The Top 16 Team Building Speakers of 2024

Welcome to our list of the top team building speakers of 2024.

Team building speakers are professionals who have extensive knowledge and understanding of effective leadership strategies. They help teams identify and implement key elements that contribute to a successful team, such as clear goals, effective communication, and trust. By providing insights and practical strategies, they can guide your team towards becoming more cohesive and productive.

In addition to their expertise, top team building speakers bring valuable experience to the table. They have worked with a wide range of teams and organizations, giving them a deep understanding of the challenges and dynamics that can arise in the workplace. This experience allows them to tailor their approach to meet the specific needs and goals of your team, ensuring that the team building activities are relevant and impactful.

This article includes:

• Entertaining Team Building Speakers
• Team Building Workshop Leaders
• Female Team Building Leaders
• Military Team Building Leaders
• and more!

You are also free to browse our full list of all the team building speakers we represent.

Alright, let’s take the first steps to building a stronger team!

The Top 16 Team Building Speakers

David Kwong

• Magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor
• TED Talk Speaker
• Diversity and Inclusion Advocate

David Kwong is a renowned magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor who has captivated audiences worldwide. His TED Talk presentations have made him a favorite among corporations and associations, where he showcases the principles of illusion and the science behind how our brains can be easily fooled. 

In addition to David Kwong’s keynote speeches, he also facilitates virtual team building events, such as Inside The Box, and his Puzzle Hunts. These virtual team building activities draw his audience together into exciting, friendly, and competitive challenges. 

In his book Spellbound: Seven Principles of Illusion to Captivate Audiences and Unlock the Secrets of Success, he shares techniques to enhance persuasion and influence. However, Kwong’s speeches extend beyond magic, as he collaborates with his audience to create a truly unique event.

David Kwong is available for bookings at corporate and private events, where he continues to amaze audiences with his keynote and motivational speaking. For inquiries about David Kwong’s fees, please contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today.

Tara Schuster

• Former VP of Talent and Development at Comedy Central
• Best-Selling Author of Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies (2020) and Glow in the F*cking Dark (2023)
• Wellness and Team Building Workshop Leader

Tara Schuster is a renowned workshop leader and best-selling author. With a background as the VP of talent and development at Comedy Central, Schuster has been instrumental in the success of critically acclaimed shows such as Key & Peele, which won an Emmy Award.

Schuster’s books, including Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies (2020) and Glow in the F*cking Dark (2023), have received widespread acclaim for their insights on mental health and self-care. Publications like Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, and Publishers Weekly have recognized Schuster’s works as some of the best in the field.

As a keynote speaker, Tara Schuster combines her expertise as a veteran television executive with her knowledge of self-care to deliver transformative presentations. Her contributions have been featured in The New Yorker, Forbes, and InStyle.

Schuster’s keynotes and workshops, such as Finding Your Inner Voice and Building Faith In Yourself, bolster the self confidence and trust shared within teams. Organizations now hire Schuster as their team building speaker for corporate retreats and employee appreciation events. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Schuster takes pride in her Jewish faith and heritage. She offers tailored presentations to Jewish organizations and non-profits.

Tara Schuster holds a BFA in Literary Arts and History from Brown University. Her journey from an internship with The Daily Show to becoming a Vice President at Comedy Central taught her the importance of self-care and self-help. Now, Fortune 100 organizations hire Schuster for keynote speeches on building confidence in times of crisis.

Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt

• Google’s Former Chief Innovation Evangelist
• Adjunct Professor at Stanford University
• Featured in over 300 international newspapers and magazines

Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt is a visionary leader dedicated to inspiring individuals to shape their own future through innovation.

As Google’s first-ever Chief Innovation Evangelist, Dr. Frederik spearheaded the creation of a diverse community of over 500 Innovation Evangelists. He has trained tens of thousands of Googlers and co-founded Google’s The Garage, establishing its inaugural Innovation Laboratory. His unconventional approach to problem-solving has helped leaders and teams across Alphabet/Google and beyond discover new solutions, contributing to the development of one of the world’s most renowned innovation cultures.

