AI Can’t Read the Room, But Our Speakers Can
AI is everywhere. It’s changing how we work, communicate, and create. At VaynerSpeakers, we use it too. AI helps us move faster, find insights, and streamline processes. But here’s what we’re seeing across every stage and every industry: companies aren’t just looking for smarter tools; they’re looking for deeper human connection. AI can generate content. It can analyze patterns. It can even predict trends. What it can’t do is read the room, adapt to emotion, or inspire an audience to feel something. And that’s where the right speakers make all the difference. The Competitive Edge: Emotional Intelligence In a world flooded with information, the companies thriving right now aren’t the ones speaking the loudest; they’re the ones creating moments that connect. That’s why demand is rising for speakers who bring emotional intelligence, communication skills, and storytelling to the stage. Companies want leaders who can: This isn’t about stacking more slides. It’s about delivering messages that land and moments audiences actually remember. Will Guidara & The Power of Human Touchpoints Take Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality. Will turned Eleven Madison Park into the #1 restaurant in the world by obsessing over something technology can’t replicate: personal, meaningful moments. He teaches leaders how to transform every customer interaction into a chance to make people feel seen, valued, and understood. In a time when so much feels automated, Will shows companies how to create intentional experiences that stick. Jefferson Fisher & Mastering Communication Then there’s Jefferson Fisher, a trial lawyer turned one of today’s most sought-after communication experts. Jefferson helps audiences rethink how they talk, listen, and connect—in boardrooms, with clients, and within teams.In an era where AI can draft the perfect email, Jefferson focuses on something deeper: the skills to handle hard conversations, read emotion, and communicate in ways that build trust and influence. Christina Tosi & Unlocking Creative Storytelling Christina Tosi, founder of Milk Bar and a master of building unforgettable brands, brings a fresh perspective on creativity and storytelling. She shows audiences how to take risks, embrace originality, and craft experiences that people crave; whether it’s through food, culture, or brand identity. In a world where AI can remix ideas in seconds, Christina reminds us that the most impactful stories still come from the messy, human process of curiosity, play, and imagination. VaynerSpeakers at the Intersection of AI + Connection We embrace AI to work smarter, but we rely on what truly sets us, and our clients, apart: human connection. The speakers we represent deliver the empathy, communication, and storytelling that no algorithm can replicate.When technology levels the playing field, the companies that connect win. Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
Everyone’s Worried About Becoming Irrelevant… Should You Be?
By Zach Nadler, CEO of VaynerSpeakers One of the most common questions I hear from companies is: “Who is the biggest name out there right now?” Relevance isn’t just about fame. Audiences have more discerning tastes than ever before, and a big name alone won’t guarantee attention. Even if they do put butts in seats, their content may fall flat. What matters today is resonance—and the right speaker can be the difference between engagement and indifference. That’s where we come in. At VaynerSpeakers, we see these shifts every day, and we know what works– and more importantly, WHO works for each unique audience. The smartest companies aren’t chasing trends; they’re choosing voices that connect, inspire, and drive real impact, long after the event ends. So, how do you find a speaker who actually connects? Start here: 1. Book the Builder (With a Story) Audiences want more than ideas; they want proof. The speakers who stand out today are the ones who’ve built something meaningful and can tell you how. They’ve solved real problems, taken risks, and have stories to back it up. When they share their journey, audiences see what’s possible, and leave with tools they can use. What to look for: 2. The Interpreters Expertise is invaluable, but only if it connects. The best insiders don’t just know their industry inside and out; they know how to make it understandable to people outside their industry. They simplify complexity, spark curiosity, and leave audiences feeling smarter, not overwhelmed. What to look for: 3. Culture is Currency Relevance today goes beyond knowing your audience — it’s about helping them see the bigger picture. The strongest brands are intentionally bringing in voices that cross industries, generations, and communities. Cultural connectors make that possible. They bring new perspectives, bridge gaps, and introduce your audience to ideas they didn’t know they needed. What to look for: This is What Actually Matters Relevance isn’t about being everywhere or chasing “who’s hot right now.” It’s about choosing voices who help your audience think differently, connect deeply, and leave inspired. Staying relevant isn’t about being louder–It’s about creating lasting impact. Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
