Starting a Business Speakers

A starting a business speaker is someone who shares practical insights, strategies, and stories specifically aimed at helping people launch and grow new ventures. These speakers often come from diverse backgrounds - they might be serial entrepreneurs, startup mentors, investors, or even subject matter experts in areas like marketing, finance, or product development.

Unlike general business speakers, starting a business speakers focus on the early stages of entrepreneurship. That includes ideation, validation, funding, team building, and go-to-market strategies. Their talks are tailored to people who are either just getting started or are navigating the messy middle of launching something new.

You'll find them speaking at virtual summits, business incubators, podcasts, and workshops. Some are well-known names like Reid Hoffman or Marie Forleo, while others are niche experts who've built successful businesses in specific industries or regions.

What sets them apart is their ability to translate experience into action. They don't just talk about what worked for them - they break it down into frameworks and tools others can apply. Whether it's explaining how to validate a product idea with zero budget or how to pitch to angel investors in emerging markets, they bring clarity to the chaos of starting up.

When you're launching a business, advice is everywhere - but not all of it is useful. That's where a starting a business speaker comes in. They cut through the noise and deliver targeted guidance that actually moves the needle.

First, they bring clarity. Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially when you're bombarded with conflicting strategies. A good speaker distills complex concepts into simple, actionable steps. Whether it's explaining how to test a minimum viable product or how to build an audience before launch, they make it doable.

Second, they bring perspective. Many new founders think their challenges are unique - but seasoned speakers have seen patterns across industries, regions, and business models. They can help you avoid common pitfalls and spot opportunities you might miss on your own.

Third, they inspire confidence. Hearing someone who's been in the trenches talk about their wins and losses makes the journey feel more real - and more achievable. Especially for underrepresented founders or those in non-traditional markets, seeing someone who looks like them or shares their background can be incredibly motivating.

Finally, they build community. Great speakers don't just talk at you - they invite you into a conversation. They often stick around for Q&A, join Slack groups, or share resources that keep the momentum going long after the talk ends. That kind of connection is invaluable when you're building something from scratch.

Starting a business speakers do more than just talk - they equip, educate, and energize aspiring entrepreneurs at every stage of the launch journey. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Deliver Tactical Talks. They give presentations that focus on specific startup challenges like validating an idea, building a minimum viable product, or raising pre-seed capital. These talks often include real-world examples, frameworks, and tools.

- Host or Join Panels. Many speakers participate in expert panels where they discuss trends, share differing viewpoints, and answer live questions. This format is especially popular at virtual summits and startup accelerators.

- Mentor and Coach. Outside of speaking engagements, many of these experts offer one-on-one coaching or group mentoring. They help founders refine pitches, develop go-to-market strategies, or navigate early-stage growth.

- Create Content. Some speakers also write blogs, record podcasts, or run YouTube channels where they continue to share their knowledge. Think of people like Pat Flynn or Ali Abdaal, who consistently share startup advice in digestible formats.

- Connect Communities. Great speakers often act as connectors. They introduce founders to investors, collaborators, or tools that can accelerate their progress. In many cases, they're the bridge between an idea and its execution.

In short, starting a business speakers are educators, motivators, and connectors - all rolled into one. They don't just speak. They spark action.

Becoming a starting a business speaker isn't just about having a great story or a successful business. It's about knowing how to package your insights in a way that resonates with audiences and gets you booked. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message
- Focus on a specific angle within the 'starting a business' space. Are you an expert in bootstrapping? Tech startups? Local brick-and-mortar businesses?
- Craft a signature talk that delivers clear takeaways. Think: '5 Mistakes First-Time Founders Make' or 'How I Launched a Business with $500'.

2. Build Your Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, talk titles, testimonials, and a speaker reel if you have one.
- Make it easy for event organizers to find and contact you. Include a booking form or direct email.

3. Start Speaking Anywhere You Can
- Look for local meetups, online summits, podcasts, and webinars. These are great places to build experience and credibility.
- Use Talks.co to connect with virtual event hosts looking for speakers in your niche.

4. Collect Social Proof
- After each talk, ask for testimonials and reviews. Record your sessions (with permission) to build a speaker reel.
- Share clips and quotes on LinkedIn and other platforms to build visibility.

5. Pitch Strategically
- Research events that align with your topic and audience. Reach out with a tailored pitch that shows how your talk adds value.
- Use your Talks.co profile as a one-stop-shop for organizers to evaluate and book you.

6. Keep Improving
- Watch recordings of your talks to refine your delivery.
- Attend other speakers' sessions to learn what works and what doesn't.

Remember, the goal is to become known for delivering actionable, engaging insights that help people take the leap into entrepreneurship.