In addition to his role at Google, Dr. Frederik serves as an Adjunct Professor at Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school). Through graduate courses like Hacking your Innovation Mindset, he empowers students to harness the power of design and create meaningful inventions that have a positive impact on society.

Dr. Frederik has been recognized as the Pope of Creativity and Dr. Innovation in more than 300 international newspapers, magazines, and documentaries, including FastCompany, Inc. Magazine, Times Magazine, Harvard Business Manager, and Financial Times. His expertise and insights have made him a sought-after team building speaker for conferences and events around the world. 

Jay Shetty

• Celebrity Keynote Speaker
• #1 Amazon Best-Selling Author
• Host of the #1 Health Podcast

Jay Shetty is a renowned keynote speaker, best-selling author, and podcast host. His book, Think Like a Monk, reached the top spot on Amazon’s best-seller list, and his podcast is recognized as the number one health podcast worldwide.

At the age of 21, Shetty embarked on a spiritual journey and became a monk. However, he felt a higher calling and returned to the world to build an empire. Despite facing challenges such as an 80-hour work week and overwhelming debt, Shetty’s determination led him to success. Forbes acknowledged his exceptional talent by including him in their prestigious 30 under 30 lists.

Despite initial doubts from agents and publicists about the potential success of his podcast, Shetty proved them wrong. Today, he is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers and serves on the National Geographic Chasing Dreams Council.

Organizations hire Jay Shetty to inspire, empower, and train their teams for overall well-being, engagement, and purpose.

Dr. Keren Tsuk

• Renowned leadership expert and organizational consultant
• CEO and founder of Wisdom To Lead
• Ph.D. in Leadership in the 21st Century from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem
• Author of Mindfully Wise Leadership: The Secret of Today’s Leaders (2021)

Dr. Keren Tsuk is a renowned leadership expert and organizational consultant with over 20 years of experience in advising organizations through change and growth. As the CEO and founder of Wisdom To Lead, Dr. Tsuk has established herself as a leading authority in the field of leadership and mindfulness.

With a Ph.D. in Leadership in the 21st Century from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Dr. Tsuk brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work. She has developed a holistic approach to addressing organizational challenges and tensions through mindfulness, which she shares in her book, Mindfully Wise Leadership: The Secret of Today’s Leaders (2021). This groundbreaking book has been recognized by Simon Alliance as one of their Best New Leadership Books of 2021.

In addition to her consulting work, Dr. Keren Tsuk is a sought-after team building speaker. Her captivating speaking style and insightful presentations have made her a favorite among corporate and private event organizers. To book Dr. Tsuk for your next event, contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about her fees.

Sandy Abrams

• A Top Female Entrepreneur of the United States
• Founder of C.E.’Om Breath & Mindset experiences
• Team Building Speaker and Workshop Leader for Top Organizations

Sandy Abrams is a self-taught entrepreneur who has achieved remarkable success in the business world. She turned her innovative idea into a multi-million dollar business, and her journey has inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Abrams is the founder of C.E.’Om Breath & Mindset experiences, which offers transformative experiences for leaders, employees/teams, and women’s groups. Through her programs, she helps individuals tap into their breath and mindset to unlock their full potential.

In her latest book, Breathe to Succeed, Abrams shares her simple yet powerful Breath & Mindfulness tools that have been instrumental in her 30-year success story. The book provides practical guidance for individuals looking to enhance their personal and professional lives.

Recognized for her expertise, Abrams is frequently hired by top organizations such as Google, Universal Music LA & NYC, Facebook, and Pepsi to lead workshops and deliver keynote speeches. Her insights on entrepreneurship, mindfulness, and personal growth have made her a sought-after team building speaker in the corporate world.

