Surviving Bullying Speakers

A surviving bullying speaker is someone who has personally experienced bullying and now shares their story publicly to educate, empower, and inspire others. These speakers often use their lived experiences to highlight the emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical toll of bullying-and how they overcame it.

Unlike general motivational speakers, surviving bullying speakers focus specifically on the dynamics of bullying: what it looks like, how it affects individuals, and what can be done to prevent or recover from it. Their talks often include personal narratives, but they also incorporate research, strategies, and calls to action tailored to their audience.

Some are survivors of school bullying, others of workplace harassment, cyberbullying, or even systemic discrimination. For example, Monica Lewinsky has used her experience with public shaming and online harassment to advocate for digital empathy and anti-bullying policies.

These speakers are often featured at schools, corporate trainings, mental health conferences, and online summits. Their goal isn't just to share pain-it's to spark change. Whether it's encouraging bystanders to speak up or helping victims reclaim their voice, surviving bullying speakers bring both insight and impact to the stage.

When you hear someone talk about surviving bullying, it does more than just tug at your heart-it shifts your perspective. A surviving bullying speaker brings firsthand insight into an issue that's often misunderstood or minimized.

Bullying isn't just a childhood issue. It shows up in schools, workplaces, online spaces, and even within families. And while statistics can tell you how widespread it is, stories make it real. That's where these speakers come in. They humanize the data.

For educators, hearing from a speaker who's been through it can reshape how they approach discipline and student support. For corporate teams, it can spark conversations about workplace culture and inclusion. And for young people, it can be the moment they realize they're not alone-and that healing is possible.

These speakers also play a role in prevention. By sharing what bullying looked like in their lives, they help others recognize red flags early. They also model resilience, showing that recovery isn't just possible-it's powerful.

In short, surviving bullying speakers are important because they bridge the gap between awareness and action. They don't just talk about the problem. They show us what it means to rise above it.

Surviving bullying speakers educate, advocate, and empower-but their work goes far beyond giving talks. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Share Personal Stories with Purpose. They recount their experiences with bullying in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. This isn't just storytelling-it's strategic vulnerability designed to foster empathy and understanding.

- Deliver Keynotes, Workshops, and Panels. From school assemblies in rural Australia to HR summits in New York, these speakers tailor their message to fit the context. Some lead interactive workshops on conflict resolution or digital safety, while others focus on keynote storytelling.

- Advocate for Policy and Cultural Change. Many speakers work with nonprofits, school boards, or government agencies to influence anti-bullying policies. For example, speakers like Tyler Gregory have collaborated with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups to push for inclusive school environments.

- Create Educational Content. Some develop courses, write books, or launch podcasts. Their goal is to extend their message beyond the stage. This might include curriculum guides for teachers or online resources for parents.

- Support Survivors and Communities. Through coaching, support groups, or online forums, many speakers continue the conversation off-stage. They help individuals process their experiences and build resilience.

In essence, surviving bullying speakers are educators, storytellers, and changemakers. They don't just speak-they build movements.

Becoming a surviving bullying speaker isn't just about telling your story. It's about crafting a message that resonates, finding the right platforms, and building a brand that connects with audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What part of your bullying experience shaped you the most?
- Focus on transformation: how you moved from victim to survivor to advocate.
- Tip: Use a framework like 'Before, During, After' to structure your story.

2. Identify Your Audience.
- Are you speaking to students, parents, educators, or corporate teams?
- Tailor your language and examples to fit their context.
- Example: A school audience might relate to peer pressure, while a corporate group might connect with workplace harassment.

3. Build Your Speaker Profile.
- Create a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co to showcase your bio, topics, testimonials, and videos.
- Include a professional headshot and a short video clip of you speaking.
- Tip: Keep your speaker reel under 2 minutes and highlight emotional moments.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Offer to speak at local schools, community events, or online summits.
- Collect feedback and testimonials after each talk.
- Use these to pitch larger events or get listed on speaker directories.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Planners.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to network with podcast hosts, virtual summit organizers, and conference planners.
- Personalize your outreach: mention why your story fits their audience.
- Bonus: Offer a free webinar or workshop to build trust and showcase your value.

