TOP 50 WOMEN PUBLIC SPEAKERS

DANA RUBIN

Dana Rubin, a distinguished consultant and speaker, is dedicated to advancing women’s speech, voice, and thought leadership. Notably, she founded the Speaking While Female Speech Bank, correcting historical records and championing representation. As the force behind SPEECH STUDIO, Dana empowers organizations to amplify underrepresented voices and shape them into recognized experts. 

With a rich background in journalism, judging the Cicero Speechwriting Awards, and fostering education through initiatives like the Leadership Communications Roundtable, Dana Rubin is a standout figure in inclusive communication. Her C-SPAN interview highlights her commitment to uncovering the hidden history of women’s speech, solidifying her position as a top speaker, consultant, and advocate for diverse voices.

Giselle Ugarte

Giselle Ugarte, a prominent Online Performance Coach and motivational speaker, is celebrated for her impactful keynotes, guiding entrepreneurs to develop a healthy relationship with social media and achieve confidence on video for substantial growth. Recently founding the Talent Brokerage, the first-ever real estate talent bureau, she has made waves in the industry. 

With over 500,000 followers, Giselle has earned recognition on TikTok’s Top 100 Women to Watch in 2021. Sharing stages with leaders like Brendon Burchard and Gary Vaynerchuk, her innovative work has been featured in AdWeek, Business Insider, and Social Media Examiner. As a former TV and radio host, writer, and producer for major networks, Giselle’s diverse expertise, coupled with her strong media presence, positions her as a top-tier speaker and thought leader in personal development and business communication.

Briana Scurry

Briana Scurry is a renowned keynote speaker celebrated for her groundbreaking career as a Hall of Fame U.S. goalkeeper, Olympic gold medalist, and World Cup champion. With 173 international appearances, she has championed equality in sports as one of the first African American and openly gay professional athletes. Notably, her iconic penalty kick save in the 1999 FIFA World Cup Championship remains a pivotal moment in American athletic history. Beyond soccer, Scurry is a passionate advocate for traumatic brain injury awareness, leveraging her visibility to raise crucial awareness on the issue. With her best-selling memoir, “My Greatest Save,” and numerous accolades, Scurry continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her resilience, leadership, and commitment to making a difference.

Chaunte Lowe

Chaunte’ Lowe is not just an Olympian; she’s a powerhouse of inspiration and resilience. As a four-time Olympian and professional athlete, Chaunte’ embodies determination, perseverance, and strength both on and off the track. Her authentic speaking style captivates audiences, blending humor, animation, and personal anecdotes to convey her journey of overcoming insurmountable odds. Whether in person or virtually, Chaunte’ electrifies the room, leaving audiences inspired and empowered with her infectious positivity and “can-do” attitude.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Chaunte’ is a devoted mother of three, a wife, and a sought-after motivational speaker. Her story of triumph against adversity resonates with audiences worldwide, making her a beacon of hope for those striving to achieve greatness. Whether sharing her experiences preparing for the Olympic Games or motivating individuals to become “Champions in Life,” Chaunte’ Lowe leaves a lasting impression, igniting a fire within others to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.

Melissa Stockwell

Melissa Stockwell is not just a decorated war hero; she’s a symbol of resilience and determination. As the first female American soldier to lose a limb in active combat, she turned adversity into opportunity, becoming the first Iraq War Veteran to qualify for the Paralympic Games. Melissa’s journey from the battlefield to the podium, earning bronze in the 2016 Paralympics and competing again in Tokyo 2021, exemplifies her unwavering spirit and dedication. Alongside her role as a Paralympian, Melissa is a business owner and devoted mother, embodying the values of strength, perseverance, and patriotism.

As a sought-after speaker, Melissa shares her inspiring story of triumph over adversity with audiences worldwide. Through her talks, such as ‘The Power of Choice’, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. Melissa’s message resonates with diverse audiences, from corporate giants like Deloitte and General Motors to community organizations like the VFW and Boy Scouts, leaving them with a renewed sense of purpose and the belief that they too can overcome any obstacle.

Maria Atencio

Mariana is not just a motivational speaker; she’s a catalyst for transformation. Drawing from her journalism career, she has honed frameworks that empower individuals to embrace their authenticity and cultivate resilience regardless of life’s challenges. Mariana’s dynamic keynotes are tailored to each corporate audience, delivering energetic and actionable experiences that resonate long after the event ends. Her message has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her invitations from prestigious organizations like JP Morgan, Deloitte, and the United Nations.

