Your Speaker Questions, Answered

Simply put, the best service in the industry. When clients begin planning their events, a Leading Authorities program consultant works with them to design the best program by learning about their organizations and understanding the business behind their meeting. Because our program consultants are well versed in the hot issues of the day, they can provide tailored research for each client and make recommendations that stay in line with the budget, theme, and location. These professionals are dedicated to packaging the perfect blend of speakers, entertainment, and production to create a winning event. As the liaison between the talent and the client, Leading Authorities’ event coordinators make sure that every booking runs like clockwork. This detail-oriented team handles all of our speakers’ logistics and provides a range of services from developing itineraries and scheduling conference calls to managing book purchases and arranging meet-and-greets. By guaranteeing convenient access to your event coordinator at all times, Leading Authorities ensures a smooth and hassle-free event. Leading Authorities will issue you a contract setting the name of the speaker, the event location, the date of the presentation, audio visual requirements, and other important information. The contract requires a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the speaking fee within 14 days of booking your speaker. The balance is due 14 days prior to the event date.

With one of the largest and most diverse rosters in the industry, Leading Authorities offers speakers for every topic, budget, and event. Our lineup includes high-ranking former officials, business leaders, bestselling authors, media personalities, celebrities, entertainers, and leading experts across nearly every field. 

Whether your event theme is set or still taking shape, our speakers span the full range—from disruptive technology and innovation to leadership, motivation, and classic evergreen topics. 

To start your search, explore our speakers by topic or type, or use our find a speaker search to filter by your specific criteria. 

If you’d like guidance, our team is ready. We can answer questions like: How do I book a keynote speaker? Can I bring in more than one? What should I budget? Prefer personalized recommendations? Share your event details, and we’ll curate a customized list tailored to your needs. 

Yes. We proudly represent an extensive roster of exclusive keynote speakers, including former high-ranking government officials and world leaders, top business executives, political personalities, media figures, bestselling authors, military heroes, breakthrough innovators, and more. We’re highly selective in recruiting exclusive talent, ensuring each speaker meets a strong and ongoing demand from our clients. View our full list of exclusive speakers. 

An exclusive speaker is someone who signs an agreement granting one agency the sole right to represent them. Leading Authorities represents many speakers exclusively, and we also work closely with other agents to give you access to virtually every speaker in the market. 

You can view our full roster of exclusive speakers by  Clicking here .

Leading Authorities clients span Fortune 500 companies, major associations and professional societies, leading universities and academic institutions, and civic and nonprofit organizations at the national, international, and regional levels. 

Absolutely. While we feature thousands of keynote speakers and entertainers on our site, we also work with countless others who aren’t listed. If you’re looking for someone specific, just reach out. Our team specializes in securing hard-to-find and in-demand speakers across the country and around the world, and we’re happy to contact them on your behalf. 
 

Leading Authorities is your one-stop source for the headline speakers that draw audiences and elevate events. We provide direct access to today’s most in-demand figures, including former presidents and vice presidents, prime ministers, cabinet secretaries, top media personalities, bestselling authors, celebrated athletes, Hollywood talent, and other widely recognized leaders. 

Our roster features national and international voices who sit at the forefront of their fields. However, some high-profile individuals do not accept speaking engagements—despite being listed on various bureau websites. If you’re hoping to book a sitting CEO or a household name like Mark Zuckerberg or Bill Gates, we recommend reading our blog post, Will a Sitting CEO Speak at My Event? for important context.

Our network of talent can travel anywhere — while there may be some cost savings by procuring a speaker in the same market as your event, you may also want to look at speakers who require travel. If you are set on a local speaker, we’ve curated speakers by top requested locations below. 

• California Speaker

• Chicago Speakers 

• New York City Speakers 

• Atlanta Speakers 

• Austin, TX Speakers 

• Boston Speakers 

• Dallas, TX Speakers 

• London Speakers 

• Los Angeles Speakers 

 
For more information about our local keynote speakers across the globe, to see a list of keynote speakers categorized by location, and to find a local keynote speaker in your city or country, view our speakers by location page. 