6. Keep Evolving.
- Attend speaker training programs or join communities like Toastmasters.
- Record your talks, review them, and refine your delivery.
- Stay updated on bullying trends, legislation, and support tools to keep your content relevant.

Remember, being a surviving bullying speaker is about more than reliving trauma. It's about empowering others through your resilience and voice.

To be a surviving bullying speaker, you need more than just a personal story. You need clarity, credibility, and communication skills that move people to action. Let's break it down:

1. A Compelling Story with Purpose
Your experience with bullying is the foundation, but it's the transformation that matters. Audiences want to hear how you overcame adversity, what you learned, and how they can apply that insight to their own lives. Whether your story involves schoolyard bullying, cyberbullying, or workplace harassment, the key is to show growth, not just pain.

2. Communication Skills
You don't need to be a TED-level speaker from day one, but you do need to be clear, authentic, and emotionally engaging. Practice storytelling techniques like pacing, pausing, and vocal variety. Use metaphors sparingly and focus on real, relatable language. If you're not confident yet, consider joining Toastmasters or hiring a speaking coach.

3. A Platform to Share Your Message
Having a speaker page on a platform like Talks.co helps you get discovered by event organizers, podcast hosts, and summit planners. It's your digital resume. Include your bio, speaking topics, testimonials, and a short video clip. This builds trust and makes it easy for hosts to book you.

4. A Clear Offer
What do you want your audience to do after hearing you speak? Whether it's joining a support group, buying your book, or booking a workshop, your call-to-action should be clear and aligned with your message.

5. Emotional Intelligence and Boundaries
Talking about bullying can be triggering-for you and your audience. Learn how to manage emotional responses, set boundaries, and offer support resources. This is especially crucial when speaking to vulnerable groups like teens or trauma survivors.

Being a surviving bullying speaker is a role that requires heart, skill, and strategy. It's not just about telling your story-it's about using it to create change.

Yes, surviving bullying speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's look at the landscape.
The Speaking Industry at a Glance
According to SpeakerHub and other industry platforms, motivational speakers can earn anywhere from $500 to $20,000 per talk, depending on their experience, niche, and audience. Surviving bullying speakers typically fall into the motivational or advocacy category, which is in demand at schools, conferences, and corporate wellness events.
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: New speakers often start unpaid or with honorariums ($100-$500), while seasoned speakers with published books or media appearances can command $2,000-$10,000 per event.
- Audience Type: Schools and nonprofits may have limited budgets, while corporate events and government programs often pay more.
- Format: Keynotes pay more than panel discussions or breakout sessions. Virtual talks may pay less but offer volume.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Speaking engagements can lead to book sales, coaching clients, or media exposure.
- You can build a sustainable income stream over time.
- Cons:
- Early gigs may be unpaid or underpaid.
- Travel and prep time can be extensive.
Quick Comparison Table:

Experience Level	Typical Fee per Talk
Beginner	$0 - $500
Intermediate	$500 - $2,000
Advanced	$2,000 - $10,000+

So yes, surviving bullying speakers do get paid-but like any career, it takes time to build credibility and command higher fees.

Surviving bullying speakers generate income through a mix of direct speaking fees and related revenue streams. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their message:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most obvious source. Speakers are hired to present at:
- School assemblies and anti-bullying programs.
- Corporate DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) workshops.
- Conferences, summits, and webinars.

2. Book Sales and Digital Products
Many speakers write memoirs, guides, or workbooks based on their experiences. These can be sold at events or online.
- Example: A speaker might sell a $20 book at a school event and move 100 copies in one day.
- Others create online courses or downloadable toolkits for parents, educators, or HR professionals.

3. Coaching and Consulting
Some speakers offer 1:1 coaching or group programs for:
- Teens recovering from bullying.
- Parents navigating school systems.
- Organizations building anti-bullying policies.

4. Affiliate and Sponsorship Revenue
Speakers may partner with:
- Mental health apps.
- Nonprofits or advocacy groups.
- Educational tech platforms.

These partnerships can include affiliate links, sponsored talks, or co-branded campaigns.

