Level Up Your Event: The Top 25 Virtual Keynote Speakers of 2024

Welcome to our comprehensive article on the top virtual keynote speakers of 2024.

Virtual keynote speakers are professional experts who specialize in delivering refined presentations over video conferencing platforms (such as Zoom, Google Meet, or WebEx) that provide an equally enriching experience as in-person programming. 

Organizations hire keynote speakers for virtual events such as webinars, team-building workshops, online fundraisers, and fireside chats.

Virtual keynote speakers are perfect for organizations that operate on a national or global scale. What’s more, remote and hybrid workforces of all sizes benefit from consistently engaging programming. 

So, let’s take the first steps to finding the perfect virtual keynote speaker for your event.

Top 25 Virtual Keynote Speakers of 2024

Seth Godin

• 20-time best selling author keynote speaker
• Direct Marketing Hall of Fame and Marketing Hall of Fame Inductee
• Host of a top 1%-listened podcast worldwide

Seth Godin is a top virtual keynote speaker who has given over 1,000 presentations to leading organizations. What’s more, he has led over 40,000 people through his workshops. Seth Godin’s keynote speeches cover topics from effective marketing and leadership to the spread of ideas that ultimately change everything. 

Seth Godin is a forefather of digital marketing and communication, making him a first choice among our top virtual keynote speakers. The Mollie Plotkin Group most recently booked Seth Godin for the premier CRM developer Creatio’s latest update-launch, Quantum Release. For the event Godin gave his virtual keynote speech on the future of business.

Book Seth Godin.

David Kwong

• Magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor
• TED Talk favorite and keynote speaker on illusion and the science of the brain
• Virtual Workshop Leader of the Puzzle Hunt & Inside The Box

David Kwong is a renowned magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor who has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of magic and mind-bending puzzles. As a TED Talk favorite, Kwong has shared his insights on illusion and the science behind why our brains can be easily fooled. His keynote speeches, delivered to corporations and associations globally, offer a fascinating exploration of the principles of magic and their applications in various aspects of life.

In his book Spellbound: Seven Principles of Illusion to Captivate Audiences and Unlock the Secrets of Success, David Kwong delves deeper into the art of persuasion and influence, providing practical strategies for enhancing one’s powers of communication. However, Kwong’s expertise extends beyond magic. He believes in cross-pollination, collaborating with his audience to create truly unique and engaging events that leave a lasting impact.

Book David Kwong

Jessica Yellin

• Award-winning political journalist and former Chief White House Correspondent for CNN
• Founder of News Not Noise, a rapidly growing news publication dedicated to combatting sensationalism
• Recipient of Peabody, Gracie, and Emmy awards for her work with CNN, ABC, and MSNBC

Jessica Yellin is a renowned political journalist and former Chief White House Correspondent for CNN. Her exceptional journalistic abilities earned her a spot among the top 10 most powerful women in Washington D.C., as recognized by Elle magazine.

Despite reaching the pinnacle of her career at CNN, Yellin realized that she wanted to engage more people in politics rather than simply chasing higher viewership. This realization led her to start her own media outlet, News Not Noise, which quickly gained traction among audiences tired of the negativity and partisanship prevalent in cable news.

Today, Jessica Yellin is sought after for her expertise in keynote speeches on Women in Leadership, Technological Disruption, and Workplace Wellness. Her unique perspective and dedication to responsible journalism make her an invaluable voice in today’s media landscape.

Book Jessica Yellin.

Mike Rowe

• TV host, writer, narrator, producer, actor, and spokesman
• Creator of Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs
• Virtual Keynote Speaker for Fortune 500 Companies

Mike Rowe is a renowned TV host, writer, narrator, producer, actor, and spokesman. He gained fame as the creator of Discovery Channel’s hit show Dirty Jobs.

Fortune 500 companies frequently hire Mike Rowe as a keynote speaker to inspire their workforce with confidence and gratitude from a blue-collar perspective. He has also partnered with iconic brands such as Ford, Walmart, Lee, and many others.

As a highly sought-after speaker, Mike Rowe delivers keynote speeches that resonate with audiences and often go viral. His TED talk and speeches to organizations like SkillsUSA have reached millions of viewers.

Book Mike Rowe.