The easiest way is to visit a speaker’s profile page on LAI’s website. Most profiles include video clips of past speeches and interviews filmed in our studios. If you need additional samples, we’re happy to send video links of past presentations directly to your inbox upon request. 

Our speakers are always ready to jump into action when your meeting needs it the most! We have a plethora of speakers excited to do their keynotes online or in a hybrid speakers. We’ll even handle all the backend virtual meeting software. 

Start by having a quick conversation with one of our program consultants. They’ll ask about your event, audience, budget, key stakeholders, objectives, and anything else that helps us understand what you’re trying to accomplish. We’ll also share insights on today’s most in-demand topics, trending themes, and the newest names on the speaking circuit. Review all the key steps to booking a speaker here.

Yes, we can help you narrow down your search. After we learn about your event, we’ll send you a customized list of speaker recommendations tailored specifically to your goals and audience. Our consultants stay on top of current issues, industry trends, and audience expectations. They provide tailored research and customized recommendations that align with your event’s theme, budget, and location.

Each recommendation includes promo videos, relevant articles, speaker profile pages, and personal insights from our team. We’ll also check availability and fees and present the best options that match your budget and criteria. Connect with us to get a custom proposal within 24 hours.

LAI sends regular updates to clients on trending speakers, new exclusive additions to our roster, and insights on the industry’s most in-demand topics. To stay informed, join our email list and receive the latest speaker and trend updates directly in your inbox.

Many speakers allow video taping of their speech at no additional charge. Some do not wish to be taped or will charge an extra fee. It is important to make your requests known in advance, before the contract is signed, to ensure that any special requirements are agreed to in advance and made part of the contract.

Each speaker is different, but most are happy to sign books or other memorabilia at your event. Some, however, have contractual restrictions. If a signing is important to you, let our team know as early as possible—ideally before the contract is finalized—so we can confirm the speaker’s availability and include any requirements in the agreement. 

If a signing is approved and added to the contract, we can also coordinate the logistics, including bookplates. There’s no additional charge for this service. 

Yes! Many of the speakers we represent are bestselling authors, and books make fantastic event takeaways that reinforce your message long after the program ends. In most cases, we can secure books at a substantial discount and ship them directly to your meeting or event site. We can also coordinate author book signings or provide signed bookplates at no extra charge. 

Reach out to our team to check availability for a specific speaker and to get special pricing on bulk orders. 

Your program consultant and event coordinator are always reachable. You’ll have their personal cell numbers so you can contact us directly whenever something requires urgent attention. We’re here when you need us.

If an unexpected situation comes up and your speaker can’t attend, we’ve got you covered. Our team can secure a replacement quickly — we work with thousands of speakers worldwide and maintain strong relationships with agents across North America. In short, we’ll handle the scramble so you don’t have to.

In short, the best service in the industry. Once you begin planning, a Leading Authorities program consultant will work with you to design the right program by learning about your organization, your goals, and the purpose behind your meeting. Because our consultants stay current on the issues shaping today’s conversations, they provide tailored research and recommendations that align with your budget, theme, and location. 

Our team specializes in creating the ideal mix of speakers, entertainment, and production to build a standout event. From there, our event coordinators step in as your day-to-day point of contact. They manage the full logistics process—including itineraries, conference calls, book orders, meet-and-greets, and more—to ensure everything runs smoothly. You’ll have reliable, direct access to your coordinator at every stage. 

Leading Authorities will issue a contract that outlines the speaker, event location, date, audiovisual requirements, and all key details. A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the fee is due within 14 days of booking, with the remaining balance due 14 days before the event. 

Many speakers allow their presentations to be recorded at no additional charge, while others may decline or require an extra fee. If recording is important to you, let us know early—ideally before the contract is signed—so we can confirm the speaker’s policy and include any necessary permissions or requirements in the agreement. 

