Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speakers
You've got a stage, a mic, or a camera set up-but no idea who should take the spotlight.
You want someone who can actually hold a room, not just talk at it.
But with so many options out there, how do you even start finding the right presentation skills public speaking speakers?
What makes someone not just good on paper, but great in front of your audience?
This page helps you figure that out.
Presentation skills public speaking speakers know how to connect, engage, and deliver a message that sticks.
Whether you're running a summit, recording a podcast, or organizing your next company offsite, these are the types of speakers who bring clarity, energy, and presence.
I've seen how much easier it is for hosts and event planners when they've got someone who's not just knowledgeable, but truly knows how to present.
Take a look below and see which presentation skills public speaking speaker feels like the right fit for your event or show.
Top Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speakers List for 2026
Robin Owen
Helping you speak with confidence and leave a lasting impression
Dr. Cristina Castagnini
Where expertise meets authenticity
Deborah Walker
Transforming speakers into storytellers, one powerful speech at a time
Shannon GaNun
Helping business professionals communicate with clarity and confidence so they can become stronger leaders.
Steve Sapato
The most famous unfamous Emcee in America
Christiaan Willems
How to NOT to come across as a 'Complete Dick' in your Business Videos
Barrie Segal
Unleashing Public Speaking and Business Success with Barrie Segal
Ilanna Fiorenza
Empowering women to shine, thrive, and live intentionally!
Sean D Stewart
Your business is your art... so create a masterpiece
What Makes a Great Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speaker
A great speaker in this space doesn't just share information-they translate it into transformation. They understand the psychology of an audience, whether it's a room of startup founders in Berlin or a virtual summit of educators in Nairobi. They know when to pause, when to pivot, and when to punch a point home. It's not about being perfect. It's about being real, relevant, and resonant.
Take someone like Amy Cuddy, whose TED Talk on body language went viral not because she had flashy visuals, but because she told a story that made people feel empowered. Or Eric Thomas, who brings raw energy and authenticity to every stage he steps on. These speakers have mastered the art of balancing performance with purpose.
And here's the kicker: great presentation skills public speaking speakers are also great listeners. They read the room, adapt on the fly, and make their audience feel seen. Whether they're speaking to a boardroom in Tokyo or a virtual crowd in São Paulo, they know that communication is a two-way street.
So, what makes a great speaker in this niche? It's not just about speaking well-it's about speaking with intention, empathy, and impact.
How to Select the Best Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals
- Who are you serving? Entrepreneurs? Educators? Corporate teams?
- What do you want them to walk away with-motivation, tactics, mindset shifts?
- Example: If you're hosting a virtual summit for SaaS founders, you'll want someone who can speak to growth strategies with clarity and authority.
2. Search Smart Using Trusted Platforms
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse vetted speakers with presentation and public speaking expertise.
- Look for speaker pages that include demo videos, past talk topics, and testimonials.
- Tip: Filter by industry, region, or speaking format (keynote, panelist, workshop).
3. Review Their Content in Context
- Watch full-length talks, not just highlight reels.
- Read their blog posts or LinkedIn articles to get a feel for their tone and depth.
- Ask: Do they teach or just talk?
4. Check Fit and Flexibility
- Can they tailor their talk to your theme or audience?
- Are they comfortable with your format-live, pre-recorded, hybrid?
- Example: A speaker who thrives in TED-style talks may not be ideal for a panel-heavy format.
5. Reach Out and Ask the Right Questions
- What's their process for customizing content?
- How do they engage with virtual vs. live audiences?
- Can they provide references from similar events?
By following these steps, you'll not only find a speaker who can talk-you'll find one who can truly connect.
How to Book a Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speaker
1. Start with a Clear Brief
- Define the topic, audience, format, and desired outcomes.
- Include event details like date, time zone, tech platform, and duration.
- Pro Tip: Include whether it's paid, unpaid, or includes promotion perks.
2. Use a Speaker Discovery Platform
- Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to browse, shortlist, and contact speakers.
- Use filters to find speakers with specific expertise in presentation skills and public speaking.
