Retirement Planning Speakers

A retirement planning speaker is a financial education expert who delivers talks, workshops, or presentations focused on preparing individuals for life after full-time work. These speakers combine financial knowledge with communication skills to help audiences understand and take action on retirement-related topics.

At their core, retirement planning speakers are educators. They break down complex subjects like 401(k)s, pensions, Social Security, healthcare costs, and estate planning into digestible, actionable insights. But unlike traditional financial advisors who work one-on-one, these speakers engage groups-whether it's a corporate seminar, a virtual summit, or a podcast episode.

They often come from diverse backgrounds: some are certified financial planners (CFPs), others are retirement coaches, economists, or former executives. What unites them is their ability to translate financial strategy into real-life impact.

You'll find retirement planning speakers at industry conferences, HR wellness programs, online summits, and even YouTube channels. Their goal? To empower people with the knowledge and confidence to make smart retirement decisions-whether they're 30 or 60.

In short, a retirement planning speaker is someone who helps people prepare for the future by making money talk feel human, relevant, and motivating.

When people think about retirement, they often focus on the numbers-savings goals, investment returns, withdrawal rates. But here's the thing: most people don't act on that knowledge unless it's delivered in a way that resonates. That's where a retirement planning speaker becomes essential.

First, they bridge the gap between information and action. Financial literacy is still shockingly low in many parts of the world. A speaker who can explain compound interest or tax strategies in plain English can make the difference between someone retiring comfortably or struggling later in life.

Second, they bring context to the conversation. Retirement looks different in Tokyo than it does in Toronto. A good speaker tailors their message to the cultural, economic, and generational realities of their audience. For example, a speaker addressing millennials in the gig economy will focus on different strategies than one speaking to corporate executives nearing retirement.

Third, they create a sense of urgency. Retirement may feel far off, but speakers help people understand the cost of waiting. They use stories, stats, and examples to show how early planning leads to better outcomes.

Finally, they inspire confidence. Many people feel overwhelmed by financial decisions. A retirement planning speaker can make the process feel manageable, even exciting. They shift the mindset from fear to empowerment.

In a world where financial products are complex and misinformation is everywhere, these speakers play a crucial role in helping people take control of their future.

Retirement planning speakers educate, motivate, and guide audiences through the maze of financial decisions that come with preparing for life after work. Their job isn't just to inform-it's to inspire action and build confidence.

Here's what they typically do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They speak at conferences, summits, corporate events, or webinars. Topics might include retirement income strategies, tax planning, healthcare costs, or mindset shifts for post-career life.

- Tailor Content to Specific Audiences. Whether they're talking to Gen Z freelancers or Baby Boomer executives, they adjust their tone, examples, and advice to match the audience's stage of life and financial literacy.

- Break Down Complex Concepts. From explaining Roth conversions to navigating Medicare, they make the complicated stuff simple. They use analogies, visuals, and real-life stories to make the content stick.

- Promote Financial Wellness. Many retirement planning speakers work with HR departments or wellness programs to help employees plan early. This can reduce stress and improve workplace productivity.

- Engage Across Platforms. Beyond live events, they often create content for podcasts, YouTube, online courses, or social media. This helps them reach wider audiences and build trust over time.

In essence, retirement planning speakers are translators. They take the language of finance and turn it into something people can understand, relate to, and act on. And in doing so, they help people build a future they actually look forward to.

Becoming a retirement planning speaker isn't just about knowing how 401(k)s work or understanding tax-deferred growth. It's about turning your expertise into a message that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche.
- Retirement planning is broad. Are you focused on Gen X professionals, small business owners, or women nearing retirement? The more specific, the better.
- Example: A speaker who tailors talks to healthcare workers nearing retirement will stand out more than someone who just says 'I help people retire.'

2. Build Your Expertise.
- You don't need to be a CFP (Certified Financial Planner), but credentials help. Consider certifications, writing articles, or publishing a book.
- Tip: Start a blog or podcast to share your insights. This builds authority and gives you content to share with event organizers.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel.
- Pro tip: Keep your intro video under 2 minutes. Focus on who you help, how you help, and why you're different.

