Women Speakers

A woman speaker is a female-identifying individual who delivers talks, presentations, or speeches to an audience-live or virtual-on a specific topic or area of expertise. But that's just the surface.

More than just someone with a mic, a woman speaker is often a thought leader, educator, or storyteller who uses her voice to inform, inspire, or influence. She might be a CEO sharing lessons from scaling a startup, a scientist breaking down climate data, or a community organizer rallying for change. The common thread? She's using her platform to communicate ideas that matter.

Women speakers operate across industries and formats. You'll find them on TED stages, at corporate retreats, in online summits, on university panels, and even in grassroots town halls. Some are professional speakers by trade, while others speak occasionally as part of their broader work.

Importantly, being a woman speaker isn't about conforming to a specific style or tone. Some are fiery and bold. Others are calm and reflective. What defines them is not how they speak, but what they bring to the conversation-and who they represent in doing so.

In short, a woman speaker is someone who steps up, speaks out, and shapes how we think, act, and connect. Whether she's addressing a room of five or five thousand, her voice carries weight.

When a woman speaker takes the stage, she's not just delivering content-she's shifting narratives, challenging norms, and expanding what audiences expect from leadership and expertise.

Let's break it down. First, representation matters. Seeing women speak-especially in fields where they've been historically underrepresented like tech, finance, or politics-sends a powerful message to audiences of all genders. It normalizes authority in female voices and opens doors for others to follow.

Second, diversity of perspective leads to better conversations. A woman speaker often brings different lived experiences, cultural insights, and communication styles to the table. That's not just good for inclusion-it's good for business. Studies from McKinsey and Harvard have shown that diverse voices lead to more innovative and well-rounded decision-making.

Third, women speakers often connect with audiences in unique ways. Whether it's through storytelling, empathy, or a collaborative tone, they frequently foster deeper engagement. This is especially valuable in educational settings, wellness events, and community-driven spaces where connection is key.

Finally, women speakers help balance the conversation. At too many conferences and events, speaker lineups are still dominated by men. Prioritizing women speakers isn't about tokenism-it's about creating a richer, more accurate reflection of the world we live in.

So if you're planning an event, ask yourself: whose voices are missing? And what might your audience gain by hearing from a woman speaker who brings something different to the mic?

Women speakers do more than just talk-they educate, inspire, challenge, and lead. Their roles vary widely depending on their expertise, the context of the event, and the needs of the audience.

At a high level, women speakers:

- Deliver Keynotes and Presentations. They speak at conferences, summits, webinars, and workshops on topics ranging from entrepreneurship and innovation to mental health and social justice.

- Facilitate Panels and Discussions. Many serve as moderators or panelists, guiding conversations and offering insights in multi-speaker formats.

- Train and Coach. In corporate or educational settings, women speakers often lead training sessions, leadership development workshops, or coaching programs.

- Advocate and Influence. Some use their platform to raise awareness on critical issues-think Malala Yousafzai on education or Tarana Burke on social justice. Their words drive action.

- Engage and Entertain. In creative industries, women speakers might perform spoken word, lead storytelling sessions, or bring humor and performance into their talks.

In a virtual world, many women speakers have also adapted to new formats-hosting live streams, podcasts, and digital summits. They build communities, spark dialogue, and often serve as connectors between ideas and action.

Ultimately, what women speakers do depends on who they are and what they stand for. But across the board, they bring clarity, courage, and conversation to the forefront-exactly what today's audiences are hungry for.

Ready to step onto the stage and share your voice? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a woman speaker, whether you're aiming for TEDx, corporate events, or virtual summits on platforms like Talks.co.

1. Define Your Core Message.
- What do you want to be known for? Leadership? Mental health? Tech innovation? Your message should be clear, specific, and aligned with your expertise.
- Tip: Use a positioning statement like 'I help [audience] achieve [result] through [method]'.

2. Identify Your Ideal Audience.
- Are you speaking to startups, educators, nonprofits, or Fortune 500 execs? Knowing your audience helps tailor your tone and topics.
- Example: A woman speaker in wellness might target HR departments for corporate wellness days.