- Check their speaker page for video samples, bios, and audience reviews.
3. Reach Out with a Personalized Pitch
- Mention why you're reaching out to them specifically.
- Share your event's mission and how their talk fits in.
- Example: "We're hosting a virtual bootcamp for early-stage founders, and your talk on persuasive communication would be a perfect fit."
4. Confirm Logistics and Expectations
- Discuss fees, tech requirements, promotional responsibilities, and deadlines.
- Set up a pre-event call to align on tone, audience, and Q&A structure.
- Tip: Use a speaker agreement to avoid confusion later.
5. Promote and Prepare
- Share speaker assets (bio, headshot, social links) with your marketing team.
- Create promo graphics and schedule social media posts tagging the speaker.
- Run a tech check or rehearsal if needed.
Booking a speaker is part relationship-building, part project management. Do it right, and you'll create a win-win experience for your audience and your guest.
Common Questions on Presentation Skills Public Speaking Speakers
What is a presentation skills public speaking speaker
A presentation skills public speaking speaker is someone who specializes in the art and science of delivering messages that stick. They don't just speak well themselves-they help others learn how to do it too. Think of them as both performers and educators. Their talks often blend storytelling, psychology, and communication theory to help listeners become more confident and compelling communicators.
These speakers might present at corporate training events, virtual summits, leadership retreats, or even educational institutions. Their topics can range from overcoming stage fright to crafting persuasive pitches. For example, someone like Nancy Duarte speaks on visual storytelling and slide design, while Julian Treasure focuses on the power of voice and listening.
What sets them apart is their ability to break down complex communication techniques into actionable insights. Whether they're addressing a group of engineers in Singapore or nonprofit leaders in Toronto, their goal is the same: to elevate how people present ideas.
So, if you're looking to help your audience become better speakers themselves, this is the type of expert you want on your stage.
Why is a presentation skills public speaking speaker important
In today's world, where virtual meetings, webinars, and hybrid events are the norm, the ability to present clearly and confidently is a competitive advantage. A speaker who specializes in presentation skills and public speaking equips your audience with tools they can use immediately-whether they're pitching investors, leading teams, or teaching online.
Consider the corporate world: a manager who can't present ideas effectively may struggle to get buy-in. Or in the startup ecosystem, a founder with a brilliant product but poor pitch delivery might never secure funding. A speaker in this niche helps bridge that gap.
They also bring a unique energy to events. Unlike general motivational speakers, they offer tactical value. Their sessions often include live demos, audience participation, and real-time feedback. This makes them especially valuable for workshops, bootcamps, and interactive summits.
Ultimately, a presentation skills public speaking speaker doesn't just inspire-they empower. They help your audience become better communicators, which leads to better outcomes across the board.
What do presentation skills public speaking speakers do
Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:
- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They speak at events, conferences, and summits on topics like persuasive communication, storytelling, body language, and audience engagement.
- Provide Tactical Training. Many offer hands-on sessions where participants practice speaking, receive feedback, and learn frameworks like the Rule of Three or the SCQA method.
- Customize Content for Different Audiences. Whether it's a sales team in New York or a group of university students in Delhi, they adapt their message to fit the audience's needs and context.
- Coach Individuals and Teams. Some work one-on-one with executives, founders, or educators to refine their presentation style, pitch decks, or stage presence.
- Incorporate Technology and Trends. They stay up to date with tools like virtual whiteboards, AI-powered slide decks, and hybrid event platforms to make their sessions more engaging.
- Promote Communication Culture. Beyond the stage, they often advocate for communication best practices within organizations, helping to foster a culture of clarity and openness.
From TEDx stages to Zoom breakout rooms, presentation skills public speaking speakers are the go-to experts when you want your audience to not just listen-but learn how to lead with their voice.
How to become a presentation skills public speaking speaker
1. Master Your Craft
- Before you speak about presentation skills or public speaking, you need to *live* them. Study the greats like Nancy Duarte or Chris Anderson. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, and get feedback from peers.
- Join Toastmasters or local speaking clubs to refine your delivery and get comfortable with live audiences.
