Tax Speakers

A tax speaker is a subject matter expert who delivers presentations, workshops, or interviews focused on taxation topics. These professionals often have backgrounds in accounting, law, or finance, and they translate complex tax regulations into understandable, actionable insights for various audiences.

Unlike traditional accountants who work behind the scenes, tax speakers step into the spotlight to educate and engage. They might speak at virtual summits, corporate webinars, industry conferences, or podcasts. Their goal? To help individuals and businesses navigate tax laws more effectively.

Tax speakers can specialize in different areas, such as international tax, small business deductions, crypto taxation, or nonprofit compliance. For example, a speaker might focus on how digital nomads can legally reduce their tax liability across borders, while another might break down the latest IRS changes for U.S.-based freelancers.

In the virtual event space, tax speakers are increasingly in demand. As more entrepreneurs and professionals seek financial literacy online, these experts provide clarity in a space that's often confusing. They don't just talk numbers-they offer strategies, tools, and real-world examples that help audiences make smarter decisions.

So whether it's a 20-minute podcast segment or a 90-minute masterclass, a tax speaker's role is to inform, simplify, and empower. They bridge the gap between policy and practice.

When you're running a virtual event or podcast that touches on finance, entrepreneurship, or business growth, having a tax speaker isn't optional-it's essential. Here's why.

First, tax laws are constantly evolving. From global shifts like the OECD's digital tax framework to local changes in small business deductions, staying current is tough. A tax speaker brings real-time expertise to the table, helping your audience avoid outdated advice and costly mistakes.

Second, taxes impact everyone-but not everyone understands them. Whether your audience is made up of startup founders in Berlin, real estate investors in Texas, or e-commerce sellers in Manila, they all need to know how to optimize their tax strategy. A good tax speaker can tailor their message to different regions and industries, making the content relevant and accessible.

Third, trust matters. When you bring in a credible tax speaker, you're signaling to your audience that your platform values accuracy and depth. This builds your brand's authority and increases engagement. People are more likely to share, revisit, and act on content that feels trustworthy.

Finally, tax speakers often offer actionable takeaways-checklists, calculators, or frameworks-that your audience can implement immediately. This boosts perceived value and keeps people coming back for more.

In short, a tax speaker doesn't just fill a time slot. They elevate your content, protect your audience from misinformation, and turn complex ideas into practical wins.

Tax speakers do more than just explain deductions and deadlines. They educate, interpret, and inspire action across a wide range of formats and audiences. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Educate Non-Experts. Tax speakers simplify complex tax laws for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and everyday professionals. They break down jargon, explain new regulations, and help people understand how taxes affect their bottom line.

2. Deliver Specialized Content. Some tax speakers focus on niche areas like cryptocurrency taxation, international tax treaties, or nonprofit compliance. They tailor their talks to specific industries or regions, such as Canadian GST rules or EU VAT updates.

3. Engage Through Storytelling. Great tax speakers don't just list rules-they use real-life case studies, client scenarios, and analogies to make the content relatable. For example, a speaker might walk through how a digital nomad legally reduced their tax burden using residency planning.

4. Provide Actionable Strategies. Whether it's a checklist for quarterly estimated taxes or a framework for choosing the right business entity, tax speakers give audiences tools they can use immediately.

5. Support Hosts and Platforms. On platforms like Talks.co, tax speakers often collaborate with event hosts to promote the session, answer audience questions live, and provide follow-up resources.

6. Stay Current and Compliant. They continuously update their knowledge to reflect the latest tax legislation, ensuring that their advice is not only useful but legally sound.

In essence, tax speakers are translators between the world of tax law and the people who need to understand it. They turn complexity into clarity, confusion into confidence.

Ready to step onto the stage as a tax speaker? Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started, whether you're a seasoned CPA or just passionate about tax education.

1. Define Your Niche
- Are you focused on small business tax strategies, international tax law, or cryptocurrency compliance? Pick a lane and own it.
- Tip: The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out. For example, 'Tax Planning for Digital Nomads' is more memorable than just 'Tax Tips.'

2. Build Your Expertise
- Get certified if you're not already. CPA, EA, or even a JD with tax specialization helps.
- Stay updated with IRS changes, international treaties, and regional tax codes. Subscribe to newsletters like Tax Notes or Thomson Reuters.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to set up a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, past talks, and testimonials.
- Add a short video clip of you speaking. Even a 2-minute snippet from a webinar can boost your credibility.

4. Start Speaking Locally
- Offer to speak at local chambers of commerce, accounting meetups, or virtual summits.
- Reach out to podcast hosts or webinar organizers. Talks.co can help connect you with event hosts looking for tax experts.

5. Collect Feedback and Iterate
- After each talk, ask for feedback. What resonated? What confused people?
- Use this to refine your message and delivery. Great speakers evolve with every presentation.