5. Virtual Events and Summits
Platforms like Zoom allow speakers to join virtual summits or host their own. These events can generate revenue through:
- Ticket sales.
- VIP upgrades.
- Replays and bundles.

6. Merchandise and Donations
Some speakers sell branded merchandise (shirts, journals, wristbands) or accept donations to support their advocacy work.

In short, surviving bullying speakers diversify their income by combining storytelling with entrepreneurship. The more platforms they leverage, the more sustainable their business becomes.

The income of surviving bullying speakers varies widely, depending on their reach, experience, and business model. Let's break it down with some real-world context.
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per event.
- Often speak at schools or community centers.
- May receive travel reimbursement or small honorariums.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn $500 to $2,500 per talk.
- Have a speaker page, some media exposure, and a growing audience.
- May supplement income with book sales or coaching.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Can command $5,000 to $20,000+ per keynote.
- Often have bestselling books, TEDx talks, or corporate endorsements.
- Speak at major conferences, summits, and international events.
Annual Income Estimates

Speaker Type	Events/Year	Avg. Fee	Total Income
Beginner	10	$250	$2,500
Intermediate	25	$1,000	$25,000
Advanced	40	$5,000	$200,000

Additional Revenue Streams
- Book royalties: $1,000 to $50,000+ annually.
- Online courses: $500 to $10,000/month depending on audience size.
- Coaching: $100 to $500/hour.
While the ceiling is high, most speakers build their income over time. The key is consistency, branding, and leveraging platforms like Talks.co to get booked and grow visibility.

Hiring a surviving bullying speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the speaker's profile, the event type, and the location. Here's how it typically breaks down:

Cost Ranges by Experience
- Emerging Speakers: $0 - $500.
- Often speak at local schools or nonprofits.
- May waive fees for exposure or practice.

- Professional Speakers: $500 - $5,000.
- Have a speaker page, testimonials, and a polished presentation.
- Suitable for school districts, regional conferences, or corporate wellness events.

- High-Profile Speakers: $5,000 - $20,000+.
- Include bestselling authors, TEDx speakers, or media personalities.
- Often booked for national conferences, government programs, or international summits.

Factors That Influence Cost
- Event Type: Keynotes cost more than workshops or panels.
- Location: In-person events may require travel, lodging, and per diem.
- Customization: Tailored content or follow-up sessions can increase the fee.

Virtual vs. In-Person
- Virtual talks are generally 30-50% cheaper.
- Example: A $3,000 in-person keynote might cost $1,500 as a virtual session.

Cost-Saving Tips
- Book through platforms like Talks.co to find emerging talent.
- Offer value beyond cash: media exposure, testimonials, or bulk book purchases.
- Consider group bookings with other schools or departments to share costs.

Hiring a surviving bullying speaker is an investment in awareness, empathy, and change. The cost reflects not just their time, but the impact they bring to your audience.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful surviving bullying speakers who've made a lasting mark on audiences around the world:

- Lizzie Velásquez
- Born with a rare syndrome, Lizzie was once labeled 'The World's Ugliest Woman' online. She turned that cruelty into a global anti-bullying campaign and a viral TEDx talk with over 10 million views.

- Jared Greybeal
- A fitness entrepreneur and speaker who shares his journey from being bullied for his weight to becoming a successful business owner and mental health advocate.

- Gabrielle Ford
- Known for her story about her dog, Izzy, who helped her overcome bullying and isolation. Gabrielle has spoken to over a million students across the U.S.

- Jodee Blanco
- Author of 'Please Stop Laughing at Me', Jodee is one of the earliest voices in the anti-bullying movement. She's spoken at thousands of schools and has trained educators nationwide.

- Monique Coleman
- Best known from 'High School Musical', Monique has used her platform to speak about being bullied as a child and now advocates for youth empowerment globally.

- Travis Price
- Co-founder of Pink Shirt Day, a global anti-bullying initiative that started in Canada. Travis speaks about standing up for others and creating inclusive communities.

- CJ Beatty
- Former pro baseball player turned motivational speaker, CJ shares his story of overcoming bullying through sports and self-belief.

- Aija Mayrock
- Poet and author of 'The Survival Guide to Bullying', Aija speaks to teens about reclaiming their voice through creativity.

