Publishing Speakers

A publishing speaker is someone who shares expertise, insights, and strategies related to the publishing industry-whether that's traditional publishing, self-publishing, academic publishing, or digital content distribution. These speakers are typically authors, editors, agents, marketers, or publishing executives who have deep experience in the field and a knack for communicating that knowledge to an audience.

Unlike general speakers or motivational guests, publishing speakers focus specifically on the mechanics, trends, and business of publishing. They might talk about how to land a book deal, the rise of hybrid publishing, or how AI is changing editorial workflows. Their audiences can range from aspiring authors to corporate publishing teams, depending on the context.

You'll find publishing speakers at virtual summits, writing conferences, industry panels, and podcasts. Some are known for their thought leadership-like Mark Dawson in the indie space or Porter Anderson in publishing journalism. Others are more tactical, offering step-by-step guidance on things like book launches or rights licensing.

In short, a publishing speaker is someone who doesn't just work in publishing-they help others understand it, navigate it, and succeed in it. Whether they're on a stage or behind a mic, their role is to translate complex industry knowledge into actionable insights.

If you've ever tried to navigate the publishing world without guidance, you know how overwhelming it can be. That's where a publishing speaker becomes crucial-not just as a source of knowledge, but as a translator of industry complexity.

Publishing is evolving fast. From the rise of self-publishing platforms in India to the shift toward audio-first content in Scandinavia, the landscape is global and dynamic. A publishing speaker helps make sense of these changes. They contextualize trends, explain new tools, and help audiences understand how to adapt.

For event hosts, bringing in a publishing speaker adds credibility and depth. Whether you're running a podcast for indie authors or a virtual summit for literary agents, a speaker with real-world publishing experience can elevate your content. They bring authority, but also relatability-especially when they tailor their message to your specific audience.

They're also connectors. A good publishing speaker doesn't just talk at people-they engage, answer questions, and often spark collaborations. Their sessions can lead to new partnerships, book deals, or business ideas.

So if you're building a platform in the writing or publishing space, investing in the right speaker isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a strategic move that can drive engagement, education, and growth.

Publishing speakers wear many professional identities, but their core function is to educate, inform, and inspire audiences about the publishing industry. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Share Industry Expertise
- They present on topics like book marketing, editorial trends, distribution models, or rights management. For example, a speaker like Orna Ross might explain how blockchain could impact author royalties.

2. Tailor Content to Specific Audiences
- Whether they're speaking to first-time authors, publishing startups, or academic editors, they adjust their message to match the audience's needs and knowledge level.

3. Participate in Events and Media
- Publishing speakers appear on webinars, podcasts, conferences, and virtual summits. They might deliver keynote talks, join panel discussions, or lead workshops.

4. Provide Actionable Takeaways
- They don't just talk theory. Great publishing speakers offer frameworks, tools, and next steps. For instance, they might walk through a book launch checklist or explain how to pitch to a literary agent.

5. Engage in Thought Leadership
- Many also write blogs, publish whitepapers, or contribute to industry publications. Their speaking engagements often reflect their broader role as influencers in the publishing ecosystem.

In essence, publishing speakers are translators of industry knowledge. They bridge the gap between insider expertise and public understanding, helping others navigate the publishing world with more clarity and confidence.

Becoming a publishing speaker isn't just about knowing how to write or publish a book. It's about sharing insights that help others navigate the publishing world. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Define Your Niche.
- Are you an expert in self-publishing, traditional publishing, hybrid models, or digital publishing?
- Narrowing your focus helps you stand out. For example, if you specialize in helping indie authors get their first book on Amazon, make that your hook.

2. Build Your Authority.
- Publish your own work. Whether it's a book, a whitepaper, or a blog series, show that you walk the talk.
- Get featured on podcasts, write guest posts, or contribute to industry publications like Writer's Digest or The Creative Penn.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a short video clip.
- Make it easy for event organizers to find and book you.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Offer to speak at local writing groups, online summits, or niche webinars. These smaller gigs help you refine your message.
- Record your talks and collect feedback to improve.