2. Define Your Niche and Audience
- Are you helping corporate teams improve their pitch delivery? Or are you coaching students on how to speak with confidence? Get specific.
- Tailor your message and style to resonate with that audience. This helps you build authority faster.
3. Build Your Speaker Page
- Create a dedicated speaker page on your website. Include a professional headshot, speaker reel, testimonials, topics you cover, and a clear call-to-action.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event hosts. It's a great way to get discovered by organizers looking for experts in presentation skills and public speaking.
4. Create Signature Talks
- Develop 1-2 signature talks that showcase your expertise. These should be structured, repeatable, and packed with value.
- For example, a talk titled "The 5-Step Formula to Captivating Any Audience" can be adapted for both corporate and academic settings.
5. Start Speaking - Anywhere You Can
- Look for podcasts, webinars, virtual summits, and local meetups. Even if they're unpaid at first, they help you build credibility and content.
- Use each opportunity to refine your message, gather testimonials, and build your portfolio.
6. Leverage Social Proof and Referrals
- After each event, ask for a testimonial. Post clips or quotes on LinkedIn and your speaker page.
- Encourage referrals. Many speaking gigs come from word-of-mouth, especially in the business and education sectors.
7. Scale with Strategy
- Once you've got momentum, pitch yourself to larger conferences or corporate training programs.
- Use Talks.co to connect with hosts who are actively booking speakers. Keep refining your offer based on what audiences respond to.
Becoming a presentation skills public speaking speaker isn't just about being good on stage. It's about positioning, consistency, and knowing how to connect with the right people at the right time.
What do you need to be a presentation skills public speaking speaker
1. Deep Knowledge of Presentation and Speaking Techniques
You need to understand the mechanics of great communication. This includes body language, vocal variety, storytelling, slide design, and audience engagement. Think of it as being both a performer and a coach. People are hiring you to teach them how to present better, so you must model excellence.
2. A Clear Personal Brand
Your brand should reflect your unique approach to presentation skills. Are you the energetic motivator? The analytical strategist? The corporate trainer? Your tone, visuals, and messaging should align with your audience's expectations.
3. Speaking Experience and Testimonials
Experience builds trust. Start with smaller gigs and collect testimonials. These are social proof that you deliver value. Record your talks and create a speaker reel. This becomes your calling card for future opportunities.
4. A Professional Speaker Page
This is your digital storefront. It should include:
- Your bio and credentials
- Speaking topics and formats (keynote, workshop, webinar)
- Video clips or a speaker reel
- Testimonials and past clients
- A booking form or contact info
Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to showcase your speaker profile and get discovered by event organizers.
5. Business Tools and Systems
You'll need contracts, invoices, a scheduling system, and a way to manage leads. Tools like Calendly, Stripe, and Google Workspace can help. If you're doing this full-time, treat it like a business from day one.
6. A Growth Mindset
This field evolves. New platforms, new formats, new audience expectations. Stay curious. Keep learning. Attend other speakers' sessions. Read books like "Talk Like TED" or "Resonate" to stay sharp.
Being a presentation skills public speaking speaker means you're both a teacher and a performer. Equip yourself with the right tools, mindset, and strategy, and you'll be ready to deliver real value on any stage.
Do presentation skills public speaking speakers get paid
Let's look at the variables:
- Experience Level: New speakers may start with unpaid gigs or honorariums ($100-$500), while seasoned pros can command $5,000 to $25,000 per talk.
- Audience Type: Corporate events tend to pay more than educational or nonprofit events. A Fortune 500 sales team training pays more than a local Toastmasters keynote.
- Format: Keynotes typically pay more than breakout sessions or webinars. In-person events often come with travel and accommodation perks.
- Geography: Speakers in North America, Western Europe, and Australia tend to earn more due to higher event budgets. However, virtual events have leveled the playing field globally.
Here's a quick comparison table:
| Speaker Type | Typical Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Beginner (local events) | $0 - $500 |
| Intermediate (niche conferences) | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Expert (corporate/industry events) | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Celebrity/Author/Influencer | $20,000+ |
- Builds authority and credibility.