To be a starting a business speaker, you need more than just a microphone and a LinkedIn profile. You need a combination of experience, clarity, and visibility. Let's break it down:

1. Credibility in Business
You don't need to have built a unicorn startup, but you do need real-world experience. Whether you've launched a successful Etsy shop, scaled a SaaS company, or opened a local café, your story should offer lessons others can learn from. Audiences want speakers who've been in the trenches.

2. A Clear, Compelling Message
Your talk should solve a problem or answer a burning question. For example, 'How to Validate Your Business Idea in 7 Days' or 'From Side Hustle to Full-Time: A Blueprint'. The more specific and actionable your message, the more valuable you'll be to event organizers.

3. Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TED-level orator, but you do need to be clear, engaging, and confident. Practice helps. So does feedback. Toastmasters, virtual summits, and podcast interviews are great places to hone your craft.

4. A Professional Presence
This includes a speaker page (like the ones on Talks.co), a polished bio, a high-quality headshot, and ideally a speaker reel. These assets make it easier for hosts to say yes to booking you.

5. Network and Platform Access
Being part of communities like Talks.co helps you connect with event hosts and other speakers. The more visible you are in these ecosystems, the more opportunities come your way.

In short, you need a mix of real experience, a clear message, presentation skills, and a platform to showcase yourself. That's the foundation of a successful starting a business speaker.

Yes, many starting a business speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and event type. Let's break it down:

Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Free gigs are common early on. These help you build your portfolio, get testimonials, and grow your network.
- Paid gigs typically come once you've proven your value and have a track record. These can range from $250 for a small webinar to $10,000+ for a keynote at a major conference.

Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience and Authority: First-time speakers usually earn less than seasoned entrepreneurs with bestselling books or media appearances.
- Event Type: Corporate events and industry conferences tend to pay more than community meetups or online summits.
- Audience Size and Budget: A 500-person tech summit in San Francisco will likely pay more than a 30-person workshop in a rural town.

Why Some Speakers Choose Free Gigs
- Lead generation: Speaking can drive traffic to your business or coaching program.
- Visibility: A free talk at a high-profile event can lead to paid gigs later.
- Practice: Early-stage speakers use free gigs to refine their message.

In Summary
Yes, starting a business speakers get paid, but it's not guaranteed. Like any business, you build your value over time. Platforms like Talks.co can help you move from free to fee by connecting you with the right hosts and helping you showcase your expertise.

Starting a business speakers have multiple income streams, and the most successful ones diversify. Here's a breakdown of how they make money:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. Speakers charge for keynotes, workshops, panels, and virtual events. Rates vary widely based on experience and audience size. For example:
- Local business events: $250 - $1,000
- National conferences: $2,000 - $10,000+
- Online summits: Often unpaid, but can lead to leads or affiliate revenue

2. Product or Service Sales
Many speakers use their talks to drive traffic to:
- Online courses (e.g. 'Launch Your First Business in 30 Days')
- Coaching or consulting packages
- Books or digital downloads

3. Affiliate Marketing
Speakers often recommend tools, platforms, or services they use. If they include affiliate links in their slides or follow-up emails, they can earn commissions. For example, recommending Shopify, ConvertKit, or business planning software.

4. Sponsorships and Partnerships
Some speakers partner with brands that align with their message. A speaker focused on small business finance might partner with a fintech startup to co-host webinars or events.

5. Licensing Content
Speakers can license their talks or training materials to companies, schools, or online platforms. This creates passive income without needing to show up live.

6. Hosting Events or Summits
Speakers who build an audience can flip the script and host their own events. Using platforms like Zoom, they can bring in other speakers, charge for access, and sell replays.

Bottom line: speaking is just the tip of the iceberg. The real revenue often comes from what happens before and after the talk.

The income of starting a business speakers varies widely depending on experience, niche, and business model. Here's a breakdown based on available data and industry trends:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per talk.
- Often speak for free at local meetups, podcasts, or online summits.
- Use these gigs to build credibility and generate leads.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per engagement.
- Usually have a solid speaker page, testimonials, and a few high-profile gigs under their belt.
- May also earn from product sales, coaching, or affiliate income.
High-Level Speakers
- Can command $10,000 to $50,000+ for keynotes.
- Often have bestselling books, media appearances, or a large online following.
- Monetize through multiple channels: speaking, courses, masterminds, and more.
Annual Income Estimates

Speaker Tier	Talks/Year	Avg. Fee	Est. Annual Income
Beginner	10	$250	$2,500
Mid-Level	20	$2,500	$50,000
High-Level	30	$10,000	$300,000

Other Considerations
- Many speakers don't rely solely on speaking fees. They use talks to drive sales of other offers.
- Virtual events often pay less but offer broader reach and lead gen potential.
So, how much do starting a business speakers make? It depends on how you position yourself, how often you speak, and how well you monetize the backend.