Meet our VaynerSpeakers
This quarter, we’re showcasing speakers who don’t just talk—they move audiences to action. From intimate strategy sessions to major conferences, they deliver ideas that land and last. Women Speakers Trailblazers inspiring change and action Entrepreneur Speakers Builders, disruptors, and market shapers Futurist Speakers Voices redefining what’s next DEI Speakers Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in action Health & Wellness Speakers Promoting resilience, balance, and peak performance Motivational Speakers Igniting action and lasting change Featured Spotlights 🎤 Gary Vaynerchuk (GaryVee)Challenges leaders to cut outdated playbooks, move with speed, and keep the customer at the center.→ See Gary’s full bio & topics 🎤 Laura Gassner OttingBestselling author of Wonderhell & Limitless. Helps audiences think bigger, push past limits, and align their work with purpose.→ See Laura’s full bio & topics 🎤 Will GuidaraShows how small, intentional touches can create unforgettable experiences.→ See Will’s full bio & topics Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
Stop Booking “Bad” Talent
By Zach Nadler, CEO of VaynerSpeakers One thing I’ve learned over the years: great events don’t just “book speakers.” They curate talent. Thoughtfully. Strategically. Intentionally. And with a clear understanding of why the person on stage matters to their audience just as much as what they’re saying. If you host events—whether it’s a customer summit, an internal leadership retreat, or a global conference—how you think about on stage talent matters. If you’ve gotten feedback on “bad talent” – it’s likely that the talent didn’t align well with your company, goal, audience, etc. Don’t worry… there are a lot more speakers out there. Probably too many, if I’m being honest. Here’s how the best events approach curating talent. Know the Audience Comes First Sounds obvious, but it’s where a lot of companies miss. They choose speakers based on internal preferences (“Our CEO is a big fan,”) or social following (“They’re big on LinkedIn”). What gets overlooked? What the actual audience needs to hear. The best events start with questions like: If you can answer those questions, it should immediately narrow your search field. Balance Known Names with Fresh Voices Do big names help draw attention? Of course. But if your entire event lineup is recognizable faces, you’re not offering anything new. And don’t forget, plenty of events have attendees coming regardless of the speakers, even if they have no choice (I see you annual retreats). The smartest events blend: It’s not about booking celebrities. It’s about balancing familiarity with surprise. That’s what keeps audiences engaged. And if it’s a public event, emerging voices look even better five years later when you can’t afford them anymore! Think Beyond the Keynote A keynote is great. But the events that get the most value from their talent think bigger. Consider a mix of: In other words: book the person, but think about the full experience they can help create. Look for Fit, Not Just Resume Not every impressive person is the right speaker for your event, let alone a speaker at all. The best events look for: It’s not just about filling a slot–it’s about finding the person who makes sense for the room, at that moment. The events that consistently win? They treat speaker talent like strategy, not logistics. Because the person on your stage isn’t just delivering content—they’re representing your brand, shaping conversations, and helping your audience connect in a way that lasts, until your next event. That’s worth getting right. —Zach NadlerCEO, VaynerSpeakers Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
How to Build a Speaking Brand People (Actually) Remember
Let’s be honest: it’s hard to stand out nowadays Being someone who is remembered means getting rebooked and recommended. Here’s how to get there. Don’t Be Everything to Everyone One of the biggest mistakes new speakers make is going broad. Creating talks like “Leadership in Today’s Workplace” or “Innovating for Success” sounds like they could be delivered by anyone. Event planners aren’t typically looking for generalists. They’re looking for someone who understands their audience’s specific challenges. Instead of “leadership,” try going more niche: Instead of “innovation,” try: Instead of “Marketing,” try: Narrowing your focus doesn’t limit your opportunities. It positions you as the obvious choice when your topic fits the room. Your Story Isn’t Your Brand (But it’s a Start) Having a great personal story is valuable—although it’s not the whole package. Plenty of speakers say: “I built a company, so now I teach