In response to the pandemic, Mariana launched a groundbreaking digital series with Microsoft, engaging thought leaders and business owners in discussions on authentic corporate culture and community building. With a global perspective and a commitment to fostering belonging, Mariana continues to inspire individuals and organizations alike to unlock their full potential and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Paula Stone Williams

Dr. Paula Stone Williams is an internationally recognized speaker, revered for her insights into gender equity, LGBTQ advocacy, and religious tolerance. As a transgender woman, Paula brings a unique perspective to her work, challenging societal biases through powerful storytelling that fosters enduring change. With extensive experience as a CEO, editor, television host, and corporate consultant, Paula adeptly guides organizations toward inclusivity while enhancing productivity. Her memoir, “As a Woman: What I Learned about Power, Sex, and the Patriarchy After I Transitioned,” offers profound insights into the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and women in the workplace. With over nine million views on her TED Talks and features in prestigious media outlets, Paula continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her wisdom and advocacy for diversity and inclusion.

Maysoon Zayid

Maysoon Zayid is a multi-talented comedian, actress, and disability advocate renowned for her impactful speaking engagements. With a Princeton Fellowship and a background in comedy, Maysoon co-founded the New York Arab American Comedy Festival and The Muslim Funny Fest, showcasing her commitment to diversity and inclusion. Her TED Talk, the most viewed in 2014, resonated globally, and she has appeared on esteemed platforms such as 60 Minutes, CNN, and Oprah Winfrey Networks, amplifying her message of empowerment.

A seasoned performer, Maysoon has graced top New York clubs and toured extensively, captivating audiences with her wit and humor. Her versatility extends to television, where she’s appeared on General Hospital and alongside Adam Sandler in You Don’t Mess With the Zohan. As an author, Maysoon’s best-selling memoir, Find Another Dream, and forthcoming comic book with Scholastic, Shiny Misfits, reflect her commitment to storytelling and representation. With a blend of humor, advocacy, and creativity, Maysoon continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Natasha Graziano

Natasha Graziano’s remarkable journey from homelessness to business success has made her a highly sought-after motivational speaker. Recognized as the No.1 Female Motivational Speaker Under 40 by Forbes, Natasha inspires audiences with her insights on manifesting goals, cultivating a success mindset, and unlocking one’s full potential. Through her Meditational Behavioural Synchronicity method, blending ancient wisdom with modern neuroscience, Natasha empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. As the author of “Be It Until You Become It” and host of The Law of Attraction Podcast, Natasha’s influence extends globally, making her a powerful force in mindset coaching and personal development. Whether on stage or in print, Natasha Graziano leaves a lasting impact, empowering others to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

Dr. Shawn Andrews

Dr. Shawn Andrews is a distinguished keynote speaker, organizational consultant, and author renowned for her expertise in leadership, emotional intelligence, and diversity. With her best-selling book, “The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide,” Dr. Andrews has made significant contributions to the field of organizational development. She has been featured in Forbes, the Chicago Tribune, and numerous podcasts and radio shows, amplifying her influence as a thought leader.

Drawing from over two decades of corporate experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, Dr. Andrews has collaborated with over 100 companies, including notable organizations like the United Nations, Johnson and Johnson, and Hewlett-Packard. As a professor at UC Irvine and Pepperdine business schools, she imparts her wisdom on topics such as Women and Leadership, Diversity in Organizations, and Emotional Intelligence. With a commitment to fostering inclusive work environments and empowering professionals, Dr. Andrews continues to inspire change through her speaking engagements, consulting services, and educational initiatives.

Risha Grant

Risha Grant is a renowned diversity consultant, speaker, and founder of Risha Grant LLC, a leading firm in diversity consulting, communications, and speaking. With a mission to address societal biases and promote Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI), Risha utilizes her dynamic speaking style to engage audiences with honest, humorous, and vulnerable storytelling. Her focus on Radical Acceptance encourages individuals and organizations to embrace diversity without judgment or blame, fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging.

Her impact extends across top corporations and institutions, including Google, Harvard University, Procter & Gamble, and the U.S. Airforce, among others. Risha’s expertise has earned her recognition in prestigious publications like Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and Black Enterprise. With accolades such as being named one of the Top 10 Most Powerful Women Leaders in HR and receiving the NBA OKC Thunder Changemaker Award, Risha Grant continues to inspire positive change and advance the dialogue on diversity and inclusion in workplaces and beyond.