Seth Godin

• 20-time best-selling author, enterprising entrepreneur, Direct Marketing Hall of Fame and Marketing Hall of Fame inductee
• Premier Keynote Speaker in team building, innovation, and creativity
• Host of a top-ranked podcast in the top 1% worldwide

Seth Godin is a renowned keynote speaker, best known for his 20 best-selling books and for being a leading innovator in online direct marketing. He is also a distinguished member of the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame and the Marketing Hall of Fame.

With over 1000 presentations to his credit, Godin has shared his expertise with organizations ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. He has also led over 40,000 individuals through his workshops, providing them with valuable insights into effective team work, leadership, and the power of ideas.

Drawing on his thirty years of experience in marketing, Godin’s keynote speeches are both informative and inspiring. His unique perspective on marketing and innovation has motivated countless audiences around the world. His podcast is consistently ranked in the top 1% worldwide.

Seth Godin is available to be booked for corporate and private events. He is highly sought after as a keynote speaker and motivator. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Seth Godin’s fees.

Jon Dorenbos

• 14-year NFL veteran, finalist on America’s Got Talent, and regular on The Ellen Show
• World-class speaker on Fortune 500 stages and expert in resilience and self-discovery
• Incorporates company message through storytelling and world-class magic

Jon Dorenbos is a former professional athlete with 14 years of experience in the NFL. He is widely recognized as a finalist on America’s Got Talent and a regular guest on The Ellen Show. Dorenbos is also a world-class speaker who has graced Fortune 500 stages, captivating audiences with his inspiring journey from tragedy to self-discovery.

Dorenbos offers mind-bending magic performances for corporate events that get their teams excited and energized. He invites audience members to participate in several of his illusions, bringing everyone in the moment closer together. 

Dorenbos’s story is one of resilience, forgiveness, and living a life of purpose in the face of unimaginable obstacles. Through his captivating storytelling and world-class magic, he seamlessly incorporates your company’s message, leaving your audience motivated and aligned with your organization’s mission.

Jon Dorenbos is available to be booked for corporate and private events. He is also highly regarded as a team building speaker, particularly due to his time in the NFL. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Jon Dorenbos’s fees.

Jean Oelwang

• Founding CEO and President of Virgin Unite
• Author of the book Partnering: Forge the Deep Connections That Make Great Things Happen
• World-renowned Expert in Building Connections and Team Building

Jean Oelwang is the founding CEO and President of Virgin Unite, an organization that partners with other organizations to unite people, foster collaboration, and create opportunities for a better world. 

She is also the author of the book Partnering: Forge the Deep Connections That Make Great Things Happen. Oelwang is available to be hired for corporate and private events, where she delivers impactful keynote speeches and motivational talks. 

Her husband, Chris Waddell, is also a renowned keynote speaker. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Jean Oelwang’s fees.

Jean Oelwang has witnessed firsthand the power of strong partnerships in driving success. As the President and founding CEO of Virgin Unite, she has worked closely with exceptional individuals who understand the value of meaningful connections in both their personal and professional lives. With over 15 years of experience in cultivating impactful partnerships, Oelwang has seen how these collaborations not only enhance individual growth but also amplify their positive impact on the world.

Prior to her role at Virgin Unite, Jean Oelwang served as the joint CEO of Virgin Mobile in Australia. She has an extensive background in leading mobile phone companies across various countries, including South Africa, Bulgaria, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, and the US.

John Roesch

• Legendary Foley Artist who Performs Live Foley Demonstrations
• Sought-after Keynote Speaker, Sharing Stories from Behind the Scenes in Hollywood
• Retired Lead Foley Artist at Skywalker Ranch with Credits in ET, Empire Strikes Back, Toy Story, and More

John Roesch is a legendary Foley artist and former lead Foley artist at Skywalker Ranch. With over 45 years of experience in the industry, Roesch has worked on numerous movies, commercials, and video games, including iconic films like ET, Empire Strikes Back, and Toy Story.

As the lead Foley artist at Skywalker Ranch for many years, Roesch contributed to the creation of immersive sound experiences that bring movies to life. In his retirement, he continues to share his expertise and passion as a sought-after keynote speaker. His presentations provide audiences with a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood and inspire them to find joy in their everyday lives.

