Romance Speakers

Not every speaker who talks about love is a romance speaker. So what exactly defines one?

A romance speaker is someone who specializes in speaking about love, dating, intimacy, and romantic relationships in a professional or public setting. They might come from a variety of backgrounds-relationship coaching, psychology, media, or even personal development-but their core focus is helping people understand and navigate romantic connections.

Unlike general motivational speakers or life coaches, romance speakers zero in on the emotional, psychological, and sometimes cultural dynamics of romantic relationships. They might speak at summits, podcasts, retreats, or corporate wellness events. Their topics can range from online dating strategies to healing after heartbreak, from maintaining intimacy in long-term relationships to navigating love across cultures.

Importantly, a romance speaker isn't just someone with opinions about love. They're educators, facilitators, and communicators who use their platform to shift perspectives, offer tools, and spark meaningful conversations. Some, like Matthew Hussey, bring a coaching angle. Others, like Dr. Alexandra Solomon, bring academic and therapeutic insights.

So when you hear the term 'romance speaker,' think of someone who doesn't just talk about love-they help people experience it more consciously, more confidently, and more deeply.

If you've ever scrolled through a dating app, sat through a tough conversation with a partner, or wondered why modern love feels so complicated, then you already know why a romance speaker matters.

Romance speakers bring clarity to one of the most emotionally charged areas of our lives: romantic relationships. In a world where dating norms are shifting, communication styles vary across cultures, and emotional literacy is still catching up with technology, romance speakers help people make sense of it all. They provide frameworks, language, and strategies that many of us were never taught.

Their importance also lies in their ability to normalize challenges. Whether it's navigating long-distance love, managing jealousy, or rebuilding trust after betrayal, romance speakers help audiences feel less alone. They create safe spaces-whether on stage or online-where people can explore vulnerability without judgment.

In corporate settings, romance speakers are increasingly invited to speak about emotional intelligence, work-life balance, and how relationship stress impacts productivity. In educational spaces, they help young adults build healthy relationship habits early on.

So whether you're a 20-something navigating dating apps or a 50-something rebuilding after divorce, a romance speaker can offer not just advice, but perspective. And in today's world, that's not just helpful-it's essential.

Romance speakers do more than just talk about love-they educate, inspire, and challenge people to think differently about their relationships.

They typically deliver talks, workshops, or interviews focused on romantic relationships. This can include topics like:
- Dating and attraction. Helping people understand the psychology of attraction, online dating strategies, and how to build confidence.
- Communication and conflict. Teaching tools for healthy dialogue, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.
- Intimacy and connection. Exploring physical, emotional, and spiritual intimacy in relationships.
- Cultural and generational dynamics. Addressing how different backgrounds, values, or age groups approach love.

Romance speakers often tailor their content to the audience. For example, a speaker at a Gen Z-focused podcast might talk about ghosting and dating fatigue, while one at a corporate retreat might focus on how relationship stress affects workplace performance.

They also collaborate with hosts, event organizers, and platforms like Talks.co to reach wider audiences. Many offer coaching, write books, or run online programs alongside their speaking engagements.

In short, romance speakers are facilitators of better love lives. They help people move from confusion to clarity, from frustration to connection, and from isolation to shared understanding.

If you're passionate about love, relationships, and helping others connect on a deeper level, becoming a romance speaker might be your calling. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche.
- Romance is broad. Are you focused on dating advice, long-term relationships, marriage counseling, or intimacy education? Narrowing your niche helps you stand out.
- Example: Matthew Hussey focuses on dating strategies for women, while Esther Perel dives into intimacy and erotic intelligence.

2. Build Your Expertise.
- Get certified in relationship coaching, psychology, or counseling. While not mandatory, credentials boost your credibility.
- Read widely: from John Gottman's research to modern dating trends on apps like Hinge or Bumble.

3. Create Your Signature Talk.
- Develop a compelling keynote or workshop. Make it practical, emotionally resonant, and tailored to your audience.
- Tip: Use storytelling. Share anonymized case studies or cultural examples to make your message stick.

4. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel.
- Pro tip: Add a downloadable one-sheet with your speaking topics and contact info.

5. Start Speaking.
- Begin with local events, online summits, or podcasts. Reach out to event organizers directly or use Talks.co to connect with hosts.
- Offer to speak for free at first to build your portfolio, then gradually raise your rates.

6. Grow Your Brand.
- Leverage social media, write blog posts, or launch a YouTube channel. Consistent content builds trust and visibility.
- Collaborate with other speakers or relationship experts to expand your reach.

Becoming a romance speaker is about more than just giving advice. It's about creating transformation through your words. Start small, stay consistent, and let your message evolve as you grow.

Being a romance speaker isn't just about having great stories or opinions on love. It requires a blend of expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning.