4. Connect with Event Hosts.
- Reach out to retirement expos, HR conferences, financial wellness webinars, and even local libraries. Use Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for speakers in your niche.
- Example: A virtual summit for remote workers nearing retirement could be a great fit.

5. Practice and Refine Your Talk.
- Start small. Offer free workshops or webinars to test your material. Gather feedback and iterate.
- Tip: Record every talk. Use clips for your speaker reel and learn what resonates with your audience.

6. Get Testimonials and Referrals.
- After each event, ask for a testimonial. These build credibility fast.
- Bonus: Ask the host if they know other organizers who might need a speaker like you.

This path isn't overnight, but with consistency and clarity, you'll build momentum. And once you're listed on platforms like Talks.co, opportunities start coming to you.

To be a retirement planning speaker, you need more than just financial knowledge. You need credibility, communication skills, and a platform that helps you connect with the right audiences. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't have to be a licensed financial advisor, but you do need to understand retirement planning deeply. This includes:
- Social Security strategies
- Tax-efficient withdrawal plans
- Investment vehicles like IRAs and 401(k)s
- Healthcare planning in retirement
- Estate and legacy planning

Having credentials like CFP, CPA, or even a background in HR or benefits consulting can boost your authority.

2. Communication Skills
You must be able to translate complex topics into relatable, engaging content. This means:
- Using real-world examples
- Avoiding jargon
- Engaging with stories, visuals, and analogies

A great retirement planning speaker can make Roth conversions sound exciting. That's the bar.

3. A Clear Message and Audience
Who are you speaking to? Pre-retirees in tech? Retirees in rural communities? Small business owners? Your message should be tailored to their concerns, language, and lifestyle.

4. A Speaker Platform
You need a digital home base. Talks.co is a great place to start. Set up your speaker page with:
- A compelling bio
- A list of talk topics
- A short video intro
- Testimonials or past speaking gigs

5. Networking and Outreach Tools
You'll need to connect with event organizers, podcast hosts, and summit planners. Tools like Talks.co help you get discovered, but you should also:
- Join LinkedIn groups
- Attend virtual summits
- Pitch yourself to HR departments or financial wellness programs

In short, being a retirement planning speaker is about combining expertise with empathy, and packaging it in a way that makes people want to listen-and act.

Yes, retirement planning speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and the type of event. Let's look at the landscape.
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: New speakers may start with free gigs or honorariums ($100-$500), while seasoned experts command $5,000-$15,000 per keynote.
- Event Type: Corporate events and financial conferences tend to pay more than community workshops or nonprofit events.
- Audience Size: A webinar for 50 retirees might pay less than a keynote at a national HR summit.
Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Paid: Keynotes, breakout sessions, corporate training, and sponsored webinars.
- Unpaid: Podcasts, panels, or community events that offer exposure or lead generation instead of cash.
Why Some Speakers Speak for Free
- Lead generation: A free talk at a retirement expo could lead to 10 new clients.
- Book promotion: Authors often speak for free to sell books.
- Platform building: New speakers use free gigs to build testimonials and speaker reels.
Data Snapshot

Speaker Type	Typical Fee Range
Beginner	$0 - $500
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000
Expert	$5,000 - $15,000+

So yes, retirement planning speakers do get paid-but the real value often comes from what the talk leads to, not just the check you get that day.

Retirement planning speakers have multiple income streams, and smart ones diversify. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Speaking Fees
- Keynotes: Large conferences or corporate events can pay $5,000 to $15,000+.
- Workshops: Smaller, interactive sessions for HR teams or community groups.
- Webinars: Paid virtual events or sponsored sessions.

2. Product Sales
- Books: Many speakers publish guides on retirement planning. These can be sold at events or online.
- Courses: Online courses on platforms like Teachable or Kajabi can generate passive income.
- Templates & Tools: Retirement calculators, checklists, or budget planners.