Danni Brooke

• Most-deployed female undercover operative of the British police
• Professional cybersecurity consultant, author, and television personality
• Advocate for women within male-dominated fields

Danni Brooke is a highly respected professional cybersecurity consultant, author, and television personality. With over 10 years of experience as the most deployed female undercover operative of the British police, she has become an internationally renowned subject matter expert in intelligence. 

After her successful career with the Metropolitan Police, Danni Brooke transitioned into private security consulting. She currently serves as the co-director of Fortalice Solutions LLC. Previously, she held the position of Head of Intelligence Services for RGI Solutions. 

In addition to her work in cybersecurity, Danni Brooke has become a prominent advocate for women within male-dominated fields. She uses her platform to empower and inspire women to pursue their passions and break barriers. 

Danni has also made numerous appearances on talk shows, including ITV’s This Morning, where she shares her expertise on personal and social media security. What’s more, she has become one of the most prominent women among virtual keynote speakers. Following the release of her most recent book, The Girl for the Job, she has spoken to audiences worldwide. 

Book Danni Brooke.

Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt

• Google’s first-ever Chief Innovation Evangelist
• Initiated a diverse community of over 500 Innovation Evangelists at Google
• Co-founded Google’s The Garage and created its first Innovation Laboratory

Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt is a visionary leader who is passionate about inspiring people to invent their future, harnessing the #1 human superpower to shape one’s destiny.

During his tenure as Google’s first-ever Chief Innovation Evangelist, Dr. Frederik spearheaded the creation of a radically diverse community of over 500 Innovation Evangelists. 

Dr. Frederik has been featured as the Pope of Creativity and Dr. Innovation in over 300 international newspapers, magazines, and documentaries. As a skilled orator and pioneer of digital innovation, Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt stands alone as a top virtual keynote speaker on the topics of brand evangelization and innovation. 

Book Dr. Frederik G. Pferdt. 

Leslie Maxie

• Record-holding Olympic athlete, and highly in-demand virtual event host
• Thrived in the hypercompetitive world of sports journalism at ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC
• Founder of Maxie Media Group, providing PR consulting to influential clients

Leslie Maxie is an extraordinary individual who has achieved success as an accomplished sportscaster, a record-holding Olympic athlete, and a highly sought-after international keynote speaker. Companies around the world love to hire Leslie to speak at their events and conferences because she shows audiences how they can adapt her Olympic mindset to keep up with the highest levels of business competition. 

Book Leslie Maxie.

AK Ikwuakor

• Google Master Faculty Trainer and internationally recognized philanthropist
• Executive coach and keynote speaker specializing in motivation and self-awareness
• Experienced in sales, public speaking, sports, and business coaching

AK Ikwuakor, also known as Coach AK, is a highly sought-after Google Master Faculty Trainer and executive coach. With a focus on motivation and self-awareness, his keynote speeches leave a lasting impact on audiences from non-profit groups to Fortune 100 companies. 

Google hired AK Ikwuakor to train and activate their sales force as a Master Faculty Trainer. They hired AK Ikwuakor because of his diverse background and expertise in both digital and in-person communication. In addition, Ikwuakor hosts his own virtual business coaching sessions, group discussions, and training courses. If an organization is looking to enlist the same experts as Google for their keynote speaker, they should look no further than AK Ikwuakor. 

Book AK Ikwuakor.

John Roesch

• Legendary Foley Artist and keynote speaker
• Co-founder of Audible Bandwidth Productions
• Retired Lead Foley Artist at Skywalker Ranch

John Roesch is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world. As a Foley Artist, Roesch has played a pivotal role in creating the sound effects for countless movies and video games, making him a true legend in the industry. Throughout his 45-year career, Roesch has worked on iconic films such as ET, Empire Strikes Back, and Toy Story.

John Roesch’s keynote speeches inspire audiences to find joy in their everyday lives and pursue their passions. His unique perspective on the world of sound effects provides valuable insights into the creative process and the impact it has on our favorite movies and video games. He regularly appears as a virtual keynote speaker to technical and non-technical audiences.

Book John Roesch.

