Publicity Speakers

A publicity speaker is someone who appears on podcasts, virtual summits, webinars, and other media platforms to share their expertise, promote their brand, and build authority. Unlike keynote speakers who are typically hired for live events or conferences, publicity speakers focus on earned media appearances to reach new audiences and grow their visibility.

They're often entrepreneurs, authors, coaches, or thought leaders who have a specific message or story to tell. Their goal isn't just to entertain-it's to educate, inspire, and drive action. That might mean getting listeners to download a free resource, sign up for a webinar, or simply follow them on social media.

What sets publicity speakers apart is their strategic approach. They don't just show up and talk. They tailor their message to each show's audience, align their talking points with their brand goals, and often use a speaker page or media kit to make booking easy for hosts.

In today's digital-first world, being a publicity speaker is one of the most cost-effective ways to build trust and credibility at scale. Whether you're launching a product, growing your email list, or establishing yourself as a thought leader, this role can be a powerful piece of your marketing puzzle.

And thanks to platforms like Talks.co, it's easier than ever to connect with hosts, manage bookings, and track your media appearances in one place.

When you're trying to grow your brand, trust is everything-and that's where a publicity speaker comes in. They serve as a bridge between your message and the audiences you want to reach, especially in a world where attention is fragmented and skepticism is high.

One of the biggest advantages of being-or hiring-a publicity speaker is third-party credibility. When someone appears on a respected podcast or summit, they're being endorsed by the host. That borrowed trust can open doors faster than any ad campaign. Think about how authors like Mel Robbins or business leaders like Neil Patel use interviews to build authority and drive engagement.

Publicity speakers also help diversify your marketing strategy. Instead of relying solely on paid ads or social media, you're tapping into new audiences who are already engaged and interested. It's a smart move for startups, solo entrepreneurs, and even corporate teams looking to humanize their brand.

Plus, these appearances have long-term value. A podcast interview can live online for years, continuing to generate leads and visibility long after the initial recording. That's a level of ROI that few other channels can match.

In short, a publicity speaker isn't just a guest-they're a strategic asset. Whether you're building a personal brand or scaling a business, their role in amplifying your message is both timely and essential.

Publicity speakers don't just show up and talk-they show up with purpose. Their role is to represent a brand, message, or mission across various media platforms in a way that resonates with the audience and delivers measurable value.

Here's what they actually do:

- Craft a Compelling Message. Publicity speakers develop a clear, concise narrative that aligns with their brand and speaks directly to the audience's needs. This often includes a signature story, key takeaways, and a call to action.

- Tailor Content to Each Platform. Whether it's a podcast, virtual summit, or live webinar, they adjust their tone, timing, and topics to fit the format and audience. What works on a business podcast might not land the same way on a lifestyle show.

- Promote Their Appearances. Great publicity speakers don't just rely on the host to do all the marketing. They share the episode with their own audience, tag the host, and often repurpose the content into social posts, blog articles, or email campaigns.

- Build Relationships with Hosts. They understand that every appearance is a networking opportunity. They follow up, stay in touch, and often get invited back-or referred to other shows.

- Track Results and Optimize. Many publicity speakers use tools to monitor downloads, engagement, and conversions from each appearance. This helps them refine their message and focus on the platforms that drive the most ROI.

From tech founders in Silicon Valley to wellness coaches in rural Australia, publicity speakers are using this strategy to grow their reach, build authority, and connect with audiences in a meaningful way. It's not just about being seen-it's about being remembered.

Becoming a publicity speaker isn't just about having something to say - it's about knowing how to say it, where to say it, and who to say it to. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- What unique perspective do you bring? Are you an expert in branding, media relations, or crisis communication? The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out.
- Tip: Look at successful publicity speakers like Selena Soo or Chris Winfield. They've built their careers around specific angles of publicity.

2. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Your speaker page is your digital business card. It should include a compelling bio, professional headshots, past speaking engagements, testimonials, and a clear call to action.
- Tools like Talks.co make this easy. You can create a speaker profile that connects directly with event hosts looking for experts in your field.