First, you need subject matter knowledge. This can come from formal education like a degree in psychology, certifications in relationship coaching, or years of hands-on experience working with couples. But even if you're self-taught, you need to demonstrate a deep understanding of human connection, emotional intelligence, and cultural nuances in relationships.

Second, communication is key. Romance speakers must be able to connect with diverse audiences - from young singles to long-married couples. That means mastering both verbal and non-verbal communication. Practicing public speaking, storytelling, and even improv can sharpen your delivery.

Third, you need a platform. This is where tools like Talks.co come in handy. Creating a speaker page with your bio, topics, and testimonials helps you get discovered by event organizers. It also gives you a professional edge when pitching yourself for summits, podcasts, or corporate events.

Lastly, you need a network. Romance speakers thrive when they collaborate with other experts, appear on relationship panels, or guest on popular dating podcasts. Connecting with hosts and guests through platforms like Talks.co can open doors you didn't even know existed.

In short, to be a romance speaker, you need knowledge, communication skills, a visible platform, and a strong network. Combine those, and you're well on your way.

Yes, romance speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, niche, audience, and platform.

At the beginner level, many romance speakers start by offering free talks to build credibility. Over time, as they develop a reputation and following, they can command higher fees. According to data from SpeakerHub and Talks.co, mid-level speakers in the personal development space (which includes romance) typically earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per talk.

Here are a few variables that influence pay:

- Audience Size: Speaking at a national conference or a large virtual summit usually pays more than a local meetup.
- Event Type: Corporate wellness events often pay more than nonprofit or community events.
- Speaker Reputation: Established names like Esther Perel or Gary Chapman can command five-figure fees.
- Format: Keynotes usually pay more than panel appearances or workshops.

Pros:
- Opportunities for recurring gigs (e.g., annual retreats, relationship summits).
- High demand in February (Valentine's Day season) and wedding seasons.

Cons:
- Inconsistent income if not diversified.
- Competitive space with many aspiring voices.

In short, yes - romance speakers can and do get paid. But like any speaking niche, it takes time to build a profitable career.

Romance speakers have several income streams, and the most successful ones diversify their approach. Here's a breakdown of how they typically earn:

1. Speaking Fees
- Paid keynotes, workshops, and panels at events, conferences, and retreats.
- Example: A romance speaker might earn $3,000 for a 60-minute keynote at a relationship summit.

2. Online Summits and Webinars
- Hosting or participating in virtual events. Some charge ticket fees, others monetize through sponsorships or upsells.
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with hosts and audiences globally.

3. Books and Courses
- Many romance speakers write books or create online courses. Think of Gary Chapman's 'The 5 Love Languages' - a global bestseller that also drives speaking gigs.
- Courses on platforms like Teachable or Kajabi can generate passive income.

4. Coaching and Consulting
- Offering one-on-one or group coaching. Some romance speakers work with couples, while others focus on singles or corporate relationship training.

5. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- Recommending dating apps, relationship tools, or wellness products. With a strong following, speakers can earn through affiliate links or brand partnerships.

6. Media Appearances
- TV, radio, and podcast interviews often lead to paid opportunities or increased visibility that drives other income streams.

The key is to mix direct income (like speaking fees) with scalable products (like courses or books). That way, romance speakers can build a sustainable and profitable business.

Romance speakers can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars per gig to six figures annually, depending on their experience, audience, and business model.
Let's break it down:

Experience Level	Per Talk Fee	Annual Income Estimate
Beginner	$0 - $500	$5,000 - $20,000
Intermediate	$1,000 - $5,000	$30,000 - $80,000
Established Expert	$5,000 - $15,000	$100,000+

Factors that influence earnings:
- Niche Demand: Topics like intimacy, dating in the digital age, or marriage after kids are in high demand.
- Geography: Speakers in North America and Europe often command higher fees than those in emerging markets, though virtual events are leveling the playing field.
- Revenue Streams: As mentioned in 'How do romance speakers make money', those who add coaching, books, or courses can significantly boost their income.
Example: A romance speaker who charges $3,000 per keynote and books 20 gigs a year earns $60,000 from speaking alone. Add a $297 course that sells 500 copies annually, and that's another $148,500.
So while there's no fixed salary, the earning potential is strong - especially for those who treat it like a business.

