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Best Change Speakers for 2024

Chad E. Foster

December 18, 2023

With the breathtaking pace of change we’ve all been experiencing during the last several years, our ability to navigate and even thrive in the face of change and disruption has never been more important. As we step into 2024, the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly changing world have underscored the importance of adaptability, resilience, and transformative thinking. The best speakers in this domain not only offer insights into navigating through turbulent times but also provide practical strategies to turn adversity into an advantage. As change management speakers, their stories of overcoming obstacles, spearheading innovation, and driving positive change serve as powerful catalysts for inspiration and growth.

This year’s lineup of change management keynote speakers brings a diverse range of experiences and expertise. From individuals who have triumphed over personal hardships to those who have led organizational transformations, each speaker offers a unique perspective on the art of thriving amidst change. Their keynotes are more than just narratives; they are a blend of actionable advice, cutting-edge research, and real-world examples that equip audiences with the tools to excel in an ever-shifting environment. As we explore the contributions of these remarkable individuals, their collective wisdom stands as a beacon for all striving to navigate the complexities of the modern world with courage and purpose.

AORN March 2024 Keynote Testimonial
  • Cassandra Worthy: Igniting Change with Enthusiasm

    Cassandra Worthy is a dynamic force in the world of change management and motivational speaking. Her innovative approach to embracing and leveraging change sets her apart in the corporate world. With a vibrant personality and a unique methodology, she inspires audiences to view change not as a hurdle, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. Her concept of ‘Change Enthusiasm®’ has become a guiding light for many seeking to navigate the often tumultuous waters of organizational and personal change. Cassandra Worthy is known as one of the top change management speakers in the industry. As a speaker, Cassandra captivates her audience with a blend of charisma, authentic storytelling, and actionable insights. She doesn’t just talk about change; she embodies it, encouraging others to transform their mindset and approach to challenges.

    Cassandra Worthy portrait

    Background:

    Cassandra’s professional journey is as impressive as it is inspiring. With nearly 15 years of experience in executive roles at Procter & Gamble and Berkshire Hathaway, she mastered the art of thriving through significant corporate transitions. Her time in these leading companies provided her with deep insights into managing large-scale changes and disruptions. Recognizing the universal challenge of navigating change, she founded Change Enthusiasm Global. Through this platform, she shares her unique strategies and tools, aiding others in their journey of growth. Her client roster is a testament to her impact, including names like MassMutual, Johnson & Johnson, Marriott International, and many more notable organizations.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $50,000 to $100,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    In her keynote presentations, Cassandra combines high-energy delivery with compelling visuals. These elements work in tandem to bring her message of ‘Change Enthusiasm®’ to life, making her sessions not only engaging but also deeply transformative. Her ability to connect with her audience is further enhanced by her use of real-world examples and case studies drawn from her extensive corporate experience.

    Change Enthusiasm® Global - Cassandra Worthy Speaker Reel
  • Chad E. Foster: Pursue Your Success with Blind Ambition™

    Chad E. Foster’s story is one of extraordinary resilience and unyielding determination. His journey redefines the perception of adversity, showing that challenges, even as significant as losing one’s eyesight, can be transformed into powerful drivers for success. Chad E. Foster’s speech is an inspiration to many. Many thought leaders on resilience and change offer platitudes that create zero sustained impact on people’s behavior. Due to Chad’s firsthand experience with personal difficulty and building massive enterprise value, Chad understands the anatomy of resilience at a practical level—providing tried and tested tools that empower people to emerge from setbacks stronger, sleeker, and resolute to succeed.

    Connecting inspiration to implementation™, Chad enables teams to embody the mindsets and beliefs for success, while adopting the narratives and stories that will change the meaning of the challenge they experience. They’ll have the tools to remain comfortable in the face of discomfort, equipping organizations to turn disadvantages into advantages, and obstacles into opportunities. Chad is a renowned speaker on managing change, inspiring CEOs, company members, and attendees of various conferences to embrace change.

    Chad E. Foster with a dog

    Background:

    Although Foster went blind while attending university at 21 years old, he went on to become the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard’s leadership program, build software Oracle thought impossible, and generate billions of dollars in revenue and countless jobs in the business world with his financial strategies. Outside the boardroom, Foster has become a black diamond skier and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner—all without being able to see. Now, Foster teaches that same overcomer mindset to leaders throughout the world, enabling clients such as Google, Salesforce, Cigna Healthcare, IBM, and many more, to empower their organizations with the mindset to adapt and thrive regardless of circumstances.