3. Build Your Speaker Assets.
- Create a speaker one-sheet with your bio, topics, testimonials, and contact info.
- Record a short demo reel or sizzle video. Even a 2-minute clip from a Zoom workshop can work.
- Set up a speaker page on your website or use a platform like Talks.co to showcase your profile.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Begin with local meetups, webinars, or podcasts. These build credibility and give you footage.
- Gradually pitch to conferences, panels, and virtual summits. Use speaker directories or LinkedIn to find opportunities.

5. Pitch Like a Pro.
- Craft a compelling email pitch: introduce yourself, share your topic, and explain why it fits their audience.
- Follow up. Most gigs are won in the follow-up.

6. Keep Improving.
- Join a speaker mastermind or get feedback from peers.
- Watch top speakers and analyze their delivery, structure, and audience engagement.

Becoming a woman speaker is a journey, not a one-time gig. With consistency and clarity, you'll build a reputation that opens doors across industries and continents.

Being a woman speaker isn't just about having something to say. It's about having the tools, mindset, and strategy to say it in a way that resonates. Let's break down what you actually need to step into this space with confidence.

First, you need subject matter expertise. This doesn't mean you need a PhD or 20 years in an industry. It means you've got insights, experience, or a perspective that others can learn from. Whether you're a founder, a coach, an activist, or a researcher, your story and knowledge are your assets.

Second, communication skills are crucial. You don't need to sound like a news anchor, but you do need clarity, structure, and presence. Practice helps. So does feedback. You can join groups like Toastmasters or use platforms like Talks.co to test and refine your delivery.

Third, you need visibility. A strong online presence helps event organizers find and trust you. That includes a LinkedIn profile, a speaker page, and ideally, a few videos of you speaking. Even a well-run Instagram or YouTube channel can show your voice and vibe.

Fourth, you need a clear offer. What topics do you speak on? What outcomes do you deliver for audiences? Are you available for keynotes, panels, workshops, or virtual events? The more specific you are, the easier it is for people to book you.

Finally, you need resilience. As a woman speaker, especially in male-dominated industries, you may face bias or be underestimated. But the landscape is shifting. More conferences are seeking diverse voices, and platforms like Talks.co are making it easier to get discovered. Stay consistent, keep improving, and know that your voice matters.

Yes, women speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's unpack the landscape with some data and context.
According to SpeakerHub and other industry sources, professional speakers can earn anywhere from $500 to $50,000 per event. Women speakers are increasingly commanding competitive fees, especially in sectors like tech, leadership, wellness, and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion). However, disparities still exist.
Pros of the current landscape:
- Growing demand for diverse voices. Conferences and companies are actively seeking women speakers to balance representation.
- Virtual events have expanded access. Platforms like Talks.co allow women to speak globally without travel constraints.
- Niche expertise pays off. Women with specialized knowledge (e.g., cybersecurity, AI ethics, maternal health) often command higher fees.
Challenges to consider:
- Pay gaps persist. Studies show women speakers are still offered lower fees than male counterparts for similar gigs.
- Unpaid gigs are common. Especially for newer speakers or nonprofit events. These can build credibility but shouldn't be the norm long-term.
Comparison Table:

Experience Level	Avg. Fee (USD)	Common Format
Beginner	$0 - $1,000	Panels, webinars
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000	Keynotes, workshops
Expert/High-Profile	$5,000 - $25,000+	Conferences, corporate retreats

So yes, women speakers do get paid-but knowing your worth, negotiating confidently, and building a strong brand are key to making it sustainable.

Women speakers earn income in a variety of ways, and it's not just about the keynote fee. Let's break down the revenue streams that successful women speakers tap into.

1. Speaking Fees.
- This is the most direct source. Fees vary based on experience, topic, and event type. Corporate keynotes typically pay more than community events.

2. Workshops and Trainings.
- Many women speakers offer half-day or full-day workshops. These are especially popular in leadership development, DEI, and wellness.
- Example: A woman speaker on emotional intelligence might run a corporate workshop for $7,500.

3. Virtual Events and Summits.
- Speakers can host or join virtual summits and monetize through ticket sales, sponsorships, or backend offers.