These speakers have not only survived bullying but turned their pain into purpose, reaching millions with their messages of resilience and hope.

Looking globally, these surviving bullying speakers are making waves across continents with powerful stories and international impact:

- Lizzie Velásquez (USA)
- A global icon in anti-bullying advocacy, Lizzie has spoken at the United Nations and across Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

- Chloe Tear (UK)
- An award-winning disability and mental health advocate, Chloe shares her experiences with bullying and cerebral palsy to promote inclusion worldwide.

- Akash Choudhary (India)
- A model and youth speaker who went viral for confronting bullies on a reality show. He now speaks at schools and colleges across India about self-worth and courage.

- Brooke Gibbs (Australia)
- A resilience educator and speaker who blends humor with psychology to teach kids how to respond to bullying. His videos have millions of views globally.

- Mohamad Al Jounde (Syria/Sweden)
- A Syrian refugee and International Children's Peace Prize winner, Mohamad speaks about bullying, war trauma, and resilience. He's addressed audiences from Geneva to Nairobi.

- Aija Mayrock (USA)
- Her poetry and activism have reached audiences in the UK, Canada, and the Middle East. She's collaborated with the UN and Girl Up.

- Travis Price (Canada)
- Co-founder of Pink Shirt Day, now celebrated in over 25 countries. Travis speaks internationally about bystander empowerment.

- Sophie Whitehead (South Africa)
- A youth speaker and mental health advocate who uses storytelling and art to address bullying in rural and urban African communities.

These speakers are not just local heroes-they're global voices shaping how we understand and combat bullying in diverse cultural contexts.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about surviving bullying speakers. These myths don't just mislead-they can actually hold people back from stepping into this powerful space.

- Myth 1: You need to be completely healed to speak about bullying.
This one trips up a lot of aspiring speakers. The idea that you must be 100% 'over it' before sharing your story is not only unrealistic, it's counterproductive. Healing is a journey, not a finish line. Some of the most impactful talks come from speakers who are still navigating their path. Brené Brown, for example, built her career on vulnerability and imperfection. Audiences connect with authenticity, not perfection.

- Myth 2: Only people with extreme bullying stories are qualified to speak.
There's a belief that unless your story involves physical violence or national headlines, it won't resonate. That's just not true. Emotional and psychological bullying-especially in schools, workplaces, or online-affects millions. Speakers like Lizzie Velásquez have shown that even deeply personal, seemingly 'small' stories can spark global conversations.

- Myth 3: Surviving bullying speakers are only relevant to youth audiences.
Sure, schools are a common venue, but this message hits across generations. Workplace harassment, cyberbullying, and social exclusion don't stop at 18. Corporate wellness programs, HR conferences, and leadership summits are increasingly booking speakers on resilience and bullying survival. The demand is broader than most people think.

- Myth 4: You need a speaking agent or TEDx talk to get started.
While those things help, they're not prerequisites. Many speakers build their platform through podcasts, local events, or social media. Talks.co, for instance, connects speakers with podcast hosts looking for guests. It's a great way to build credibility and reach without needing a big-name booking agency.

- Myth 5: Talking about bullying keeps you stuck in the past.
This is a subtle but damaging myth. Sharing your story doesn't mean you're dwelling-it means you're leading. Survivors who speak out often find it empowering, not retraumatizing. It's about reframing the narrative and using your voice to help others find theirs.

When you look at the journeys of successful surviving bullying speakers, one thing stands out: no two paths are the same. But they all have one thing in common-they turned pain into purpose.

Take Monica Lewinsky. Once the subject of relentless public shaming, she reemerged as a powerful voice against cyberbullying. Her TED Talk, 'The Price of Shame,' has over 20 million views. She didn't erase her past-she reframed it. Now, she speaks at conferences, universities, and media events, advocating for compassion in digital spaces.

Then there's Kechi Okwuchi, a Nigerian-American plane crash survivor and finalist on America's Got Talent. While her story centers on trauma, she also speaks openly about the bullying she faced due to her scars. Her talks blend music, resilience, and anti-bullying advocacy. She's been featured at global events like the Women Deliver Conference and UN panels.

