Before we explore our list of the top 10 Motivational Speakers of 2023, let’s define what motivation is for us. At Aurum, we believe it’s the magic ingredient separating plodders from sprinters. The spark that ignites explosive achievement. And the driving force behind the world’s most successful people, many of whom we have the honor to represent and work with on a regular basis as a top speakers bureau.
But where does motivation stem from? We’re not all born in a turbo-charged state, ready to perform at 100% capacity. Luckily, motivation is infectious, and the world’s top motivational speakers are highly contagious!
At Aurum Speakers Bureau, we represent an unequaled field of professional speakers, with a diverse range of backgrounds and varied expertise. Our portfolio includes a selection of the best and most inspiring motivators.
The Top 10 Motivational Speakers in the World
It wasn’t easy, but we’ve sifted, filtered, and ranked our expert motivational speakers. The result is this list of the 10 top motivational speakers 2023. We’ll continue to edit and refine this list in the years to come, to ensure you’re always kept up to date with the latest movers and shakers!
1. Simon Sinek – Bestselling author of Start With Why; Leaders Eat Last & The Infinite Game
We rank Simon Sinek as the world’s number 1 motivational speaker. Sinek is a British-American anthropologist, serial best-selling author, professional speaker, and all-round motivator!
Several of Sinek’s keynote speaking topics are based on the themes of his best-sellers. Unlike some motivational speakers, Simon Sinek has the expertise needed to shine a light on the science of motivation. His best-known book – Start with Why – explores the way that humans are programmed to be motivated by a sense of purpose – the ‘why’ behind our existence and activities.
We confidently rank Simon Sinek as the number 1 motivational speaker in the world. Contact us for Simon Sinek’s speaking fees and availability to speak at your next event. Before doing so, we shall warn you: he’s very difficult to engage because of his very limited availability!
2. Mel Robbins – BestsellingAuthor, The 5 Second Rule; Award-winning CNN Commentator & One of the Most Booked Motivational Speakers Worldwide
Mel Robbins tops the list of famous female motivational speakers. In fact, she stands alone as the most-booked female speaker in any niche.
Her string of best-selling self-improvement books really cemented Robbins position on the podium of top female motivational speakers. Best known of these is The 5 Second Rule. This bible of empowerment and anti-procrastination techniques was an instant smash.
Mel Robbins’ prowess as a motivational speaker matches her ability as a self-help author. How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over is among the most-watched TEDx talks in history. Her keynote speaking topics focus on issues including successful selling, female leadership, and – of course – implementing that all-powerful 5 second Rule!
Learn more about top female motivational speaker Mel Robbins.
3. Nick Vujicic – Founder & CEO, Life Without Limbs. Top Motivational Christian Speaker
It’s difficult to think of a tougher break in life than being bornwithout limbs. But Nick Vujicic belongs to a special breed able to take inspiration from extreme adversity. It would be easy to categorize Vujicic under the label ‘disabled motivational speakers’. But the term ‘disabled’ doesn’t seem to fit a man who’s achieved so much, against such odds.
Nowadays, Nick Vujicic is such an excellent motivational speaker that one of his talks on Overcoming Hopelessness is one of the most watched TEDx talks of all time!
As well as establishing himself among the world’s top inspirational speakers, Nick Vujicic is also a successful author. His published works include Life Without Limits, Stand Strong, and Love Without Limits. Vujicic has also produced motivational documentaries – including the brilliantly titled No Arms, No Legs, No Worries!
Learn more about top inspirational speaker Nick Vujicic.
4. Jay Shetty – Bestselling Author, Think Like a Monk. Former Monk Turned Mega-media Influencer. World’s No. 1 Health Podcast Host, On Purpose
There aren’t too many former monks who’ve turned their hand to life coaching, motivational speaking, or social media stardom. So when someone does all three, it tends to get attention!
If you’re a regular viewer of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, or The Today Show, you might just know Jay Shetty’s face: He’s appeared on both. He also hosts his own YouTube channel – which boasts almost 5-million subscribers. It’s no surprise that the man who created the most-viewed Facebook video of 2018 follows the motto ‘Let’s make wisdom go viral’.
In 2020, Shetty wrote his first book and it immediately became a worldwide bestseller: Think Like a Monk: The secret of how to harness the power of positivity and be happy now. Unsurprisingly, it is now the most requested motivational speech by Fortune 500 companies and top organizations.
Learn more about Jay Shetty and his motivational speaking topics.
5. James Clear – Bestselling Author of Atomic Habits; Founder of Habits Academy
Everyone knows Atomic Habits – Clear’s bestselling book that has sold over millions of copies worldwide.
James Clear, the author behind the book, has become one of the top motivational speakers in the world. With his practical strategies for building good habits and achieving goals, Clear inspires audiences around the globe with his grounded, relatable approach to personal development. His ability to distill complex concepts into simple, actionable steps has earned him a reputation as a leading expert in the field of habit formation and personal growth.
Learn more about James Clear speaking fees and how to book him for your next event.
6. Ryan Holiday – Bestselling Author & Stoicism Expert
Ryan Holiday, the bestselling author and stoicism expert, has helped millions find strength and resilience through his books, “The Obstacle is the Way” and “Ego is the Enemy.”
