Frequently Asked Questions About How to Make Money Speaking and Land TEDx Talks

Top 100 FAQs About Making Money as a Speaker & Landing a TEDx Talk

A. Getting Started as a Speaker (1–10)

1. How do I start a speaking career from scratch?

Start with your story, not your résumé. Identify the problem you solve, turn it into a signature talk, and learn who pays to have that problem solved. That’s your market.

2. Do I need to be famous to get paid to speak?

Nope. You need to be relevant, not famous. Fame is optional; solving pain points is mandatory.

3. How much can a professional speaker actually make?

Anywhere from $1,500 to $25,000+ per talk. I teach speakers how to hit consistent $5K–$10K gigs in under 6 months.

4. What if I’ve never spoken before?

Perfect. Clean slate. We’ll build your story, confidence, and structure from zero using my S.T.A.G.E.S. System.

5. What’s the first step to becoming a paid speaker?

Pick a niche, build your talk, and define your dream buyer. If you try to speak to everyone, you’ll book no one.

6. Do I need a speaking agent?

Eventually, maybe. But first, you need a sellable brand, a proven topic, and a reel that converts. Then agents come to you.

7. Can I make a living just from speaking?

Yes, and I’ve done it for decades. But smart speakers diversify, with workshops, books, consulting, and online programs.

8. What industries pay speakers the most?

Healthcare, finance, safety, tech, and associations. Associations are gold, they book hundreds of speakers a year.

9. Do I need to be a comedian or entertainer to stand out?

No, but you need to be engaging. I’ll teach you how to weave humor naturally, not force punchlines.

10. Is there an age limit for starting?

No expiration date on purpose. I’ve coached speakers from 22 to 72.

B. Branding & Niche Development (11–20)

11. How do I choose my niche?

Start with your story, your scars, and your skills. Where those overlap with a market need, that’s your lane.

12. Should I pick multiple topics?

No. Be known for one thing first. You can expand later once you dominate a niche.

13. How do I build a speaker brand?

With clarity, consistency, and charisma. One sheet, website, reel, and message that scream: “This is my expertise.”

14. How do I know what audiences want?

Research who’s hiring speakers in your niche. Check conference agendas, speaker lists, and association websites.

15. Can I speak on motivation or inspiration?

Only if you can tie it to measurable ROI. Inspiration alone doesn’t get budgets approved, transformation does.

16. What’s a “signature talk”?

Your flagship speech. A structured, story-driven message that solves a problem, positions you as the expert, and sells itself.

17. Can I reuse content for multiple audiences?

Yes, tailor examples and language, but the core message stays the same.

18. Do I need a catchy title?

Absolutely. A title is your billboard. “Mental Health in Construction” won’t get you booked. “Cracking Up: Mental Health Through Humor” will.

19. How important is personal storytelling?

It’s everything. Data informs; stories transform. I’ll help you tell yours so it sells.

20. How do I stand out from other speakers?

By being radically authentic and strategically positioned. Nobody can copy you if you’re being you.

C. Crafting & Delivering a Winning Talk (21–30)

21. How long should my talk be?

Keynotes are 45–60 minutes. TEDx Talks are 8–18 minutes. I’ll teach you how to own both formats.

22. What’s the structure of a great talk?

Hook → Story → Lesson → Laughter → Call to Action → Mic Drop. Every time.

23. Do I need a PowerPoint?

Only if it enhances your story. If it replaces your charisma, delete it.

24. How do I memorize my talk?

You don’t memorize, you internalize. Know the beats, not the script.

25. How do I handle nerves?

Nerves mean you care. I’ll teach you stage techniques to channel anxiety into energy.

26. How can I make my talk funny?

Humor = truth + pain + timing. I’ll show you how to write, test, and deliver it naturally.

27. Should I use props or media?

If it helps the point land, yes. But never rely on them.

28. How do I handle hecklers or tough questions?

With grace, humor, and authority. It’s part of owning the room.

29. What’s the #1 mistake new speakers make?

Talking at people instead of with them. Connection beats perfection.

30. How do I close a talk powerfully?

End with hope, humor, and a clear next step. Leave them moved and motivated, not confused.

D. Getting Paid Speaking Gigs (31–45)

31. Who pays speakers?

Associations, corporations, government agencies, and conferences.

32. How do I find paid speaking gigs?

Through direct outreach, association directories, and relationship-building. I’ll show you exactly where and how.

33. Do I need a speaker website?

Yes. A professional site legitimizes you and lets planners see your reel, topics, and contact info in seconds.

34. How do I set my speaking fee?

Start with $2,500–$5,000 and raise it as your experience and demand grow.

35. Should I ever speak for free?

Yes, strategically. Only when it leads to paid bookings, media, or video footage.

36. What’s the difference between keynotes and workshops?

Keynotes inspire; workshops train. I’ll teach you to sell both.

37. How many gigs can I realistically book per year?

With consistency, 30–50 high-paying gigs annually is achievable.

