Top 60 Motivational Speakers to Book in 2026

As we move into 2026, expectations for conferences, corporate events, and leadership summits are rising rapidly. Because of this, event planners are no longer satisfied with surface-level inspiration. Instead, they are searching for motivational speakers who can create clarity, momentum, and measurable impact.

At the same time, the speaking industry has grown more crowded. However, volume does not equal value. Therefore, knowing which speakers consistently deliver has become essential. For that reason, this list exists.

At Journey Speakers Bureau, we believe curation matters more than scale. While we are not the largest bureau, we are intentionally selective. As a result, every speaker included here has earned their place through credibility, consistency, and performance.

Why This List Matters for 2026 Events

Today’s audiences are more informed and more discerning. As a result, generic inspiration no longer resonates the way it once did. Instead, attendees expect relevance, depth, and practical takeaways.

Moreover, planners are under pressure to justify budgets and outcomes. Because of this, booking a motivational speaker has become a strategic decision rather than a creative one.

Therefore, the speakers on this list were selected based on clear criteria:

• They speak frequently and remain in demand
• They connect across industries and audiences
• They deliver messages that translate into action

In other words, these are not one-hit wonders. Rather, they are professionals who consistently deliver value on stage.

Top 60 Motivational Speakers to Book in 2026

1. Charles Clark

Known for turning pressure into performance, Charles Clark delivers high-impact keynotes rooted in resilience, mindset, and leadership under stress. A former world-class athlete, he brings credibility earned through adversity and reinvention. His talks connect deeply with corporate teams, leaders, and organizations navigating change. Charles blends elite-performance strategy with emotional intelligence, leaving audiences energized, focused, and equipped with tools they can apply immediately. He is a go-to voice for events that demand both inspiration and execution.

2. Colette Carlson

Few speakers translate human connection into business outcomes as effectively as Colette Carlson. In today’s workplace, communication gaps create friction. Therefore, her work focuses on emotional intelligence, trust, and clarity. Moreover, her experience allows leaders to strengthen relationships that drive performance. As a result, audiences leave with strategies they can use immediately. Ultimately, planners book Colette when culture, leadership presence, and communication excellence are non-negotiable priorities.

3. Seth Mattison

As the workplace continues to evolve, leaders need direction rather than predictions. That is where Seth Mattison stands out. Instead of forecasting trends, he prepares organizations to respond strategically. Moreover, his insights around culture, leadership, and generational dynamics remain highly actionable. Consequently, teams gain clarity amid disruption. Ultimately, Seth is booked when conferences require forward-thinking leadership grounded in real-world application.

4. James Lawrence

James Lawrence proves that limits are often self-imposed. Known globally as the Iron Cowboy, his story immediately captures attention. However, the value lies in how he connects endurance to everyday leadership. As a result, audiences rethink commitment and discipline. Moreover, his message challenges comfort zones without relying on hype. Ultimately, organizations book James when they want grit, resilience, and sustained execution to define their culture.

5. Seb Terry

In a world driven by metrics, Seb Terry brings audiences back to meaning. After launching a life-altering global journey, he now helps organizations reconnect people to purpose. As a result, teams gain perspective and renewed motivation. Moreover, his message encourages bold action rooted in values. Ultimately, Seb is booked when planners want emotional depth paired with optimism and long-term impact.

6. Jenny Evans

When pressure rises, performance often drops. Therefore, Jenny Evans focuses on stress mastery and sustainable resilience. Drawing from neuroscience and human performance research, she delivers tools audiences can apply immediately. Moreover, her approach reframes stress as a catalyst rather than a threat. As a result, teams improve focus and emotional regulation. Ultimately, planners book Jenny for events where resilience and longevity matter.

7. Angela Gargano

Confidence does not come from comfort, and Angela Gargano proves it. Through elite athletics and personal reinvention, she teaches audiences how to act before certainty arrives. Moreover, her sessions emphasize courage through action. As a result, participants leave empowered and accountable. Ultimately, Angela resonates with organizations seeking strength, self-belief, and bold leadership under pressure.

8. Stuart Knight

Stories shape culture, and Stuart Knight helps leaders tell them well. Rather than focusing on theory, he shows how storytelling drives influence and trust. Moreover, his sessions remain practical and engaging. As a result, leaders communicate with greater clarity and confidence. Ultimately, planners book Stuart when they want stronger connection across teams, customers, and leadership ranks.