Eve Rodksy

Eve Rodsky is recognized as a top speaker for her groundbreaking work in addressing the issue of unequal domestic labor through her Fair Play system. Drawing upon her background in law and organizational management, Rodsky developed a solution that mirrors efficient corporate structures, empowering partners with clearly defined roles and expectations. Her approach has garnered praise from influential figures like Ariana Huffington and Reese Witherspoon, who laud Fair Play as a game-changing guide for sustainable relationships.

In her speaking engagements, Rodsky delves into the transformative impact of Fair Play, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and quantifying all aspects of domestic tasks to prevent inefficiency, inequality, and burnout. Additionally, she explores the concept of Unicorn Space, encouraging individuals to prioritize activities that unleash their creativity and fulfillment. With her diverse expertise and personal journey as a single mother turned successful entrepreneur, Rodsky offers valuable insights into fostering harmonious relationships and achieving work-life balance.

Sarah Kay

Sarah Kay is a renowned poet, educator, and advocate celebrated for her powerful performances and literary contributions. As the founder of Project VOICE, she has shared her poetry in over 25 countries and authored four best-selling books. Sarah’s impactful speaking engagements include appearances at TED and the Willis M. Tate Distinguished Lecture Series, showcasing her ability to inspire audiences globally. With a background in education, she advocates for creativity and self-expression in learning, making her a sought-after keynote speaker for education organizations worldwide. Through her captivating performances and unwavering dedication, Sarah Kay continues to uplift and inspire audiences with her profound messages and artistic talents.

Robyn Benincasa

Robyn Benincasa stands as a beacon of inspiration, equipped with over two decades of experience in extreme team sports and corporate leadership. Her journey, spanning rugged terrains like the jungles of Borneo and the deserts of Namibia, has honed her expertise in building world-class teams that triumph against all odds. As a veteran San Diego firefighter, World Champion Adventure Racer, Guinness World Record Endurance Kayaker, and founder of The Project Athena Foundation, Robyn’s transformative keynotes are packed with practical takeaways that propel individuals and organizations toward peak performance and exceptional leadership. 

Recognized as one of the world’s top keynote speakers, Robyn’s impactful presentations have earned her accolades such as being named the #1 Female Speaker for Meetings.net and featured in Harvard Business Review’s Top 10 Speakers. Her engaging storytelling, coupled with breathtaking footage of extreme teams in action, leaves audiences energized and empowered to seize life’s challenges with a spirit of unity and determination. Whether navigating the corporate landscape or conquering nature’s toughest terrains, Robyn Benincasa epitomizes the power of human synergy, inspiring individuals to achieve audacious goals and create a culture of champions.

Charlene Wheeless

Charlene Wheeless is a distinguished corporate leader and consultant, renowned for her expertise in communications and leadership. With a rich background as the former Principal Vice President of Corporate Affairs for a global infrastructure company, Charlene brings invaluable insights into reputation management and sustainability. On stage, she captivates audiences with her compelling storytelling, drawing from her experiences as a woman of color and a cancer survivor to emphasize the importance of intentional decision-making in fostering organizational success.

Through her book, “You Are Enough! Reclaiming Your Career and Your Life with Purpose, Passion, and Unapologetic Authenticity,” Charlene inspires individuals to reclaim their lives with purpose and passion. With a focus on choice-driven outcomes, she empowers others to embrace intentional living and achieve dynamic results both personally and professionally. As a top speaker, Charlene Wheeless offers transformative guidance for building resilient organizational cultures and unlocking individual potential.

Dianna David

DiANNA DAVID is a dynamic speaker renowned for her unique blend of urban hip hop dance, physical comedy, and motivational messaging. Transitioning from a career in mechanical engineering, her journey inspires audiences to follow their passions and redefine success. Through her TedxTalk and The Red Ball Movement Show, DiANNA encourages individuals to discover their passions and embrace self-love, fostering transformation and empowerment worldwide. With a focus on PLAY (Passion, Love, Art, and Youthfulness), she motivates audiences of all ages to pursue their dreams with courage and authenticity.

Tunde Oyeneyin

Tunde Oyeneyin is a renowned Peloton instructor, Nike Athlete, and New York Times bestselling author known for her empowering message of self-discovery and social change. With her debut memoir “Speak,” Tunde shares her journey of overcoming adversity and transforming grief into growth, inspiring countless readers worldwide. Recognized as the Creative Person of the Year by the Society for Africans in Diaspora, Tunde embarked on a sold-out nationwide book tour, “Speak: A Soul-Care Event,” alongside renowned guests, amplifying her impact and empowering the next generation.