    His memoir, “Blind Ambition: How to Go from Victim to Visionary,” is an inspiring account of the lessons learned throughout his journey. His story has not only captured the attention of major media outlets like NBC and Forbes but has also inspired the Atlanta Opera to commission an opera. Today, Chad is a beacon of hope and resilience, speaking to diverse audiences from corporate executives to professional athletes, showing them how to build resilience and pursue their success with blind ambition.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    Inquire About Speaking

    Visuals and Videos:

    Chad’s presentations are marked by their inspirational content, underscored by compelling visuals and videos that illustrate his principles of resilience and success. His “BLIND AMBITION: CHAD FOSTER KEYNOTE SPEAKER REEL (FULL)” exemplifies his ability to engage and transform audiences, showcasing his dynamic speaking style and the profound impact of his message. These videos not only highlight his journey but also provide practical insights into overcoming adversity and embracing change.

    BLIND AMBITION™: CHAD FOSTER KEYNOTE SPEAKER REEL (FULL)
  • Dr. Michelle Rozen: The Architect of Change

    Dr. Michelle Rozen, also known as The Change Doctor, is a powerhouse in the fields of leadership, motivation, and change. She stands out as one of the most influential and actionable speakers in these realms, captivating audiences with her insights and actionable strategies. Dr. Rozen’s expertise is not confined to her Ph.D. in Psychology; it extends into her role as a transformative speaker for leading global brands. Her exceptional ability to engage teams and drive them to action is consistently lauded by top organizations like Pfizer, Merrill Lynch, and Coca-Cola. Dr. Rozen’s speaking engagements are transformative experiences, reshaping how individuals and businesses approach life, work, and interpersonal relationships.

    Michelle Rozen portrait

    Background:

    Dr. Michelle’s acclaim as a speaker and change expert is built upon a profound understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics. Her approach goes beyond traditional motivational speaking, offering a blend of psychological expertise and real-world application. This unique combination makes her an invaluable asset to any organization seeking to navigate the complexities of change. Her work is highly regarded, earning rave reviews and standing ovations from some of the world’s leading brands.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $25,000 to $50,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Dr. Rozen’s presentations are as engaging as they are informative, often featuring videos that highlight key aspects of her speaking topics. Some of her notable video presentations include “Beating Burnout as a Leader,” “Boost Teamwork and Collaboration,” “Leading Effectively in Today’s Age,” “Leading Through Change,” and “Motivate Others To Go The Extra Mile.” These videos encapsulate her dynamic approach to speaking, effectively connecting her audience with the concepts of resilience, teamwork, and leadership in an ever-changing world. As a corporate speaker, she has received praise from CEOs, company executives, and conference attendees alike.

    Dr. Michelle Rozen SIZZLE REEL 2023
  • Shawn Achor: The Happiness Advantage Visionary

    Shawn Achor, with his extensive tenure at Harvard University, has emerged as a leading expert on the interplay between happiness and success. His groundbreaking research on mindset not only graced the cover of Harvard Business Review but also led to one of the most popular TED talks of all time, amassing over 25 million views. Achor’s work extends beyond academic circles, influencing a diverse range of audiences, from corporate executives and NBA team owners to farmers in Zimbabwe and school children in South Africa. His influence is so profound that he is one of only two speakers ever invited to address the White House staff at Camp David. Shawn’s global reach, spanning over 50 countries, is a testament to his universal appeal and the relevance of his insights.

    Shawn Achor portrait

    Background:

    Shawn Achor’s expertise in positive psychology has transformed how individuals and organizations perceive happiness and success. He is the acclaimed author of “The Happiness Advantage” and “Big Potential,” books that have reshaped the conversation around positive psychology in the workplace. His Happiness Advantage training session is one of the largest and most successful corporate training programs in the world. Shawn’s impact is further evidenced by his contributions to top psychology journals and his appearances on major media platforms, including a two-part series with Oprah and a special feature on PBS.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $30,000 to $100,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Shawn Achor’s presentations are known for their engaging and thought-provoking content. His videos, including his TEDx talk, Oprah Super Soul Session, and appearances at Google and on ‘Live with Kelly and Michael’, showcase his ability to make positive psychology relatable and actionable. His PBS special, “The Happiness Advantage,” further demonstrates his skill in conveying complex psychological concepts in an accessible and practical manner. These visuals and videos enhance his message, making his sessions not only informative but also transformative.