- Opens doors to consulting, coaching, or product sales.
- Scales well with digital platforms like Talks.co.
Cons:
- Competitive field with high expectations.
- Requires constant marketing and outreach.
- Some gigs are unpaid but still valuable for exposure.
So yes, they get paid. But the key is positioning yourself as a high-value expert who solves a specific problem for your audience.
How do presentation skills public speaking speakers make money
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- This is the most direct path. Speakers are hired to deliver keynotes, workshops, or breakout sessions at conferences, corporate events, or educational institutions.
- Example: A speaker might earn $7,500 for a 60-minute keynote at a leadership summit.
2. Online Courses and Digital Products
- Many speakers package their expertise into online courses, templates, or downloadable resources.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi are popular for this. A course on "How to Design Persuasive Presentations" can generate passive income.
3. Corporate Training and Consulting
- Companies often hire speakers to run in-house training programs or consult on communication strategy.
- This can be a lucrative retainer model. For instance, a tech firm might pay $10,000/month for ongoing presentation coaching.
4. Books and Publications
- Writing a book helps establish authority and can lead to speaking gigs. Royalties add another revenue stream.
- Think of Carmine Gallo's "Talk Like TED" or Nancy Duarte's "Slide:ology".
5. Virtual Summits and Webinars
- Hosting or participating in virtual events can be monetized through ticket sales, sponsorships, or affiliate offers.
- Talks.co is a great platform for connecting with hosts and monetizing your expertise.
6. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- Some speakers partner with brands or tools they recommend. For example, promoting a slide design software with an affiliate link.
7. Licensing Content
- Speakers can license their training materials to organizations or educational platforms.
- This is scalable and doesn't require live delivery.
The smartest speakers diversify their income. They speak, teach, consult, and sell. That's how they build sustainable, scalable businesses.
How much do presentation skills public speaking speakers make
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $1,000 per event.
- Often speak for free to build credibility and collect testimonials.
- May supplement with coaching or freelance work.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $1,000 and $7,500 per talk.
- Often have a niche (e.g., startup pitching, academic presentations).
- May run workshops or online courses for additional income.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Command $10,000 to $25,000+ per keynote.
- Often have books, media appearances, or a large online following.
- May earn six or seven figures annually through multiple income streams.
Annual Income Ranges
| Level | Annual Income Estimate |
|---|---|
| Beginner | $0 - $20,000 |
| Intermediate | $30,000 - $100,000 |
| Advanced | $100,000 - $500,000+ |
- Visibility: A strong speaker page on Talks.co or personal website boosts bookings.
- Niche Demand: Corporate communication experts tend to earn more than generalists.
- Geographic Reach: Virtual speaking expands your market globally.
Some speakers make a full-time living. Others use it as a side hustle. The key is combining speaking with other revenue streams like courses, consulting, or books.
How much do presentation skills public speaking speakers cost
Cost Breakdown by Speaker Tier:
| Speaker Level | Typical Fee Range | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| New/Emerging | $0 - $1,000 | Local meetups, student workshops |
| Mid-Level Professional | $1,000 - $7,500 | Industry conferences, corporate training |
| High-Profile Expert | $10,000 - $25,000+ | Keynotes at global summits |
- Event Type: A corporate keynote will cost more than a community workshop.
- Format: In-person events often cost more due to travel and prep time.
- Customization: Tailored talks or interactive workshops may increase fees.
- Reputation: Speakers with books, media presence, or TEDx talks command higher rates.
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- Travel and accommodation (if not included).
- Licensing fees for recorded sessions.
- Additional sessions or Q&A time.
Budget Tips:
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find vetted speakers within your budget.
- Consider virtual delivery to save on logistics.
- Negotiate package deals if booking multiple sessions.
In short, the cost depends on the value you're seeking. A $5,000 speaker who transforms your team's communication skills may be a better investment than a $500 one who just recites slides.
Who are the best presentation skills public speaking speakers ever
Tony Robbins: Known for his high-energy delivery and massive global audiences, Robbins is a master of persuasion and stage presence.