In Australia, speaker and author Turia Pitt has become a household name. After surviving severe burns in a bushfire, she faced years of bullying and public scrutiny. Today, she's a bestselling author and motivational speaker, using her platform to challenge beauty standards and promote mental strength.

And let's not forget smaller-scale but equally impactful voices. In rural Canada, teacher-turned-speaker Travis Price co-founded Pink Shirt Day after standing up for a bullied student. What started as a local act of solidarity became a national anti-bullying movement, and Travis now speaks at schools and youth summits across North America.

Each of these speakers didn't wait for permission. They leaned into their stories, found their unique message, and built platforms that resonate far beyond their original circles. Whether through viral talks, grassroots campaigns, or international stages, they've shown that surviving bullying isn't the end-it's the beginning of something powerful.

The landscape for surviving bullying speakers is shifting in bold new directions. As conversations around mental health, digital safety, and inclusivity expand, so does the relevance of these voices. Here's where things are heading:

- Hybrid and virtual speaking formats are here to stay.
Post-2020, virtual events aren't just a backup-they're a strategy. Speakers who can adapt their message for Zoom rooms, webinars, and hybrid conferences will have a competitive edge. Expect more demand for short-form, high-impact digital keynotes that can be shared on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube.

- Corporate wellness is opening new doors.
Companies are recognizing that bullying doesn't stop at school. Toxic workplace culture, microaggressions, and exclusion are real issues. Surviving bullying speakers who can connect their story to leadership, empathy, and team dynamics are getting booked for HR trainings, DEI panels, and leadership retreats.

- Youth audiences are evolving.
Gen Z and Gen Alpha are digital natives. They expect authenticity, interactivity, and relevance. Speakers who incorporate multimedia, storytelling, and even gamification into their talks will stand out. Think: interactive polls, live Q&A, or even TikTok-style video snippets.

- Intersectionality is becoming essential.
Audiences are looking for stories that reflect diverse identities-race, gender, disability, neurodiversity. Speakers who can speak to bullying through multiple lenses are better positioned to connect with broader audiences. This also means more opportunities for speakers from underrepresented communities.

- AI and tech are changing how speakers build their brand.
Tools like ChatGPT, Canva, and Descript are helping speakers create content faster-whether it's blog posts, video captions, or pitch decks. Those who embrace tech will be able to scale their message more efficiently.

Bottom line: surviving bullying speakers who stay agile, tech-savvy, and audience-aware will find more opportunities than ever before. The stage is no longer just a stage-it's a screen, a podcast, a livestream, and a movement.

- Talks.co. This podcast guest matching platform is a goldmine for new speakers. You can create a profile, list your speaking topics, and get matched with podcast hosts looking for guests. Great for building credibility and getting your message out without needing a huge following.

- SpeakerHub. A directory and marketplace for speakers of all kinds. You can create a speaker profile, apply for gigs, and even get tips on pricing and contracts. It's especially useful for those just starting out.

- Canva. Whether you're designing your speaker one-sheet, creating social media graphics, or building a slide deck, Canva makes it easy. Use their templates to keep your branding consistent and professional.

- Descript. If you're recording your talks or podcast interviews, Descript helps you edit audio and video like a document. It's perfect for repurposing content into reels, shorts, or blog posts.

- LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your speaking topics, grow your audience, and get discovered by event planners. Post short videos, share clips from your talks, and engage with relevant hashtags like #bullyingawareness or #resilience.

- National Speakers Association (NSA). If you're serious about going pro, NSA offers training, certification, and networking. They also have local chapters and events where you can meet other speakers and learn the business side of speaking.

- TEDx Speaker Guide. Even if you're not applying to speak at a TEDx event right now, their guide is a masterclass in structuring impactful talks. Use it to refine your message and storytelling.

- Google Alerts. Set alerts for terms like 'anti-bullying conference', 'youth speaker call for proposals', or 'resilience keynote'. It's a simple way to stay ahead of speaking opportunities in your niche.

These tools aren't just about logistics-they're about helping you build a platform that reflects your voice and mission. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, there's something here to help you move forward.