Over the years, we’ve gotten to know a lot of talented keynote speakers. One of the biggest things we’ve learned is that every single one of them can bring something valuable to the table — it’s all about finding the right fit for your event.
As we look back at this past year, we’re excited to share our list of the top keynote speakers of 2024. These 10 individuals have been among the most booked by event organizers this year, making waves across industries and inspiring audiences everywhere. From business leaders and innovators to athletes and even rocket scientists, this year’s list represents the best of the best. Let’s dive in.
1. Zack Kass — AI Futurist & Former Head of Go To Market at OpenAI
Zack Kass is a keynote speaker, consultant, and former Head of Go To Market for OpenAI. With over 14 years of experience in AI, Kass helps leaders navigate the fast-changing AI landscape. At OpenAI, he led teams turning cutting-edge research into practical tools for companies like Coca-Cola and Morgan Stanley.
A passionate techno-optimist, Kass champions AI’s potential to improve lives and combat negative narratives about the technology. His thought leadership has appeared in Fortune, Newsweek, and Entrepreneur, among others. Currently, Kass chairs Ruder Finn’s AI advisory council and advises top organizations worldwide. Based in Santa Barbara, California, he remains a trusted voice on AI’s transformative possibilities.
“Zack was extremely well received by our audience and our client named him the best AI speaker they had seen. He injected humour and personality which was a winning combo.” — Karen Sales, INVNT ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Erica Dhawan — Award-Winning Management Thinker & Best-Selling Author
Erica Dhawan is a globally recognized expert on modern teamwork and collaboration. Known for her innovative strategies, she helps organizations break silos, foster trust, and drive innovation. Her bestsellers, “Get Big Things Done” and “Digital Body Language,” explore the power of connectional intelligence and building trust in a digital age.
Named one of the top 50 management thinkers by Thinkers50, Dhawan has spoken at venues like the World Economic Forum at Davos and for companies like FedEx and Goldman Sachs. Frequently featured in the Harvard Business Review and Fast Company, she brings actionable insights to every stage. Holding degrees from Harvard, MIT, and Wharton, Dhawan empowers teams to thrive in today’s fast-paced, interconnected world.
“Erica was so easy to work with. She’s so kind and knowledgeable about her topic. The entire experience was great. Thank you!” — Autumn Flora, Transact Campus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Tim Tebow — ESPN College Football Analyst & Best-Selling Author
Tim Tebow is a two-time national champion, Heisman Trophy winner, and former NFL quarterback who inspires audiences with his remarkable journey across sports and philanthropy. A five-time New York Times best-selling author, Tebow is also an ESPN football analyst and a former professional baseball player.
Tebow’s greatest passion is the Tim Tebow Foundation, which serves people in over 70 countries through initiatives focused on bringing hope and support to those in need. From building playrooms in children’s hospitals to hosting proms for individuals with special needs, the foundation has touched countless lives worldwide. With his motivational story and commitment to making a difference, Tebow continues to inspire audiences everywhere.
“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.” — Gina DeJean, Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital Foundation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Erika Cheung — Technology Ethics Advocate, Entrepreneur
Erika Cheung is the executive director and co-founder of Ethics in Entrepreneurship, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering ethical questioning and systems within startup ecosystems. Cheung works as an advisor to family offices, venture capital firms, and government investment programs, with a focus on healthcare, biosciences, and biotechnology. She is passionate about building cross-border networks between the U.S. and the Asia-Pacific region to support the growth of companies in emerging markets.
Cheung’s commitment to ethics in business is deeply rooted in her experience as a whistleblower at Theranos, where her actions exposed fraudulent practices and prevented false medical test results from harming patients. Her work today continues to influence ethical practices within the innovation and startup space, making her a trusted voice in navigating the intersection of entrepreneurship and integrity.
“Erika was outstanding. She was amazing with the students and shared such an incredible story along with impressive knowledge. She was a delight to host on campus!” — Laura Arneson, University of North Dakota ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. José M. Hernández — NASA Astronaut, Engineer & Advocate for STEM Education
José Hernández’s journey from migrant farmworker to NASA astronaut embodies perseverance and the power of dreams. Selected by NASA in 2004, he served as a flight engineer on the 2009 STS-128 mission aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, becoming the first astronaut to tweet in both English and Spanish from space.
Before NASA, Hernández worked in engineering, contributing to advancements in digital mammography and nuclear security. He also served as a legislative analyst at NASA, influencing space policy. A former U.S. Congressional candidate and author of Reaching for the Stars and The Boy Who Touched the Stars, Hernández continues to inspire as the founder of Tierra Luna Engineering. Through his work in aerospace and renewable energy, he encourages others to reach for the stars in their own pursuits.
“The inspiration Mr. Hernandez created for all those in attendance was incredibly touching. Gracias, gracias, gracias! These memories will last a lifetime for each of us, but most importantly for our students.” — Lori Gonzalez, Lamont ESD ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6. Kara Lawson — Duke Women’s Basketball Head Coach & Leadership Speaker
Kara Lawson is a trailblazer in basketball, serving as the head coach for Duke University’s women’s team since 2020. A WNBA and Olympic champion, she made history as the Boston Celtics’ first female assistant coach, helping the team to a 43-21 record in 2020. Lawson also co-founded the Boston Celtics United for Social Justice.