entrepreneurship.” That’s not a brand. That’s a starting point. What makes your brand: Ask yourself: Build Your Platform Before You Think You’re Ready A lot of speakers wait. They think: “Let me fine-tune my talk, get a few gigs, and then I’ll worry about marketing.”The secret sauce is actually starting! Think about how you can do small things now that will add up later: Be helpful before you’re famous. That’s how opportunities find you. Nail Your One-Line Description Event planners skim through endless speaker bios. You need a one-liner that makes them stop and think, “Oh—that’s interesting.” Forget: Try: What to include: Don’t Just Speak – Create Experiences Anyone can give a talk. The speakers who get remembered create an experience. That doesn’t mean gimmicks. It means: Look at Jesse Itzler: he doesn’t just deliver keynotes—he brings DJ Dee Wiz on stage to create an energy shift mid-talk. It’s not a concert, but it feels like one for a moment, and that energy makes people lean in, eager to remember what comes next. People should leave thinking something happened—not that they sat through another presentation. Focus on Relationships, Not Transactions Speaking is a relationship business. Being easy to work with matters as much as being good on stage. A few ways to build real relationships: At the end of the day, people book speakers they trust, not just speakers they like. Use Tech to Amplify —Not Replace—Your Work Professional videos, social media posts, email lists—all helpful. But they’re not a substitute for being good at what you do. Focus on: Bottom Line Being a good speaker isn’t rare. Being a speaker people remember—and want back—is. It’s not about luck. It’s about positioning yourself clearly, delivering consistently, and making the right people aware of what you do. And if you’re wondering where to start: tighten your focus, craft your one-liner, and share your perspective. The rest follows. Serious about growing your speaking career? VaynerSpeakers helps speakers build brands that get remembered—and booked. Contact us today and let’s get started. Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
Questions Event Planners Might Not Be Asking (But Should Be)
What Most Event Planners Might Be Getting Wrong About Booking Keynote Speakers Let’s be honest—booking speakers isn’t always straightforward. Between budget approvals, stakeholder opinions, and making sure your audience actually walks away inspired, there’s a lot more to it than just picking someone with a big name. Here’s the good news: most people are asking the wrong questions entirely. Which means you’re about to be ahead of the curve. Here are a few things we think every event planner should know: Can I Get a Better Rate if I Book a Speaker Directly? A lot of event planners assume going straight to the speaker saves money. It doesn’t. Speaker fees are generally the same whether booking directly or through a bureau. Sending a cold LinkedIn message doesn’t unlock a secret discount. But working with a bureau does get you something else: event support When you work with a speakers bureau, you’re not just booking talent—you’re getting a built-in support team. That means: Basically, you’re not paying extra for help—you’re getting it included. How Do I Go About Negotiating a Speaker Fee? Negotiating a speaker’s fee isn’t about “playing hardball.” It’s about knowing what matters to the speaker and their team. A few ways to approach it: Side note: bureaus only make money when deals close. So, we’re as motivated as you are to get the right speaker at the right price. Don’t Sleep on Books (And Signings) If your speaker has a book, incorporate it into the deal when and where it makes sense. Books can add huge value to your event (and people love leaving with something tangible). Bureaus can help you: Pro tip: Sending books ahead of the event builds buzz. Or, let signed copies double as VIP gifts or sponsor thank-yous. Either way, it’s an easy win. What a Bureau Actually Does (That You Don’t See on Their Website) A lot of event planners assume speaker bureaus are limited to their roster, but in reality, we work with everyone. If there’s someone specific you’re after—whether it’s a celebrity, a CEO, or a niche thought leader—chances are we know how to get to them. What makes that possible: A focus on finding the right fit, not just whoever’s convenient How it All Ties Together Booking the right speaker isn’t about checking a box; it’s about creating a moment your audience will remember. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by asking better questions, working with the right partners, and knowing when to lean on people who’ve done this before. Whether you’ve booked dozens of speakers or are staring down your first big event, the process should feel easier—not harder. Contact us today and let’s get started. Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
Inside the Attention Economy: A VaynerSpeakers Guide for Modern Speakers