3. Consulting and Coaching
- After a talk, attendees often want more. Speakers offer:
- One-on-one coaching
- Group programs
- Corporate consulting for HR departments

4. Affiliate Marketing
- Recommending financial tools (like budgeting apps or investment platforms) can earn commissions.
- Example: A speaker might earn a referral fee for promoting a retirement planning software.

5. Sponsorships and Partnerships
- Partnering with financial institutions or insurance companies to co-host events.
- Sponsored content or webinars.

6. Licensing Content
- Some speakers license their presentations or training materials to companies or educational platforms.

Pros and Cons
- Pros: Multiple income streams, scalable, builds authority.
- Cons: Requires marketing, time investment, and ongoing content creation.

In short, the most successful retirement planning speakers treat their speaking as a business, not just a gig. They build ecosystems around their talks that keep generating revenue long after the mic is off.

The income of retirement planning speakers varies widely, depending on their experience, niche, and how they monetize their platform. Let's break it down:
1. Speaking Fees
- Entry-Level: $0 to $500 per event. These are often unpaid or low-paid gigs used to build experience.
- Mid-Tier: $1,000 to $5,000 per talk. These speakers have a niche, a speaker page (like on Talks.co), and a few testimonials.
- Top-Tier: $5,000 to $15,000+ per keynote. These are seasoned pros with books, media appearances, and a strong brand.
2. Annual Income Estimates

Speaker Level	Talks/Year	Avg. Fee	Total Income
Beginner	10	$250	$2,500
Mid-Level	25	$2,500	$62,500
Expert	40	$10,000	$400,000

3. Additional Revenue
- Courses: $10,000 to $100,000+ annually depending on audience size.
- Books: $1,000 to $50,000+ depending on sales and speaking tie-ins.
- Consulting: $100 to $500/hour or more.
Variables That Impact Earnings
- Niche demand (e.g., retirement planning for tech execs vs. general retirees)
- Marketing reach and platform (Talks.co, LinkedIn, podcast appearances)
- Ability to upsell services (coaching, courses, etc.)
So while some retirement planning speakers earn a few thousand a year, others build six-figure businesses. The key is treating it like a business, not a side hustle.

Hiring a retirement planning speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown:
1. Speaker Experience Level
- Beginner: $0 to $500. Often local professionals or new speakers looking to gain exposure.
- Mid-Level: $1,000 to $5,000. These speakers have a niche, a polished talk, and a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co.
- Top-Tier: $5,000 to $15,000+. These are authors, media personalities, or industry leaders.
2. Event Type and Format
- Webinars: Typically lower cost ($500 to $3,000), depending on audience size.
- In-Person Keynotes: Higher cost due to travel, prep time, and impact.
- Workshops: May range from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on length and customization.
3. Customization and Add-Ons
- Custom content or industry-specific talks may add $1,000 to $3,000.
- Add-ons like breakout sessions, Q&A panels, or post-event consulting can increase the fee.
4. Geographic Location
- Speakers in major markets (New York, London, Sydney) may charge more due to cost of living and demand.
- Virtual events can reduce costs significantly.
Sample Pricing Table

Type of Speaker	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote
Beginner	$0 - $500	$500 - $1,000
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $3,000	$3,000 - $7,000
Expert	$5,000+	$10,000 - $20,000

So if you're planning an event, your budget should align with your goals. Want a big-name draw? Expect to pay more. Looking for practical, actionable advice? A mid-level speaker might be your best value.

- Suze Orman. Known for her bold style and bestselling books, Suze has been a go-to voice in personal finance for decades. Her retirement advice is especially popular among women and baby boomers.

- Dave Ramsey. While more focused on debt and budgeting, his retirement planning principles-like investing in mutual funds and avoiding debt-have influenced millions.

- Ric Edelman. Founder of Edelman Financial Engines, Ric is known for simplifying complex retirement topics. His radio show and books have helped shape the retirement planning conversation.

- Jane Bryant Quinn. A pioneer in personal finance journalism, her retirement insights have been featured in Newsweek and on PBS.

- Robert Kiyosaki. While controversial, his 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' series has impacted how people think about financial independence and retirement.

- Chris Hogan. Formerly with Ramsey Solutions, Hogan authored 'Retire Inspired' and has spoken extensively on building wealth for retirement.