Nancy Duarte: A legend in presentation design and storytelling, her work with 'Slide:ology' and TED Talks has shaped how we teach visual communication.
Zig Ziglar: A motivational powerhouse, Ziglar taught generations how to speak with purpose and passion.
Les Brown: Famous for his emotional storytelling and inspirational delivery, Brown is a go-to example for speakers learning to connect with audiences.
Chris Anderson: As the curator of TED, Anderson has shaped the modern format of short, impactful talks. His book 'TED Talks' is a must-read.
Brené Brown: Her TEDx talk on vulnerability went viral and changed how we think about authenticity on stage.
Simon Sinek: Known for 'Start With Why', Sinek's clarity and structure make him a model for persuasive communication.
Carmine Gallo: A communication coach and author, Gallo has helped business leaders craft powerful presentations.
Patricia Fripp: A Hall of Fame speaker and coach, Fripp is known for her precision and ability to teach others how to structure impactful talks.
Who are the best presentation skills public speaking speakers in the world
Amy Cuddy: Her talk on body language and power poses has influenced how speakers use non-verbal communication globally.
Eric Edmeades: A speaker and trainer who teaches the art of storytelling and stagecraft through programs like 'Stage Time University'.
Vanessa Van Edwards: A behavioral investigator who teaches science-backed communication strategies through her company Science of People.
Nick Morgan: A communication theorist and coach, Morgan's work focuses on authentic leadership and body language.
Garr Reynolds: Author of 'Presentation Zen', Reynolds is known for his minimalist approach to slide design and storytelling.
Bo Eason: Former NFL player turned speaker, Eason teaches performance-based storytelling with a theatrical flair.
Kindra Hall: A storytelling expert who helps brands and leaders craft compelling narratives that stick.
Tamsen Webster: Known for her 'Red Thread' method, she helps speakers and brands clarify their core message.
Michael Port: Co-founder of Heroic Public Speaking, Port trains speakers to perform with intention and impact.
Common myths about presentation skills public speaking speakers
1. "You have to be born with it."
This is probably the most common misconception. The idea that great speakers are just 'naturals' is misleading. Sure, some people are more extroverted or expressive by nature, but effective speaking is a learned skill. Take Warren Buffett, for example. He openly admits he was terrified of public speaking early in his career. He even took a Dale Carnegie course to overcome it. Today, he's one of the most quoted business speakers in the world. Skills can be trained. Confidence can be built.
2. "You need a booming voice or dramatic flair."
Not true. Some of the most compelling speakers have soft voices and calm demeanors. Think of Brené Brown. Her talks are powerful because of her authenticity and storytelling, not because she commands the room with volume. What matters more is clarity, structure, and connection with your audience.
3. "Slides make or break your talk."
Nope. Slides are a tool, not the show. In fact, some of the most memorable TED Talks had zero slides. If your message is strong and your delivery is engaging, visuals are just the cherry on top. Over-reliance on slides often distracts from the speaker's presence.
4. "Only corporate professionals or keynote speakers need presentation skills."
This myth limits so many people. Whether you're a startup founder pitching investors, a teacher engaging students, or a community leader rallying support, your ability to present ideas clearly and confidently matters. Presentation skills are universal currency.
5. "You must memorize every word."
Memorization can actually backfire. If you forget a line, it throws you off. Instead, structure your talk with key points and transitions. Practice enough to internalize the flow, but leave room for natural delivery. Think of it like jazz: you know the chords, but you improvise the solos.
Bottom line? Presentation skills are accessible, learnable, and adaptable. Don't let outdated myths keep you from stepping up to the mic.
Case studies of successful presentation skills public speaking speakers
Take Simon Sinek. Before he was packing auditoriums and racking up millions of YouTube views with 'Start With Why', he was a marketing consultant struggling to articulate his own ideas. His breakthrough came not from flashy delivery, but from simplifying his message into a single, powerful framework. That clarity made him relatable. His talk at TEDxPugetSound wasn't even on the main TED stage, yet it became one of the most-watched TED Talks of all time.