4. Books and Digital Products.
- A signature talk can become a book, course, or membership program. These products generate passive income and build authority.
- Example: Brené Brown's talks led to bestselling books and Netflix specials.

5. Consulting and Coaching.
- Speaking often leads to consulting gigs. After a talk, companies may hire the speaker to implement strategies or train teams.

6. Sponsorships and Brand Deals.
- Influential speakers sometimes partner with brands for sponsored content or co-branded events.

7. Affiliate Marketing.
- Some speakers promote tools or platforms they use (like Talks.co) and earn commissions.

The smartest women speakers diversify. They don't rely on one gig to pay the bills. Instead, they turn their voice into a business ecosystem.

Earnings for women speakers vary widely, depending on experience, niche, audience, and business model. Let's look at the numbers and what influences them.
Entry-Level Speakers:
- Typically earn $0 to $1,500 per talk.
- Often speak at local events, podcasts, or virtual panels.
- May accept unpaid gigs to build visibility or credibility.
Mid-Level Speakers:
- Earn between $1,500 and $7,500 per event.
- Often booked for corporate trainings, industry conferences, or association events.
- May supplement income with coaching or digital products.
High-Level Speakers:
- Earn $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- These are often bestselling authors, media personalities, or C-suite leaders.
- Example: Mel Robbins reportedly earns over $50,000 per keynote.
Factors That Influence Earnings:
- Topic demand. Tech, leadership, and DEI are high-paying areas.
- Audience size. Larger events often have bigger budgets.
- Geography. US and Western Europe tend to pay more than other regions.
- Format. Keynotes pay more than panels or breakout sessions.
Annual Income Potential:

Speaker Type	Events/Year	Avg. Fee	Est. Annual Income
Beginner	10	$500	$5,000
Mid-Level	20	$3,000	$60,000
Expert	30	$10,000	$300,000

Many women speakers also earn from books, courses, and consulting, which can double or triple their income. The key is building a brand that commands value.

If you're looking to hire a woman speaker, the cost can range dramatically based on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget smartly.
Typical Fee Ranges:

Speaker Type	Event Type	Fee Range (USD)
Emerging	Local meetups, panels	$0 - $1,000
Professional	Corporate keynotes	$3,000 - $10,000
Celebrity	Global conferences	$20,000 - $100,000+

What Influences Cost:
- Experience and Reputation. A TEDx speaker with a bestselling book will cost more than a first-time speaker.
- Event Type and Audience. Corporate events usually pay more than community or nonprofit events.
- Travel and Logistics. In-person events may require covering flights, hotels, and per diem.
- Customization. If the speaker is creating a tailored workshop or training, expect higher fees.
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- AV requirements. Some speakers require specific tech setups.
- Licensing. If you want to record or distribute the talk, there may be additional fees.
Cost-Saving Tips:
- Consider virtual events and booking speakers using platforms like Talks.co to reduce travel costs.
- Book early. Last-minute bookings often come with premium pricing.
- Offer value beyond cash: media exposure, book sales, or networking opportunities can sometimes offset lower fees.
In short, women speakers can cost anywhere from free to six figures. The key is aligning your budget with your event goals and the speaker's value.

Here's a list of some of the most iconic women speakers of all time. These women didn't just give talks-they shaped conversations, movements, and industries.

1. Oprah Winfrey
- Known for her emotional intelligence and storytelling, Oprah's speeches on empowerment and purpose have inspired millions.

2. Maya Angelou
- Poet, author, and civil rights activist. Her speech 'On the Pulse of Morning' at Bill Clinton's inauguration remains legendary.

3. Malala Yousafzai
- Nobel Peace Prize winner. Her UN speech advocating for girls' education is one of the most powerful youth addresses ever.

4. Michelle Obama
- Former First Lady. Her DNC speech in 2016 ('When they go low, we go high') became a cultural touchstone.

5. Brené Brown
- Researcher and storyteller. Her TED Talk on vulnerability has over 60 million views and transformed how we talk about courage.

6. Angela Davis
- Scholar and activist. Her speeches on racial justice and feminism have influenced generations.

7. Sheryl Sandberg
- COO of Meta. Her talks on leadership and gender equity, including her TED Talk 'Why we have too few women leaders', sparked global dialogue.

