Somatics Speakers

A somatics speaker is someone who specializes in communicating the principles, practices, and science of somatic work-essentially, body-based approaches to healing, awareness, and transformation. But unlike a yoga teacher or a physical therapist, a somatics speaker is focused on education and inspiration through spoken content, whether on stage, in workshops, or online.

Somatics itself is a broad field. It includes modalities like Feldenkrais, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing, and body-oriented psychotherapy. A somatics speaker might be a practitioner of one or more of these approaches, but their role is to translate that work into engaging, accessible talks.

These speakers often address topics like trauma healing, nervous system regulation, embodied leadership, or movement-based mindfulness. They may speak at wellness summits, corporate events, therapy conferences, or even tech retreats, helping people reconnect with their bodies in a world that often prioritizes cognition over sensation.

What sets a somatics speaker apart from other wellness speakers is their emphasis on embodiment. They don't just talk about ideas-they often guide audiences through short practices, breathing exercises, or movement explorations to help them feel the concepts in real time.

In short, a somatics speaker is a bridge between deep body-based wisdom and the people who need it most, whether that's a trauma survivor, a burned-out executive, or a curious podcast listener.

When stress, burnout, and disconnection are at an all-time high, the role of a somatics speaker becomes more than just informative-it becomes transformative. These speakers offer tools and insights that help people reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and access deeper levels of awareness.

In corporate settings, for example, somatics speakers can introduce embodied leadership practices that help teams make better decisions under pressure. In education, they can support teachers and students in managing anxiety through breath and movement. And in therapy communities, they can offer trauma-informed perspectives that go beyond talk therapy.

What makes them crucial is their ability to make somatic practices accessible. Not everyone is ready to sign up for a 10-week somatic therapy program. But a 30-minute talk that includes a simple grounding exercise? That can be a powerful entry point.

They also help normalize the conversation around embodiment. In many cultures, especially in the West, the body has been sidelined in favor of intellect. Somatics speakers challenge that by showing how the body holds memory, emotion, and intelligence.

Ultimately, somatics speakers are important because they help people feel again-safely, consciously, and with curiosity. And in a world that often numbs out, that's not just helpful. It's essential.

Somatics speakers educate, guide, and inspire audiences through the lens of body-based awareness and healing. But their work goes far beyond giving a talk. Here's a breakdown of what somatics speakers actually do:

1. Deliver Engaging Talks on Embodiment.
- Topics might include trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, embodied leadership, or somatic mindfulness.
- They tailor their message to the audience, whether it's a group of therapists, entrepreneurs, or wellness seekers.

2. Facilitate Experiential Practices.
- Many somatics speakers incorporate live practices like breathwork, grounding, or gentle movement.
- These exercises help audiences shift from passive listening to embodied experience.

3. Translate Complex Science into Everyday Language.
- They break down neuroscience, polyvagal theory, or somatic psychology into digestible insights.
- This helps people understand not just what's happening in their bodies, but why.

4. Advocate for Embodied Living.
- Somatics speakers often challenge cultural norms that prioritize productivity over presence.
- They offer alternatives rooted in self-awareness, regulation, and connection.

5. Collaborate with Hosts and Organizers.
- They work closely with event hosts to align on goals, format, and audience engagement.
- On platforms like Talks.co, they can manage logistics, share promotional assets, and connect with aligned shows.

In essence, somatics speakers are educators, facilitators, and changemakers who use the power of the spoken word-combined with the wisdom of the body-to help people live more connected, conscious lives.

Ready to step into the world of somatics speaking? Here's a practical step-by-step guide to help you get started, build your presence, and land your first speaking gigs.

1. Define Your Niche Within Somatics.
- Somatics is a broad field. Are you focused on trauma recovery, movement therapy, nervous system regulation, or embodied leadership? Get specific.
- Tip: Look at popular talks on Talks.co or TEDx to see what subtopics are trending.

