Sustainable Agriculture Speakers

A sustainable agriculture speaker is someone who educates, inspires, and informs audiences about practices, policies, and innovations that support environmentally responsible and socially equitable food systems. These speakers come from a wide range of backgrounds-scientists, farmers, policy advocates, entrepreneurs, and educators-but they all share a commitment to reshaping how we grow and consume food.

Unlike general agriculture speakers, sustainable agriculture speakers focus specifically on methods that preserve natural resources, promote biodiversity, and support local economies. This might include topics like regenerative farming, agroecology, permaculture, organic certification, or climate-smart agriculture.

They often speak at conferences, summits, webinars, podcasts, and community events. Some, like Leah Penniman of Soul Fire Farm, bring a strong social justice lens, while others, like Gabe Brown, focus on soil health and regenerative ranching. Their audiences can range from rural farming communities to urban food startups to international policy forums.

In essence, a sustainable agriculture speaker helps bridge the gap between science, policy, and practice. They translate complex ideas into accessible knowledge, helping diverse audiences understand why sustainable food systems matter and how they can contribute.

Whether they're addressing a local farmers' market board or a global climate summit, their role is to spark dialogue, challenge assumptions, and offer actionable insights for a more resilient future.

When you're trying to shift how the world thinks about food, farming, and the future, a sustainable agriculture speaker can be a powerful catalyst. These speakers don't just share knowledge-they shape conversations that influence policy, business, and behavior.

They Connect the Dots. Sustainable agriculture is a complex web of science, economics, culture, and ecology. A skilled speaker can break it down so that a tech entrepreneur in San Francisco, a rice farmer in Vietnam, and a policy advisor in Brussels all walk away with clarity and insight.

They Influence Decision-Makers. Whether it's a keynote at a global climate summit or a guest appearance on a startup podcast, these speakers help shape the narratives that drive funding, innovation, and legislation. For example, when speakers like Dr. Rattan Lal talk about soil carbon sequestration, they're not just educating-they're influencing climate policy.

They Inspire Action Across Sectors. A sustainable agriculture speaker might inspire a chef to source locally, a school to start a garden, or a VC to fund regenerative agtech. Their impact ripples across industries.

They Amplify Underrepresented Voices. Many speakers in this space highlight Indigenous knowledge, smallholder farmers, and grassroots movements. That diversity of perspective is crucial in a field often dominated by industrial interests.

In short, these speakers are important because they help us reimagine what's possible-and necessary-in our food systems. Without them, the conversation risks being fragmented, technical, or inaccessible to the people who need to hear it most.

Sustainable agriculture speakers educate, advocate, and engage audiences around the principles and practices of sustainable food systems. Their work spans multiple formats and functions, depending on their expertise and the platform they're speaking on.

1. Educate Diverse Audiences.
They break down complex topics like regenerative farming, agroforestry, or climate-smart agriculture for different audiences. For example:
- At a university, they might lecture on the science of soil microbiomes.
- On a podcast, they might explain how urban farming can reduce food deserts.
- At a corporate retreat, they might advise on sustainable sourcing strategies.

2. Advocate for Change.
Many sustainable agriculture speakers are also activists. They use their platforms to push for policy reform, environmental justice, or food sovereignty. Think of speakers like Winona LaDuke, who blends Indigenous rights with ecological stewardship.

3. Share Real-World Case Studies.
They often present examples from their own work or global case studies. Whether it's a permaculture project in Brazil or a regenerative vineyard in California, these stories help audiences visualize what sustainable agriculture looks like in action.

4. Facilitate Dialogue.
They don't just speak-they listen and moderate. At panels, summits, or workshops, they help bridge gaps between farmers, scientists, investors, and consumers.

5. Inspire Innovation.
By highlighting emerging trends-like vertical farming, biochar, or blockchain in food traceability-they encourage entrepreneurs and policymakers to think differently.

In essence, sustainable agriculture speakers are translators, connectors, and catalysts. They help people understand not just what sustainable agriculture is, but why it matters and how to get involved.

Ready to step onto the stage and share your passion for sustainable farming? Here's how to become a sustainable agriculture speaker, step by step:

1. Define Your Niche.
- Sustainable agriculture is broad. Are you focused on regenerative farming, agroecology, climate-smart agriculture, or organic certification? Pick a lane that aligns with your expertise.
- Tip: Look at what's trending on Talks.co or browse speaker pages to see how others position themselves.

