How to find motivational speakers to inspire your audience with passion and purpose
Audiences may not always remember everything a speaker says, but they’ll remember how they made them feel. The best motivational speakers leave attendees feeling energized and ready to overcome challenges and embrace new opportunities. From fueling a team’s ambition to inspiring individuals to reach their fullest potential, these top motivational speakers make a lasting impact at events of all kinds.
1. Tim Tebow
ESPN College Football Analyst, Heisman Trophy Winner, Former NFL Quarterback & Baseball Player
Tim Tebow is celebrated for his success across multiple sports, but his influence goes far beyond athletics. A two-time national champion and Heisman Trophy winner, Tebow transitioned from college football to the NFL and Major League Baseball while also excelling as a motivational speaker, author, and ESPN analyst. Tebow’s impact is most profound through the Tim Tebow Foundation, which works in over 70 countries to bring hope to those in need. His foundation, rooted in his Christian faith, and his life story of perseverance make Tebow a powerful speaker who inspires audiences with messages of strength and belief.
“Tim Tebow was definitely on his mission- touching the hearts of all in attendance – just outstanding, and I must admit it was emotional for me. He made his message loud and clear for everyone….we have so many MVPs to serve!” — Gina DeJean, Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital Foundation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour
America’s First Black Female Combat Pilot, Former Marine, Author, & Entrepreneur
Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour broke ground as the first Black female combat pilot in U.S. history. Her two tours in Iraq, combined with her role as a Marine and later as an entrepreneur, have shaped her into a leading voice for gutsy leadership and bold decision-making. Armour’s speeches draw from her military and business experiences, motivating individuals and organizations to make breakthrough moves. As the author of “Zero to Breakthrough,” Armour shares a motivational mindset that encourages high-level success and perseverance, making her an inspiring force for audiences looking to overcome challenges.
“We cannot say enough about our chosen speaker, Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour, who delivered on every ask and beyond. She took the time to know who the audience was and was able to appeal to and engage them. Her energy was infectious and much needed. She was and is well-loved by our team!” — Bridgette Nesbitt, Thrivent Financial ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Cassandra Worthy
Change Enthusiasm, Mindset & Leadership Speaker; Disruptive Thought Leader
Cassandra Worthy brings a dynamic, fresh approach to change management with her groundbreaking strategy of Change Enthusiasm. As an expert in leadership during times of transition, Worthy teaches companies how to harness the emotional landscape of change to drive organizational growth and resilience. Her high-energy presentations empower leaders and teams to embrace transformation, using emotion as a catalyst for success. With clients spanning Fortune 500 companies, Worthy’s insights into navigating mergers, market disruptions, and organizational shifts provide actionable strategies that motivate teams to thrive through change.
“Cassandra was amazing and brought a tremendous amount of energy to our event!” — Dody Kenny, PDS Special Events ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Scott Hamilton
Olympic Gold Medalist, Author, & Cancer Survivor
Scott Hamilton is best known for winning Olympic gold in figure skating, but his triumphs off the ice are just as inspiring. A cancer survivor and philanthropist, Hamilton has turned his personal battles into a mission to help others. Through his Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, he advocates for cancer research and survivorship. As a speaker, Hamilton shares stories from both his skating career and his fight with cancer, inspiring audiences with his resilience and determination to overcome life’s biggest challenges.
“Thank you all. Scott Hamilton was wonderful and such an amazing person to work with. Highly recommend him!” — Julie Freeman, Helping Hand Home for Children, Inc. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Amy Purdy
Professional Para-Snowboarder, Paralympic Medalist, & NYT Bestselling Author
Amy Purdy’s story of overcoming adversity is nothing short of remarkable. After losing both legs at 19, she became a Paralympic snowboarder, winning three medals and becoming a bestselling author and motivational speaker. Purdy’s journey, captured in her memoir “On My Own Two Feet,” demonstrates her resilience and determination. From competing on Dancing with the Stars to co-founding Adaptive Action Sports, Purdy continues to inspire with her message of living boldly and pushing past limits.