If you're looking to hire a romance speaker, costs can vary widely based on their experience, location, and the type of event.
Here's a general pricing guide:

Speaker Level	Cost per Talk	Includes
Emerging Speaker	$0 - $500	Local events, virtual panels
Mid-Level Speaker	$1,000 - $5,000	Keynotes, workshops, Q&A sessions
High-Profile Expert	$5,000 - $15,000	Custom talks, retreats, consultations

Additional costs to consider:
- Travel and Accommodation: For in-person events, you'll often need to cover flights and lodging.
- Customization Fees: Some speakers charge extra to tailor content to your audience.
- Virtual vs. In-Person: Virtual events are generally cheaper, with fewer logistics involved.
Tips for event organizers:
- Use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles and pricing.
- Negotiate package deals if you're booking multiple sessions or speakers.
- Consider co-hosting with another organization to split costs.
Hiring a romance speaker can be a powerful way to engage your audience - just make sure you align expectations and budget upfront.

Here's a list of some of the most influential romance speakers of all time - people whose ideas have shaped how we think about love, relationships, and connection:

- Esther Perel: Known for her TED Talks and books like 'Mating in Captivity', she explores the tension between desire and stability in long-term relationships.

- Gary Chapman: Author of 'The 5 Love Languages', his framework has become a global standard for understanding emotional needs in relationships.

- John Gray: His book 'Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus' became a cultural phenomenon and launched a speaking empire.

- Barbara De Angelis: A pioneer in relationship education, she's been speaking and writing about love and intimacy for decades.

- Tony Robbins: While not exclusively a romance speaker, his events often include powerful segments on relationships and emotional connection.

- Helen Fisher: A biological anthropologist whose talks on love, attraction, and brain chemistry have influenced both science and pop culture.

- Harville Hendrix & Helen LaKelly Hunt: Founders of Imago Relationship Therapy, they've helped thousands of couples through workshops and speaking tours.

- Pat Love: Her research-based talks on emotional connection and sexual intimacy have been featured at major conferences.

These speakers have not only educated millions but also changed how we approach love - blending science, storytelling, and strategy.

Looking for the top romance speakers making waves right now? Here are some of the most impactful voices currently shaping the global conversation around love and relationships:

- Matthew Hussey (UK): A dating coach and speaker with a massive YouTube following. Known for practical, confident advice for women navigating modern dating.

- Esther Perel (Belgium/USA): Still one of the most sought-after speakers on intimacy and erotic intelligence. Her podcast 'Where Should We Begin?' is globally acclaimed.

- Sadia Khan (UK): A psychologist and relationship expert who blends science with cultural insights, especially relevant for younger and diverse audiences.

- Stephan Speaks (USA): A bestselling author and speaker who focuses on healing, self-love, and spiritual alignment in relationships.

- Susan Winter (USA): A media-savvy speaker who covers everything from age-gap relationships to dating in the digital era.

- Mark Groves (Canada): Known as the 'Human Connection Specialist', he speaks on emotional intelligence and conscious relationships.

- Dr. Laura Berman (USA): A relationship therapist and speaker who blends clinical expertise with accessible advice, often featured on TV.

- Dr. Lurve (Australia): One of the leading romance speakers in the Southern Hemisphere, focusing on self-worth and dating confidence.

- Kezia Noble (UK): A dating and attraction coach known for her bold, no-nonsense speaking style.

These speakers are not only experts in their field, but they also know how to engage audiences across cultures, platforms, and generations.

Let's get real about what it means to be a romance speaker. There's a lot of noise out there, and not all of it is helpful. Whether you're just starting out or already speaking on love, relationships, and emotional connection, you've probably heard a few of these myths floating around.

1. Romance speakers only talk about dating advice.
This is a narrow view of a much broader field. Sure, some romance speakers focus on dating strategies, but many dive deep into topics like emotional intelligence, communication in long-term relationships, intimacy after trauma, or even cultural expectations around love. Esther Perel, for example, explores erotic intelligence and the complexities of desire in committed relationships. Her talks go way beyond Tinder tips.

2. You need to be a therapist or relationship coach to be a romance speaker.
Not true. While credentials can help, they're not a requirement. What matters more is your perspective, your ability to connect with an audience, and the value you bring. Some of the most compelling romance speakers draw from personal journeys, cultural analysis, or storytelling. Think of people like Matthew Hussey, who built a global platform without a psychology degree.

3. Romance speaking is only for women.
This one's outdated and limiting. While the audience for romance content may skew female in some markets, male romance speakers like Lewis Howes or Mark Groves have built huge followings. The key is authenticity and relevance, not gender.

4. There's no money in romance speaking.
Actually, the opposite can be true. Romance is a billion-dollar industry. Speaking gigs, online summits, digital courses, books, and coaching programs can all be monetized. Many speakers partner with dating apps, wellness brands, or media platforms. If you're strategic, this niche can be both impactful and profitable.

5. Romance speakers just recycle clichés.
Sure, some do. But the best ones challenge assumptions. They bring in psychology, sociology, even neuroscience. They speak to diverse audiences and tackle taboo topics. If you're willing to go deeper, you'll stand out in a space that's hungry for nuance.