2. Build Your Credibility.
- You don't need a PhD, but you do need experience. Whether you're a farmer, researcher, policy advocate, or entrepreneur, document your journey.
- Publish articles, contribute to local ag networks, or start a blog. If you've implemented a no-till system or helped a co-op go organic, that's gold.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- This is your digital business card. Include your bio, topics you speak on, past events, testimonials, and a short video clip.
- You can use platforms like Talks.co to create a profile and connect with event hosts looking for sustainability experts.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Begin with local ag expos, university panels, or community food summits. Record your talks and collect feedback.
- As your confidence and reputation grow, pitch to larger conferences like the Regenerative Earth Summit or the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture.

5. Network and Collaborate.
- Join speaker directories, attend virtual summits, and reach out to podcast hosts. Many sustainable agriculture speakers get their first big break through a referral.
- Bonus: Partner with NGOs or ag-tech companies who need speakers for their outreach events.

Becoming a sustainable agriculture speaker isn't about being the loudest voice. It's about being the most relevant one in the room. Start where you are, and grow from there.

Being a sustainable agriculture speaker requires more than just a microphone and a passion for farming. It's a blend of expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning.

First, let's talk about expertise. You need a solid understanding of sustainable agriculture principles. That could come from academic study, hands-on farming, policy work, or agri-business innovation. Whether you're practicing permaculture in Kenya or leading a soil health initiative in Iowa, your real-world experience is your foundation.

Second, communication is key. You must be able to translate complex agricultural systems into stories and insights that resonate with diverse audiences. That might mean breaking down regenerative grazing for a room full of tech investors or explaining carbon sequestration to high school students. Practicing storytelling, using visuals, and refining your delivery are all part of the job.

Third, you need a platform. This is where tools like Talks.co come in handy. A speaker page that showcases your topics, past engagements, and audience testimonials helps event organizers trust you. It also makes it easier for them to book you directly.

Finally, you need a network. Sustainable agriculture is a global conversation. Join forums, attend summits, and connect with other speakers. Many opportunities come from referrals or collaborations.

In short, to be a sustainable agriculture speaker, you need:
- Deep knowledge of sustainable ag practices.
- Strong public speaking and storytelling skills.
- A professional speaker page (like on Talks.co).
- A network of peers, hosts, and event organizers.

It's not about being famous. It's about being relevant, prepared, and visible.

Yes, sustainable agriculture speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors.
Let's break it down:
- Experience and Reputation: Established speakers with books, TEDx talks, or leadership roles in global ag movements can command higher fees. Newer speakers might start with unpaid gigs to build credibility.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences, government panels, and international summits usually pay. Local community events or nonprofit panels may offer honorariums or just cover travel.
- Region: In North America and Europe, speaker budgets tend to be higher. In developing regions, compensation may be lower but can be offset by broader impact or media exposure.
Here's a quick comparison:

Speaker Type	Typical Pay Range
New speaker (local events)	$0 - $500
Mid-level (regional conferences)	$500 - $2,000
High-profile (global summits)	$2,000 - $10,000+

Pros:
- Speaking can lead to consulting gigs, book deals, or media appearances.
- It builds your authority in the sustainable ag space.
Cons:
- Not all events pay.
- Travel and prep time can be significant.
So yes, sustainable agriculture speakers get paid-but the real value often comes from what the stage leads to next.

Sustainable agriculture speakers have multiple income streams beyond just speaking fees. Here's how they typically monetize their expertise:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Conferences, summits, and corporate events often pay speakers to share insights on regenerative farming, food systems, or ag-tech innovation.
- Example: A speaker might earn $3,000 for a keynote at the Global AgInvesting conference.

2. Workshops and Training
- Many speakers run hands-on workshops for farmers, NGOs, or universities. These can be in-person or virtual.
- They charge per session or per participant, especially when offering certifications.

3. Consulting and Advisory Roles
- Some speakers advise governments, startups, or nonprofits on sustainable ag strategies. This can be a lucrative side gig.
- Example: Advising a food company on regenerative sourcing policies.

4. Online Courses and Webinars
- Platforms like Teachable or Thinkific allow speakers to turn their knowledge into passive income.
- Talks.co also connects speakers with hosts for virtual summits, which can be monetized through ticket sales or sponsorships.

5. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book or contributing to industry journals can generate royalties and boost speaking fees.

6. Affiliate Partnerships and Sponsorships
- Partnering with eco-friendly brands or ag-tech tools can bring in sponsorship deals.
- Example: A speaker might promote a soil testing kit during a webinar and earn a commission.

In short, sustainable agriculture speakers make money through a mix of direct fees, educational content, and strategic partnerships. The most successful ones diversify their income across these channels.

The income of sustainable agriculture speakers varies widely based on experience, visibility, and the types of events they speak at. Let's look at some numbers and what influences them.
Entry-Level Speakers
- These are individuals just starting out, often speaking at local events or university panels.
- Typical earnings: $0 to $500 per event.
- Many use these gigs to build their portfolio and gain testimonials.
Mid-Level Speakers
- These speakers have a few years of experience, a speaker page, and some media exposure.
- Typical earnings: $500 to $2,500 per event.
- They may also earn from workshops or consulting gigs.
High-Profile Speakers
- These are recognized experts, authors, or founders of major initiatives.
- Typical earnings: $3,000 to $10,000+ per keynote.
- They often have multiple income streams, including online courses and sponsorships.
Other Factors That Influence Income
- Region: Speakers in the US, Canada, and Western Europe tend to earn more.
- Event Type: Corporate and international events pay more than local or nonprofit gatherings.
- Topic Relevance: Speakers addressing hot-button issues like climate resilience or food security often command higher fees.
Here's a quick snapshot:

Speaker Level	Avg. Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range (est.)
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $5,000
Intermediate	$500 - $2,500	$10,000 - $50,000
Expert/Influencer	$3,000 - $10,000+	$50,000 - $200,000+

Many speakers also use platforms like Talks.co to increase visibility and bookings, which can significantly boost their earnings over time.

Hiring a sustainable agriculture speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several key factors.
1. Speaker Experience and Reputation
- New or local speakers: $0 - $500.
- Mid-tier professionals with a few years of speaking: $1,000 - $3,000.
- High-profile experts or authors: $5,000 - $15,000+.
2. Event Type and Budget
- Academic panels or nonprofit events may offer honorariums or travel reimbursement.
- Corporate conferences or international summits often have larger budgets and pay premium fees.
3. Format and Duration
- A 15-minute virtual talk costs less than a full-day in-person workshop.
- Add-ons like Q&A sessions, breakout facilitation, or custom content increase the price.
4. Location and Travel
- If the speaker must travel internationally, expect to cover airfare, lodging, and per diem.
- Virtual events reduce these costs significantly.
5. Customization and Licensing
- Some speakers charge extra for tailored presentations or if the event wants to record and distribute the talk.
Here's a rough pricing table:

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Keynote	Full-Day Workshop
Emerging Speaker	$250	$500	$1,000
Mid-Level Expert	$1,000	$2,500	$4,000
High-Profile Leader	$3,000+	$7,500+	$10,000+

If you're booking through Talks.co, you can often filter by budget and see speaker rates upfront, making it easier to find the right fit for your event.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful sustainable agriculture speakers ever-people who've shaped the global conversation around food systems, farming, and the environment.

- Wendell Berry: Poet, farmer, and philosopher. His talks on agrarian values and community-based farming have inspired generations.
- Vandana Shiva: Indian scholar and activist. Known for her powerful speeches on seed sovereignty and agroecology.
- Joel Salatin: A self-described 'lunatic farmer' from Virginia. His dynamic talks on regenerative farming have made him a favorite at food and farming conferences.
- Michael Pollan: While more of a journalist, Pollan's talks on the food chain and sustainable agriculture have had massive influence.
- Alice Waters: Chef and food activist. Her advocacy for school gardens and local food systems has shaped public policy and education.
- Dr. Rattan Lal: Soil scientist and IPCC contributor. His lectures on carbon sequestration and soil health are globally respected.
- Bill Mollison: Co-founder of permaculture. His early lectures laid the foundation for a global movement.
- Masanobu Fukuoka: Author of 'The One-Straw Revolution'. Though he spoke less frequently, his philosophy-based talks were deeply influential.
- Allan Savory: Known for his TED Talk on holistic grazing, which has sparked both praise and controversy.
- Leah Penniman: Co-founder of Soul Fire Farm. Her talks on food justice and BIPOC farming are reshaping the narrative.