2. Build Your Expertise.
- You don't need a PhD, but you do need credibility. That could mean certifications in somatic experiencing, yoga therapy, or body-based coaching.
- Start publishing content: blog posts, short videos, or podcast interviews. This helps establish your voice.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a high-quality headshot.
- Bonus: Add a short speaker reel or clips from workshops or webinars.

4. Start Speaking (Even for Free).
- Reach out to wellness summits, online conferences, or local events. Offer to speak for free to build your portfolio.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts looking for somatics speakers.

5. Collect Testimonials and Refine Your Talk.
- After each talk, ask for feedback and testimonials. These are gold when pitching to bigger events.
- Keep refining your message based on what resonates with audiences.

6. Pitch Yourself Strategically.
- Research events in wellness, coaching, therapy, and even corporate mindfulness. Tailor your pitch to show how your talk adds value.
- Pro tip: Use LinkedIn to connect with event organizers directly.

Becoming a somatics speaker is a journey, but with intention and consistency, you can build a powerful platform that helps others reconnect with their bodies and stories.

Being a somatics speaker isn't just about knowing the body-mind connection. It's about translating that knowledge into compelling, digestible insights for diverse audiences. Here's what you need to get started:

1. Foundational Knowledge in Somatics
You'll need a solid understanding of somatic practices. This could come from formal training in somatic experiencing, Feldenkrais, Alexander Technique, or body-oriented psychotherapy. Many speakers also come from yoga, dance, or trauma-informed coaching backgrounds.

2. A Unique Point of View
What makes your perspective different? Maybe you integrate neuroscience with movement, or you work with marginalized communities. Your unique lens is what makes your talk memorable.

3. Communication Skills
You don't need to be a polished TED speaker from day one, but you do need to communicate clearly and with empathy. Practice storytelling, simplify complex ideas, and learn to read a room-whether virtual or in-person.

4. A Speaker Platform
Having a presence on a speaker directory like Talks.co helps you get discovered. Your speaker page should include:
- A compelling bio.
- Topics you speak on.
- Testimonials or past speaking engagements.
- A short video or audio clip.

5. A Network of Hosts and Collaborators
Many somatics speakers grow their careers by collaborating with coaches, therapists, wellness platforms, and online summits. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts actively looking for speakers in your niche.

In short, you need a mix of subject matter expertise, communication skills, and a platform to showcase your voice. The good news? You can build all of these over time, even if you're starting from scratch.

Yes, somatics speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, niche, and event type. Let's break it down.

Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Early-stage speakers often speak for free at wellness summits or podcasts to build credibility.
- Mid-level speakers may receive honorariums ($100-$500) for online events or workshops.
- Established speakers can command $1,000-$10,000+ for keynotes, especially in corporate wellness or trauma-informed leadership spaces.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience: Those with published books, certifications, or a strong online presence tend to earn more.
- Audience Size: Speaking at a 30-person yoga studio pays differently than a 5,000-person virtual summit.
- Event Type: Corporate gigs usually pay more than community wellness events.

Pros of Paid Speaking
- Revenue stream.
- Increased visibility.
- Opportunity to upsell services (coaching, courses).

Cons
- Inconsistent income.
- Requires constant outreach and pitching.
- Some wellness events have tight budgets.

In summary, yes-somatics speakers do get paid. But the path to consistent income often involves a mix of free and paid gigs, especially in the early stages. Check out Talks.co to find events that match your niche and fee expectations.

Somatics speakers generate income in multiple ways, often combining speaking with other revenue streams. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes at wellness conferences, trauma summits, or corporate retreats.
- Workshops at yoga studios, therapy centers, or coaching schools.
- Online summits hosted on platforms like Zoom.

2. Digital Products and Courses
- Many speakers create online courses on somatic healing, nervous system regulation, or embodied leadership.
- Example: A speaker might offer a $297 course on 'Somatics for Burnout Recovery' after their talk.

3. Private Coaching or Consulting
- One-on-one somatic coaching sessions.
- Consulting for organizations on trauma-informed practices or embodied leadership.