3. Create Signature Talks.
- Develop 1-2 signature presentations that showcase your expertise. These should solve a problem or deliver a transformation for your audience.
- Example: A talk titled 'How to Get Featured in Forbes Without a PR Agency' is specific, actionable, and relevant.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Begin with podcasts, virtual summits, or local events. These are great platforms to refine your message and build credibility.
- Use Talks.co to pitch yourself to summit organizers or podcast hosts. It's a great way to get booked without cold outreach.

5. Collect Social Proof.
- After each talk, ask for testimonials, record clips, and gather screenshots of audience feedback. These are gold for your speaker page and future pitches.

6. Network and Collaborate.
- Join speaker communities, attend virtual events, and connect with other experts. Collaboration often leads to more stage time.

Becoming a publicity speaker is a process, but with the right tools and strategy, you can fast-track your way to the mic.

To be a publicity speaker, you need more than just a good story. You need a combination of expertise, positioning, and visibility. Let's break it down:

Expertise in Publicity
You need to understand the mechanics of media exposure. This includes how to pitch to journalists, how to craft a compelling press angle, and how to leverage media wins for long-term brand growth. Whether your background is in PR, marketing, or entrepreneurship, your insights should be rooted in real-world experience.

A Clear Personal Brand
Publicity speakers are often booked because of their unique voice and perspective. Your personal brand should reflect your values, your niche, and your audience. Think about how Gary Vaynerchuk or Marie Forleo use their distinct styles to stand out - they're not just experts, they're personalities.

A Speaker Platform
You'll need a professional speaker page that showcases your credibility. This includes:
- A strong bio with media mentions.
- A list of past speaking engagements.
- Video clips of you speaking.
- Testimonials from hosts or attendees.

Platforms like Talks.co make this easy by helping you build a speaker profile that connects directly with event organizers. It's a smart way to get discovered without relying on an agent.

An Outreach Strategy
You can't wait for invitations. You need to proactively pitch yourself to podcasts, virtual summits, and conferences. Having a media kit, a list of talk topics, and a clear value proposition makes this process smoother.

Confidence and Delivery Skills
Finally, you need to be able to deliver. Whether you're speaking on a virtual stage or in-person, your message should be clear, engaging, and actionable. Practice, feedback, and coaching can help refine your delivery.

So, what do you need to be a publicity speaker? A mix of authority, branding, tools, and hustle. With the right foundation, you can turn your publicity know-how into a powerful speaking platform.

Yes, publicity speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's take a closer look at the landscape:

Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Many publicity speakers start with unpaid gigs, especially on podcasts or virtual summits, to build credibility and exposure.
- As your reputation grows, you can command fees ranging from $500 to $10,000+ per talk, depending on your niche, audience size, and results you can promise.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience: New speakers often speak for free or in exchange for exposure. Seasoned speakers with a track record of results can charge premium rates.
- Audience Size: Speaking to a small mastermind group might pay less than a keynote at a major marketing conference.
- Format: Virtual events often pay less than in-person keynotes, but they offer scalability and global reach.

Data Snapshot
According to SpeakerHub and other industry sources:
- 38% of speakers earn under $1,000 per engagement.
- 27% earn between $1,000 and $5,000.
- Top-tier speakers can earn $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.

Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Speaking can lead to high-ticket clients, media exposure, and partnerships.
- You can repurpose talks into courses, books, or coaching programs.
- Cons:
- It takes time to get paid gigs.
- Travel and prep time can be significant.

In short, yes, publicity speakers get paid - but it's often a mix of direct fees and indirect income. As you build your brand and results, the money follows.

Publicity speakers generate income in multiple ways, and it's not just about collecting a speaker fee. Let's break down the revenue streams:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most direct method. Event organizers pay publicity speakers to deliver keynotes, workshops, or breakout sessions. Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event prestige.