Robert Paylor

• Motivational speaker and advocate for overcoming adversity
• Featured in Sports Illustrated for his inspiring journey from quadriplegia to walking again
• Graduate of the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley

Robert Paylor is a motivational virtual speaker who shares his powerful story of overcoming quadriplegia to inspire others to reach their full potential. His journey from paralysis to walking again serves as a universal example of how to conquer challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem.

Book Robert Paylor for your corporate or private event and discover the tools and mindset needed to overcome adversity and achieve optimal performance. Paylor also regularly appears on podcasts, virtual interviews, and events as a virtual keynote speaker. 

Book Robert Paylor.

Tara Schuster

• Best-selling author of Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies and Glow in the F*cking Dark
• Former VP of talent and development at Comedy Central, overseeing Emmy Award-winning shows like Key & Peele
• Featured in publications such as Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, Publishers Weekly, The New Yorker, Forbes, and InStyle

Tara Schuster is a highly sought-after keynote speaker who combines her experience as a veteran television executive with her expertise in mental health and self-care. During her time at Comedy Central, she was responsible for critically acclaimed shows like Key & Peele.

After leaving television, Schuster turned her focus to writing and has since become a best-selling author. Her books, Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies and Glow in the F*cking Dark, have received widespread acclaim for their insights on mental health and self-care. Publications such as Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, Publishers Weekly, The New Yorker, Forbes, and InStyle have all featured Schuster’s work.

Organizations now hire Tara Schuster as a virtual keynote speaker to deliver transformative presentations that draw on her unique blend of experience in the entertainment industry and her expertise in self-care. Tara Schuster also offers transformational virtual journaling workshops, where attendees become a part of a growing, supportive community. 

Book Tara Schuster.

Scott Hamilton

• Olympic Gold Medalist
• National Television Personality and Host
• Olympic Hall of Fame and World Figure Skating Hall of Fame inductee, and Emmy nominee

Scott Hamilton gained his celebrity status with his Olympic Gold medal performances in 1984. Since then, he has drawn a growing audience through his sports commentary, production, and multiple best-selling books.

He also took up figure skating commentary for CBS and then NBC. Hamilton solidified himself as a household name while hosting FOX’s Skating with Celebrities.

Following his brain cancer diagnosis and recovery, Scott Hamilton launched the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation. Additionally, he founded several awareness and survivorship programs.

Today, Fortune 500 companies hire Scott Hamilton not only for his notoriety and activism but also for his powerful motivational speeches. 

Book Scott Hamilton.

Marcus Allen

• Former professional basketball player and current CEO of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region
• Sought-after keynote speaker on topics such as team building, DE&I, overcoming adversity, and motivation
• Former Chief Executive Officer of ACHIEVEability, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit

Marcus Allen’s career success on the basketball court, in the business community, and leadership within the non-profit space make him a highly sought-after virtual keynote speaker. He delivers powerful speeches on topics ranging from team building and diversity, equity, and inclusion to overcoming adversity and motivation.

Before his current role as CEO of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region, 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. His personal story of growing up in poverty, finding value in mentorship, and learning important life lessons through sports has shaped both his professional career and personal life.

Book Marcus Allen.

Yvonne Cagle

• NASA Astronaut
• Global Mapping, Sustainable Energies, Green Initiatives, and Disaster Preparedness
• Retired U.S. Airforce Colonel, and Virtual Keynote Speaker

Yvonne Cagle is a highly accomplished individual, having served as a retired U.S. Airforce Colonel, NASA astronaut, and keynote speaker. She has played a pivotal role in NASA’s global mapping, sustainable energies, green initiatives, and disaster preparedness initiatives. Dr. Cagle is available to speak at both corporate and private events and is renowned for her motivational virtual speeches. During her speeches, she shares her journey to becoming a NASA astronaut, and the importance of pioneering space exploration for humanity.

Book Dr. Yvonne Cagle.

John Stessel

• Premier Performing Artist, Celebrity Magician, and Mentalist
• Modern Style, Magic, and Mystery for Corporate and Private Events
• Brand Development, Digital Strategy, and Marketing Campaigns for Leading Companies

John Stessel is a renowned magician and mentalist who brings a fresh and contemporary approach to magic for both corporate and private events. His captivating performances have been showcased on popular TV shows such as The Tonight Show, The Today Show, and Good Morning America. John Stessel is highly sought after by Fortune 500 companies, celebrities, and leading brands for his modern style, magical prowess, and enigmatic charm. 

