and formats (keynote, workshop, panel).
- Testimonials and past appearances.
- A short video reel.

5. A Network
Connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and parenting influencers. Use Talks.co to match with event hosts or browse open calls for speakers. The more visible you are, the more likely you'll get booked.

In short, being a parenting support speaker is about combining knowledge with communication and packaging it in a way that makes you easy to book and trust.

Yes, parenting support speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's analyze the landscape.
1. Experience and Credibility
- New speakers might start with free gigs to build their portfolio.
- Mid-level speakers with a few years of experience can charge $500 to $2,000 per talk.
- High-profile experts or authors can command $5,000 to $20,000+ per keynote.
2. Type of Event
- Local workshops: Often unpaid or low-fee ($100-$500).
- Online summits: May offer affiliate commissions or flat fees.
- Corporate parenting programs: Higher budgets, often $2,000+ per session.
- Conferences: Can range from exposure-only to $10,000+ for headliners.
3. Revenue Models
Some speakers get paid directly. Others use speaking as a lead generator for coaching, courses, or books. (See the next section for more on that.)
Pros:
- Speaking builds authority and visibility.
- Paid gigs can lead to consulting or product sales.
Cons:
- Not all events pay.
- It can take time to build a paid speaking career.
Quick Comparison Table:

Event Type	Typical Pay Range
Local PTA Meeting	$0-$200
Online Summit	$0-$1,000 + commissions
Corporate Webinar	$1,000-$5,000
Keynote Conference	$2,000-$20,000+

So yes, parenting support speakers do get paid-but the path to consistent income usually involves multiple streams and strategic positioning.

Parenting support speakers don't just rely on speaking fees. In fact, many use speaking as a launchpad for other income streams. Let's break down the most common ways they make money:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes at conferences, parenting expos, or corporate wellness events.
- Workshops for schools, nonprofits, or HR departments.

2. Online Summits and Webinars
- Some summits pay flat fees.
- Others offer affiliate commissions for promoting the event or selling replays.

3. Coaching and Consulting
- Many speakers offer 1:1 or group coaching for parents.
- Speaking builds trust and funnels clients into these programs.

4. Digital Products
- Courses on topics like 'Positive Discipline' or 'Parenting Teens'.
- Ebooks, templates, or toolkits for overwhelmed parents.

5. Books and Publishing
- Self-published or traditionally published books can generate royalties.
- Books also boost credibility and lead to more speaking gigs.

6. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
- Parenting brands may sponsor talks or partner on content.
- Especially common for speakers with a strong social media presence.

7. Membership Communities
- Some speakers run paid communities or subscription-based parenting groups.

8. Talks.co and Other Platforms
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers get discovered by hosts.
- Speakers can also monetize by offering premium talks or workshops through these platforms.

In short, the most successful parenting support speakers diversify. They use speaking to build authority, then monetize through coaching, content, and community.

The income of parenting support speakers varies widely, depending on their niche, experience, and business model. Let's look at the numbers.
1. Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0-$500 per talk.
- Often speak for exposure, testimonials, or practice.
- May supplement income with coaching or a day job.
2. Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn $500-$2,500 per event.
- May speak 1-4 times per month.
- Often have a course, book, or coaching program.
3. Established Experts
- Earn $5,000-$20,000+ per keynote.
- Speak at major conferences, corporate events, or international summits.
- Often have multiple revenue streams (books, consulting, online programs).
Annual Income Estimates:

Speaker Type	Talks/Year	Avg. Fee	Est. Income
Beginner	10	$200	$2,000
Mid-Level	30	$1,000	$30,000
High-Level	50	$5,000	$250,000+

Other Factors:
- Region: Speakers in the US, UK, and Australia tend to earn more.
- Specialization: Niche topics like trauma-informed parenting or neurodiversity often command higher fees.
- Platform: Speakers with a strong Talks.co profile or large social media following tend to get more (and better) gigs.
So while some parenting support speakers earn a modest side income, others build six-figure businesses around their message. It all depends on positioning, visibility, and diversification.

Hiring a parenting support speaker can cost anywhere from free to tens of thousands of dollars. The price depends on several variables:
1. Speaker Experience
- New or local speakers: Often $0-$500.
- Mid-tier professionals: $1,000-$5,000.
- Top-tier experts or authors: $10,000-$25,000+.
2. Event Type and Audience
- School PTA or nonprofit: May get discounted or pro bono rates.
- Corporate wellness program: Higher budgets, often $2,000-$10,000.
- National conference: Premium rates, especially for keynotes.
3. Format and Duration
- Webinar or panel: $500-$2,000.
- Half-day workshop: $2,000-$7,500.
- Full-day training: $5,000-$15,000.
4. Location and Travel
- In-person events may require covering travel, lodging, and per diem.
- Virtual events are often more affordable.
5. Add-Ons
- Some speakers offer packages that include books, follow-up coaching, or custom content.
Sample Pricing Table:

Format	Cost Range
1-Hour Webinar	$500-$2,000
Keynote (In-Person)	$5,000-$15,000
Workshop (Virtual)	$1,000-$5,000
Full-Day Training	$7,500-$25,000

If you're booking through a platform like Talks.co, you can filter speakers by budget and see exactly what's included. It's a great way to find someone who fits your goals and your wallet.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful parenting support speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped how we think about parenting through their talks, books, and advocacy:

- Dr. Shefali Tsabary: Known for 'The Conscious Parent', she blends Eastern philosophy with Western psychology. Oprah called her work 'revolutionary'.