These speakers didn't just talk about sustainable agriculture-they changed how we think about food, land, and equity.

Looking for top-tier sustainable agriculture speakers today? These individuals are leading voices in the global conversation, bringing diverse perspectives from science, activism, and entrepreneurship.

- Dr. Vandana Shiva (India): A fierce advocate for biodiversity and smallholder farmers. Her global speaking tours focus on seed freedom and ecological agriculture.
- Gabe Brown (USA): A regenerative rancher and author of 'Dirt to Soil'. His practical, data-backed talks are popular among farmers and policymakers alike.
- Leah Penniman (USA): Co-founder of Soul Fire Farm. Her talks blend sustainable ag with racial justice and food sovereignty.
- René Castro (Costa Rica): Former Minister of Environment and Agriculture. Speaks on climate-smart agriculture and policy innovation.
- Dr. Kristine Nichols (USA): Soil microbiologist and former chief scientist at the Rodale Institute. Known for her engaging talks on soil health.
- Anuradha Mittal (India/USA): Executive Director of the Oakland Institute. Her talks focus on land rights, corporate accountability, and sustainable food systems.
- Andre Leu (Australia): Former president of IFOAM. Speaks globally on organic farming and climate resilience.
- Karen Washington (USA): Urban farmer and food justice advocate. Her talks on community-based agriculture are especially impactful in urban settings.
- Dr. Hans Herren (Switzerland): World Food Prize laureate. Speaks on agroecology and sustainable development.
- Nnimmo Bassey (Nigeria): Environmental activist and poet. His talks link agriculture to climate justice and human rights.

These speakers are not only knowledgeable-they're also deeply connected to the communities and ecosystems they speak about. Whether you're organizing a summit or curating a virtual panel, these are the names to watch.

Let's talk about a few assumptions that keep circling around sustainable agriculture speakers. Some of these are surprisingly persistent, even among event organizers and industry insiders.

1. They only talk about farming.
This is a common misconception. While agriculture is the foundation, sustainable agriculture speakers often cover a wide range of interconnected topics: climate resilience, food justice, regenerative business models, and even agri-tech innovation. For example, Vandana Shiva doesn't just speak about soil health-she dives into seed sovereignty, biodiversity, and global trade policies.

2. They're anti-technology.
Not true. Many sustainable agriculture speakers are actually pro-innovation-they just advocate for tech that aligns with ecological principles. Think of folks like Dr. Rattan Lal, who supports precision agriculture tools that reduce chemical inputs and water waste. The key is context: it's not about rejecting tech, it's about using it responsibly.

3. They're only relevant to rural audiences.
Urban planners, corporate sustainability teams, and even fintech startups are tuning into these speakers. Why? Because food systems touch everything. Ron Finley, known as the 'Gangsta Gardener', speaks in cities around the world about urban food deserts and community empowerment through gardening. His message resonates far beyond the farm.

4. They're all academics or activists.
While many do come from research or advocacy backgrounds, there's a growing number of entrepreneurs, chefs, and even former policymakers entering the speaking circuit. Danielle Nierenberg, for instance, blends journalism, entrepreneurship, and policy insight in her talks. This diversity makes the field dynamic and accessible.

5. They're preaching to the choir.
Actually, many sustainable agriculture speakers are hired specifically to challenge conventional thinking at mainstream conferences-from tech summits to finance expos. Their role is often to provoke, educate, and connect the dots between sustainability and sectors that don't traditionally think about soil or supply chains.

Bottom line: sustainable agriculture speakers are far more diverse, tech-savvy, and cross-disciplinary than they're often given credit for.

In 2019, Leah Penniman stood on stage at a TEDx event in Boston. Her talk wasn't just about farming-it was about land justice, ancestral knowledge, and the systemic barriers Black farmers face. The audience was a mix of students, tech professionals, and nonprofit leaders. By the end, she had sparked a conversation that rippled far beyond the room. Her book, 'Farming While Black', became a staple in university courses and nonprofit boardrooms alike. Leah's success as a speaker lies in her ability to connect history, activism, and practical solutions in a way that feels personal and urgent.