- Jean Chatzky. As the financial editor for NBC's Today Show, Jean has brought retirement planning into mainstream media with clarity and warmth.

- Wade Pfau. An academic and retirement researcher, Wade's data-driven approach has influenced both advisors and DIY retirees.

- Ed Slott. Known as 'America's IRA Expert', Slott is a top speaker on tax-efficient retirement planning.

- Mary Beth Franklin. A leading expert on Social Security strategies, she's a favorite among financial professionals and retirees alike.

- Suze Orman (USA). Globally recognized, Suze's retirement advice has been translated into multiple languages and featured on international platforms.

- Martin Bamford (UK). A chartered financial planner and podcaster, Martin is known for making retirement planning accessible in the UK and Europe.

- Noel Whittaker (Australia). Author of 'Making Money Made Simple', Noel is one of Australia's most respected voices on retirement and personal finance.

- Preet Banerjee (Canada). A former investment advisor turned media personality, Preet brings clarity to retirement topics on CBC and other outlets.

- Jean Chatzky (USA). Her global reach through books, podcasts, and media appearances makes her a top international voice.

- Wade Pfau (USA). His academic research is used by financial advisors worldwide, and he frequently speaks at global conferences.

- Vanessa Stoykov (Australia). A storyteller and educator, Vanessa uses media and speaking to shift how Australians think about money and retirement.

- Carl Richards (USA/New Zealand). Known for his 'Sketch Guy' column in The New York Times, Carl speaks globally on behavior and financial planning.

- Andrew Hallam (Global). Author of 'Millionaire Teacher', Andrew speaks to international audiences, especially expats, about retirement and investing.

- Manisha Thakor (USA/India). With a global perspective and focus on women's financial wellness, Manisha is a sought-after speaker across continents.

Let's break down a few assumptions that keep popping up around retirement planning speakers. These misconceptions can hold back both aspiring speakers and the audiences who need them most.

1. Myth: You need to be a certified financial advisor to be a retirement planning speaker.
Not true. While financial credentials can add credibility, many successful retirement planning speakers come from adjacent fields like HR, wealth coaching, or even journalism. What matters more is your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and ethically. For example, Chris Hogan built a massive following with his retirement talks, yet his strength was storytelling and simplifying financial concepts, not just his financial background.

2. Myth: Retirement planning speakers only talk to older audiences.
This one's outdated. Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly tuning into retirement content, especially with the rise of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movements. Speakers like Jamila Souffrant of 'Journey to Launch' are engaging younger crowds with retirement planning strategies tailored to early-stage careers and side hustles.

3. Myth: The topic is too boring for live or virtual events.
It depends on the speaker, not the subject. Retirement planning can be dry if delivered like a textbook. But when speakers use real-life scenarios, interactive tools, or even humor, the topic becomes engaging. TEDx talks on financial independence regularly rack up millions of views. It's all about delivery.

4. Myth: You can't make money as a retirement planning speaker.
Actually, many speakers in this niche monetize through consulting, online courses, books, and affiliate partnerships. Some even host their own virtual summits or get booked for corporate wellness programs. The key is building a brand that extends beyond the stage.

5. Myth: You have to be close to retirement age to speak credibly.
Nope. What matters is insight, not age. Younger speakers often bring fresh perspectives, especially around digital tools, gig economy retirement strategies, or crypto-based planning. Their relatability can be a huge asset for younger audiences trying to navigate a changing financial landscape.

When you look at the journeys of standout retirement planning speakers, what you'll notice isn't just financial expertise. It's adaptability, audience connection, and a knack for turning complex ideas into actionable insights.

Take Roger Whitney, known as the Retirement Answer Man. He started out as a traditional financial planner but realized his real strength was simplifying retirement for everyday people. He launched a podcast, built a community, and now speaks at both financial and lifestyle events. His secret? He doesn't just talk numbers. He talks about purpose, identity, and life transitions.