9. Darryl Bellamy Jr.

Conversations around fear and confidence often stay surface-level. However, Darryl Bellamy Jr. goes deeper. By blending research with relatability, he creates momentum through ownership and action. Moreover, his delivery resonates strongly with younger audiences while still engaging leadership. As a result, organizations see increased engagement. Ultimately, Darryl is booked to ignite courage and responsibility across cultures.

10. Anthony Trucks

Identity shapes performance long before results appear. That is why Anthony Trucks focuses on internal narratives. Through lived experience and coaching insight, he challenges audiences to reclaim ownership. Moreover, his message replaces limitation with clarity. As a result, teams leave ready to execute with confidence. Ultimately, Anthony is booked when organizations want transformation rooted in truth rather than motivation alone.

11. Nicole Malachowski

As the first female pilot on the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Nicole Malachowski brings a rare perspective on leadership, trust, and excellence under pressure. Her keynotes explore decision-making, resilience, and teamwork at the highest level. Organizations book Nicole for her credibility and ability to translate elite military experience into practical leadership lessons. She is a powerful choice for executive and leadership-focused events.

12. John Register

John Register’s story of transformation following life-altering injury delivers a compelling message on adaptability and reinvention. His work focuses on resilience, change management, and inclusive leadership. John’s keynotes help organizations embrace change without losing momentum. Event planners value his authenticity, humor, and ability to inspire action. He is especially impactful for audiences navigating uncertainty or organizational transition.

13. David Avrin

Customer loyalty and marketplace differentiation take center stage in David Avrin’s presentations. His insights help organizations stand out in crowded industries by elevating service and client experience. David’s delivery is fast-paced, practical, and grounded in real-world business examples. Event planners book him for sales conferences, leadership summits, and customer-focused events that demand immediate relevance.

14. Erik Wahl

Blending live art with business insight, Erik Wahl redefines what a keynote can be. His presentations explore creativity, innovation, and leadership through unexpected storytelling. Audiences remain fully engaged as he challenges conventional thinking. Organizations book Erik when they want to disrupt complacency and encourage bold ideas. His unique format makes him unforgettable for conferences seeking innovation energy.

15. Adam Markel

Adam Markel focuses on resilience, leadership, and sustainable performance in high-pressure environments. His background in business and psychology allows him to address burnout and productivity with credibility. Adam’s keynotes equip leaders with tools to create healthier, more adaptive cultures. Event planners choose him when they want substance, strategy, and transformation rather than surface-level motivation.

16. Oliver North

Drawing from military leadership and public service, Oliver North delivers lessons on accountability, courage, and decision-making. His perspective resonates strongly with organizations seeking principled leadership and resilience under pressure. Oliver’s storytelling connects historical insight with modern challenges. Event planners book him for conferences requiring authority, legacy thinking, and values-driven leadership.

17. Dr. Rebecca Heiss

Neuroscience meets performance in Dr. Rebecca Heiss’ dynamic presentations. She helps audiences understand stress responses and turn pressure into fuel for success. Her keynotes are engaging, science-backed, and highly actionable. Organizations book Dr. Heiss to address burnout, mental wellness, and sustainable productivity. She excels at making complex science accessible and motivating.

18. Chris Norton

Chris Norton’s journey of resilience and perseverance inspires audiences to rethink limitations. His keynotes focus on teamwork, belief, and progress against the odds. Organizations book Chris for his authenticity and ability to motivate without exaggeration. His message resonates deeply with teams facing challenges or pursuing long-term goals that require persistence.

19. Pandit Dasa

Former monk Pandit Dasa brings mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and presence into corporate environments. His talks help teams improve communication, reduce stress, and build more compassionate cultures. Pandit’s approach is grounded, practical, and accessible. Event planners book him for leadership retreats and wellness-focused conferences seeking clarity and calm amid complexity.

20. Vince Poscente

Speed, focus, and execution define Vince Poscente’s message. An Olympian turned performance expert, he helps organizations improve results through mindset and strategic action. Vince’s keynotes are energetic and precise, delivering tools leaders can apply immediately. Event planners choose him when they want momentum, urgency, and performance-driven outcomes.

21. Magie Cook

Entrepreneurship stories often feel distant. However, Magie Cook’s journey feels personal and actionable. As the founder of a nationally recognized brand, she speaks about resilience, innovation, and leadership earned through experience. Moreover, her background allows audiences to connect strategy with execution. As a result, leaders walk away with renewed belief in what is possible. Ultimately, Magie is booked when organizations want grit paired with business clarity.

22. Aaron Shawn Harper

Entrepreneurship stories often feel distant. However, Magie Cook’s journey feels personal and actionable. As the founder of a nationally recognized brand, she speaks about resilience, innovation, and leadership earned through experience. Moreover, her background allows audiences to connect strategy with execution. As a result, leaders walk away with renewed belief in what is possible. Ultimately, Magie is booked when organizations want grit paired with business clarity.