Yes. LAI Video—one of the three divisions of Leading Authorities, Inc.—is our boutique, award-winning video communications team. Their crew of producers, directors, editors, animators, designers, and storytellers creates high-impact video content for every kind of project. Learn more about LAI Video and explore our full range of video solutions. 

If you’d like to learn how to start planning your keynote event, click here. Curious about choosing the right type of speaker? Click here.

If you still have questions or want guidance on securing a keynote speaker, our team is here to help. Reach out anytime.

To get in touch right away, you can fill out the form below, send us an email, start a live chat, or call us at 1-800-SPEAKER.

Once you tell us who you’d like to book—or even just the type of speaker you’re leaning toward—we draft the contract. We handle all terms, details, and payments between you and the speaker so the process stays simple and streamlined.

Absolutely. After the contract is signed, one of our event coordinators dives into the logistics: flights, cars, hotels, schedules, and any pre-event communication. We set up prep calls as needed and troubleshoot issues behind the scenes so you can focus on running a great event.

We provide you with an event brief prior to event equipped with all your speaker details. We handle all the details so you don’t have to.  The day of, your speaker will arrive on time, fully prepared, and ready to engage your audience. We guarantee a strong, customized presentation and an experience that leaves attendees energized and talking.

Fill out the form to share basic details about your event. A member of our team will reach out within a few hours for a no-obligation conversation to understand your goals and begin crafting the right program for your organization.

No! In most instances, speakers pay bureaus a commission on their fee. This means you can enjoy free consulting service, independent recommendations, a high level of event coordination, plus many additional services at no additional cost to you.

Speaking fees are based on several factors: the speaker’s profile, the amount of travel involved, and the length or type of presentation. High-profile figures—such as bestselling authors, media personalities, and well-known experts—typically command higher fees. Keynote presentations usually cost less than half-day or full-day programs, and events that don’t require travel are often priced lower than those that do. 

Start by giving us a call at 1-800-SPEAKER or 202-783-0300. Leading Authorities has one of the industry’s strongest databases of affordable talent, including thousands of speakers in all fee ranges. For more insight on finding great speakers at lower price points, check out our blog on booking affordable, high-impact speakers. 

One of the easiest ways is to book a speaker who lives near your event location. Leading Authorities works with talent across the country and around the world, and our program consultants can help you find the right fit while staying within budget. Many speakers require only full-coach travel, and some offer all-inclusive fees that bundle travel into their rate. 

Whether you want to avoid managing airfare, ground transportation, and hotels—or you need a quick replacement for a last-minute cancellation—local talent can be a smart, cost-effective option. To explore speakers in your area, visit our speakers by location page, or contact us with your event details for a curated list of nearby recommendations tailored to your organization and event. 

Typical expenses include the speaking fee, audiovisual costs, travel, accommodations, meals, and incidentals like tips. Airfare is generally first class or full coach (Y fare). To learn more about expenses, how speakers are compensated, and ways to save on costs, keep scrolling. 

No. In most cases, speakers pay the bureau a commission on their fee. That means you get expert guidance, independent recommendations, hands-on event support, and a range of additional services—at no extra cost to you. 

Leading Authorities has a design team who is ready to create all of your collateral materials no matter how small or large the project. Consult with our team of experts to create a one-of-a-kind design that will add a polished finish and continuity to your event. Our services include event invitations, digital and web event promotions, and program books.

Leading Authorities’ team will meet with your organization and evaluate your organizational goals. Our goal is to partner with you organization and to create an event that ultimately improves your bottom line. Our event can be evaluated and your program content can be organized to achieve your key objectives.

Consult with our team of experts and meet the constantly changing trends in business. Learn how your organization can implement “green” practices in your events. Cross the generational divides and engage with audiences including Baby Boomers, Generation X’ers, Generation Y’ers, and millennials. Contact us to learn how to apply adult learning methods and ensure the absorption of your message.