6. Scale Up
- Once you've got a few talks under your belt, pitch yourself to larger conferences like AICPA Engage or international tax forums.
- Consider hosting your own virtual summit. It's a powerful way to build authority and attract clients.

Becoming a tax speaker isn't just about knowing tax law. It's about communicating it clearly, confidently, and in a way that connects with your audience. Start small, stay consistent, and let your expertise shine.

Being a tax speaker isn't just about knowing the tax code. It's about translating complex information into something people actually understand and care about. So what do you really need to step into this role?

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't necessarily need to be a CPA, but you do need to know your stuff. Whether it's U.S. tax law, international compliance, or niche areas like estate planning or crypto taxation, your audience expects accuracy and depth.

2. Communication Skills
You need to be able to explain tax concepts in plain English. That means avoiding jargon, using real-world examples, and engaging your audience. If you're not naturally confident on stage, consider joining Toastmasters or taking a public speaking course.

3. A Platform to Be Found
You need visibility. A speaker page on Talks.co can help you showcase your expertise, topics, and availability. It also connects you with event hosts looking for tax professionals to speak at summits, webinars, and podcasts.

4. Content Assets
Slides, handouts, and even short videos of past talks are essential. They help event organizers see your style and substance. If you're just starting out, record a mock presentation or do a live session on LinkedIn.

5. A Clear Offer
What do you want your audience to do after your talk? Book a consultation? Download a guide? Join your email list? Make sure your talk has a call to action that aligns with your business goals.

In short, being a tax speaker is about combining deep knowledge with the ability to share it in a way that's useful and engaging. With the right tools and mindset, you can build a speaking career that educates and inspires.

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

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Paid Speaking Engagements: These are typically at conferences, corporate training events, or high-ticket webinars. Rates can range from $500 to $10,000+ depending on your reputation.
- Unpaid Speaking Gigs: These are often at local meetups, podcasts, or virtual summits. While they don't pay upfront, they can lead to client leads or product sales.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: A first-time speaker might not command a fee, but someone like Ed Zollars or Tony Nitti can charge thousands.
- Audience Size & Type: Corporate audiences tend to pay more than community groups. Speaking to 500 tax professionals at a CPA conference? That's premium.
- Topic Relevance: Hot topics like crypto taxation or international compliance often attract higher fees.

Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Direct income.
- Brand exposure.
- Authority building.
- Cons:
- Travel and prep time.
- Inconsistent income if not managed strategically.

In short, yes-tax speakers can and do get paid. But like any speaking career, it's a mix of paid gigs, strategic free talks, and long-term positioning.

Tax speakers don't just rely on speaking fees. In fact, the smartest ones use their stage time to open multiple revenue streams. Here's how they do it:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. Depending on your experience and the event, you could earn anywhere from $500 to $15,000 per talk. Corporate trainings and national conferences usually pay the most.

2. Consulting or Advisory Services
Many tax speakers use their talks as lead generation. After a presentation, attendees often reach out for one-on-one help. This is especially common in B2B settings or niche areas like cross-border taxation.

3. Online Courses and Webinars
If you've got a signature framework or methodology, package it into a course. Platforms like Kajabi or Teachable make it easy. You can also host paid webinars or workshops.

4. Books and Publications
Publishing a book on tax strategies or compliance can boost your credibility and generate passive income. Speakers like Diane Kennedy have used this model successfully.

5. Affiliate or Partner Revenue
Some tax speakers partner with software companies (like QuickBooks or Xero) and earn commissions for referrals. Just make sure it aligns with your audience's needs.

6. Hosting Virtual Summits
Using platforms like Zoom, you can host your own event, invite other experts, and monetize through ticket sales, sponsorships, or upsells.

The key is to treat speaking as a funnel, not just a paycheck. Every talk is a chance to build trust and guide people toward your paid offerings.

The income of tax speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and business model. Let's look at some realistic numbers and scenarios.
Typical Fee Ranges

Experience Level	Average Fee per Talk
Beginner	$0 - $500
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$1,000 - $3,000
Expert/Keynote Level	$5,000 - $15,000+

Annual Income Scenarios
- Side Hustle Speaker: 1-2 talks/month at $1,000 = $12,000 - $24,000/year.
- Full-Time Speaker: 4-6 talks/month at $3,000 = $144,000 - $216,000/year.
- Multi-Channel Pro (speaking + consulting + courses): $250,000+.
Variables That Affect Income
- Niche Demand: Topics like international tax or crypto compliance often command higher fees.
- Audience Type: Speaking to corporate CFOs pays more than speaking to college students.
- Geography: U.S. and European markets tend to pay more than smaller local events in developing regions.
Other Revenue Streams (see 'How do tax speakers make money') can significantly boost total income.
Bottom line: Tax speakers can earn anywhere from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars per year, depending on how they structure their speaking business.