As a coach, Lawson led Team USA to a gold medal in 3×3 basketball at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming one of only three women in Olympic history to win gold as both a player and coach. With 10 gold medals in total, her achievements include a 2008 Olympic gold and a 2022 FIBA Women’s World Cup gold. Lawson also made history as the first female analyst for a nationally televised NBA game in 2007. A standout at Tennessee under Pat Summitt, Lawson’s impact on basketball is inspiring future generations of players and leaders.
“I must commend Kara for her phenomenal performance as a speaker. Her ability to connect with the audience was truly remarkable. Her experience as both a player and coach shone through, making her one of the best speakers I have had the pleasure of hearing. She effortlessly captivated the audience and left a lasting impact on everyone present.” — Maggie Marino, Nestle USA ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7. Daymond John — Entrepreneur & Best-Selling Author
Daymond John, CEO and Founder of FUBU, turned a $100,000 mortgage on his mother’s house into a global lifestyle brand that has earned billions. His success led to his appointment by President Obama as a Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE).
A sought-after speaker and consultant, John’s expertise in marketing and brand-building has earned him recognition, including being named one of Real Leaders Magazine’s Top 20 Keynote Speakers in the World for 2024. He’s the author of several best-sellers, including “The Power of Broke” and “Rise and Grind,” and his latest book, “Little Daymond Learns to Earn,” hit the New York Times and Amazon bestseller lists.
As a star on Shark Tank, John continues to inspire entrepreneurs and audiences alike, sharing his insights on business growth, brand-building, and perseverance, making him a must-book speaker for any event.
“Working with Daymond was an exceptional experience. Daymond demonstrated extensive knowledge of our industry while being kind, funny, and highly professional.” — Hayley R Curtiss, Cambridge Mobile Telematics ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8. Joan Lunden — Award-Winning Journalist & Cancer Survivor
Joan Lunden, a beloved television personality, has been a trusted voice in American homes for over 40 years, including nearly two decades as the host of Good Morning America. As the longest-running female host in early morning television, she became a household name known for her warmth, insight, and advocacy.
A passionate health and senior advocate, Lunden has championed causes like mandatory mammogram reporting and the Family and Medical Leave Act. She also hosts Second Opinion with Joan Lunden and the Caring for Tomorrow podcast, exploring the future of healthcare.
Lunden’s personal battle with triple-negative breast cancer, shared in her memoir “Had I Known,” has inspired many. Today, she continues to advocate for others through speaking engagements, her website, and social media. With a career spanning journalism, health advocacy, and motivational speaking, Lunden embodies resilience, empowerment, and leadership.
“Joan was great. I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews. She was a terrific speaker and very personable and engaged.” — Katie Moe, Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9. Sylvia Acevedo — Engineer, Rocket Scientist & Technology Leader
Sylvia Acevedo is a distinguished leader whose career spans across engineering, technology, and public service. Beginning as a rocket scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, she contributed to the Voyager 2 mission, marking the start of a trailblazing career. Acevedo went on to hold executive roles at Apple, Autodesk, Dell, and IBM, pioneering fiber technology installations internationally and enhancing software distribution in Latin America.
As CEO of Girl Scouts USA, Acevedo led the organization’s largest program expansion in over 100 years, introducing 146 new badges and inspiring over a million girls to earn STEM-related badges. A White House Education Commissioner under President Obama, Acevedo has been recognized for her work in early childhood education and parental engagement, earning the Ohtli Award from the Government of Mexico in 2010. Today, she serves on the boards of Qualcomm and Credo Technologies, continuing her legacy of leadership.
“We had a blast! Our event went really well, and Sylvia’s keynote and interview were great! People loved Sylvia’s story, advice, and insightful conversation.” — Ricardo Duque, Cisco ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10. Eric Boles — Leadership and Performance Expert & Former NFL Player
Eric Boles is a global expert in leadership, teamwork, and peak performance, and the CEO of The Game Changers, Inc. A former NFL player with the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets, Boles leverages his athletic experience to help organizations unlock their potential. As a leadership consultant and executive coach, he works with top companies like State Farm, Bank of America, and Mayo Clinic to maximize productivity and transform corporate culture.
Boles is known for his insights on managing change, overcoming complacency, and fostering high-performing teams. He is the author of “Moving to Great… Unleashing Your Best in Life and Work” and a sought-after speaker who equips leaders with actionable strategies for success. His deep commitment to personal growth and leadership is reflected in his service on the Governance Board for the YMCA and as a Teaching Pastor at Life Center of Tacoma.
“Everyone, from customers, partners, to U Krewers, loved Eric’s Keynote. He was amazing and brought the energy we needed for day 1.” — Talia Casey, UKG ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As you look ahead to your upcoming events, these keynote speakers are sure to leave a lasting impact and inspire your audience. Explore our extensive database of professional speakers or browse more top keynote speakers for 2025. When you’re ready to start the booking process or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to AAE’s dedicated team of experts. We’re here to help you curate unforgettable experiences for your attendees.