TikTok Killed the Traditional Keynote. And your audience’s attention span just got shorter. Again. As a VaynerX company, VaynerSpeakers has had a front-row seat to how social media is reshaping human behavior. Attention spans are shrinking, expectations are shifting, audiences are evolving and keynote speaking is changing. Your Audience’s Brain on Social Media The numbers don’t lie. YouTube videos lose 60-70% of their viewers in the first 30 seconds. The average attention span has dropped to just 8 seconds. Instagram sessions last under 3 minutes on average, while TikTok videos now average 35-43 seconds – optimized for quick consumption and rapid decision-making. Your audience has been trained to make split-second engagement decisions thousands of times per day. They’ve developed “scroll reflexes” -aka- the automatic urge to move on when content doesn’t immediately grab them. This isn’t about short attention spans. It’s abut hyper-efficient attention filtering. Your audience can focus deeply when something captures them, but your window to make that happen has shrunk dramatically. A New Speaker’s Dilemma Traditional keynote structure works against social media-conditioned brains: We’re not saying social media ruined attention spans. We’re saying it upgraded them. Your audience processes information faster, expects more engaging delivery, and has zero tolerance for filler content. The VaynerSpeakers Approach to Modern Keynotes Hook First, Context Later Social media taught us that you have seconds to earn minutes. Start with your strongest point, your most surprising insight, or your most relatable problem. The introduction can come later. Make it Interactive (Really Interactive) Social media is participatory. Comments, reactions, shares, saves – there’s always a way to engage. Your keynote should feel the same way. This doesn’t mean jazz hands and forced participation. It means giving your audience ways to mentally and physically engage with your content. Live polls, quick partner discussions, or even simple “raise your hand if…” moments work. Deliver Value in Chunks Social media conditions people to expect value in every piece of content, not just at the end. Your audience should walk away with something useful even if they only catch 10 minutes of your talk. Structure your content so that each section stands alone while building toward your larger point. Think modular, not linear. The Bottom Line The audience’s relationship with content has fundamentally changed. They’re not worse at paying attention – they’re more selective about what deserves it. The speakers who succeed in 2025 are the ones who respect this evolution instead of resenting it. They design their talks for social media brains, not conference room expectations from 2015. With VaynerSpeakers, we work with speakers who understand that great content isn’t just about the message – it’s about delivering that message in a way that feels native to how your audience already processes information. Because the best keynotes don’t fight the scroll reflex. They earn it. Ready to book a speaker who gets the modern attention economy? Our roster includes speakers who blend social media insights with stage presence to create presentations that actually stick. Contact VaynerSpeakers to find your perfect speaker.
The Psychology of Audience Engagement: What Makes a Speech Memorable?
Understanding what really holds attention—and why it matters for every speaker. When a speech sticks with you long after the lights dim, it’s not just because of what was said—it’s how it made you feel. Great speakers don’t just deliver content; they understand the psychology of public speaking and how to activate it. Whether you’re preparing for a conference, a corporate keynote, or a workshop, understanding how to engage an audience is what transforms a talk from informative to unforgettable. What Makes a Great Speech? We’ve all sat through presentations that felt like a checklist of talking points. The ones we remember? They hit different. So, what makes a great speech? How to Engage an Audience Want to know how to engage an audience on a deeper level? Tap into how people process, connect, and respond in real time. Here are a few principles that great speakers use intuitively: Audience Retention Strategies That Work Holding attention in a digital age is no small feat. But with smart audience retention strategies, you can keep people engaged from the first line to the last. Try these tactics: The goal isn’t to constantly entertain—it’s to consistently re-engage. Speech Delivery Techniques That Leave a Mark You can have the best message in the world, but without the right delivery, it won’t land. Strong speech delivery techniques amplify your ideas and help them resonate. Here’s what to focus on: Looking to book a speaker for your next event? Our speakers train regularly to hone these techniques—and it shows in how their talks consistently engage and convert. Contact us today to find the best speaker for your next event.