A Texas native of Nigerian descent, Tunde’s passion for fitness and self-love led her to become a Peloton instructor, where she gained fame for her motivational rides addressing important issues like human rights and racial injustice. Through her platform, Tunde empowers her dedicated fan base, known as “Team Tunde,” to pursue their dreams and speak up for change. As the Founder of S.P.E.A.K. and a leader in Facebook’s “We The Culture” program, Tunde continues to elevate voices of resilience and inspire positive transformation, while supporting initiatives like PowerPlay in New York City to empower girls through sports.

Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton’s journey from losing her left arm to a shark attack at age 13 to becoming a professional surfer and inspirational figure has captivated millions worldwide. Her story of resilience has been shared through a best-selling autobiography and film, “Soul Surfer,” inspiring others to overcome life’s challenges. Through charitable efforts like the Beautifully Flawed Foundation, she offers hope to amputees and youth, while promoting a healthy lifestyle through her book “Body and Soul.” As a motivational speaker, Bethany shares her message of resilience and faith, empowering audiences globally. Her latest projects, including the surf documentary “Unstoppable,” continue to inspire others to be unstoppable in life and faith. Bethany’s greatest joy lies in her roles as a wife and mother, yet she remains committed to touching lives worldwide through her unwavering positivity and impactful storytelling.

Tara Schuster

Tara Schuster’s remarkable transition from executive at Comedy Central to mental health advocate exemplifies the power of resilience and self-discovery. Overcoming personal battles with anxiety and depression, she embarked on a transformative journey of self-care, meticulously documenting her findings in a 600-page Google Doc. Drawing from her experience launching hit television shows, Tara developed practical tools that not only improved her own mental health but also resonated with countless others seeking guidance.

Today, as a bestselling author and highly sought-after speaker, Tara shares her journey with humor, vulnerability, and profound wisdom, inspiring individuals and organizations alike to prioritize well-being. With invitations from Fortune 100 companies and engagements with diverse audiences, she imparts actionable insights to cultivate resilience, foster better mental and physical health, and promote harmonious relationships in both personal and professional settings. Through her engaging talks and writings, Tara empowers others to embrace self-care as a foundation for personal growth and organizational success.

Lori Nishiura Mackenzie

Lori is a leading strategist in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Stanford Graduate School of Business and the co-founder of the Stanford VMware Women’s Leadership Innovation Lab, fostering collaboration between academia and industry. With over 20 years of experience in marketing strategy and business management, including roles at Procter & Gamble, Apple, eBay, and PayPal, Lori brings a wealth of expertise to her work. She has spearheaded initiatives to create inclusive classroom environments, diversify communities, and advance research in leadership and diversity.

As a keynote speaker and recognized advocate for gender research and diversity, Lori addresses diverse audiences worldwide. Featured in the BBC’s 100 Women list and the documentary Bias, she is acclaimed for her contributions to driving meaningful change. With an MBA from Wharton and a BA in Economics from UC Berkeley, Lori’s credentials exemplify her commitment to fostering inclusive environments and driving impactful initiatives.

Greta Thunberg

Greta Thunberg has become a global icon for climate activism, inspiring millions with her impassioned speeches and courageous actions. Beginning with a school strike outside the Swedish Parliament, her movement, Fridays For Future, has mobilized over 100,000 students worldwide. Greta’s powerful addresses at climate rallies, the United Nations COP24, and the World Economic Forum in Davos have garnered immense attention, propelling her message of urgent climate action to millions across the globe. Committed to her cause, Greta leads by example, living a low-carbon lifestyle as a vegan who abstains from flying. TIME magazine recognized her influence by naming her one of the world’s most influential teens.

Jessica Abo

Jessica Abo is a seasoned media trainer and storytelling coach with over two decades of experience as a television news anchor and reporter. Leveraging her expertise, she empowers a diverse range of clients, from entrepreneurs to C-Suite executives, to confidently share their stories and amplify their message. Through her guidance, individuals learn to excel in on-air interviews, business pitches, and keynote presentations, shedding their fear of public speaking and embracing newfound confidence.

As an award-winning journalist, Jessica hosts her own business segment on Entrepreneur.com and the acclaimed show “Unfiltered with Jessica Abo” on Entrepreneur TV. She co-hosts the popular podcast “Startups in Stilettos” and is the bestselling author of “Unfiltered: How To Be As Happy As You Look On Social Media.” With a passion for public speaking cultivated since the age of 15, Jessica has graced international stages, including TEDx, Facebook, Microsoft, and the United Nations. Her impactful presentations, coupled with media appearances on top-tier outlets like The TODAY Show and CNN, have solidified her reputation as a dynamic speaker and advocate for various charitable causes, having raised millions of dollars in support.