2. Product or Service Promotion
Many speakers use their stage time to promote:
- Online courses (e.g., a course on DIY PR).
- Consulting services (e.g., media coaching).
- Books or eBooks.

Example: A speaker might give a free talk at a virtual summit but offer a $997 course at the end. Even a 2% conversion from a 1,000-person audience can generate $20,000.

3. Affiliate Marketing
Some speakers promote tools or platforms they use (like media databases or PR software) and earn a commission. This works well in webinars or podcast interviews.

4. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
If a speaker has a strong personal brand, companies may pay them to mention or endorse their services during a talk.

5. Licensing and Repurposing Content
Speakers can license their talks to training platforms or companies. They can also turn talks into:
- Blog posts.
- YouTube videos.
- Lead magnets for email lists.

6. Hosting Their Own Events
Some publicity speakers flip the model and host their own summits or workshops. Using platforms like Talks.co, they can bring in other experts, charge for access, and build their own audience.

In essence, publicity speakers make money through a blend of direct fees and strategic monetization. The smartest ones treat speaking as a marketing channel, not just a paycheck.

The income of publicity speakers varies widely, depending on their niche, experience, and business model. Let's look at the numbers:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per talk.
- Often speak for free to build credibility, collect testimonials, and grow their audience.
- May generate income indirectly through leads or product sales.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per engagement.
- Usually have a strong speaker page, some media coverage, and a few signature talks.
- Often get booked through platforms like Talks.co or speaker bureaus.
High-Level Speakers
- Can command $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- Often have bestselling books, major media appearances, or a large social following.
- Example: Someone like Amy Porterfield or Pat Flynn, who blend publicity with marketing expertise.
Annual Income Ranges

Speaker Level	Estimated Annual Income
Beginner	$5,000 - $20,000
Intermediate	$30,000 - $100,000
Advanced	$100,000 - $500,000+

Variables That Affect Income
- Number of talks per year.
- Whether talks are paid or lead to backend sales.
- Industry demand (e.g., tech conferences vs. local business meetups).
So, how much do publicity speakers make? It depends on how you position yourself, how often you speak, and how well you monetize beyond the mic.

Hiring a publicity speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors. Here's a breakdown:
1. Speaker Experience Level
- New Speakers: $0 to $1,000. Often speak for free or for exposure, especially at virtual events.
- Mid-Tier Speakers: $1,000 to $5,000. These speakers have a few notable appearances and a solid speaker page.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $10,000 to $50,000+. These are industry leaders, bestselling authors, or media personalities.
2. Type of Event
- Podcasts and Online Summits: Often free or low-cost, especially if the speaker is promoting a product.
- Corporate Events or Conferences: Higher fees due to larger budgets and expectations.
- Workshops or Trainings: May include day rates ($2,000 to $15,000) or package deals.
3. Format and Location
- Virtual Talks: Typically cost less due to no travel.
- In-Person Keynotes: Include travel, prep time, and sometimes accommodation.
4. Additional Costs
- Travel and lodging (if not covered by the host).
- Customization fees for tailored content.
- Licensing fees if the talk is recorded and reused.
Sample Cost Table

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Talk
Beginner	Free - $500	$500 - $1,500
Mid-Level	$1,000	$2,500 - $5,000
Top-Tier	$5,000+	$10,000+

In short, the cost of hiring a publicity speaker depends on their brand, the event type, and the value they bring to the audience. If you're a host, platforms like Talks.co can help you find speakers that match your budget and goals.

Oprah Winfrey: Known for her unmatched ability to shape public narratives, Oprah has spoken extensively on media, influence, and personal branding.

Gary Vaynerchuk: A master of self-promotion and digital PR, Gary Vee has delivered keynotes around the world on attention, branding, and media leverage.

Barbara Corcoran: The Shark Tank investor has built her brand on publicity and has spoken at countless business and PR events.

Richard Branson: While not a traditional PR expert, Branson's talks often focus on publicity stunts, media strategy, and brand storytelling.

Marie Forleo: Frequently speaks on visibility, personal branding, and how to get noticed in crowded markets.