Today, John Roesch performs live Foley demonstrations at employee engagement events, expos, and conferences. Audiences are enthralled by his craft, and are ever-eager to ask John about his work with Skywalker Sound. In addition, John Roesch is hired as a team building speaker because he offers a world-class interactive experience. 

Roesch’s dedication to his craft is evident in his belief that customizing sound effects through Foley artistry can elevate the quality of a production. In interviews with publications like The New Yorker and The Times, he emphasizes the unique value that Foley artists bring to the industry.

To book John Roesch for a keynote speaking engagement or to learn more about his fees, please contact the Mollie Plotkin Group.

Kevin Reilly

• Inspirational Keynote Speaker, Author, and Former NFL Linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles
• Oldest Known Surviving Desmoid Tumor Patient in the World
• Host of Behind The Lines Sports Talk-Show
• Column Contributor for Jersey Man Magazine

Kevin Reilly is an inspirational keynote speaker, author, and former NFL linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles. He is also known as the oldest surviving desmoid tumor patient in the world. Despite losing his left arm, left shoulder, and top four left ribs due to life-saving surgery, Reilly refused to let the disease define his life. Today, he shares his remarkable story of faith, family, and fortitude that kept him in the game. With over 30 years of experience as a corporate executive, a career in the NFL, and being an amputee, Reilly has a unique ability to inspire audiences in both their personal and professional lives.

Reilly is available to be booked for corporate and private events. He is also well-known for his keynote and motivational speaking. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Kevin Reilly’s fees.

Kevin Reilly hosts Behind The Lines, a sports talk-show that provides audiences with an inside look at the obstacles athletes face on and off the field. The show has featured guests such as Vince Papale, Mike Quick, and U.S. Olympian Johnny Quinn.

Stream Behind The Lines on your Roku device or instantly from RVN Television.

Reilly is also a column contributor for Jersey Man Magazine, where he often writes about his life, the lessons he’s learned, and the challenges he’s faced.

Leslie Maxie

• Accomplished Sportscaster, Record-Holding Olympic Athlete, and International Keynote Speaker
• Thrived in the Hypercompetitive World of Sports Journalism at ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC
• Self-Made Entrepreneur with a Measure of Entrepreneurialism in Her Blood

Leslie Maxie is an accomplished sportscaster, record-holding Olympic athlete, and highly sought-after international keynote speaker. She has captivated audiences worldwide by sharing her Olympic mindset, empowering individuals to excel in the competitive business world. Maxie’s exceptional abilities have propelled her career in sports journalism at renowned networks such as ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC.

In addition to her achievements as an Olympian and sports journalist, Leslie Maxie is a self-made entrepreneur. In an interview published by Merrill Lynch, Maxie revealed her innate entrepreneurial spirit and the motivation she derived from necessity.

Leslie Maxie has achieved success both in front of and behind the camera, as well as in boardrooms across the global sports and entertainment industry.

Marcus Allen

• Former professional basketball player and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region
• Sought-after keynote speaker on team building, DE&I, overcoming adversity, and motivation
• Former CEO of ACHIEVEability, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit breaking the cycle of poverty

Marcus Allen is a former professional basketball player and the current CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region. With his career success on the basketball court, in the business community, and leadership within the non-profit space, Allen is a highly sought-after keynote speaker. He delivers powerful talks on topics such as team building, diversity, equity, and inclusion, overcoming adversity, and motivation.

Before joining BBBS Independence, Allen served as the Chief Executive Officer of ACHIEVEability, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit dedicated to breaking the generational cycle of poverty for low-income, single-parent, and homeless families. Marcus’s personal story of growing up in poverty, finding value in mentorship, and learning important life lessons through sports has profoundly influenced both his professional career and personal life.

Marcus Allen is available for booking at corporate and private events. He is widely recognized for his engaging keynote speeches and motivational talks. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Marcus Allen’s speaking fees.