5. Connect With Hosts and Organizers.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts actively looking for speakers.
- Reach out directly to conference planners, podcast hosts, or virtual summit organizers. Personalize your pitch and highlight how your talk benefits their audience.

6. Package Your Talks.
- Develop 2-3 signature talks. For example: 'How to Land a Traditional Book Deal in 2024' or 'Self-Publishing Secrets for First-Time Authors.'
- Include clear takeaways and outcomes for attendees.

7. Promote Yourself.
- Share snippets of your talks on LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube.
- Use email marketing to let your audience know where you're speaking next.

Remember, every publishing speaker started somewhere. The key is consistency, clarity, and connecting with the right people.

To be a publishing speaker, you need more than just a background in writing or publishing. You need a blend of credibility, communication skills, and a platform that amplifies your voice. Let's break it down:

Expertise in Publishing
You must have real-world experience in the publishing industry. This could be as an author, editor, literary agent, or publishing consultant. Your insights should come from actual practice, not just theory. For instance, if you've successfully self-published a book that hit bestseller lists, that's a story worth sharing.

A Clear Message
What's your unique angle? Maybe you specialize in helping underrepresented voices get published, or you've cracked the code on Amazon algorithms. Your message should solve a problem or offer a new perspective. Clarity here makes your talk memorable.

Public Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TEDx-level speaker right away, but you do need to communicate clearly and confidently. Practice helps. Join a local Toastmasters group or rehearse with peers. Record yourself and review your delivery.

A Speaker Platform
Having a speaker page is crucial. Tools like Talks.co make it easy to showcase your topics, bio, and speaking reel. This acts as your digital resume for event organizers.

Networking and Outreach
You'll need to connect with event hosts, summit organizers, and podcast producers. Talks.co can help you find and pitch to the right people. But also leverage LinkedIn, Facebook groups, and industry forums.

Optional but Powerful: Testimonials and Media Features
If you've spoken before, collect testimonials. If you've been featured in media (like Forbes, Medium, or niche publishing blogs), highlight that. Social proof builds trust.

Bottom line: being a publishing speaker is about combining your publishing know-how with a strong message and the tools to share it widely.

Yes, publishing speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, niche, audience size, and format of the event. Let's break it down analytically:
1. Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Many new publishing speakers start with unpaid opportunities like podcasts, webinars, or local meetups. These are great for exposure.
- As you build credibility, you can start charging for keynotes, workshops, and panels.
2. Types of Events That Pay
- Corporate Events: Publishing consultants or experts who speak at corporate training events or publishing houses often earn higher fees.
- Industry Conferences: Events like Digital Book World or Writer's Digest Conference may offer honorariums or travel stipends.
- Virtual Summits: Some summits pay speakers, especially if they're monetized through ticket sales or upsells.
3. Payment Models
- Flat Fee: A one-time payment for your talk.
- Revenue Share: You get a cut of ticket or course sales.
- Lead Generation: You speak for free but gain access to a targeted audience for your services.
4. Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Exposure to niche audiences	Not all events pay
Potential for backend sales	Travel costs (if in-person)
Builds authority	Time-consuming prep

So yes, publishing speakers can and do get paid, especially when they position themselves as experts who bring real value to the stage.

Publishing speakers have multiple income streams, and the smartest ones diversify. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most direct method. Experienced speakers charge anywhere from $500 to $10,000+ per talk, depending on the event and their reputation. For example, a speaker at a major publishing conference like London Book Fair might command a higher fee than one at a local writers' meetup.

2. Workshops and Trainings
Many publishing speakers offer half-day or full-day workshops. These can be in-person or virtual. Topics might include 'How to Pitch Your Book to Agents' or 'Building a Book Launch Strategy.' These sessions often bring in $1,000 to $5,000 per event.

3. Online Courses and Digital Products
Speakers often turn their talks into courses. Think Teachable or Kajabi. A talk on 'Self-Publishing for Beginners' can become a $197 course. Some bundle these with coaching or templates.

4. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
If you recommend tools like Scrivener or Reedsy during your talks, you can earn affiliate commissions. Some speakers also get sponsored by publishing platforms or software companies.