    Shawn Achor - 'The Happiness Advantage: Linking Positive Brains to Performance'
  • Adam Grant: Unraveling the Dynamics of Work and Psychology

    Adam Grant is a distinguished organizational psychologist and a bestselling author, acclaimed for his profound insights into motivation, generosity, rethinking, and unlocking human potential. His tenure as Wharton’s top-rated professor for seven consecutive years underscores his profound influence in the academic world. Grant is recognized globally as a pioneering thought leader, with his ideas shaping the way organizations and individuals approach work, creativity, and success. His work has not only garnered him recognition as one of the world’s most influential management thinkers but has also earned him a place among Fortune’s 40 under 40.

    Adam Grant portrait

    Background:

    Adam Grant’s intellectual journey is marked by significant achievements and contributions to the field of organizational psychology. He is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of six books, including “Give and Take” and “Originals,” which have sold millions of copies worldwide and been translated into 45 languages. His research has been pivotal in various sectors, improving performance and reducing burnout among diverse groups, from engineers to lifeguards. Grant’s insights have reached a wide audience, with his TED talks accumulating over 35 million views and his writing featured in the New York Times. Notably, his viral piece on languishing was the most-read New York Times article of 2021. His endeavors extend beyond academia and writing, as he has contributed to the World Economic Forum and appeared on the show “Billions.” His early career included achievements in advertising sales and accolades as a springboard diver, reflecting his diverse talents and interests.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $75,000 to $1,000,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Adam Grant’s speaking engagements are known for their depth and engagement, often complemented by insightful visuals and videos. Some of his notable presentations include “How to Stop Languishing and Start Finding Flow,” which addresses overcoming stagnation, and “The Surprising Habits of Original Thinkers,” a TED talk that received a standing ovation. His talks “Are You a Giver or a Taker?” and “What Frogs in Hot Water Can Teach Us About Thinking Again” delve into the dynamics of generosity in the workplace and the importance of reevaluating one’s perspectives, respectively. These speeches not only showcase his expertise but also his ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, actionable advice.

    Adam Grant: How to stop languishing and start finding flow
  • Nick Tasler: Catalyzing Change Through Insightful Leadership

    Nick Tasler, an acclaimed organizational psychologist and leadership speaker, is a prominent speaker in the realm of change management and leadership. His approach centers on the idea that external change catalyzes internal growth, leading to significant achievements. Tasler’s philosophy, encapsulated in his phrase “Change around us unleashes Growth inside us that leads to big Wins ahead of us,” resonates deeply with leaders and organizations seeking to navigate and leverage change for growth and success.

    Nick Tasler portrait

    Background:

    Tasler’s work as an internationally acclaimed thought leader has garnered attention for its innovative and counter-intuitive insights on decision-making and leading change. His role extends beyond that of an organizational psychologist, as he is also a #1 best-selling author of four books focusing on the art and science of making decisions and leading change. His dynamic style and original insights have been instrumental for a diverse range of prestigious organizations, including General Electric, Microsoft, and JPMorgan. His contributions have not only been featured in top-tier publications like The New York Times and Forbes but have also made him a sought-after expert for Harvard Business Review. Tasler’s life beyond his professional achievements reflects his diverse interests - as a father, husband, and a person deeply intrigued by human nature. His nomadic lifestyle, with his family moving between Minnesota, Florida, and currently Puerto Rico, adds another dimension to his multifaceted personality and approach to life.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $30,000 to $50,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Tasler’s keynote presentations are known for their engaging and practical approach. His speaking topics include “CHANGE. GROW. WIN.,” which encapsulates his philosophy of leveraging change for growth and success,”One Decision At a Time,” focusing on bridging the gap between strategy and execution, and”The Interactive Experience,” emphasizing the importance of applying the message in real-life scenarios. Additionally, “Nick Goes Virtual” addresses adapting to change in the digital era. These topics not only showcase his expertise in change leadership and growth mindset but also his ability to make his message relatable and actionable for everyone in his audience from the CEO to the junior executive in his audience.

    Nick Tasler Speaker Reel 2024
  • Amy Cuddy: Empowering Presence and Confidence

    Dr. Amy Cuddy, a respected social psychologist, author, and keynote speaker, is renowned for her insightful research on power dynamics, nonverbal behavior, and the psychology of presence and performance under stress. Her work has significantly contributed to the understanding of how individuals can gain control over their thoughts and feelings to enhance presence and performance, particularly in stressful situations. Cuddy’s exploration of the psychology of feeling powerful versus powerless, and the impact of our prejudices and stereotypes, has made her a pivotal speaker in social psychology. She is also known for her sessions on change management.