Heather Monahan

Heather Monahan, a renowned Confidence Creator and bestselling author, empowers audiences globally with transformative insights to cultivate resilience and self-assurance. Leveraging her 20-year media career, Heather’s journey from sales roles to Chief Revenue Officer exemplifies her expertise in building unshakeable confidence, resonating with individuals seeking to unlock their full potential. Through riveting talks, she inspires authenticity and purpose-driven confidence, offering a roadmap for success amidst uncertainty.

Jenna Kutcher

Jenna Kutcher, a leading marketing speaker, entrepreneur, and advocate for purposeful living, has garnered international acclaim through her influential podcast, The Goal Digger. With millions of weekly listeners, it has risen to become the #1 Marketing podcast in the United States, empowering women worldwide to redefine success and awaken to their fullest potential. Jenna’s journey from purchasing a camera on Craigslist at 23 to building a 7-figure business exemplifies her commitment to inspiring others to seize opportunities and create the life they desire.

As an esteemed author, Jenna released her book “How Are You Really?: Living Your Truth One Answer at a Time” in June 2022, offering readers practical insights to unleash their personal power and embrace a more fulfilling existence. Through her speaking engagements, Jenna addresses the challenges of navigating a chaotic world and finding balance amidst competing demands, making her a trusted resource for individuals seeking to reframe their lives and achieve genuine fulfillment.

Brit Morin

As the founder and CEO of Brit + Co, Brit Morin is a leading figure in digital media and entrepreneurship, inspiring creativity among millennial women. With a vast online community of over 90 million women, Brit + Co provides tools and resources to foster a more creative lifestyle. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Brit is a bestselling author, media personality, and sought-after speaker, appearing on national TV shows such as The Today Show and Rachael Ray, and serving as a spokesperson for renowned brands like Target and Uniqlo.

Prior to founding Brit + Co, Brit gained valuable experience at tech giants like Google and Apple, contributing to the launch and growth of products like Google Maps and YouTube. Her achievements have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including Fortune’s “10 Most Promising Entrepreneurs” and Forbes’ “30 Under 30.” With her passion for creativity, entrepreneurship, and empowering women, Brit Morin continues to make a significant impact in the digital landscape and beyond.

Julie Uhrman

Julie Uhrman is a trailblazing entrepreneur and leader in sports and entertainment, notably as the President and Co-founder of Angel City Football Club (ACFC), a premier women’s professional soccer team. Uhrman’s strategic vision and commitment to gender equity have propelled ACFC to secure over USD $55 million in sponsorships, with a focus on community-driven initiatives in Los Angeles. Prior to her role at ACFC, Uhrman achieved global recognition as the CEO and co-founder of OUYA, a successful gaming console company that disrupted the industry. With her extensive experience in technology, media, and entertainment, coupled with her advocacy for gender equity, Uhrman continues to inspire change and empower women both on and off the field.

Abby Wambach

Abby Wambach is a powerhouse figure renowned for her illustrious soccer career, activism, and inspirational speaking engagements. As a two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA World Cup Champion, Abby’s dominance on the field has made her a legend in the world of soccer, while her advocacy for women’s equality has earned her widespread respect. Her #1 New York Times bestselling books, including “WOLFPACK,” and impactful speeches on leadership and social change have cemented her status as a top speaker sought after by prestigious organizations like PayPal, Dell Technologies, and Equinix, Inc.

Beyond her athletic and literary achievements, Abby’s influence extends to co-hosting the acclaimed podcast “WE CAN DO HARD THINGS” and serving on the Board of Directors for Together Rising. As a co-founder and part-owner of Angel City FC, the first majority-female-owned soccer team, she continues to break barriers and inspire others to pursue their passions fearlessly. Abby’s dynamic presence and ability to motivate audiences have garnered high praise and left a lasting impact on attendees, making her a highly respected and sought-after speaker in various arenas.

Shirnetta Harrell

Shirnetta Harrell, a native of Nashville, North Carolina, and a two-time HBCU graduate, founded The No Woman, No Girl Initiative to address essential needs in her community. Despite the challenges of starting a nonprofit during a pandemic, Harrell’s dedication has driven her to provide vital support, offering a 90-day supply of hygiene products to women and girls in Wake County. Recognizing the critical gap in services, she ensures access to necessities for those facing challenges like homelessness or domestic abuse, emphasizing the impact of grassroots initiatives in fostering positive change.