23. Shannon Miller

Elite performance requires discipline beyond talent. As a result, Shannon Miller brings Olympic-level insight into resilience, focus, and longevity. Moreover, her story resonates across corporate, healthcare, and leadership audiences. Instead of glorifying pressure, she teaches balance and sustainability. Ultimately, organizations book Shannon when excellence and wellbeing must coexist.

24. Jenn Lim

Workplace culture is no longer optional. Therefore, Jenn Lim helps organizations build environments where people thrive. Her keynotes connect happiness, belonging, and performance through research and storytelling. Moreover, her approach feels practical rather than abstract. As a result, teams leave aligned and energized. Ultimately, planners choose Jenn when culture transformation is a top priority.

25. Amanda Gore

Emotional intelligence shapes every interaction. For that reason, Amanda Gore focuses on connection, empathy, and human behavior. Her sessions blend science with humor, making learning engaging and memorable. Moreover, her energy creates immediate buy-in. As a result, teams communicate better and feel more connected. Ultimately, Amanda is booked when morale and culture matter.

26. Mallory Brown

Leadership often forms under pressure. Consequently, Mallory Brown draws from humanitarian work in extreme environments to explore courage and resilience. Her perspective shifts how audiences view adversity. Moreover, her message challenges leaders to lead with compassion. As a result, organizations gain clarity around purpose. Ultimately, planners book Mallory for impact-driven conferences.

27. BridgetHilton

Purpose-driven leadership requires intention. Therefore, Bridget Hilton helps audiences rethink success through values and creativity. Her entrepreneurial background adds credibility to her message. Moreover, her storytelling encourages reflection and action. As a result, leaders leave inspired to build meaningful cultures. Ultimately, Bridget resonates with organizations seeking alignment and innovation.

28. Suneel Gupta

Stress undermines performance when unmanaged. As a result, Suneel Gupta focuses on wellbeing, focus, and sustainable success. His insights blend research with lived experience. Moreover, his calm delivery creates space for clarity. Ultimately, organizations book Suneel when productivity and mental health must align.

29. Pamela Barnum

Sales performance and leadership excellence define Pamela Barnum’s work. With decades of experience, she helps teams elevate communication, confidence, and results. Her keynotes are practical, engaging, and designed to drive measurable outcomes. Event planners book Pamela for sales kickoffs, leadership summits, and conferences focused on growth. She delivers tools audiences can use immediately.

30. Paul Epstein

Former NFL executive Paul Epstein helps organizations build championship cultures through purpose and performance. His talks explore leadership, accountability, and mindset using lessons from elite sports environments. Paul connects strongly with teams striving for excellence under pressure. Event planners book him when they want energy, clarity, and a culture-first approach to leadership and results.

31. Fahd Alhattab

Mental strength, adaptability, and peak performance define Fahd Alhattab’s message. His work focuses on helping individuals thrive in demanding environments without sacrificing wellbeing. Fahd’s keynotes are practical and empowering, making him a strong choice for organizations facing rapid change. Event planners value his ability to connect resilience with performance in a grounded, relatable way.

32. Bridgette Simmonds

Joy as a leadership strategy sits at the core of Bridgette Simmonds’ message. Her keynotes explore identity, inclusion, and emotional wellbeing while challenging outdated leadership norms. Bridgette’s presence energizes audiences and creates space for meaningful reflection. Organizations book her for conferences focused on belonging, culture, and authentic leadership that drives engagement.

33. Dan Clark

Storytelling and leadership excellence define Dan Clark’s approach. With decades of experience, he delivers timeless lessons on values, integrity, and human connection. Dan’s keynotes are heartfelt and memorable, resonating with audiences across generations. Event planners book him when they want inspiration rooted in wisdom, purpose, and lasting impact.

34. Johnny Crowder

Mental health, belonging, and authenticity come together in Johnny Crowder’s work. His talks address stigma, connection, and emotional honesty in a powerful, relatable way. Johnny creates safe spaces for conversation while inspiring courage and empathy. Event planners book him for organizations prioritizing wellbeing, inclusion, and human-centered leadership.

35. Anne Bonney

Change management and collaboration drive Anne Bonney’s keynotes. She helps teams navigate discomfort, communicate effectively, and work better together. Anne’s delivery is energetic and practical, making her a strong fit for conferences focused on teamwork and adaptability. Event planners value her ability to challenge assumptions while keeping audiences engaged.