- Dr. Laura Markham: Founder of Aha! Parenting, she's a clinical psychologist who emphasizes connection over control.

- Barbara Coloroso: A pioneer in parenting education, her talks on discipline and bullying prevention have been influential for decades.

- Dr. Ross Greene: Creator of the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model, he's changed how parents and schools handle challenging behavior.

- Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish: Though not traditional speakers, their workshops and books like 'How to Talk So Kids Will Listen' have been adapted into countless talks.

- Janet Lansbury: Former actress turned parenting educator, she's a leading voice in respectful parenting and RIE-based approaches.

- Dr. Gabor Maté: While known for trauma and addiction, his insights into parenting and attachment have made him a sought-after speaker.

- Jo Frost: 'Supernanny' fame aside, she's delivered talks and trainings globally on behavior, boundaries, and family dynamics.

- Dr. Harvey Karp: Creator of 'The Happiest Baby on the Block', his work on infant soothing and sleep has reached millions.

- Magda Gerber: Though she passed in 2007, her RIE philosophy continues to influence parenting educators and speakers worldwide.

These speakers have left a lasting legacy, shaping parenting norms across cultures and generations.

Looking for the top parenting support speakers making waves globally right now? Here are some standout voices from different regions and specialties:

- Dr. Shefali Tsabary (USA/India): A global leader in conscious parenting, she speaks at major conferences and summits worldwide.

- Justin Coulson (Australia): Host of 'Parental Guidance' and founder of Happy Families, he's one of Australia's most booked parenting speakers.

- Sarah Ockwell-Smith (UK): A leading voice in gentle parenting, she's spoken across Europe and is a frequent media guest.

- Dr. Laura Markham (USA): Her online workshops and talks are attended by parents from over 100 countries.

- Dr. Gabor Maté (Canada/Hungary): His talks on trauma, attachment, and parenting are in demand across continents.

- Janet Lansbury (USA): Her podcast and live sessions attract a global audience interested in respectful parenting.

- Dr. Tsabitha Ramasamy (Malaysia): A rising voice in Southeast Asia, she blends cultural sensitivity with evidence-based parenting strategies.

- Carlos González (Spain): Pediatrician and author, he's a popular speaker in Latin America and Europe on attachment and breastfeeding.

- Dr. Vanessa Lapointe (Canada): Known for her emotionally attuned approach, she speaks at global parenting and education events.

- Kiran Bir Sethi (India): Founder of Design for Change, she speaks on parenting through empowerment and education reform.

These speakers are shaping the global conversation around parenting, each bringing a unique lens based on their culture, training, and audience.

Let's talk about some of the most persistent misconceptions floating around about parenting support speakers. These myths can hold back both aspiring speakers and the audiences who need them most.

1. Parenting support speakers are only for moms.
This one comes up a lot. The assumption is that parenting advice, especially from speakers, is geared solely toward mothers. But that's outdated thinking. Today's parenting support speakers are speaking to dads, grandparents, foster parents, same-sex couples, and even educators. For example, speakers like Dr. G (Deborah Gilboa) tailor talks for corporate dads navigating work-life balance. Parenting is a shared responsibility, and the best speakers reflect that diversity.

2. You need to be a parenting expert or psychologist to be a speaker.
Not true. While credentials help, lived experience, storytelling ability, and audience connection often matter more. Take someone like Justin Coulson in Australia. He's a dad of six and a former radio host who built his speaking career on relatable stories and practical advice, not just academic credentials. What matters is your ability to connect and deliver value.

3. Parenting support speakers just repeat common-sense advice.
This myth underestimates the depth and nuance of the field. Great speakers don't just say 'spend more time with your kids.' They dive into the how, the why, and the what-if. For instance, speakers addressing parenting in neurodiverse families or those navigating trauma-informed care bring highly specialized insights that go far beyond clichés.

4. It's not a viable career path.
Many believe that parenting support speaking is a side hustle at best. But look at speakers like Janet Lansbury or Dr. Laura Markham. They've built full-time careers through speaking, books, online courses, and media appearances. With the rise of virtual summits and podcast tours, monetization opportunities are more accessible than ever.

5. Only parents can be parenting support speakers.
This one's tricky. While personal experience helps, it's not a requirement. Educators, social workers, and child development specialists often bring valuable perspectives. What matters is your credibility, empathy, and ability to communicate effectively. Audiences care more about whether you help them solve real problems than whether you've changed a diaper at 3 a.m.