    Amy Cuddy portrait

    Background:

    Cuddy’s academic journey is marked by resilience and determination. After suffering a traumatic brain injury at 19, she overcame significant challenges to eventually earn her Ph.D. from Princeton University. Her career includes serving as a full-time professor at institutions like Harvard Business School and Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. Her 2012 TED Talk, “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are,” is the second-most viewed TED Talk of all time, with over 65 million views. Her bestselling book “Presence” has been translated into 35 languages and has sold more than half a million copies. In addition to her academic and speaking achievements, Cuddy’s personal journey, including her recovery from a brain injury and battle against imposter syndrome, has become a source of inspiration for many.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $50,000 to $100,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Dr. Cuddy’s speaking engagements are renowned for their ability to connect with audiences on a deep level. Her delivery is eloquent, relatable, and engaging, often incorporating evidence-based strategies and actionable tips. Her topics focus on empowering individuals to become more present, influential, and compassionate in both their professional and personal lives. Through her talks, she demonstrates how harnessing presence can free us from fear and foster connections, leading to better and braver actions. Cuddy’s ability to create intimacy with her audiences, regardless of the size, and her practical yet profound advice, make her a compelling speaker. She has shared her transformative theories with hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, demonstrating the power of social bravery.

    Amy Cuddy - Why Do We Allow Ourselves to Feel Powerless?
  • Simon T. Bailey: Igniting Transformation and Achieving Brilliance

    Simon T. Bailey, a celebrated keynote speaker, author, and breakthrough strategist, has made a significant impact in the fields of leadership and peak performance. Known for his SPARK Movement, Bailey focuses on igniting sustainable transformation in people, systems, and nations. His approach combines motivational speaking with practical strategies for success, making him a pivotal speaker in personal and organizational development.

    Simon T. Bailey portrait

    Background:

    Bailey’s journey is marked by a blend of corporate experience and creative insight. As a former Sales Director at the Disney Institute, he brings a unique perspective to his speaking and coaching roles. His success is further highlighted by his inclusion as a member in SUCCESS magazine’s list of the top 25 people who can help you achieve your business and life goals, a list shared with luminaries like Brené Brown, Tony Robbins, and Oprah Winfrey. His bestselling books and a career as a life coach and entrepreneur have helped millions find their inner brilliance and achieve extraordinary results.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $10,000 to $30,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Bailey is known for his dynamic and engaging speaking style, which resonates with a wide range of audiences. He specializes in topics related to leadership, motivation, customer experience, and sales, delivering each with a passion that ignites inspiration and drives change. His talks are often described as a blend of motivational themes and success strategies, designed to foster a culture of innovation and brilliance. Through his presentations, Bailey demonstrates how individuals and organizations can achieve peak performance by embracing change and harnessing their unique strengths. His ability to connect with his audience, whether through personal stories or strategic insights, makes him a compelling and transformative speaker. Bailey has shared his life-changing theories with hundreds of thousands worldwide, showcasing the power of sustainable transformation.

    Simon T. Bailey: How To Achieve The Life You Deserve
  • Mel Robbins: Transformative Power of Decisive Action

    Mel Robbins stands as a beacon in the world of motivational speaking, recognized for her unique approach to driving change and fostering confidence through decisive action. As a bestselling author, award-winning CNN commentator, and one of the most booked motivational speakers globally, Robbins’ influence extends far beyond the podium. Her book”The 5 Second Rule” is an international bestseller, underpinning her philosophy on the transformative power of five-second decisions. Additionally, as a contributing editor to Success magazine and a co-founder of Inspire52, Robbins’ work is dedicated to inspiring positive action and laughter every day. She is also known as a leading speaker on change.

    Mel Robbins portrait

    Background:

    Mel Robbins’ journey to becoming a trusted expert in confidence and motivation was born from her own life’s trials. Her authentic approach is rooted in her personal experiences of overcoming challenges, which she openly shares with her audience. As a New York Times bestselling author and a leader in self-publishing, her works like “The High 5 Habit” and “The 5 Second Rule” have reached millions, along with her popular Mel Robbins Podcast. Her female-led media company is known for producing content that inspires life-changing results, evidenced by millions of book sales, billions of video views, and six #1 audiobooks. Her TEDx talk, based on “The 5 Second Rule,” is one of the most viewed globally, illustrating the widespread impact of her message.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $50,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Robbins’ speaking style is known for its dynamic and engaging nature, utilizing soul-stirring videos, interactive leadership exercises, peer-to-peer coaching, and compelling research. Her presentations are not just speeches but custom motivational experiences designed to actively engage and transform her audience. She focuses on practical, actionable advice, delivered through a mix of surprising research, hilarious stories, and moving tributes. Her signature speech, “The 5 Second Rule – Achieve Break Through Performance In Your Career & Life,” is a life-altering experience filled with groundbreaking insights. It teaches audiences the power of five-second decisions to increase productivity, confidence, and courage, ultimately leading to life and business transformation.