36. Dr. Susan Biali Haas

Burnout prevention and mental health take center stage in Dr. Susan Biali Haas’ presentations. As a physician and wellbeing expert, she helps organizations create healthier, more sustainable cultures. Her keynotes are grounded in science and compassion. Event planners book her for healthcare, leadership, and corporate events focused on resilience and longevity.

37. Joshua M. Evans

Mindset, purpose, and leadership development define Joshua M. Evans’ work. His keynotes encourage personal growth, responsibility, and clarity in leadership roles. Joshua connects strongly with audiences seeking meaning and direction. Event planners book him when they want thoughtful reflection paired with practical leadership insight.

38. Natalie Nixon

Creativity and strategic thinking intersect in Natalie Nixon’s presentations. She helps organizations unlock innovation through curiosity and adaptive leadership. Natalie’s keynotes are research-informed and highly relevant for modern workplaces. Event planners book her for conferences focused on future thinking, creativity, and sustainable innovation.

39. Dr. Jackie Freiberg

Leadership excellence and culture-building drive Dr. Jackie Freiberg’s work. Her keynotes focus on trust, accountability, and high-performance teams. With academic rigor and engaging delivery, she helps organizations strengthen leadership at every level. Event planners book her for conferences that demand both credibility and inspiration.

40. Dan Pontefract

Culture, leadership, and organizational health anchor Dan Pontefract’s message. His talks explore how values-driven leadership shapes performance and engagement. Dan’s delivery is thoughtful and strategic, making him a strong fit for executive audiences. Event planners book him when leadership alignment and culture transformation are top priorities.

41. Kaplan Mobray

Personal branding and leadership identity sit at the core of Kaplan Mobray’s work. His keynotes help professionals clarify who they are, how they show up, and how they lead with confidence. Kaplan blends storytelling with strategy, making his sessions highly practical. Event planners book him for leadership conferences, career development events, and organizations focused on growth, visibility, and influence.

42. Scott Greenberg

High standards, accountability, and excellence define Scott Greenberg’s message. Drawing from hospitality leadership, he teaches organizations how to create cultures that thrive under pressure. Scott’s keynotes focus on consistency, service, and ownership. Event planners choose him for conferences that want practical leadership lessons that translate directly into improved performance and customer experience.

43. Steve Rizzo

Humor becomes a powerful leadership tool in Steve Rizzo’s presentations. His talks focus on mindset, optimism, and resilience through laughter and perspective. Steve connects easily with diverse audiences, making complex ideas approachable and memorable. Event planners book him when they want to lift morale, shift mindset, and create an engaging experience without sacrificing substance.

44. Crystal Martin

Leadership, equity, and personal power drive Crystal Martin’s message. Her keynotes focus on confidence, career growth, and navigating leadership spaces with authenticity. Crystal resonates strongly with organizations committed to empowerment and inclusion. Event planners book her for women’s conferences, leadership summits, and company events seeking meaningful conversations and lasting inspiration.

45. Jason O. Harris

Leadership growth and mindset transformation anchor Jason O. Harris’ work. His keynotes challenge audiences to lead with intention, accountability, and purpose. Jason connects deeply with professionals navigating change or stepping into leadership roles. Event planners value his ability to blend inspiration with practical leadership frameworks that audiences can apply immediately.

46. James Robilotta

Generational dynamics and workplace culture take center stage in James Robilotta’s talks. Known for humor and insight, he helps organizations bridge communication gaps between generations. His sessions are engaging, relatable, and research-backed. Event planners book James for conferences seeking better collaboration, engagement, and understanding across diverse teams.

47. Heather E. McGowan

Change, adaptability, and future readiness define Heather E. McGowan’s message. Her keynotes help leaders rethink how work, learning, and leadership are evolving. Heather brings strategic insight paired with bold perspective. Event planners book her for innovation-focused conferences and organizations preparing teams for continuous change and disruption.

48. Abhi Golhar

Entrepreneurial mindset and execution drive Abhi Golhar’s work. His keynotes focus on innovation, problem-solving, and building momentum in uncertain environments. Abhi connects strongly with business leaders and growth-minded teams. Event planners book him for conferences centered on startups, innovation, and leadership in fast-paced industries.

49. Curtis Ray Hill

Belonging, inclusion, and human connection are central to Curtis Ray Hill’s presentations. His talks encourage empathy, self-awareness, and community within organizations. Curtis creates space for meaningful dialogue while inspiring action. Event planners book him for conferences focused on culture, diversity, and strengthening team relationships.