When you think of successful romance speakers, you might imagine someone standing on a TEDx stage, mic in hand, sharing their truth about love. But the paths to success in this niche are as varied as the people who walk them.

Take Esther Perel. A Belgian psychotherapist, she didn't start out aiming to be a global speaker. Her TED talks on infidelity and desire went viral because she dared to say what others wouldn't. She spoke about eroticism in long-term relationships with clarity and compassion. That authenticity resonated. Her talks have now been viewed over 30 million times.

Then there's Matthew Hussey. He began by coaching women on dating and confidence, recording YouTube videos with simple, actionable advice. Over time, his charisma and clarity turned him into a bestselling author and speaker. He's spoken on stages across the US and UK, and even hosted events for thousands of attendees. His success? Built on consistency, relatability, and a clear niche.

Another example is Shan Boodram. She's a certified sexologist and author who blends science with pop culture. Her approach is unapologetically modern, using platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and podcasts to reach younger audiences. She's hosted shows for MTV and Quibi, and her speaking engagements often center around sex positivity and communication. Her edge? She meets people where they are-digitally and emotionally.

And don't overlook regional voices. In India, Seema Anand has carved out a space by blending ancient Kama Sutra teachings with modern relationship advice. Her storytelling style and cultural insight make her a sought-after speaker at wellness festivals and women's conferences.

Each of these speakers took a different route. Some leaned into academic credibility. Others built media empires. But they all share one thing: a deep understanding of their audience's emotional needs. That's the real secret sauce.

Romance speakers are stepping into a new era. The way we talk about love, sex, and relationships is shifting, and speakers who want to stay relevant need to track these changes closely. So, what's next?

First, there's a growing demand for intersectionality. Audiences are no longer satisfied with one-size-fits-all advice. They want speakers who understand how race, gender identity, culture, and neurodiversity shape romantic experiences. This means more room for voices from underrepresented communities and more nuanced conversations.

Second, digital intimacy is becoming a hot topic. With dating apps, long-distance relationships, and even AI companions on the rise, people are asking new questions: How do you build trust over text? What does emotional cheating look like in the metaverse? Romance speakers who can address these emerging dynamics will have a serious edge.

Third, there's a shift from performance to vulnerability. Audiences are craving realness. They want speakers who share their own struggles, not just polished advice. This aligns with the broader trend in public speaking toward authenticity over authority.

Here are a few trends to watch:
- Micro-niche specialization. Speakers focusing on specific communities (e.g. LGBTQ+ teens, divorced dads, polyamorous couples) are gaining traction.
- Interactive formats. Workshops, live coaching, and Q&A-heavy sessions are replacing traditional keynotes.
- Global reach. Thanks to virtual summits and platforms like Talks.co, romance speakers can now connect with audiences worldwide.
- Science-backed content. Audiences are increasingly skeptical of fluff. Speakers who bring in research from psychology, neuroscience, or sociology are more trusted.

In short, the future belongs to romance speakers who are adaptive, inclusive, and willing to go deep. If you're planning your next talk, think beyond the stage. Think community, connection, and cultural relevance.

If you're ready to step into the spotlight as a romance speaker, you don't have to go it alone. There's a growing ecosystem of tools and platforms designed to help you build your brand, find your audience, and land speaking gigs. Here's a curated list to get you started:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a game-changer for new speakers. You can connect with podcast hosts looking for guests in the love, sex, and relationships space. Tip: Use your profile to highlight your unique angle-whether it's queer dating, post-divorce healing, or cross-cultural romance.

2. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, get listed in directories, and apply for speaking opportunities. It's especially useful if you're targeting international or corporate events.

3. PodMatch. Another podcast matching platform, but with a twist: it uses AI to pair you with ideal shows. Great for building authority and reaching niche audiences.

4. Canva. Whether you're designing slides for a virtual summit or creating promo graphics for your next talk, Canva makes it easy. Use their templates to stay on-brand and visually engaging.

5. Teachable. Want to turn your speaking content into a course? Teachable lets you monetize your expertise with minimal tech hassle. Romance speakers often use it to offer workshops on communication, intimacy, or dating confidence.

6. Eventbrite. Hosting your own webinar or in-person event? Eventbrite helps you manage registration, payments, and promotion. It's especially useful for building your email list.

7. The Speaker Lab Podcast. While not romance-specific, this podcast is packed with tips on building a speaking business. Topics range from pricing your talks to crafting your signature story.

8. [Instagram Live & YouTube Shorts]. Not traditional tools, but powerful platforms. Romance speakers who go live regularly or post short, punchy videos tend to grow faster. Use these formats to test content, engage with followers, and build trust.

The key? Don't try to use everything at once. Pick two or three tools that align with your current goals-whether that's visibility, monetization, or community-building-and go deep. Then scale up as your brand grows.