    Meet Mel Robbins
  • Ryan Estis: Mastering Business Performance and Change

    Ryan Estis, a renowned keynote speaker, consultant, and former chief strategy officer for McCann Worldgroup, is celebrated for his dynamic approach to enhancing business performance and leading transformative change. With over two decades of experience as a top-performing sales professional and leader, Estis brings a wealth of knowledge and innovative ideas to his presentations. He has been lauded as one of the best keynote speakers, sharing this accolade with prominent speakers such as Tony Robbins, Bill Gates, and Colin Powell.

    Ryan Estis portrait

    Background:

    Estis’s professional journey is characterized by his roles in driving sales effectiveness and preparing organizations for the future of work. His expertise extends to various facets of business, including corporate culture, communication, leadership, and strategic planning. His contributions have been instrumental in supporting leading global brands like Liberty Mutual, Goodyear, and Medtronic. As a faculty member of the Institute of Management Studies and a certified Human Capital Strategist, Estis is deeply involved in shaping modern business practices and strategies.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $25,000 to $50,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    In his keynote speeches, courses, and online learning programs, Estis emphasizes actionable content that is designed to elevate business performance. His curriculum addresses emerging trends in corporate culture, leadership, and brand experience, equipping participants to excel in today’s competitive and hyper-connected business environment. Estis’s approach to speaking is not just informative but also interactive, involving the audience in the learning process. His original research and client case studies add depth to his presentations, offering real-world examples of successful business strategies and practices. As an author of a popular blog on business performance and a contributor to various business publications, Estis’s insights extend beyond the stage, impacting a wider audience across different mediums. Estis is widely recognized as a top change management speaker today.

    Ryan Estis Speaking Preview
  • Molly Bloom: A Story of Resilience, Reinvention, and Empowerment

    Molly Bloom, renowned for orchestrating the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game, is a top-booked inspirational speaker and a formidable speaker listed among Fortune’s Most Powerful Women. Her remarkable journey encompasses a transition from a potential Olympic skier to running a multi-million-dollar poker empire, and ultimately, reinventing herself following a dramatic downfall involving the FBI. Bloom’s life is a testament to resilience, self-determination, and grit, inspiring audiences with her captivating narrative of triumph, ruin, and self-redemption.

    Molly Bloom portrait

    Background:

    Bloom’s early life was marked by her exceptional skill as a skier. Overcoming severe scoliosis and a subsequent spinal fusion surgery at 12, she remarkably made the U.S. Ski Team by 19, ranking #3 in North America in moguls. Her Olympic dreams were dashed due to a career-ending accident at 21. Shifting gears, she completed her political science degree and moved to LA, where she eventually ran the most exclusive high-stakes poker game, attracting celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ben Affleck. Despite being raided and losing everything, Bloom maintained her integrity, leading to her bestselling memoir “Molly’s Game,” which was adapted into an Oscar-nominated film.

    Speaker Fee Range:

    $20,000 to $50,000

    Visuals and Videos:

    Bloom’s speaking engagements are characterized by their profound impact, often described as a “goosebump experience.” She covers a wide range of topics, including adversity, entrepreneurship, resilience, and women’s empowerment. Her talks include motivational elements drawn from her life experiences, such as running an exclusive poker game and overcoming personal setbacks. With an engaging style, Bloom shares insights on Affective Presence, a skill for impactful engagement and connection, and provides a playbook for success based on her remarkable journey. Her sessions are known for their interactive and practical takeaways, leaving audiences inspired and equipped to tackle challenges in their personal and professional lives. She is also known as one of the top change management speakers in the industry.

    Overcoming Setbacks - Molly Bloom

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Blind Ambition™

If you don’t feel like you’re reaching the levels of happiness that you see others enjoy, or your goals seem out of reach, you’re not alone. Life is too short for regrets. Learn how to use your mindset to reach your most daring dreams. Chad’s stories and lessons will inspire, empower, and prepare you to face uncertainty with hope and optimism. Want to be mentally tough, strong, resilient and prepared to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances? Self-confident to become your best you? It’s time to break free from the self-destructive thoughts that hold you back.

Ready To Turn Your Biggest Obstacle Into Your Biggest Advantage? The stories we tell ourselves either limit us or propel us towards our goals.

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