50. Ryan Estis

Sales leadership and performance strategy anchor Ryan Estis’ message. His keynotes focus on growth, adaptability, and customer-centric thinking. Ryan delivers insights that resonate with sales teams and executives alike. Event planners book him for sales kickoffs, leadership summits, and conferences seeking measurable impact and momentum.

51. John Livesay

Storytelling as a leadership and sales tool defines John Livesay’s work. His keynotes teach audiences how to craft narratives that build trust and connection. John’s delivery is engaging and practical. Event planners book him for conferences focused on communication, branding, and influence in competitive markets.

52. Peter Sheahan

Growth strategy and leadership courage drive Peter Sheahan’s presentations. His keynotes challenge organizations to confront complexity and lead boldly. Peter combines research with real-world insight, making his talks highly relevant. Event planners book him for executive audiences and conferences focused on transformation and innovation.

53. Blake Leeper

Resilience, perseverance, and mindset take center stage in Blake Leeper’s story. As an elite athlete, he inspires audiences to push beyond perceived limits. Blake’s keynotes connect determination with discipline. Event planners book him for conferences seeking motivation rooted in grit, adaptability, and personal responsibility.

54. Libby Gill

Leadership communication and change management define Libby Gill’s work. Her keynotes help leaders navigate transition while maintaining clarity and trust. Libby brings corporate insight paired with engaging delivery. Event planners book her for conferences focused on leadership presence, influence, and organizational alignment.

55. Josh Linkner

Innovation and creative problem-solving anchor Josh Linkner’s message. His talks help organizations embrace experimentation and adapt to change. Josh blends entrepreneurial insight with practical leadership strategies. Event planners book him for conferences focused on growth, creativity, and staying competitive in evolving markets.

56. Joel Zeff

Energy, humor, and teamwork define Joel Zeff’s presentations. His interactive keynotes focus on communication, collaboration, and joy at work. Joel creates unforgettable audience experiences while reinforcing meaningful lessons. Event planners book him when engagement, morale, and connection are top priorities.

57. Ben Nemtin

Goal setting, optimism, and action drive Ben Nemtin’s message. Known for his work on personal dreams and accountability, he inspires audiences to pursue meaningful goals together. Ben’s keynotes resonate with teams seeking purpose and momentum. Event planners book him for conferences focused on motivation, culture, and shared vision.

58. Karin Hurt

Leadership courage and communication are central to Karin Hurt’s work. Her keynotes focus on practical leadership behaviors that drive trust and performance. Karin connects deeply with managers and emerging leaders. Event planners book her for leadership development events and conferences focused on growth and accountability.

59. David Burkus

Team dynamics and organizational culture anchor David Burkus’ research-driven presentations. His keynotes explore collaboration, trust, and innovation through practical frameworks. David’s delivery blends academic insight with real-world relevance. Event planners book him for conferences focused on improving teamwork and performance.

60. Shane Feldman

Community, leadership, and belonging define Shane Feldman’s message. His talks focus on building meaningful connections in organizations and beyond. Shane inspires audiences to create cultures where people feel valued and engaged. Event planners book him for conferences centered on leadership, youth engagement, and community-driven growth.

What Sets These Speakers Apart

Although many speakers can energize a room, only a few consistently create transformation. Because of this, the speakers listed above share several important characteristics.

First, they are actively speaking. In many cases, they are booked months in advance. Consequently, they stay sharp, relevant, and connected to real-world challenges.

Second, they customize their message. Rather than delivering a generic talk, they adapt their content to the audience, industry, and moment. As a result, their message lands with more clarity and impact.

Finally, they understand outcomes. Instead of focusing solely on applause, they focus on what changes after the event. Therefore, planners trust them with high-stakes stages.

Why Event Planners Choose Journey Speakers Bureau

Choosing the right speaker can feel overwhelming. However, it does not have to be.

At Journey Speakers Bureau, we act as strategic partners, not just intermediaries. Because we work closely with every speaker we represent, we understand their strengths, styles, and ideal audiences.

As a result, planners save time. More importantly, they reduce risk.

Additionally, we do not overwhelm clients with endless options. Instead, we guide decisions based on goals, audience needs, and desired outcomes. Therefore, every recommendation is intentional.

Book a Motivational Speaker for 2026 With Confidence

Ultimately, the right speaker can elevate an entire event. When the message aligns with the moment, audiences lean in, leaders engage, and momentum carries forward.

If you are planning a 2026 event and want more than surface-level motivation, now is the time to act. Rather than guessing, partner with a bureau that values clarity and impact.

📧 booking@journeyspeakers.com