4. Affiliate Marketing and Partnerships
- Promoting somatic tools, books, or programs and earning a commission.
- Collaborating with wellness brands or platforms.

5. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book can open doors to higher-paying gigs and passive income.
- Example: Authors like Peter Levine or Resmaa Menakem often speak at events tied to their publications.

6. Membership Communities or Subscriptions
- Some speakers create monthly memberships offering live sessions, Q&As, and exclusive content.

In short, somatics speakers don't rely solely on speaking fees. They build ecosystems around their message. If you're just starting, focus on building your audience and credibility-then layer in these income streams over time.

The income of somatics speakers varies widely depending on their experience, niche, and business model. Let's look at the numbers and what influences them.
Typical Income Ranges

Experience Level	Per Talk Fee	Annual Income Estimate
Beginner	$0-$300	$0-$10,000
Intermediate	$300-$2,000	$10,000-$50,000
Advanced/Keynote Level	$2,000-$10,000+	$50,000-$200,000+

Factors That Affect Earnings
- Niche Demand: Somatics for trauma recovery or corporate wellness tends to pay more than general wellness talks.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences often mean higher fees.
- Geographic Reach: Speakers in North America or Europe may command higher rates than those in smaller markets, though virtual events are leveling the field.
- Revenue Stack: Those who combine speaking with coaching, digital products, or books tend to earn significantly more.
Real-World Examples
- A trauma-informed somatics speaker doing 2-3 corporate workshops a month at $2,500 each could make $60,000-$90,000 annually.
- A speaker with a $500 online course and a 5% conversion rate from a 1,000-person summit could make $25,000 from one event.
So while some somatics speakers make a modest side income, others build six-figure businesses. It all comes down to positioning, audience, and how you monetize beyond the stage.

If you're looking to hire a somatics speaker, the cost can vary significantly based on a few key factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:
Typical Fee Ranges

Type of Event	Speaker Fee Range
Local Workshop	$200-$1,000
Online Summit	$0-$1,500
Corporate Wellness	$2,000-$10,000+
Keynote Conference	$3,000-$15,000+

What Influences the Cost?
- Experience Level: A well-known speaker with a published book or large following will charge more.
- Customization: Talks tailored to your audience or organization often come at a premium.
- Format: In-person events may require travel and accommodation, adding to the cost.
- Duration: A 20-minute talk costs less than a full-day workshop.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel and lodging (if in-person).
- AV or tech support for virtual events.
- Licensing fees if the talk is recorded and reused.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find emerging somatics speakers who offer great value.
- Consider group sessions or panels to share costs.
- Offer non-monetary perks like promotion or access to your audience.
Whether you're a wellness retreat host or a corporate HR manager, knowing these ranges helps you plan effectively and find the right fit for your event.

Here's a list of standout somatics speakers who've shaped the field over the years. These pioneers have blended science, storytelling, and embodiment in ways that continue to influence practitioners and audiences worldwide.

- Peter Levine - Founder of Somatic Experiencing. His work on trauma and the nervous system is foundational.
- Pat Ogden - Creator of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Known for integrating somatics with psychotherapy.
- Thomas Hanna - Coined the term 'somatics'. His teachings on sensory-motor amnesia are still widely referenced.
- Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen - Founder of Body-Mind Centering. A true innovator in movement-based somatics.
- Resmaa Menakem - Author of 'My Grandmother's Hands'. Brings somatics into racialized trauma and social justice.
- Bessel van der Kolk - While not a somatics speaker per se, his work ('The Body Keeps the Score') has elevated somatic approaches in trauma healing.
- Linda Hartley - Known for integrating dance movement therapy with somatic psychology.
- Staci Haines - Co-founder of generative somatics. Focuses on social change through embodied practice.
- Richard Strozzi-Heckler - Brings somatics into leadership and organizational development.
- Deb Dana - Specializes in Polyvagal Theory and its somatic applications.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but also shaped the frameworks that many modern practitioners build upon.