Apart from his successful performing career, Stessel has also served as the first official influencer for Bicycle Cards. He was responsible for overseeing brand development, digital strategy, and the creation of a live-streaming web show which he hosted. Additionally, he has developed marketing campaigns and brand activations for several companies including iHeart Media and Dixie Brands.

Book John Stessel.

Carey Lohrenz

• First Female F-14 Tomcat Fighter Pilot in the U.S. Navy
• Topics Include: Winning Under Pressure, Reducing Errors, and Overcoming Obstacles
• Top Military Virtual Keynote Speaker

Carey Lohrenz is a true pioneer, having made history as the first female F-14 Tomcat Fighter Pilot in the U.S. Navy. Her experience in one of the world’s most challenging environments has equipped her with the essential skills of winning under pressure, reducing errors, and overcoming obstacles. As a highly sought-after business consultant and leadership speaker, Carey’s expertise has helped numerous organizations adapt quickly to changing markets and customer needs. 

Carey’s engaging virtual keynote presentations are both motivating and inspiring, as she shares her fascinating experiences operating in a fast-moving, dynamic environment.

Book Carey Lohrenz.

Kevin Reilly

• Former NFL Linebacker & Virtual Workshop Leader
• Oldest Known Living Survivor of Desmoid Tumor and Amputee
• Corporate Executive with Over 30 Years of Experience

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

Kevin Reilly specializes in virtual team building workshops, where he uses his story of overcoming adversity, in conjunction with his time in the NFL and as a corporate executive, to create constructive and collaborative sessions. 

Book Kevin Reilly.

Jay Shetty

• #1 Amazon Best-Selling Author
• Host of the #1 Health Podcast in the World
• Virtual Wellbeing, Engagement, and Purpose Training for Organizations

Jay Shetty is globally recognized as one of the best virtual keynote speakers and is the host of the world’s top-rated Health Podcast. He is renowned for his best-selling book, Think Like a Monk, available on Amazon. 

Companies hire him to inspire, empower, and train their organizations for wellbeing, engagement, and purpose. At the young age of 21, Jay Shetty became a monk. Despite returning home to an 80-hour work week and crushing debt, he built an empire that earned him a spot on Forbes’ 30 under 30 lists. Despite being told by agents and publicists that his podcast would not be successful, Jay persevered and is now one of the most in-demand keynote speakers in the world. He is also a member of the National Geographic Chasing Dreams Council.

Book Jay Shetty.

Grace Killelea

• World-class Executive Coach and Virtual Trainer
• Former Comcast Executive 
• DE&I Consultant of Fortune 500 Companies

Grace Killelea is a highly esteemed executive coach and DE&I consultant who specializes in women’s leadership development and human resource management. During her time as Senior Vice President of Talent at Comcast, Killelea spearheaded the training and development of over 3,000 directors annually and pioneered new diversity and inclusion initiatives. After her executive career, Killelea devoted herself to empowering and connecting women in the workforce. Today, she is a renowned TEDx speaker and has delivered keynote speeches at prestigious events such as the ESPN Women’s Leadership Conference and the WithIT Conference.

Book Grace Killelea.

Dan Harris

• Former Good Morning America and Nightline co-anchor
• #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author
• Mediation Specialist, and Virtual Workshop Keynote Speaker

Dan Harris is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and renowned meditation specialist, known for his work as a co-anchor for Good Morning America and Nightline. He is also the author of the bestselling book, 10% Happier, which supports his corporate workshops on meditation and mindfulness. Harris is internationally recognized for his coverage of historical and hot-button issues in America, including Hurricane Katrina, the U.S. criminal justice system, and religious culture. However, his dedication to his work began to take a toll on his personal life, leading to an on-air panic attack during a live broadcast. This experience prompted Harris to reevaluate his priorities and focus on achieving a better work-life balance.

Today, he has shifted his career focus to become a work-life balance and meditation specialist, helping others achieve the same sense of calm and balance in their lives.

Book Dan Harris.