5. Book Sales and Consulting
Many publishing speakers are authors themselves. Speaking gigs drive book sales. Others offer consulting packages to help clients publish their books, often at $2,000 to $10,000 per client.

6. Lead Generation for Services
Even if a speaking gig is unpaid, it can generate leads for high-ticket services like ghostwriting, editing, or publishing strategy.

Smart publishing speakers treat their talks as both a revenue stream and a marketing funnel. The key is to align your talk with a clear offer or next step.

Publishing speakers' earnings vary widely based on experience, niche, and audience size. Let's look at the numbers:
1. Entry-Level Speakers
- These are authors or publishing professionals just starting out.
- Typical earnings: $0 to $500 per talk.
- Most income comes from backend offers like book sales or coaching.
2. Mid-Level Speakers
- Have a few years of experience and a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co).
- Typical earnings: $500 to $2,500 per talk.
- Often speak at niche conferences, summits, or corporate workshops.
3. High-Level Speakers
- These are well-known authors, publishing consultants, or thought leaders.
- Typical earnings: $3,000 to $10,000+ per keynote.
- Also earn from licensing content, online courses, and consulting.
4. Additional Income Sources

Source	Potential Monthly Earnings
Online Courses	$1,000 to $20,000
Consulting	$2,000 to $15,000
Affiliate Revenue	$200 to $5,000

5. Real-World Examples
- Joanna Penn, a self-publishing expert, earns from speaking, courses, and book royalties.
- Jane Friedman, a publishing industry veteran, charges for workshops and keynotes while also selling digital products.
So, how much do publishing speakers make? It depends on how you package your expertise. The best ones treat speaking as part of a larger business ecosystem.

Hiring a publishing speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:

1. Speaker Experience Level
- New or Local Speakers: $0 to $500. Often speak for exposure or to promote their book or service.
- Mid-Level Experts: $500 to $2,500. These speakers usually have a few published works and a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co.
- High-Profile Speakers: $3,000 to $10,000+. These are bestselling authors or industry leaders with a strong following.

2. Type of Event
- Podcasts and Webinars: Often free or under $500. Many speakers do these for lead generation.
- Workshops and Trainings: $1,000 to $5,000. Includes prep time, materials, and sometimes travel.
- Keynotes at Conferences: $2,500 to $10,000+. Pricing depends on the size and prestige of the event.

3. Additional Costs
- Travel and Accommodation: If the event is in-person, expect to cover flights, hotel, and per diem.
- Custom Content: If you ask for a tailored talk or workshop, that may add $500 to $2,000 to the fee.

4. Virtual vs. In-Person
- Virtual talks are generally cheaper. A $5,000 in-person keynote might cost $2,000 virtually.

5. Package Deals
- Some speakers offer bundled services: a keynote, breakout session, and post-event Q&A for a flat rate.

In short, the cost of a publishing speaker depends on what you need and who you hire. Always check their speaker page and reviews before booking.

Here's a curated list of some of the most impactful publishing speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped how we think about writing, publishing, and storytelling:

- Seth Godin: Marketing guru and author of 'The Dip' and 'Purple Cow'. His talks on self-publishing and the future of books have inspired thousands.

- Joanna Penn: A pioneer in the self-publishing space. Her talks blend practical advice with big-picture thinking about the future of authorship.

- Jane Friedman: Former publisher at Writer's Digest and a leading voice in digital publishing. Her talks are data-rich and deeply insightful.

- Dan Poynter: Often called the 'father of self-publishing'. His seminars and books laid the foundation for the indie publishing movement.

- Guy Kawasaki: Former Apple evangelist and author of 'APE: Author, Publisher, Entrepreneur'. He's known for his energetic talks on author branding and book marketing.

- Elizabeth Gilbert: While best known as the author of 'Eat, Pray, Love', her TED talks on creativity and writing have reached millions.

- Malcolm Gladwell: His storytelling style and insights into publishing trends make him a favorite at literary and business events.

- Tim Ferriss: Author of 'The 4-Hour Workweek'. He's spoken extensively about book launches, publishing hacks, and audience building.

- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Her TED talk 'The Danger of a Single Story' is one of the most viewed ever and highlights the power of narrative.

- Neil Gaiman: A master storyteller whose talks on writing and publishing are both poetic and practical.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but have also influenced the publishing industry in meaningful ways.

Looking for top-tier publishing speakers making waves globally right now? Here are some of the best in the world today, known for their insights, delivery, and influence:

- Joanna Penn (UK): Host of The Creative Penn podcast, she speaks globally on self-publishing, AI in writing, and author entrepreneurship.

- Mark Dawson (UK): A bestselling indie author who speaks on email marketing, Facebook ads, and building a reader base. Co-founder of Self Publishing Formula.

- Jane Friedman (USA): A go-to expert on publishing trends. She speaks at major conferences like Digital Book World and Frankfurt Book Fair.

- Orna Ross (Ireland): Founder of the Alliance of Independent Authors. Her talks focus on creative entrepreneurship and indie publishing.

- Chandler Bolt (USA): CEO of Self-Publishing School. Known for high-energy talks on writing and launching books fast.

- Ricardo Fayet (France): Co-founder of Reedsy. He frequently speaks on publishing tech, author tools, and global market trends.

- Sacha Black (UK): Known for her talks on writing craft and branding for authors. She's a favorite at writing summits and podcasts.

- Nina Amir (USA): Author of 'How to Blog a Book'. She speaks on nonfiction publishing and platform building.

- Tim Grahl (USA): Book marketing strategist who's worked with top authors like Daniel Pink and Hugh Howey. His talks are tactical and data-driven.

- Emeka Ossai (Canada/Nigeria): A rising voice in Kindle publishing and passive income strategies. Popular in digital nomad and entrepreneur circles.

These publishing speakers are actively shaping the conversation around books, authorship, and publishing in the digital age. Whether you're organizing a summit or looking to learn, these names are worth following.

Myth 1: Publishing speakers only talk about writing books.
This is a narrow view. While many publishing speakers do cover topics like self-publishing, traditional publishing, or hybrid models, the field is much broader. Publishing speakers often dive into marketing strategies, intellectual property rights, digital distribution, and even the business of building an author brand. For example, Joanna Penn frequently speaks on AI in publishing and how authors can future-proof their careers-not just how to write a book.

Myth 2: You need to be a bestselling author to become a publishing speaker.
Not true. While having a bestselling title can boost credibility, many successful publishing speakers have built their authority through niche expertise, consistent content creation, or coaching others. Take Ricardo Fayet from Reedsy-he's not a household name author, but he's a sought-after speaker because of his deep knowledge of publishing tools and author marketing.

Myth 3: Speaking gigs in publishing are only at big conferences.
Actually, many publishing speakers get their start through webinars, virtual summits, podcasts, and local writing groups. Especially post-2020, virtual events have created more opportunities than ever. Platforms like Talks.co help connect speakers with podcast hosts and event organizers, making it easier to get booked without waiting for a big-stage invite.

Myth 4: You have to be traditionally published to be taken seriously.
This is outdated thinking. The rise of indie publishing has shifted the landscape. Speakers like Mark Dawson and Orna Ross have built massive followings and speaking careers based on their self-publishing success. In fact, many event organizers now look for speakers who can share real-world, entrepreneurial publishing journeys-not just legacy publishing stories.

Myth 5: Publishing speakers don't make real money.
This depends on how you structure your business. Many publishing speakers monetize through coaching, online courses, affiliate partnerships, and book bundles. Some use speaking as a lead-generation tool rather than a direct income stream. For example, someone might speak at a virtual summit and then convert attendees into clients for their book marketing service. It's not just about the speaker fee-it's about the ecosystem you build around it.

When you think of a publishing speaker, you might picture someone standing on a stage at a writers' conference, mic in hand, talking about book deals. But the paths to success in this niche are as varied as the stories being told.

Take Orna Ross, for instance. As the founder of the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi), she's become a global voice for self-publishing. Her talks go beyond the mechanics of publishing-they explore the mindset of the indie author, the economics of creative entrepreneurship, and the ethics of publishing in a digital world. She's spoken at events across Europe and North America, often drawing from her own experience as both a traditionally published and self-published author.