Looking for top-tier somatics speakers today? These individuals are actively shaping the global conversation around embodiment, trauma, and nervous system healing. Here's a curated list of some of the best somatics speakers in the world right now:

- Resmaa Menakem (USA) - Internationally recognized for his work on racialized trauma and somatic abolitionism. His talks blend social justice with deep embodiment.

- Dr. Arielle Schwartz (USA) - Clinical psychologist and yoga teacher. Known for integrating somatic practices into trauma recovery.

- Bo Forbes (USA) - A psychologist and yoga therapist who speaks on the intersection of neuroscience, somatics, and emotional health.

- Tami Lynn Kent (USA) - Author and speaker focused on women's pelvic health and somatic healing.

- Philip Shepherd (Canada) - Author of 'Radical Wholeness'. His talks explore embodied presence and cultural disconnection.

- David Berceli (Global) - Creator of TRE (Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises). Frequently speaks at trauma and resilience conferences.

- Dr. Gabor Maté (Canada) - While not exclusively a somatics speaker, his talks often emphasize the body-mind connection in trauma and addiction.

- Marika Heinrichs (Canada) - Founder of Wild Body Somatics. Brings a decolonial and queer lens to somatic practice.

- Nicole Lohse (Canada) - Embodiment coach and nervous system educator. Known for accessible, practical talks.

- Prentis Hemphill (USA) - Embodiment practitioner and speaker focused on healing justice and collective care.

These speakers are not only experts in their fields but also skilled communicators who bring somatics to diverse audiences-from therapists and coaches to corporate teams and community organizers.

Let's clear up a few things that often get misunderstood about somatics speakers. These misconceptions can hold back both aspiring speakers and the audiences who need them most.

1. Myth: Somatics speakers are just yoga instructors in disguise.
This one comes up a lot. While some somatics speakers may have a background in yoga or movement practices, their work goes far beyond that. Somatics is about the mind-body connection, nervous system regulation, trauma-informed communication, and embodied leadership. Think of speakers like Dr. Peter Levine or Resmaa Menakem. They're not leading sun salutations on stage - they're unpacking how trauma lives in the body and how we can heal through awareness and movement.

2. Myth: You need a clinical degree to be a credible somatics speaker.
Not true. While having credentials in psychology, somatic therapy, or bodywork can help, many respected somatics speakers come from lived experience, coaching, or interdisciplinary training. What matters is depth of knowledge, ethical practice, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. For example, Staci K. Haines, author of 'The Politics of Trauma', blends activism, somatics, and social justice - not just clinical theory.

3. Myth: Somatics is too 'woo-woo' for professional stages.
This is changing fast. Corporate wellness programs, leadership retreats, and even tech conferences are opening up to somatic work. Why? Because burnout, disconnection, and stress are universal. Somatics speakers who can translate nervous system science into practical tools are in demand. Just look at the rise of trauma-informed leadership talks at events like Wisdom 2.0 or Mindvalley.

4. Myth: Somatics speakers only talk about trauma.
While trauma is a key topic, somatics also covers creativity, performance, communication, and resilience. Speakers like Amanda Blake focus on embodied leadership, while others explore movement as a tool for innovation. The field is wide - and growing.

5. Myth: You have to be a perfect embodiment of calm to speak on somatics.
Nope. Somatics speakers are human. They get nervous. They have off days. What sets them apart is their ability to notice, regulate, and share that process authentically. In fact, showing up imperfectly - with awareness - is often part of the message.

When you think of a somatics speaker, you might picture someone guiding a quiet room through breathwork. But the reality is far more dynamic. Let's look at a few real-world stories that show how diverse and impactful somatics speakers can be.

In Berlin, a former dancer named Elena shifted from performance art to somatic education after a back injury. She began speaking at creative conferences about how movement patterns affect emotional resilience. Her TEDx talk, 'The Body Remembers', went viral in Germany, leading to a book deal and a series of workshops for startup founders. Her message? That embodiment isn't just healing - it's strategic.