Chris Winfield: Known as the 'Super Connector', he teaches entrepreneurs how to get media exposure without a PR firm.

Selena Soo: A publicity strategist who speaks about getting featured in top-tier media and building authority through visibility.

Brendon Burchard: Talks about thought leadership and how to use media to amplify your message.

Lisa Nichols: Combines motivational speaking with media savvy, often sharing how she leveraged publicity to grow her brand.

Jay Baer: A marketing and PR expert who frequently speaks on reputation, media, and brand trust.

Selena Soo (USA): A global authority on publicity strategy, known for helping entrepreneurs get featured in Forbes, Business Insider, and more.

Chris Winfield (USA): His media training workshops and talks have helped thousands of experts land press without traditional PR.

Janet Murray (UK): A former journalist turned speaker, Janet teaches how to pitch to the media and build a press-worthy brand.

Sabri Suby (Australia): While more known for marketing, Sabri often speaks on visibility and media positioning in the digital age.

Jasmine Star (USA): A branding expert who frequently speaks on how to use social media and PR to grow your business.

Amy Porterfield (USA): Known for her online marketing expertise, Amy often includes media strategy in her talks about audience growth.

Nathalie Lussier (Canada): A tech entrepreneur who speaks about visibility and digital PR for startups and solopreneurs.

Anita Roddick (UK): The late founder of The Body Shop, she used publicity as a core business strategy and spoke globally about ethical branding.

Neil Patel (USA/UK/India): Though primarily a marketer, Neil's talks often include PR tactics for global brand exposure.

Dorie Clark (USA): A branding expert who speaks on thought leadership, media strategy, and building a recognized voice in your industry.

Myth 1: Publicity speakers are just influencers with a mic.
This one pops up a lot, especially in the age of Instagram and TikTok. But here's the truth: being a publicity speaker isn't about racking up likes or followers. It's about crafting a message that resonates, aligns with media narratives, and drives visibility for a brand, cause, or idea. Unlike influencers, publicity speakers often work behind the scenes to shape public perception through strategic storytelling and media engagement. Think of someone like Lisa Nichols, who blends personal story with media-savvy messaging to amplify her impact across platforms.

Myth 2: You need to be famous to be a successful publicity speaker.
Nope. Fame can help, sure, but it's not a prerequisite. Many successful publicity speakers started with niche audiences and built their reputation through consistent value delivery and smart media positioning. Take Dorie Clark, for example. She carved out her space by writing for Harvard Business Review and gradually became a go-to expert in branding and thought leadership. She wasn't a household name when she started, but she used strategic visibility to get there.

Myth 3: Publicity speaking is all about self-promotion.
This is a common misunderstanding. While visibility is part of the game, the best publicity speakers focus on service and relevance. They ask: What does the audience need? What are the media looking for? How can I contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way? It's not about shouting the loudest, it's about showing up with substance. For example, in the nonprofit world, speakers like Reshma Saujani (founder of Girls Who Code) use their platform to advocate for systemic change-not just personal brand growth.

Myth 4: You have to be a natural extrovert.
Actually, many publicity speakers are introverts who have learned how to communicate effectively in public settings. The key is preparation, clarity, and message alignment. Susan Cain, author of 'Quiet', is a classic example. She's built a powerful speaking and media presence by leaning into her strengths as a thoughtful, reflective communicator. Publicity speaking is more about message mastery than personality type.

Myth 5: Publicity speaking is only for big-city professionals.
Not even close. With virtual summits, podcasts, and remote media appearances, geography is no longer a barrier. Speakers from rural areas, emerging markets, or underrepresented communities are finding platforms to share their expertise globally. The rise of digital media has democratized access to publicity opportunities for speakers everywhere.

When you look at how some of the most impactful publicity speakers got their start, patterns emerge-but so do surprises. Take Mel Robbins. She wasn't a media darling from day one. In fact, her breakout moment came from a TEDx talk that went viral. But what really set her apart was her ability to turn that visibility into a media strategy. She leveraged the momentum to land book deals, TV appearances, and a syndicated radio show. Her message? Simple, actionable, and media-friendly.