Rich Diviney

• Former Navy SEAL Commander and Creator of the Mind Gym
• Professional Leadership and Human Performance Consultant
• Keynote Speaker and Bestselling Author

Rich Diviney is a former Navy SEAL commander who revolutionized special operator training with his creation of the Mind Gym. After 20 years of service, Diviney now works as a professional leadership and human performance consultant, as well as a keynote speaker.

During his time in the Navy, Diviney developed the first-ever Mind Gym, a training program designed to enhance the brains of special operators for optimal performance in high-stress environments.

Since retiring from the Navy, Diviney has become a sought-after speaker, consultant, and facilitator. He currently works for the Chapman & Co. Leadership Institute and Simon Sinek Inc., where he shares his expertise on leadership strategy and peak-performance techniques.

Diviney is also the author of the bestselling book The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance, which provides actionable insights on human performance.

If you’re interested in booking Rich Diviney for a corporate or private event, contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about his fees.

Robert Paylor

• Motivational Speaker and Inspirational Figure
• Expert in Overcoming Adversity and Accessing Full Potential
• Featured in Sports Illustrated and NBC Bay Area

Robert Paylor is a motivational speaker and inspirational figure who shares his powerful story of overcoming quadriplegia to inspire others to conquer their own challenges. He believes that the skills he used to overcome his paralysis can be applied by anyone to optimize their performance and achieve their full potential.

Paylor is well-known for his keynote and motivational speaking engagements, where he shares the tools and mindset necessary to overcome adversity. His story serves as a reminder that no challenge is too daunting when approached with determination and resilience.

In 2017, Paylor suffered a life-changing injury during the Collegiate Rugby National Championship, leaving him paralyzed. Despite being told he would never walk or move his hands again, Paylor refused to accept that reality. Through sheer willpower and courage, he defied the odds and learned to walk again.

Paylor’s incredible journey was featured in Sports Illustrated, highlighting his graduation from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley. Walking across the stage at his graduation ceremony was one of the goals he had set for himself during his recovery.

“The emotions going across the stage. It’s Euphoria,” he said. “Because there was a time when, I was laying on the hospital bed and I couldn’t move anything. I was fighting for my life. The things that are getting me through that moment is that eventual dream that I had, to be able to walk on stage,” Paylor said in an interview with NBC Bay Area.

Robert Paylor is available to be booked for corporate and private events. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Robert Paylor’s fees.

Tom Brady

• 7-Time Super Bowl Champion
• 3-Time NFL MVP
• 5-Time Super Bowl MVP 
• Top Team Building Speaker

Tom Brady is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time. With an impressive record of 7 Super Bowl championships, 3 NFL MVP titles, 5 Super Bowl MVP awards, and 15 Pro Bowl selections, Brady has solidified his place in football history.

In addition to his on-field success, Brady is also recognized for his expertise in team building, wellness, and top-level success. Industry leaders and Fortune 500 companies seek out Brady for his insights and motivational speaking. His ability to inspire and lead has made him a highly sought-after keynote speaker.

Although his NFL career has come to an end, Brady continues to make an impact off the field. He has shifted his focus towards his business ventures, including TB12, Autograph, BRADY, and 199 Productions.

Benefits of Hiring a Team Building Speaker

A successful team is characterized by several key elements that contribute to its effectiveness. One of these elements is clear goals. A successful team has a shared understanding of its objectives and works towards achieving them collectively. This clarity helps team members align their efforts and stay focused on the desired outcomes.

Effective communication is another crucial element of a successful team. When team members communicate openly and honestly, they can share ideas, resolve conflicts, and make informed decisions. Good communication also fosters trust and collaboration among team members, leading to better problem-solving and decision-making.

A top team building speaker can help your team understand and implement these key elements. They can provide insights and strategies for setting clear goals, improving communication, and fostering collaboration. Through interactive workshops and activities, they can help your team develop the skills and mindset needed to work effectively together.