Then there's Lisa Nichols. She went from a single mom on public assistance to a globally recognized motivational speaker. Her early talks were raw and emotional, not perfectly polished. But that vulnerability became her superpower. She connected deeply with audiences by sharing her journey with honesty and passion. Her story shows that authenticity often trumps perfection.
In the tech world, Guy Kawasaki stands out. As a former Apple evangelist, he's known for his engaging, no-nonsense presentations. He popularized the '10/20/30 Rule' for PowerPoint: 10 slides, 20 minutes, 30-point font. His style is practical and audience-focused, which makes him a favorite at startup events and business schools alike.
And let's not forget Muniba Mazari from Pakistan. After a car accident left her paralyzed, she used public speaking to advocate for disability rights and women's empowerment. Her talks blend personal story with social impact, proving that powerful messages can come from any corner of the world.
These speakers didn't follow a single formula. They found their voice, refined their message, and connected with audiences in ways that felt true to them. That's the real takeaway: success in public speaking isn't about fitting a mold. It's about finding your own rhythm and showing up with purpose.
Future trends for presentation skills public speaking speakers
First, hybrid and virtual formats are here to stay. Even as in-person events return, many conferences are keeping a virtual option. That means speakers need to master both stage presence and screen presence. It's not just about standing in front of a webcam anymore. You need to understand lighting, camera angles, and how to engage an audience that's not physically in the room.
Second, audiences are demanding more interactivity. Passive listening is out. Tools like Slido, Mentimeter, and live polls are becoming standard. Speakers who can weave audience input into their talks in real time will stand out. Think of it less like a monologue, more like a guided conversation.
Third, niche expertise is gaining traction. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, successful speakers are going deep into specific topics. Whether it's AI ethics, regenerative agriculture, or neurodiverse leadership, the demand for subject-matter depth is growing. Generalists are being replaced by specialists who can offer real insight.
Here are a few key trends to watch:
- AI-assisted speech coaching: Tools like Yoodli and Orai are helping speakers refine tone, pacing, and filler words using real-time feedback.
- Micro-events and community stages: Smaller, local events are becoming powerful platforms for emerging voices.
- Global accessibility: With translation tech improving, speakers can now reach multilingual audiences more effectively.
- Authenticity over polish: Audiences are tuning out overly rehearsed talks. They want real, relatable stories.
In short, the future favors speakers who are adaptable, tech-savvy, and deeply connected to their message. If you can blend substance with style and stay open to new formats, you'll be ahead of the curve.
Tools and resources for aspiring presentation skills public speaking speakers
1. Talks.co. This is a smart platform for connecting podcast hosts with potential guests. If you're looking to build your speaker profile, podcasts are a great entry point. Talks.co helps you pitch yourself to the right shows based on your expertise.
2. Yoodli. Think of it as your AI-powered speaking coach. It gives you feedback on your pace, filler words, eye contact, and more. Great for practicing before a live event or virtual talk.
3. SpeakerHub. A directory and marketplace where speakers can list their profiles and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for niche experts and emerging voices.
4. Canva. Not just for social media graphics. Canva's presentation templates are clean, modern, and easy to customize. Perfect for building slide decks that don't look like they were made in 2002.
5. Toastmasters International. A classic for a reason. Local clubs around the world offer a supportive environment to practice public speaking and get structured feedback. Especially helpful for beginners.
6. TED Masterclass. This course walks you through the TED-style talk format, with insights from actual TED coaches. It's not just theory either... you'll get frameworks and exercises to refine your message.
7. Notion. Use it to organize your talk outlines, rehearse scripts, and track speaking opportunities. It's flexible and great for managing your speaking business as it grows.
8. BigMarker. A robust webinar platform that's ideal if you're hosting your own virtual events or workshops. It supports interactive features and high-quality streaming.
Whether you're prepping for your first panel or scaling up to international keynotes, these tools can help you get there faster and smarter. Combine them with consistent practice and you'll be surprised how quickly your confidence grows.