Jon Dorenbos

• 14-year NFL veteran and professional athlete
• Finalist on America’s Got Talent
• World-class Virtual Keynote Speaker and Magician

Jon Dorenbos is a renowned magician and keynote speaker who has captivated audiences around the world. With 14 years in the NFL as a professional athlete, Dorenbos knows what it takes to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. His inspiring journey from tragedy to self-discovery is a testament to resilience, forgiveness, and living a life of purpose.

As a finalist on America’s Got Talent and a regular on The Ellen Show, Dorenbos has showcased his incredible talent and captivating personality to millions. He seamlessly incorporates your company message through storytelling and world-class magic. 

Jon Dorenbos offers tailored virtual events, from typical motivational speeches, to mind-bending magic performances. In fact, his presentations can combine both magic and motivation, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Book Jon Dorenbos.

Barbara Corcoran

• Founder of The Corcoran Group and Shark on ABC’s Shark Tank
• Speaks on Overcoming Adversity, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Success
• Prolific Virtual Keynote Speaker for Global Webinars and Events

Barbara Corcoran is a highly accomplished entrepreneur who has made a name for herself as a keynote speaker, author, podcast host, and Shark on ABC’s Shark Tank. She is an expert in overcoming adversity and achieving financial success.

Her expertise in real estate, marketing, and business strategy make her one of the most sought-after virtual keynote speakers for audiences ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.

Book Barbara Corcoran.

Matt Newman

• Top Salesman in Wholesale Financial Services
• Brain Cancer Survivor
• Top Virtual Keynote Speaker on Finance

At the age of 39, Matt Newman received the devastating news that he had cancer. Despite being a successful salesman in wholesale financial services and a self-proclaimed expert in planning for the worst, he was not prepared for this diagnosis. 

Nevertheless, with unwavering mental strength and a positive outlook, Newman took control of his life as a cancer survivor. Today, as a mental health speaker, Newman stresses the importance of building authentic connections with clients to enhance sales and referrals. He guides sales teams, financial advisors, and organizations through his philosophy of risk management and motivation, drawing from his own experiences and triumphs.

Book Barbara Corcoran.

Alex Banayan

• Youngest bestselling business author in American History
• Listed in Forbes 30 Under 30
• Expert in career building, motivation, performance, and development

Alex Banayan is a highly sought-after sales keynote speaker who has gained recognition for his book, The Third Door. In his book, Banayan shares his journey of interviewing some of the world’s most influential people and developing the Third Door Framework. This framework has proven to be valuable not only in sales but also in competition.
Organizations hire Alex Banayan as their virtual keynote speaker because of his inspiring story and the principles he shares through his Third Door Framework. His career has had a significant impact on young entrepreneurs and businesspeople, making him relatable and influential. His expertise in sales motivation and story of self-made success make him stand alone among all other virtual keynote speakers.
What’s more, Banayan has delivered virtual keynote speeches to top executives and sales teams from renowned companies such as Apple, Google, Nike, and Disney. 

Book Alex Banayan.

Sarah Robb O’Hagan

• Female CEO Virtual Speaker
• Featured in Forbes Most Powerful Women in Sports
• Expert in transforming businesses through digital content and services

Sarah Robb O’Hagan is a highly acclaimed executive, activist, and entrepreneur who has made a name for herself through her innovative use of digital content and services to revolutionize businesses. Her remarkable success in reinventing the business practices of the largest brands in the sports industry has earned her a spot on Forbes’ list of Most Powerful Women in Sports. 

As the former global president of Gatorade, Sarah spearheaded a major repositioning and turnaround of the business. She then went on to serve as the global president of Equinox, where she successfully transformed their offering through a significant technology overhaul. Sarah Robb O’Hagan is available for booking at corporate and private events, and is highly sought after as a keynote speaker for her motivational and inspiring talks. To inquire about her fees and availability, contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today.

Book Sarah Robb O’Hagan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Keynote Speakers

How to Hire Virtual Keynote Speakers

Searching for the ideal virtual keynote speaker to elevate your upcoming event or webinar can prove to be a daunting task. However, rest assured, we’ve got you covered. The Mollie Plotkin Group is here to help you secure the ideal virtual speaker. Our unparalleled expertise in curating exceptional experiences with sports stars, celebrities, and keynote speakers has earned us the coveted title of Industry Innovator of 2023 by BizBash. Don’t hesitate any longer! Reach out to us today and begin your journey towards an unforgettable event.