8. Toni Morrison
- Nobel laureate. Her commencement speeches blended literary brilliance with social insight.

9. Indira Gandhi
- Former Prime Minister of India. Her UN speeches on peace and development were globally impactful.

10. Eleanor Roosevelt
- As a diplomat and First Lady, she gave hundreds of speeches advocating for human rights and women's roles in public life.

These women speakers didn't just speak-they moved people, changed policies, and left lasting legacies.

Looking for today's top women speakers? These are the women making waves right now across industries and continents.

1. Mel Robbins
- Author of 'The 5 Second Rule'. Known for high-energy, practical talks on motivation and mindset.

2. Indra Nooyi
- Former CEO of PepsiCo. Speaks on leadership, innovation, and global business strategy.

3. Bozoma Saint John
- Former CMO at Netflix and Uber. Delivers bold, unapologetic talks on branding and authenticity.

4. Lisa Nichols
- Motivational speaker and founder of Motivating the Masses. Her talks blend personal transformation with business strategy.

5. Simone Giertz
- Inventor and YouTuber. Offers quirky, inspiring talks on creativity, failure, and tech.

6. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Director-General of the World Trade Organization. Speaks on global economics, equity, and policy.

7. Whitney Wolfe Herd
- CEO of Bumble. Talks on entrepreneurship, tech, and women in leadership.

8. Amanda Gorman
- Poet and activist. Her inauguration poem and subsequent speeches have made her a global voice for youth and justice.

9. Jay Shetty (honorable mention)
- While not a woman, he often shares stages with top women speakers and collaborates on events that elevate female voices.

10. Reshma Saujani
- Founder of Girls Who Code. Speaks on tech inclusion, bravery over perfection, and the future of work.

These women are shaping conversations in boardrooms, on stages, and across digital platforms. Whether you're booking a speaker or seeking inspiration, this list is a solid place to start.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions that keep circling around women speakers. These myths don't just limit opportunities-they distort the reality of what women bring to the stage.

- Myth 1: Women speakers only talk about 'soft' topics.
This one's outdated and flat-out wrong. While some women do speak on wellness, relationships, or lifestyle, others are leading voices in AI, cybersecurity, finance, and geopolitics. Think of Dr. Fei-Fei Li, a pioneer in artificial intelligence, or Reshma Saujani, who speaks on tech and policy. The idea that women are limited to emotional or nurturing topics ignores the breadth of expertise out there.

- Myth 2: Audiences prefer male speakers for authority.
Data tells a different story. Events that feature diverse speaker lineups often see higher engagement and broader audience appeal. TED Talks by women like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie or Brené Brown have racked up millions of views-not because they're women, but because they're compelling, credible, and authentic.

- Myth 3: There aren't enough qualified women speakers.
This is more about visibility than availability. Platforms like Talks.co and Women Talk Design are filled with talented women across industries. The issue isn't a lack of talent-it's a lack of outreach and biased selection processes.

- Myth 4: Women speakers are less confident or dynamic.
Confidence isn't gendered. What's often perceived as 'less dynamic' is actually a different communication style-more collaborative, more nuanced. And guess what? That resonates. Just look at Michelle Obama's speeches: calm, clear, and incredibly powerful.

- Myth 5: Women speakers are harder to book due to family commitments.
This stereotype assumes all women prioritize family over career, which is both reductive and inaccurate. Many women speakers manage their schedules just like their male counterparts. Flexibility is a two-way street, and assuming otherwise limits opportunity for everyone.

Bottom line: these myths don't hold up under scrutiny. And the more we challenge them, the more space we create for diverse voices to thrive on stage.

When you think about successful women speakers, you might picture a TED Talk stage or a packed conference hall. But the real stories behind those moments are often more layered-and more inspiring-than you'd expect.

Take Lisa Nichols, for example. She didn't start with a polished stage presence or a big-name sponsor. She was a single mom on public assistance who turned her life around by sharing her story. Her authenticity became her superpower. Today, she's a bestselling author and one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the world. Her talks don't just inspire-they move people to act.