Then there's Jay Shetty, a former monk who transitioned into a global speaker and media personality. His approach was different: he created short, purpose-driven videos that gained traction on Facebook. That content caught the attention of major media outlets, and he parlayed that into interviews, speaking gigs, and eventually a bestselling book. His success wasn't accidental-it was built on a deep understanding of what stories resonate with audiences and editors alike.

In the business world, consider Bozoma Saint John. As a C-suite executive at companies like Uber and Netflix, she used her speaking opportunities to amplify brand narratives and personal authenticity. Her keynote at Apple's WWDC wasn't just a presentation-it was a masterclass in visibility. She didn't just speak to the room, she spoke to the world, and the media followed.

And let's not forget local-level success stories. In Australia, small business owner and speaker Jules Brooke built her profile through local radio and podcast appearances, eventually launching her own platform to help others do the same. She didn't wait for the media to find her-she created her own opportunities and became a go-to expert in PR for entrepreneurs.

Each of these speakers had a different path, but they all understood one thing: publicity isn't about being everywhere. It's about being in the right place, with the right message, at the right time. And when that happens, doors open.

Publicity speaking is shifting in ways that might surprise you. It's not just about keynotes and press interviews anymore. The future is more fragmented, more digital, and more personalized. Here's what to watch for:

- Rise of micro-media platforms. Podcasts, niche YouTube channels, and LinkedIn Lives are becoming go-to publicity vehicles. Speakers who can tailor their message to smaller, more engaged audiences will have an edge.
- AI-driven media targeting. Tools like Prowly and Muck Rack are already helping speakers identify journalists and outlets that align with their message. Expect AI to play a bigger role in matching speakers with the right media opportunities.
- Virtual-first visibility. Even as in-person events return, virtual summits and webinars are here to stay. Publicity speakers who can master both formats will be more versatile and in demand.
- Global-local hybridization. Speakers are learning to localize their message for different regions while maintaining global relevance. This is especially important for those targeting international media or multilingual audiences.
- Authenticity as currency. Audiences and media alike are craving realness. Overly polished, corporate-speak is losing ground to honest, story-driven messaging. Think Brené Brown's vulnerability meets Gary Vee's raw delivery.

In short, the next generation of publicity speakers will need to be part strategist, part storyteller, and part technologist. They'll need to understand how to craft a message that works across platforms, cultures, and formats. And they'll need to do it in a way that feels human, not scripted.

For those just starting out, this is actually great news. You don't need a massive PR budget or a big-stage resume. You just need clarity, consistency, and a willingness to adapt. The future is wide open for those who are ready to show up and speak up.

- Talks.co. A smart tool for connecting speakers with podcast hosts. Ideal for building visibility in niche markets. Tip: Use keyword filters to find shows aligned with your expertise.

- HARO (Help A Reporter Out). A classic, but still gold. Journalists post queries, and you pitch your expertise. Tip: Respond quickly and keep your pitch concise and quotable.

- Muck Rack. A media database and PR tool that helps you track journalists and get your story in front of the right people. Tip: Use it to research what reporters have written about your topic before pitching.

- Canva. For creating speaker one-sheets, media kits, and social promo graphics. Tip: Use their templates for consistency across platforms.

- Otter.ai. Transcribe your talks and interviews for repurposing into blog posts, articles, or social content. Tip: Highlight quotable soundbites for easy media snippets.

- LinkedIn Creator Mode. Not a tool per se, but a feature that boosts your visibility as a thought leader. Tip: Use the 'Featured' section to showcase your media appearances.

- Virtual Summit Mastery. A course and community focused on building authority through virtual events. Tip: Even if you're not hosting, understanding how summits work helps you pitch yourself as a speaker.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, these tools can help you build credibility, connect with the right media, and get your message heard. Combine them with a clear pitch and a strong point of view, and you're well on your way.