Hiring a starting a business speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:
1. Speaker's Experience Level
- New or Emerging Speakers: $0 - $1,000. These speakers are building their brand and may speak for free in exchange for exposure.
- Mid-Tier Professionals: $1,000 - $5,000. These individuals have a proven track record, a speaker page (like on Talks.co), and solid testimonials.
- Top-Tier or Celebrity Speakers: $10,000 - $50,000+. These are authors, influencers, or founders with major media coverage or bestselling books.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual Events: Typically cheaper. Expect $500 - $5,000 depending on the speaker.
- In-Person Conferences: Higher costs due to travel, prep, and time commitment.
- Workshops or Trainings: May cost more than a keynote because of the depth and duration.
3. Customization and Licensing
- If you want a custom talk or to license the content for internal training, expect to pay more.
4. Add-Ons
- Travel and accommodation (if not included).
- Additional sessions or panels.
- Access to post-event Q&A or consulting.
Sample Cost Table

Speaker Type	Cost Range
New Speaker	$0 - $1,000
Experienced Speaker	$1,000 - $5,000
High-Profile Speaker	$10,000 - $50,000

In short, the cost of a starting a business speaker depends on who you're hiring, what you need, and how you plan to use their content. Platforms like Talks.co can help you filter by budget and speaker type.

- Tony Robbins: While known for personal development, Robbins has helped thousands of entrepreneurs start businesses through his Business Mastery events.
- Barbara Corcoran: Real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor, Barbara shares raw, practical advice on starting and scaling businesses.
- Gary Vaynerchuk: Gary Vee built multiple businesses and speaks globally about entrepreneurship, branding, and hustle culture.
- Marie Forleo: Founder of B-School, Marie empowers aspiring entrepreneurs with clear, actionable strategies.
- Daymond John: FUBU founder and Shark Tank investor, Daymond speaks about starting from scratch and building a brand.
- Seth Godin: Though more of a marketing guru, his talks often inspire entrepreneurs to start purpose-driven businesses.
- Melinda Emerson: Known as the 'SmallBizLady', she's a go-to expert on starting and growing small businesses.
- Tim Ferriss: Author of 'The 4-Hour Workweek', Ferriss has influenced a generation of digital entrepreneurs.
- Sophia Amoruso: Founder of Nasty Gal and Girlboss, she speaks candidly about the highs and lows of startup life.
- Simon Sinek: While not a founder-first speaker, his 'Start With Why' framework has become foundational for many new businesses.

- Richard Branson (UK): Founder of the Virgin Group, Branson shares global insights on entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and innovation.
- Jack Ma (China): Alibaba's founder is known for his motivational talks on perseverance and starting with limited resources.
- Sara Blakely (USA): Founder of Spanx, Blakely speaks about bootstrapping, resilience, and female entrepreneurship.
- Naval Ravikant (USA/India): AngelList co-founder, Naval offers deep, philosophical takes on startups, wealth, and decision-making.
- Verne Harnish (USA): Author of 'Scaling Up', Verne is a go-to speaker for entrepreneurs moving from startup to scale-up.
- Janice Bryant Howroyd (USA): The first Black woman to own a billion-dollar business, she speaks on entrepreneurship and diversity.
- Fred Swaniker (Ghana): Founder of African Leadership Academy, Swaniker speaks on entrepreneurship as a tool for economic development.
- Andrew Griffiths (Australia): A global small business author and speaker, Griffiths delivers practical advice with humor and heart.
- Guy Kawasaki (USA): Former Apple evangelist, Kawasaki shares startup wisdom with a tech-savvy edge.
- Randi Zuckerberg (USA): Former Facebook exec and founder of Zuckerberg Media, she speaks on tech entrepreneurship and women in business.

Myth #1: Starting a business speakers must be serial entrepreneurs with million-dollar exits.

This one trips up a lot of people. The assumption is that unless you've built and sold a unicorn startup, you have no business speaking about starting a business. But here's the truth: audiences crave relatability. Speakers like Pat Flynn, who built Smart Passive Income from scratch without venture capital, have massive followings because they share practical, replicable steps. What matters more than your revenue is your clarity, your story, and your ability to teach.

Myth #2: You need a TEDx talk to be taken seriously.

Sure, TEDx can boost visibility, but it's not a requirement. Many successful starting a business speakers build authority through podcasts, virtual summits, or niche industry events. In fact, platforms like Talks.co help emerging voices get booked without needing a viral video. Authority today is decentralized. You can build it from your laptop.

Myth #3: You have to be extroverted and charismatic to succeed.

Not true. Some of the most effective speakers are introverts who prepare deeply and deliver with intention. Think of Susan Cain, author of 'Quiet', who turned her introversion into a superpower on stage. What matters is authenticity and clarity, not volume or flash.