When you look at the journeys of successful parenting support speakers, one thing becomes clear: there's no single path to success. Each story is shaped by unique experiences, audiences, and platforms.

Take Dr. Laura Markham, for instance. She started as a clinical psychologist but transitioned into speaking after realizing that parents were hungry for emotionally intelligent, research-backed guidance. Her talks blend neuroscience with empathy, and she's now a go-to speaker for schools, parenting summits, and corporate wellness programs. Her book 'Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids' became a springboard into international speaking gigs.

Then there's Justin Coulson from Australia. He pivoted from radio to parenting after his own family challenges. His TEDx talk on 'What Your Child Needs Most' went viral, and he leveraged that momentum into a speaking career that includes keynotes for education departments and corporate HR teams. His style is warm, funny, and grounded in real-life scenarios, which makes him relatable across cultures.

Another standout is Simone Davies, author of 'The Montessori Toddler'. She built her speaker profile by first growing a loyal online community. Her workshops and talks now reach parents globally, especially in Europe and Asia, where Montessori education is thriving. She uses storytelling and visual aids to make complex ideas accessible.

And let's not forget about speakers working in underserved communities. In South Africa, parenting speaker and activist Carol Bower focuses on trauma-informed parenting in post-conflict zones. Her talks are less about theory and more about survival, resilience, and healing. Her impact is measured not in book sales but in community transformation.

These stories show that whether you're coming from academia, media, grassroots activism, or personal experience, there's room to grow. What unites these speakers is clarity of message, consistency of delivery, and a deep understanding of their audience's needs.

Parenting support speakers are stepping into a new era. The landscape is shifting, not just because of technology, but because of changing family structures, cultural expectations, and how people consume information.

First, expect to see more hybrid speaking formats. Parenting speakers are increasingly blending live events with digital content. Think: in-person keynotes paired with follow-up webinars or exclusive podcast episodes. This model works well for busy parents who can't always attend a full-day seminar but still want ongoing support.

Second, niche specialization is becoming the norm. General parenting advice is everywhere, so speakers who focus on specific challenges-like parenting teens with anxiety, co-parenting after divorce, or raising bilingual children-are gaining traction. Audiences are looking for tailored insights, not one-size-fits-all tips.

Third, cross-cultural and multilingual content is on the rise. As global parenting communities grow online, speakers who can address culturally specific parenting norms or speak in multiple languages will have a competitive edge. For example, speakers in India and the Middle East are gaining visibility by addressing local parenting taboos in accessible ways.

Fourth, data-driven storytelling is gaining popularity. Parents want more than anecdotes-they want evidence. Speakers who can blend personal stories with research-backed strategies (like referencing studies from Harvard's Center on the Developing Child) are building trust faster.

Here are a few trends to watch:
- AI-assisted coaching tools: Some speakers are integrating AI chatbots to offer follow-up support after events.
- Corporate parenting talks: Companies are hiring parenting speakers as part of employee wellness programs.
- Interactive formats: Live Q&As, polls, and breakout rooms are becoming standard in virtual talks.
- Global parenting summits: Online events with speakers from multiple countries are creating new collaboration opportunities.

The bottom line? The future belongs to speakers who are adaptable, audience-focused, and willing to innovate beyond the stage.

If you're looking to break into the world of parenting support speaking, you don't have to start from scratch. There's a growing ecosystem of tools, platforms, and communities designed to help you build your brand, book gigs, and deliver powerful talks. Here's a curated list to get you going:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest-matching tool is gold for new speakers. You can get matched with podcast hosts looking for parenting experts, which helps you build credibility and reach niche audiences. Tip: Start with smaller shows to refine your message and build momentum.

2. 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 exposure. Use it to test which of your talk titles get the most clicks.

3. Canva. For creating visually engaging slide decks, social media promos, and downloadable resources. Their templates make it easy to stay on-brand even if you're not a designer. Pro tip: Use their 'Present and Record' feature to practice your delivery.

4. Zoom Events. If you're running your own virtual workshops or summits, Zoom Events offers more control than a basic Zoom call. You can manage tickets, breakout rooms, and networking sessions all in one place.

5. Podia. Ideal for packaging your talks into paid courses or downloadable guides. Many parenting speakers use Podia to monetize beyond the stage. Combine it with email marketing to nurture your audience.

6. LinkedIn Audio Events. A newer feature that's gaining traction. Host short, live audio sessions on parenting topics to build authority and connect with professionals who are also parents.

7. Parenting Science. A research-backed resource that helps you stay current with parenting studies and trends. Use it to add credibility to your talks and presentations.

8. Otter.ai. Use this for transcribing your talks, podcast interviews, or Q&A sessions. It's a great way to repurpose content into blog posts or social media snippets.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose, from visibility to monetization to content creation. Start with one or two, test what works for your audience, and build from there.