Then there's Ricardo Fayet, co-founder of Reedsy. He didn't start as a speaker. He built a platform that connected authors with editors and designers. But as Reedsy grew, so did the demand for his insights. Ricardo now speaks at publishing events and webinars, offering data-backed advice on book marketing, Amazon algorithms, and reader psychology. His talks are practical, tech-savvy, and grounded in real user behavior.

In the U.S., Jane Friedman has carved out a unique space. With a background in media and publishing, she's become a go-to speaker for writers navigating the modern publishing landscape. Her sessions are known for being brutally honest yet deeply empowering. Whether she's on a podcast or a conference stage, Jane brings clarity to complex topics like contracts, royalties, and platform building.

And let's not forget speakers from outside the English-speaking world. In India, author-publisher Chetan Bhagat has used his platform to speak about the intersection of publishing and pop culture. His talks resonate with younger audiences and often address how publishing can be democratized in emerging markets.

These stories show that there's no one-size-fits-all route to becoming a successful publishing speaker. Whether you're building a tech tool, writing books, or advocating for a movement, if you've got insights and a clear voice, there's a stage for you.

So what's next for publishing speakers? The landscape is shifting, and those who adapt will find more opportunities than ever. Here's what's coming down the pipeline:

- Virtual-first events are the new normal. Even as in-person conferences return, hybrid and virtual formats are sticking around. This means publishing speakers can now reach global audiences without leaving their home office. Expect more summits, webinars, and podcast tours.

- AI and automation will be hot topics. Tools like ChatGPT, Sudowrite, and Jasper are changing how books are written and marketed. Publishing speakers who can explain these tools, their ethical implications, and how authors can use them responsibly will be in high demand.

- Micro-niche expertise will win. Generalist talks are losing traction. Event organizers want speakers who can dive deep into specific areas-like TikTok for authors, Amazon A+ content, or foreign rights licensing. If you've got niche knowledge, now's the time to own it.

- Global perspectives are gaining traction. Audiences are hungry for insights beyond the U.S. and U.K. markets. Speakers who can share publishing trends from Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia will stand out. Cross-border collaboration is becoming a key theme.

- Creator economy crossover. Publishing is no longer isolated. Speakers who can bridge the gap between publishing and platforms like Substack, Patreon, or YouTube will have an edge. Think of how Ali Abdaal or Sahil Bloom talk about content ecosystems-publishing speakers can take a similar approach.

In short, the future belongs to publishing speakers who are agile, tech-aware, and globally minded. If you're just starting out, focus on building a unique perspective and staying ahead of the curve. There's room for new voices-especially those who bring fresh angles to the table.

Talks.co. This platform helps match speakers with podcast hosts and event organizers. It's especially useful for publishing speakers looking to break into the virtual speaking circuit. Tip: Optimize your profile with keywords like 'self-publishing', 'author marketing', or 'book launch strategy' to get discovered faster.

Reedsy. Beyond being a marketplace for publishing professionals, Reedsy offers free courses and webinars on everything from book formatting to marketing funnels. Aspiring speakers can use these to sharpen their expertise and even find speaking opportunities through their network.

SpeakerHub. A directory and booking platform where you can list your speaker profile. It's used by event organizers worldwide. Pro tip: Include a short video clip of you speaking-even if it's just a well-edited Zoom call-to boost your chances of getting booked.

Jane Friedman's Blog. A goldmine of insights on the publishing industry. If you're looking to stay informed and reference credible trends in your talks, this is a must-read. Bonus: Jane occasionally posts calls for speakers or guest contributors.

Slidebean. If you're not a designer but want slick slides for your presentations, Slidebean is a lifesaver. It uses AI to help structure your content and make it visually appealing. Great for webinars or pitch decks.

Eventbrite. Not just for finding events to attend-search for publishing-related events and reach out to organizers offering to speak. Smaller local or virtual events are often looking for fresh voices.

LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your speaking topics, post thought leadership content, and attract event organizers. Use hashtags like #publishingtips or #authorbranding to get noticed.