“Amy was perfect for our lululemon Leadership Summit. Her story brought the crowd to their feet and her takeaways around creativity and facing challenges are tangible actions our leaders can put into place.” — April Howells, Lululemon Athletica ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6. Inky Johnson
Sports Motivation Expert, Author, Mentor to Athletes & Underprivileged Youth; Former Collegiate Football Player
Inky Johnson’s life was forever changed on September 9, 2006, when a routine football tackle left him with a paralyzed right arm and dreams of playing professional sports shattered. However, what could have been a tragic end became the start of a powerful journey. Inky’s story is one of resilience, faith, and determination. From growing up in an underprivileged environment to becoming a motivational speaker, Inky teaches audiences how to overcome adversity and discover purpose in the face of challenges. His story inspires people to face life’s obstacles with unwavering resolve, leaving a lasting impact on all who hear him.
“Inky was absolutely fantastic! His message was exactly what our organization needed to hear. He was kind, approachable, and genuine. I can’t recommend him highly enough” — Ellyn Terry, American Pharmacists Association ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7. Mark Schulman
World-Renowned Drummer, Author, Motivator, Expert in The Secrets of a Rockstar Performance
From classical cellist to top drummer for artists like P!NK, Cher, and Stevie Nicks, Mark Schulman has spent over 30 years electrifying stages and inspiring audiences. His motivational keynotes blend rockstar energy with lessons in business leadership, emphasizing how attitude shapes success. As a cancer survivor, he brings a message of resilience and vitality. Schulman’s books, “Conquering Life’s Stage Fright” and “The Attitude Equation,” offer practical tools to harness fear and transform it into action. His commitment to change extends to his work with Create Now! and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
“Mark was great! He was super easy to work with and very entertaining. We’ve gotten a ton of great feedback. He hit all the marks for what we were looking for in a town hall speaker.” — Dan Whitzer, Holman Automotive Group ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8. Amelia Rose Earhart
Pilot, Author, Podcast Host, Artist & President of the Fly With Amelia Foundation
Amelia Rose Earhart’s journey as one of the youngest women to fly around the world in a single-engine aircraft is a testament to overcoming odds and pushing boundaries. In addition to completing her global flight, she raised $2 million in sponsorships, founded the Fly With Amelia Foundation, and became a full-time speaker and podcast host. Her book, “Learn to Love the Turbulence,” shares lessons of agility and confidence inspired by her aviation career. Earhart continues to inspire organizations like Lockheed Martin and Capital One with her message of resilience and inspiration.
“Amelia was a great speaker and our attendees had nothing but wonderful things to say about her and her story.” — Jerry Niblett, Perfetti Van Melle ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9. Montel Williams
Emmy Award-Winning Talk Show Host, Multiple Sclerosis Survivor, Navy & Marine Corps Veteran
Montel Williams, Emmy-winning host of “The Montel Williams Show,” has inspired millions for over 17 years. A decorated Navy and Marine Corps veteran, Williams continues to use his platform to advocate for veterans, health equity, and patients. Now the host of “Military Makeover with Montel,” he supports military families by transforming their homes. Williams is also an accomplished author, actor, and co-host of “The Balancing Act,” where he shares tools for better living. His military service and personal health journey make him a compelling speaker on resilience and leadership.
“It was a great experience. Montel was passionate and spoke to the audience in a way that they could relate — he moved them and, I believe, encouraged them to support our mission even more.” — Gail Williams, At Ease USA ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10. Gaby Natale
3-Time Daytime Emmy Award-Winning Journalist, Entrepreneur, Bestselling Author & Breast Cancer Survivor
Gaby Natale’s career is a testament to breaking barriers and forging new paths. As the first Latina to win three Daytime Emmy Awards consecutively and the first Hispanic author published by HarperCollins Leadership, Natale has made her mark as a leader and trailblazer. Her inspirational keynotes encourage audiences to pioneer their own paths, particularly in spaces where they may feel underrepresented. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a successful media empire, Natale shares stories of resilience, from her battle with breast cancer to her rise in the entertainment industry, motivating audiences to break through limits and achieve the seemingly impossible.
“She brought energy, joy and emotion to the stage for her keynote and her enthusiasm was contagious! We are grateful for the time and energy she put into making our leadership conference a success.” — Veronica Sander, JPMorgan Chase & Co. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By bringing one of these exceptional motivational speakers to your event, you’ll ignite passion, drive transformation, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Ready to elevate your event with a speaker who can inspire and energize your attendees? AAE Speakers is here to connect you with the perfect match for your needs.