As a sought-after speaker, he offers practical solutions to modern-day challenges rooted in timeless wisdom. Holiday’s talks inspire audiences with his unique perspective and actionable advice, making him a respected thought leader and mentor for individuals and businesses seeking to overcome obstacles and achieve success with a calm and rational mindset.
To book Ryan Holiday for your next event, contact us!
7. Duncan Wardle – Head of Innovation & Creativity at Disney (2011-2017). Creativity & Innovation Speaker
Duncan Wardle is the epitome of “thinking outside the box,” and he has aided a number of businesses in doing so. Not only that, but his keynotes are incredibly entertaining and interactive.
Duncan was Head of Innovation & Creativity at Disney. He also worked with major studios such as Pixar, Marvel Films, Lucasfilm, and others when they needed new creative stories. His expertise is in uncovering hidden connections and inspiring people to think in new ways. And it is precisely what he emphasizes during his keynote speeches, where he inspires and revitalizes audiences all over the world.
Duncan is an excellent choice if you are looking for a motivational speaker who can inspire your audience and has a proven track record of radically boosting people’s creativity. He’s also a superb speaker on customer experience.
Learn more about Duncan Wardle, and let us help you put on an unforgettable event.
8. Chris Gardner – Inspiration for the Movie The Pursuit of Happyness Author, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Motivational speaker Chris Gardner has never let poverty or violence stop him from achieving his goals. Chris’ story depicts how motivation and determination can propel you to pursue your wildest dreams even when you feel like you are destined for a life of poverty.
Chris published The Pursuit of Happyness, a best-selling book about his struggles and triumphs. The book was even adapted into a film starring Will Smith.
Chris is a fantastic keynote speaker who continues to inspire audiences all around the world by teaching perseverance, entrepreneurship, business ethics, and achieving goals no matter what life presents you with.
Learn more about Chris Gardner and his inspiring story.
9. Lance Armstrong – Globally-Known Cyclist & Endurance Athlete, Motivational Speaker & Podcast Host
Lance Armstrong is a former professional cyclist and cancer survivor, who gained international fame for winning the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times. Despite his achievements, he faced a doping scandal that stripped him of his titles and left him with a tarnished reputation.
Now, Armstrong has reinvented himself as a top motivational speaker, sharing his inspiring story of overcoming adversity and his experiences with cancer and redemption. He uses his platform to encourage others to face their own challenges and to never give up on their dreams. With his unique perspective on resilience and perseverance, Armstrong has become a sought-after speaker who continues to inspire audiences around the world.
Learn how to book speaker Lance Armstrong and his speaking fees and availability.
10. Tom Bilyeu – Co-Founder, Quest Nutrition. Co-Founder and CEO, Impact Theory
Tom Bilyeu is an American entrepreneur and speaker, who co-founded the billion-dollar nutrition company, Quest Nutrition. Despite his tremendous success, Bilyeu faced personal and professional challenges, including depression and setbacks in business.
Now, Bilyeu has become a top motivational speaker, using his experiences and insights to inspire others to achieve their goals and live a fulfilling life. He is known for his powerful talks on mindset, productivity, and personal development, encouraging his audiences to embrace a growth mindset and to pursue their passions with relentless determination. Bilyeu has become a respected authority in the world of personal development and entrepreneurship, inspiring millions of people to unlock their full potential and create a life of purpose and meaning.
Learn more about booking Tom Bilyeu as a speaker for your next event.
Why Hire A Motivational Speaker?
Hiring a motivational speaker can help your company reach new heights. After all, having a motivated and inspired workforce is the cornerstone to a successful business.
When your employees are unmotivated, they are less productive, which ultimately impacts your company’s bottom line. Motivational speakers can help you raise your employees’ enthusiasm and efficiency, leading to positive changes in your business.
Do Motivational Speakers Make A Difference?
When motivational speakers take the stage, they not only tell stories but also deliver emotions and share inspirational experiences that can change people’s lives.
Hiring a motivational speaker is a wise investment if you want to energize and encourage your employees through the power of words.
In fact, motivational speakers have the ability to shift people’s perspectives, make a difference in their lives, and provide them with the tools to become better professionals.
How Much Do Motivational Speakers Charge?
A motivational speaker’s fee usually ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 USD, depending on various factors, including their achievements, expertise, and more.
Besides the time spent on stage, the fees cover the time it takes to put on the greatest possible performance for your audience. Besides speaking fees, you will also need to cover their expenses such as business class flights, accommodation with meals and ground expenses.
How to Book a Motivational Speaker
Aurum makes it easy to book a motivational speaker for your event. Check out the incredible motivational speakers we work with, and contact us to let us know who you want to hire.
Alternatively, we are always available to offer advice on the best motivational speaker for your event.
To learn more about how we can help you put on a successful event, please get in touch with us.
How to Select the Best Motivational Speakers
If your goal is to leave your audience feeling energized, inspired, and motivated, then you can be confident that Aurum Speakers Bureau has the perfect speaker for you.
The top motivational speakers we’ve profiled above represent just a small slice of our portfolio of talented and uplifting orators. We encourage you to explore our full range of motivational speakers. You can find our full portfolio here. If you find yourself spoiled for choice, then you’re welcome to contact our experts for tailored advice and support.
We also encourage you to take a look at our Top 5 Business Speakers in the world. And if you are planning an online event or webinar, make sure to read our guide on how to choose the perfect virtual keynote speaker.
Good Luck!