Across the globe in Nairobi, James, a trauma-informed coach, started speaking at local community centers about the impact of generational trauma on youth behavior. His talks blended neuroscience, storytelling, and embodied exercises. Eventually, he was invited to speak at the African Mental Health Summit. His sessions are now used as training materials for NGOs working in post-conflict zones.

Then there's Lisa, a corporate consultant in Toronto who integrated somatic practices into leadership development. She began by offering short talks at HR conferences, focusing on how body awareness improves decision-making. Her approach caught the attention of a Fortune 500 company, and she now runs quarterly retreats for their executive team. Her talks are less about theory, more about felt experience - and that's what sticks.

These examples show that somatics speakers aren't confined to wellness festivals or therapy circles. They're showing up in boardrooms, classrooms, and global forums. What they have in common is clarity of message, deep embodiment of their work, and the courage to speak from the body - not just the brain.

Somatics speakers are stepping into new arenas, and the next few years will stretch the boundaries of where and how they show up. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Hybrid embodiment experiences. With virtual events here to stay, somatics speakers are finding creative ways to guide embodied practices online. Expect more integration of AR/VR, interactive video, and real-time feedback tools to help audiences feel into their bodies - even through a screen.

- Cross-sector demand. Somatics is no longer just for wellness spaces. Tech companies are hiring somatics speakers to address burnout. Educators are bringing them in to support trauma-informed classrooms. Even law enforcement agencies are exploring somatic de-escalation training. The trend? Somatics as a tool for systemic change.

- Cultural specificity. There's growing awareness that somatic practices must be culturally grounded. Speakers who can contextualize embodiment within Indigenous, African, Asian, or Latinx frameworks will be in higher demand. This isn't just about inclusion - it's about relevance and respect.

- Data-backed embodiment. As neuroscience and somatics continue to intersect, speakers who can bridge the gap between research and practice will stand out. Think: citing polyvagal theory while guiding a breath practice. Audiences want both the 'why' and the 'how'.

- Short-form somatics. Attention spans are shrinking, but the need for regulation is growing. Expect to see more somatics speakers offering micro-practices - 3-minute resets, 5-minute grounding tools - embedded in keynotes, panels, and even social media reels.

The takeaway? Somatics speakers who can adapt their message, honor diverse bodies and cultures, and deliver embodied wisdom in accessible formats will lead the next wave of transformation.

If you're looking to step into the world of somatics speaking, you don't have to start from scratch. Here's a curated list of tools, platforms, and resources to help you build credibility, connect with audiences, and refine your message.

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest-matching platform that helps you get booked on shows aligned with your niche. Great for building visibility and practicing your message in a conversational format.

2. The Embodiment Conference Recordings. While the live event is over, the recordings offer a goldmine of talks from somatics leaders across disciplines. Study structure, tone, and content delivery from speakers like Mark Walsh and Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen.

3. Zoom (with breakout rooms). If you're running virtual workshops or speaking engagements, mastering Zoom's breakout room feature allows for interactive somatic practices. Tip: Use timed prompts and somatic check-ins to keep engagement high.

4. Notion. Organize your talk outlines, client notes, and practice scripts in one place. Create a 'Talks Dashboard' with sections for pitch templates, testimonials, and feedback logs.

5. Insight Timer. While it's primarily a meditation app, many somatics practitioners use it to publish short audio practices. Use it to build an audience and showcase your voice and pacing.

6. Otter.ai. Transcribe your talks or practice sessions to refine your language and identify filler words. Also helpful for repurposing content into blog posts or social media snippets.

7. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can list your speaker profile and get discovered by event organizers. Tailor your bio to highlight somatics-specific topics like trauma-informed leadership or embodied communication.

8. Liberated Body Podcast. A treasure trove of interviews with somatic educators and researchers. Listen to how they frame complex ideas in accessible ways - a key skill for any speaker.

Use these tools not just to promote yourself, but to deepen your craft. The most compelling somatics speakers are those who walk their talk - and these resources can help you do just that.