In a completely different space, there's Gitanjali Rao, a teen scientist and inventor who became the first-ever TIME Kid of the Year. She's spoken at global forums about innovation, STEM education, and youth empowerment. What's remarkable isn't just her age-it's how she uses her platform to challenge assumptions about who belongs in science and who gets to speak about it.

Then there's Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo. Her keynote at the World Economic Forum wasn't flashy. It was strategic, thoughtful, and deeply personal. She spoke about leadership, gender equity, and the future of work-not from theory, but from lived experience. Her calm authority and sharp insights made her message land with impact.

And let's not forget regional voices making waves. In Kenya, activist and speaker Wanjira Mathai is continuing her mother's legacy by speaking on climate justice and sustainable development. She's not just filling a slot on a panel-she's shaping global discourse from a local perspective.

These women didn't follow a single path. Some came from corporate boardrooms, others from grassroots activism or personal struggle. What they share is clarity of purpose and a willingness to show up fully. Their stories remind us that success as a speaker isn't about fitting a mold-it's about owning your voice and using it with intention.

So what's next for women speakers? The landscape is shifting, but not in the ways you might expect. It's not just about more women getting on stage-it's about how, where, and why they're doing it.

First, virtual and hybrid events are here to stay. That's opening up global stages to women who were previously limited by geography, caregiving responsibilities, or travel budgets. A speaker in Lagos can now keynote a summit in London without leaving her home office. That's not just convenient-it's transformative.

Second, niche authority is gaining value. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, women speakers are carving out hyper-specific lanes. Whether it's blockchain ethics, regenerative farming, or neurodiversity in education, audiences are hungry for depth. And women are stepping in to deliver it.

Third, more organizations are rethinking their speaker lineups with diversity in mind-not just gender, but race, age, ability, and background. That means more opportunities for women from underrepresented communities to take the mic.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Rise of micro-events. Smaller, targeted gatherings are becoming more popular, giving newer women speakers a chance to shine without the pressure of a massive stage.
- Interactive formats. Panels, fireside chats, and live Q&A sessions are replacing traditional keynotes. That favors speakers who are conversational and quick on their feet.
- Data-driven storytelling. Women in STEM and business are blending personal narrative with hard data to build credibility and connection.
- Speaker-brand hybrids. More women are turning their speaking careers into full-fledged personal brands, with podcasts, courses, and communities attached.

The takeaway? The future isn't just more inclusive-it's more dynamic. And women speakers who adapt to these shifts will be the ones leading the conversation.

Getting started as a speaker can feel overwhelming, but the right tools can make the path a lot smoother. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your speaking career, here's a curated list of resources that can help you build your platform, find gigs, and sharpen your skills.

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is perfect for new speakers looking to get visibility. It connects you with podcast hosts seeking expert guests. Pro tip: Start with niche podcasts in your area of expertise to build confidence and credibility.

2. Women Talk Design. A platform that showcases women and nonbinary speakers across industries. You can create a profile, get discovered by event organizers, and access training programs. Great for building your presence and network.

3. SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can list your speaking topics, availability, and bio. It's used by event planners to find speakers, so make sure your profile is polished and up to date.

4. Toastmasters International. If you're looking to build confidence and practice in a supportive environment, Toastmasters is a classic for a reason. Local clubs offer regular opportunities to speak, get feedback, and improve.

5. Canva. Need to create a killer slide deck or speaker one-sheet? Canva's templates make it easy to design professional-looking materials without a graphic design degree.

6. The Speaker Lab Podcast. Hosted by Grant Baldwin, this podcast offers practical advice on everything from finding your niche to negotiating fees. It's especially helpful for understanding the business side of speaking.

7. LinkedIn Events. More organizers are using LinkedIn to host virtual events and panels. Follow hashtags like #virtualevents or #webinars to spot opportunities. Also, post your own short videos to showcase your speaking style.

8. Keynote Women Speakers Directory. A global directory focused on promoting women speakers. It's especially useful if you're targeting international events or corporate audiences.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose-some help you get booked, others help you get better. Start with one or two, test what works for your style and goals, and build from there. The key is to stay visible, stay prepared, and keep showing up.