If you're looking to hire a tax speaker, the cost can range dramatically based on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget effectively.
Typical Price Ranges

Type of Event	Speaker Fee Range
Local Meetup/Podcast	Free - $500
Virtual Summit/Webinar	$500 - $2,000
Corporate Training	$2,000 - $10,000+
National Conference	$5,000 - $20,000+

Cost Drivers
- Reputation: A well-known speaker like Tony Nitti or a bestselling author will cost more.
- Customization: If the speaker needs to tailor content for your audience or industry, expect to pay more.
- Travel & Logistics: For in-person events, add travel, lodging, and per diem costs.
Budget-Smart Tips
- Virtual Events: These are more affordable and eliminate travel costs.
- Emerging Experts: Consider rising speakers with strong content but less name recognition.
- Use Platforms: Sites like Talks.co can help you find speakers within your budget and streamline the booking process.
Hiring a tax speaker is an investment in education and engagement. Just make sure the content aligns with your audience's needs and your event goals.

Here's a list of standout tax speakers who've left a lasting mark on the industry. These aren't just experts-they're educators, thought leaders, and communicators who've shaped how we talk about taxes.

- Tony Nitti: A CPA and tax partner at EY, Tony is known for his engaging articles on Forbes and his ability to make complex tax issues accessible.
- Ed Zollars: A veteran speaker and instructor, Ed has taught thousands of CPAs through webinars and live sessions. His deep knowledge and dry humor make him a favorite.
- Diane Kennedy: Author of several bestselling books on tax strategies for entrepreneurs, Diane has spoken at major conferences and built a loyal following.
- Robert Kiyosaki: While not a tax professional per se, his work with tax strategists and his emphasis on tax planning in 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' has influenced millions.
- Tom Wheelwright: CPA and author of 'Tax-Free Wealth', Tom is a frequent speaker on wealth-building through smart tax strategies.
- Mark Kohler: A CPA and attorney, Mark is known for his YouTube channel and webinars that blend legal and tax advice for small business owners.
- Eva Rosenberg (TaxMama): Known for her practical advice and online presence, Eva has helped thousands of individuals understand tax basics.

These speakers have not only mastered tax law but also the art of communication. Their legacy lies in making tax knowledge accessible and actionable.

Looking for the top tax speakers globally? Here's a curated list of professionals who are making waves in different regions and industries.

- Tom Wheelwright (USA): Known for his work with Robert Kiyosaki and his book 'Tax-Free Wealth', Tom speaks internationally on tax and wealth strategies.
- Heather Self (UK): A respected tax partner at Blick Rothenberg, Heather frequently speaks on UK tax policy and international tax issues.
- Richard Murphy (UK): An economist and tax expert, Richard is a vocal advocate for tax reform and speaks widely on ethical taxation.
- Nirav Choksi (India): A frequent speaker at ICAI events, Nirav specializes in GST and Indian tax law, helping businesses navigate compliance.
- Dinesh Kanabar (India): Former Deputy CEO of KPMG India, Dinesh is a sought-after speaker on international tax and transfer pricing.
- Karen Reyburn (Scotland): Founder of The Profitable Firm, Karen speaks on tax marketing and advisory services for accountants.
- Jason M. Blumer (USA): Known for his innovative approach to accounting and tax advisory, Jason speaks at global events on firm growth and strategy.
- Peter Green (Australia): A tax trainer and speaker with decades of experience, Peter is known for his clear explanations of complex Australian tax laws.

These speakers bring a mix of technical depth and global perspective. Whether you're in New York or New Delhi, there's a tax speaker out there who can deliver value to your audience.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about tax speakers. Whether you're thinking of stepping into this space or just curious about how these experts operate, it's worth separating fact from fiction.

1. Tax speakers are just accountants who talk a lot.
This one comes up a lot. People assume tax speakers are simply CPAs who decided to grab a mic. In reality, many tax speakers are educators, policy analysts, or legal professionals who specialize in tax law, compliance, or strategy. For example, someone like Kelly Phillips Erb (aka Taxgirl) brings legal expertise and media savvy to her speaking gigs, not just accounting knowledge.

2. You need to be a tax attorney or CPA to be a credible tax speaker.
Not true. While credentials help, what matters more is your ability to communicate complex tax topics clearly and accurately. Some of the most engaging tax speakers come from journalism or consulting backgrounds. They've built credibility through research, publishing, and consistent delivery of value to their audience.

3. Tax topics are too boring for live audiences.
This myth underestimates both the audience and the speaker. Taxes impact everyone, and when presented with real-world relevance, humor, or storytelling, tax talks can be surprisingly engaging. Just look at how John Oliver tackled corporate taxes on HBO. It was sharp, informative, and wildly popular.