How Team Building Speakers Build Trust

Trust and communication are essential for building a successful team. Trust creates a sense of safety and psychological security within the team, allowing team members to take risks, share ideas, and be vulnerable with one another. When trust is present, team members are more likely to collaborate, support each other, and work towards common goals.

Effective communication is also crucial for building a successful team. It allows team members to share information, express their thoughts and feelings, and resolve conflicts. Good communication helps prevent misunderstandings, promotes transparency, and fosters a positive work environment.

A top team building speaker can help your team build trust and improve communication through various activities and exercises. These activities may include trust-building exercises, such as blindfolded trust walks or team-building games that require open and honest communication. By engaging in these activities, team members can develop a deeper understanding of each other, build trust, and improve communication skills.

Developing Effective Leadership Skills for Team Building

Leadership plays a critical role in team building. Effective leaders have the ability to inspire and motivate their team members, set clear expectations, and provide guidance and support. They also have strong communication skills, which allow them to effectively convey their vision and goals to the team.

A top team building speaker can help develop effective leadership skills among team members. They can provide insights and strategies for effective leadership, such as setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and empowering team members. Through interactive workshops and activities, they can help team members develop the skills and mindset needed to become effective leaders within their teams.

Creating a Positive Workplace Culture Through Team Building

A positive workplace culture is essential for creating a productive and engaged workforce. It is characterized by a supportive and inclusive environment where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated. Team building can play a crucial role in creating a positive workplace culture by fostering collaboration, building strong relationships, and promoting a sense of belonging.

Team building activities can help create a positive workplace culture by encouraging teamwork, cooperation, and mutual support. For example, team-building games that require collaboration and problem-solving can help foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. Activities that promote open communication and active listening can also help create a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Overcoming Challenges and Conflict in the Workplace

Challenges and conflicts are inevitable in any workplace. They can arise due to differences in opinions, work styles, or personalities. However, team building can help overcome these challenges and conflicts by fostering understanding, empathy, and effective communication.

Team building activities can provide opportunities for team members to work through challenges and conflicts in a safe and supportive environment. For example, role-playing exercises can help team members practice effective communication and conflict resolution skills. Group discussions and problem-solving activities can also help team members understand different perspectives and find common ground.

Measuring the Success of Team Building Efforts

Measuring the success of team building efforts is essential to ensure ongoing improvement and effectiveness. It allows organizations to assess the impact of team building activities and make necessary adjustments to achieve better results.

There are several ways to measure the success of team building efforts. One common method is through feedback and evaluation. Organizations can collect feedback from team members through surveys or interviews to assess their perceptions of the team building activities and their impact on teamwork and collaboration.

Another way to measure success is through objective measures, such as productivity or employee satisfaction metrics. By comparing these metrics before and after team building activities, organizations can determine if there has been a positive impact on performance and employee satisfaction.

Sustaining a Strong Team Through Ongoing Development and Training

Building a strong team is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. It requires continuous development and training to ensure that team members have the skills and mindset needed to work effectively together.

A top team building speaker can help sustain a strong team through ongoing development and training. They can provide follow-up workshops and activities to reinforce the concepts and skills learned during the initial team building sessions. They can also provide ongoing support and guidance to team leaders, helping them develop their leadership skills and effectively manage their teams.

Conclusion: Investing in Team Building for Long-Term Success

Team building is an essential investment for long-term success in the workplace. It helps create a positive work environment, fosters collaboration, and improves productivity and employee satisfaction. By hiring a top team building speaker, organizations can benefit from their expertise and experience in transforming workplaces and developing strong teams. Investing in team building is not only beneficial for the organization but also for the individual employees, as it helps them develop valuable skills and build strong relationships with their colleagues.

Hire the Top Team Building Speakers of 2024

Looking for the best team building keynote speakers that will lead your team to the next level? Look no further than the experts at our agency. Our team represents top-rated speakers who specialize in every aspect of personal development, from overcoming obstacles to achieving success in all areas of life. Contact us today to learn more about our speakers and how we can help you plan your next event, conference, or retreat.