Event design is a strategic approach to creating your meeting. Leading Authorities works with all of the stakeholders of your meeting to align your organization’s objectives with event elements and outcomes of your conference. This process includes building customized curriculum, segmenting your audience, optimizing your full budget and that ensures speakers deliver on key objectives for education, CEOs, and core objectives, and creating an integrated marketing plan. For more information, with our Event Advisory Services page.

Yes! LAI Video, one of three divisions at Leading Authorities, Inc., is a booming, boutique video communications company with an award-winning team of camera personnel, editors, producers, directors, animators, designers, makers, and creative storytellers. Click here to learn more about LAI Video and explore our video solutions.

Yes! Leading Authorities can assist you with running a webinar to deliver your much needed content to your online audience. Use Leading Authorities’ webinar platform and leverage our expertise in managing live events to present a speaker. We take care of all the aspects of the webinar including planning and set-up, logistics, rehearsal, webcam, recording, and post-event support.

We host a range of events where clients can preview our speakers live — a chance to see talent in action, connect with senior leaders and event professionals, and get to know our team. To get on the invite list, just fill out our [Request an Invite], choose the locations you’re interested in, and we’ll keep you posted on upcoming events that match your preferences.

Event design is the strategic process of shaping your meeting so it supports your organization’s goals. Our LAI Live division works with all key stakeholders to align objectives with the structure, content, and outcomes of your program. That can include building a customized curriculum, segmenting your audience, optimizing your full budget, ensuring speakers deliver on core learning and leadership objectives, and developing an integrated marketing plan.

For more details, visit our LAI Live website.

Consult with our team of experts to stay ahead of the constant shifts in business and event trends. We can help your organization incorporate sustainable “green” practices, bridge generational gaps to engage audiences from Baby Boomers to Gen X, Gen Y, and millennials, and apply proven adult-learning methods to ensure your message truly sticks.

Reach out to learn how we can help you elevate your next event.

Our team works closely with your organization to understand your goals and determine what success should look like. From there, we partner with you to design an event that supports those objectives and ultimately drives measurable impact. We help structure your program content, evaluate the event’s effectiveness, and ensure every element aligns with the results you’re aiming for. Learn more on our LAI Live website.

Yes. Our in-house design team can produce all of your event collateral, whether it’s a single piece or a full suite of materials. We work with you to create a cohesive, custom look that elevates your event and reinforces your message. Our services include event invitations, digital and web promotions, program books, and more—everything you need for a polished, consistent experience. Learn more about our design services.

Create a logged-in account to easily access and manage all of your speaker research and event materials in one place. When you’re signed in, you can save speakers by name or search criteria, build curated lists, and share them with colleagues. You’ll also be able to message your LAI account manager directly and, once speakers are booked, access key resources and materials for your event.

To create a saved search or curated speaker list, you’ll first need to create a free account on our website. Once you’re logged in, you can save speakers by clicking the heart icon directly from the search results or by selecting “Add to My List” on a speaker’s profile page. You can view these speaker list at any time on your account dashboard under “My Lists.”

Yes, you can easily share saved speaker lists with colleagues from your account dashboard. Simply click the “My Lists” tab, select the list you’d like to share, and choose “Share This List.” We’ll send the email on your behalf.

There are two ways to create a saved search. First, go to the Find a Speaker page and select the criteria you’d like to use. Once your filters are set, click “Save Search” located directly beneath the filter options.

Second, you can build and access your saved searches anytime from your account dashboard. Go to the tab “Saved Searches.”

Marketing materials vary by speaker, but may include headshots, moderator Q&A questions, introduction videos, promotional clips, press coverage, and other resources to help you promote the speaker to your attendees. We work to keep materials up to date, but if you’re looking for something specific, don’t hesitate to reach out to your LAI team.

Once you’ve booked a speaker you can look for marketing materials in your account dashboard under “Marketing Toolkit.”