4. There's no money in being a tax speaker.
While it's not the same as being a celebrity keynote speaker, tax speakers can earn well through a mix of paid speaking gigs, webinars, consulting, and digital products. Many also use speaking as a lead-generation tool for their firms or courses. The key is to treat it like a business, not a hobby.

5. Only people in the U.S. care about tax speakers.
Tax issues are global. From GST in India to VAT in Europe, tax speakers are in demand worldwide. In fact, multilingual speakers who can address cross-border tax issues are especially valuable in international conferences and virtual summits.

When you think of standout tax speakers, you might not picture packed auditoriums or viral YouTube clips. But behind the scenes, some of the most successful voices in the tax world have carved out thriving careers by owning their niche and connecting deeply with their audiences.

Take Dominique Molina, co-founder of the American Institute of Certified Tax Planners. She didn't just speak about tax strategy-she built an entire certification program around it. Her talks focus on proactive planning, not just compliance, which resonates with business owners looking to save money legally. Her success lies in shifting the narrative from tax as a burden to tax as a tool.

Then there's Tony Nitti, a tax partner at EY and a regular contributor to Forbes. His speaking engagements often blend technical depth with humor and storytelling. At conferences, he's known for making complex tax code changes digestible. His ability to write and speak with clarity has made him a go-to expert during major legislative shifts like the TCJA.

In Australia, Robyn Jacobson has become a well-known name in the tax education circuit. As a senior advocate for The Tax Institute, she speaks at national events and webinars, breaking down legislative updates for practitioners. Her secret? She listens to the pain points of her audience and tailors her sessions to solve real problems.

What ties these speakers together isn't just knowledge-it's positioning. They've each found a unique angle: strategic planning, legislative analysis, or education. And they've built platforms that extend beyond the stage, from blogs to certification programs to media appearances. That's the real power of being a tax speaker today.

So, where are things heading for tax speakers? If you're thinking about stepping into this space or leveling up your presence, it's worth paying attention to the shifts already underway.

First, the demand for virtual tax education is not slowing down. Post-2020, webinars and online summits have become the norm, not the exception. Tax speakers who can deliver engaging, interactive sessions online-think polls, live Q&A, downloadable resources-are getting booked more often and reaching wider audiences.

Second, there's a growing appetite for niche expertise. General tax talks are being replaced by hyper-specific sessions: crypto tax compliance, international tax treaties, digital nomad taxation, and ESG-related tax incentives. Speakers who can dive deep into these areas, especially with cross-border knowledge, are in high demand.

Third, AI and automation are changing the tax landscape, and speakers who can explain these tools-or the regulatory implications-are becoming essential. For example:
- AI in tax prep: Understanding how tools like Intuit's AI-driven assistants work.
- Data privacy and tax: Speaking on how new regulations affect data handling in tax software.
- Blockchain and tax reporting: Especially relevant for crypto investors and platforms.

Fourth, multilingual and multicultural tax speakers are gaining traction. As global summits and virtual events expand, organizers are looking for speakers who can address diverse audiences or present in multiple languages. This is especially true in regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Finally, there's a shift toward storytelling and relatability. Dry lectures are out. Tax speakers who can weave in real-life examples, case studies, or even humor are standing out. Think less 'lecture hall' and more 'TEDx with spreadsheets'.

If you're looking to break into the world of tax speaking or sharpen your edge, having the right tools and platforms can make all the difference. Here's a curated list to help you get started or go pro:

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest matching tool that helps you get booked on relevant shows. Great for building your authority and reaching new audiences without organizing your own events.

2. CPEThink. Offers continuing professional education (CPE) courses for CPAs and tax professionals. If you're planning to speak at accredited events, understanding CPE requirements is a must.

3. Slidebean. A presentation design tool that helps you create clean, professional slides fast. Especially helpful if you're not a designer but want your tax visuals to look sharp.

4. TaxNotes. A premium resource for staying up to date on tax policy, court decisions, and IRS guidance. Use it to source timely content and examples for your talks.

5. Canva. Perfect for creating branded visuals, social media posts, or downloadable resources to accompany your presentations. Their templates make it easy to stay consistent.

6. Zoom Events. If you're hosting your own webinars or virtual summits, Zoom's event platform offers registration, ticketing, and analytics all in one place.

7. LinkedIn Events. A free way to promote your speaking gigs and build an audience. Bonus: it integrates with your professional profile and makes it easy to share replays.

8. SpeakerHub. A directory where you can list your profile, topics, and availability. Event organizers use it to find speakers in niche areas like tax compliance or international law.

Pro tip: Combine these tools strategically. For example, use Talks.co to land podcast spots, then repurpose your content into a Slidebean deck for a Zoom webinar. Promote it via LinkedIn Events and track engagement. That's how you build momentum.