Then there's Allan Savory. His 2013 TED Talk on holistic land management has racked up millions of views. But what's more interesting is how it influenced policy discussions in Australia and parts of Africa. Savory's storytelling-rooted in decades of fieldwork and personal transformation-made a complex topic accessible. He didn't just present data. He told a story of failure, learning, and redemption. That vulnerability made his message stick.

In Southeast Asia, Cherrie Atilano has emerged as a powerful voice. As the founder of AGREA, she speaks about sustainable farming as a tool for nation-building. Her talks blend economics, education, and empowerment. At a recent UN event, she shared how her organization trains women farmers in the Philippines, linking them to markets and microfinance. Her impact? A new generation of agri-entrepreneurs who see farming not as a fallback, but a future.

And let's not forget Mark Shepard, the author of 'Restoration Agriculture'. His talks are less about theory and more about systems thinking. He walks audiences through real-world examples of permaculture in action-how a farm can mimic a forest, how pigs can replace tractors. His success comes from his ability to make regenerative practices feel doable, not idealistic.

Each of these speakers brings something different to the table: activism, science, entrepreneurship, or systems design. But what they share is clarity, conviction, and the ability to meet audiences where they are-then take them somewhere new.

If you're keeping an eye on the speaking circuit, you'll notice something: sustainable agriculture speakers are no longer niche. They're getting booked at tech summits, global investment forums, and even entertainment festivals. Why? Because the food system is now everyone's business.

Here's what's coming next:

- Cross-sector storytelling. Expect more speakers who can bridge agriculture with AI, blockchain, or social justice. The days of siloed expertise are fading. Speakers like Karen Washington are already connecting urban farming with racial equity and health outcomes.

- Data-driven narratives. Audiences want evidence. Speakers who can pair compelling stories with hard data-like satellite imagery, carbon metrics, or supply chain analytics-will stand out. Think of it as TED Talk meets dashboard.

- Localized voices on global stages. We're seeing more indigenous leaders, smallholder farmers, and youth activists stepping into the spotlight. Their lived experience brings authenticity that global audiences crave. Platforms like the UN Food Systems Summit have started amplifying these voices, and event organizers are following suit.

- Interactive formats. Panels and keynotes are evolving. Workshops, live Q&A, and even virtual farm tours are becoming part of the package. Speakers who can adapt to hybrid formats-and keep energy high across screens-will thrive.

- Corporate partnerships. As ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) becomes a boardroom priority, companies are inviting sustainable agriculture speakers to guide internal strategy. These aren't just one-off talks-they're ongoing collaborations.

So, what does this mean for aspiring speakers? It's not just about having a message. It's about being able to translate that message across industries, cultures, and formats. The future belongs to those who can connect dots... and people.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale your speaking career, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here's a curated list of platforms, resources, and tips to help you grow your presence and impact as a sustainable agriculture speaker:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a great way to get booked on shows that align with your message. Use it to connect with hosts in sustainability, food systems, or social entrepreneurship. Tip: tailor your pitch to highlight your unique angle-whether it's regenerative farming, agri-tech, or food justice.

2. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. It's especially useful for international exposure. Make sure your profile includes keywords like 'climate resilience' or 'regenerative agriculture' to improve searchability.

3. AgFunder News. Stay current with trends in agri-tech and sustainable food systems. Referencing recent innovations or investment trends in your talks can help you connect with business-savvy audiences.

4. TEDx Speaker Guide. Even if you're not aiming for a TEDx talk right away, this guide is gold. It walks you through how to structure a compelling talk, use storytelling effectively, and engage diverse audiences.

5. Farm Commons. Offers legal resources for sustainable farmers. If your speaking includes policy or legal frameworks, this is a great source for accurate, up-to-date info.

6. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn this on to boost your visibility. Share short videos, event recaps, or behind-the-scenes insights from your speaking gigs. It's a great way to build credibility and attract event organizers.

7. The Carbon Underground. If your message includes soil health and carbon sequestration, this nonprofit offers research, case studies, and partnerships that can enrich your content.

8. Eventbrite. Not just for attending events-use it to scope out where your peers are speaking, what topics are trending, and which organizers are active in your niche.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose-from visibility to content development to networking. Choose the ones that align with your goals, and remember: consistency beats perfection. Keep showing up, keep refining your message, and keep connecting with the right audiences.