Then there's Emily Guy Birken. She carved out a space by writing and speaking about behavioral finance and retirement psychology. Her talks often blend humor with hard truths, like why people procrastinate on saving. She's spoken at libraries, universities, and virtual summits, proving that niche expertise can scale across formats.

In Australia, Noel Whittaker has been a household name for decades. His books and talks have helped thousands understand superannuation and retirement tax strategies. What sets him apart is his ability to localize global financial principles to the Australian system. His talks are often cited in government and corporate settings.

And let's not forget the rise of virtual-first speakers. Tanja Hester, author of 'Work Optional', built her platform through blogging and social media before moving into speaking. Her sessions often focus on early retirement and values-based planning, appealing to digital nomads and freelancers.

Each of these speakers took a different path. Some leaned into media, others into books or podcasts. But all of them found a way to connect with audiences by making retirement planning feel personal, not just practical.

Retirement planning speakers are stepping into a new era shaped by technology, shifting demographics, and evolving work models. If you're thinking about entering this space or expanding your reach, here are a few key trends to keep your eye on.

First, there's a growing demand for culturally relevant retirement content. As global workforces diversify, audiences are looking for speakers who understand regional pension systems, cultural attitudes toward aging, and family-based financial planning. Retirement planning speakers who can tailor their message to different communities-whether it's expats in Southeast Asia or first-generation professionals in the U.S.-will stand out.

Second, expect more integration with digital tools. Speakers are increasingly expected to demo apps, calculators, or AI-based planning platforms during their sessions. Whether it's showcasing how to use NewRetirement or walking through a digital pension dashboard, tech-savviness is becoming essential.

Third, hybrid and asynchronous formats are gaining traction. Instead of just keynotes or webinars, speakers are creating on-demand courses, interactive retirement bootcamps, and even gamified learning experiences. Platforms like Teachable and Kajabi are being used to scale content beyond the stage.

Here are a few trends shaping the next wave:
- Micro-niche positioning: Speakers focusing on specific groups like gig workers, women over 50, or LGBTQ+ retirees are gaining traction.
- Values-based retirement planning: Talks that connect money to purpose, legacy, or sustainability are resonating more than spreadsheets alone.
- Global financial literacy: As remote work expands, so does the need for cross-border retirement strategies. Speakers who can compare systems (e.g., U.S. 401(k) vs. Australian superannuation) are in demand.
- AI-assisted planning: Expect more talks that include demos of AI tools that help forecast retirement scenarios or optimize tax strategies.

Retirement planning speakers who stay ahead of these shifts will not only stay relevant-they'll lead the conversation.

If you're ready to step into the world of retirement planning speaking, you don't have to start from scratch. Here's a curated list of tools, platforms, and resources to help you build authority, land gigs, and craft compelling content.

1. Talks.co. A smart way to get matched with podcast hosts looking for expert guests. Perfect for building your speaking resume and reaching niche audiences interested in finance, lifestyle, or career transitions.

2. FinCon. This annual conference brings together financial influencers, advisors, and speakers. Even if you don't attend in person, their online community and speaker directory are goldmines for networking and learning.

3. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can list your speaking profile, browse event opportunities, and connect with event organizers. Tailor your profile to highlight retirement-specific topics like early retirement, pension planning, or financial wellness for employees.

4. Canva. Use it to create slide decks, social media graphics, and lead magnets. Visual storytelling is key in financial topics-charts, timelines, and infographics help make your message stick.

5. Retirement Researcher. Run by Wade Pfau, this site offers deep-dive articles, tools, and whitepapers. Great for staying up to date on academic and data-driven insights you can reference in talks.

6. LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on public speaking, financial literacy, and personal branding. Use it to sharpen your delivery and expand your topic range.

7. Zoom Events. If you're planning to host your own virtual workshops or summits, Zoom Events lets you manage registrations, breakout rooms, and engagement tools all in one place.

8. Substack. Launch a newsletter to build your audience and test content ideas. Many retirement planning speakers use it to share weekly tips, promote upcoming talks, or recap event highlights.

Use these tools not just to build your platform, but to stay connected with your audience and continuously refine your message. The more value you deliver, the more stages you'll be invited to.