Myth #4: You must cover everything about entrepreneurship in your talk.

Trying to be a one-stop shop is overwhelming for both you and your audience. The best starting a business speakers focus on a niche: bootstrapping, product-market fit, funding alternatives, or even mental health for founders. Specialization builds trust. Generalization dilutes it.

Myth #5: You can only speak once you've 'made it'.

This is a mindset block more than a fact. Many conferences and online summits look for speakers who are in the trenches, sharing real-time lessons. Your current journey can be more valuable than a polished success story. People want to hear from someone just a few steps ahead of them.

When you think about successful starting a business speakers, names like Marie Forleo, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Jason Fried come to mind. But their paths to the stage weren't identical. Let's take a look at a few different journeys to see how diverse this space really is.

Marie Forleo started as a life coach, but her business acumen and ability to connect dots across industries made her a go-to speaker on entrepreneurship. She didn't wait for permission. She created her own platform, launched B-School, and used her YouTube channel to build a global audience. Her talks blend mindset with marketing, making her relatable to both creatives and strategists.

Then there's Gary Vee. Love him or not, his rise from running a wine business to becoming a media mogul is a masterclass in content leverage. He didn't start on big stages. He started with Wine Library TV. His speaking career took off because he documented his process, shared brutally honest takes, and made himself available. His talks are less about slides and more about energy and conviction.

Jason Fried, co-founder of Basecamp, took a different route. He's not flashy. He doesn't do hype. But his talks on calm business, remote work, and bootstrapping have earned him respect in the startup world. His TEDx talk and appearances at tech conferences are grounded in real-world experience, not theory. He speaks to the thoughtful entrepreneur who values sustainability over scale.

And let's not forget regional voices. In Africa, entrepreneurs like Rebecca Enonchong have become powerful speakers by advocating for tech ecosystems and startup funding reform. In Southeast Asia, founders like Hooi Ling Tan of Grab speak about scaling in emerging markets, offering insights Western audiences often miss.

These stories show there's no single mold. Whether you're loud or quiet, global or local, product-focused or people-first, there's room for your voice in the world of starting a business speakers.

The landscape for starting a business speakers is shifting in ways that open up new opportunities for fresh voices. As entrepreneurship itself evolves, so does the way we talk about it on stage, on screen, and in virtual rooms.

One major shift: audiences are craving real-time relevance. Static keynote speeches are giving way to interactive formats. Think live Q&As, fireside chats, and co-creation sessions. Speakers who can adapt their content on the fly and engage in dialogue rather than monologue are in high demand.

Another trend is the rise of niche expertise. Generalist talks about 'how to start a business' are being replaced by hyper-specific sessions: how to validate a SaaS idea in 30 days, how to crowdfund a physical product, or how to launch a business as a digital nomad. The more tailored your message, the more likely you are to get booked.

Virtual and hybrid events are no longer a temporary fix. They're a permanent fixture. This means starting a business speakers need to master not just stage presence, but camera presence. Lighting, audio, and delivery style all matter more than ever.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Micro-audiences over mass appeal. Speaking to 500 ideal clients beats speaking to 5,000 random attendees.
- Founder vulnerability. Talks that include failure, burnout, or mental health are resonating more than polished success stories.
- Global localization. Speakers who can adapt their message for different cultural or economic contexts are getting more international gigs.
- AI and automation literacy. Entrepreneurs want to hear how to integrate tools like ChatGPT, Zapier, and Notion into their workflows. Speakers who can teach this practically are in demand.

The future isn't about being the loudest. It's about being the most relevant, the most helpful, and the most human.

Talks.co. This is a smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts. If you're just starting out, this is a great way to build your speaking resume, test your message, and reach niche audiences without needing a big stage.

SpeakerHub. A searchable directory where event organizers find speakers. You can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by virtual summit hosts, corporate trainers, and more.

Canva. Need to design a slick slide deck without hiring a designer? Canva makes it easy. Use their presentation templates to create visuals that support your message without overwhelming it.

Otter.ai. Record your practice sessions, transcribe them, and analyze your delivery. This tool helps you refine your message and spot filler words or unclear phrasing.

Calendly. Booking calls with event organizers or podcast hosts? Calendly streamlines the process and makes you look professional. Pro tip: create a separate link just for speaking inquiries.

Notion. Organize your talk outlines, pitch templates, and event contacts in one place. Notion is flexible enough to serve as your speaker HQ.

Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual speaking gigs. Learn how to use breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing like a pro. Your tech confidence will set you apart.

LinkedIn. Not just a resume site. Use it to publish short posts, connect with event organizers, and share clips of your talks. Building visibility here can lead to unexpected invites.