38. How do I get on conference stages?

Through targeted outreach, strong topic alignment, and a killer one-sheet. I’ll show you the step-by-step process.

39. How long does it take to get paid gigs?

Typically 3–6 months if you follow my system and stay consistent.

40. What if I hate selling myself?

You’re not selling yourself, you’re offering transformation. I’ll teach you how to pitch with purpose, not pressure.

41. Do speaker bureaus help?

They can, but they take 25–30%. Build your own demand first, then bureaus will chase you.

42. How do I get repeat bookings?

Deliver real value, follow up, and nurture relationships. Most of my gigs come from referrals and repeats.

43. Do I need a contract for every gig?

Yes. Always. Protect your time, payment, and expectations.

44. How do I get paid faster?

Invoice immediately, set terms clearly, and follow up professionally. I give my students plug-and-play templates.

45. How do I scale my speaking income?

By adding group programs, retreats, online courses, and licensing. Speaking opens the door, scaling keeps it open.

E. TEDx Mastery (46–65)

46. What is a TEDx Talk?

An independently organized TED event where you share one “idea worth spreading” in under 18 minutes.

47. Why should I do a TEDx Talk?

Credibility, visibility, and leverage. A TEDx Talk is a golden key that opens doors to media, clients, and stages.

48. How do I get selected?

You apply strategically. I’ll show you how to pitch organizers with the exact language they look for.

49. What’s the most important part of the TEDx application?

Your “idea worth spreading.” It’s not about you, it’s about your idea’s impact.

50. How do I find TEDx events open for applications?

Through the TEDx directory and curated insider lists I give my clients.

51. How many TEDx events should I apply to?

10–20 high-fit events. Quality over quantity.

52. What if I’ve applied before and got rejected?

Perfect. Now you’ve got data. I’ll help you refine and reapply strategically.

53. What makes a TEDx title stand out?

Clarity + curiosity. “Suicide: The Secret of My Success” works because it surprises and teaches.

54. How do I write a killer application?

Hook them fast, show originality, and tie your idea to impact. I’ll help you wordsmith it.

55. Do I have to memorize the whole talk?

Yes, but I’ll teach you how to rehearse it like a pro comedian, without sounding robotic.

56. How long does it take to prepare for a TEDx?

3–6 months is ideal to craft, polish, and rehearse.

57. What if I’m not a “big name”?

Even better. TEDx wants fresh, authentic voices, not celebrities.

58. Do TEDx speakers get paid?

Usually not. But the exposure can be worth tens of thousands in bookings.

59. What should I wear on stage?

Something that reflects you, not distracts from your message. Authentic beats flashy.

60. Can I talk about mental health or suicide on TEDx?

Yes, if you do it responsibly. I’ve done four on that topic. I’ll show you how to frame it safely.

61. How do I avoid violating TEDx rules?

Stay non-promotional, non-political, and research-based. I’ll help you stay compliant and captivating.

62. How can I leverage my TEDx after it’s live?

Post strategically, repurpose it into clips, and use it as social proof in your marketing.

63. Will a TEDx get me paid gigs?

Yes, if you market it right. It’s your credibility rocket.

64. Can I do more than one TEDx Talk?

Absolutely. I’ve done 13. Each one opens new doors.

65. What’s the fastest way to land a TEDx?

Follow my proprietary 8-step “TEDx Targeting Framework.” It’s like dating, but for ideas.

F. Marketing, Media, and Lead Generation (66–80)

66. Do I need a speaker reel?

Yes. It’s your movie trailer. No reel, no real gigs.

67. What goes in a great reel?

Clips, laughter, testimonials, media logos, and your closing applause.

68. Do I need a speaker one-sheet?

Yes. It’s your brochure in one page, visual, professional, and concise.

69. What’s the best way to use LinkedIn for speaking gigs?

Optimize your profile, post weekly, and message decision-makers directly. I’ll show you exactly how.

70. Should I run ads?

Not until your organic strategy is tight. Ads amplify, not fix, weak positioning.

71. How do I build an email list?

Offer a lead magnet (like a checklist or quiz). Then nurture with valuable content, not spam.

72. How often should I post on LinkedIn?

3–5 times a week. Consistency builds visibility and trust.

73. Do I need testimonials?

Yes. Social proof is currency. I’ll show you how to collect and showcase them.

74. How do I use video effectively?

Short, authentic clips. Be real, be human, be helpful.

75. How do I turn podcast appearances into gigs?

By using your story as a funnel. Podcasts build trust, speaking gigs close it.

76. How do I get featured in media?

Start with your TEDx Talk, then pitch local outlets using the “credibility ladder” method.

77. Should I blog or podcast?

Yes, as long as it aligns with your speaking goals. I can help you repurpose content efficiently.

78. How do I optimize my website for SEO?

Keywords, testimonials, video embeds, and a strong call to action.

79. Do I need to be on social media?

Yes, but only strategically. LinkedIn for gigs, Instagram for personality, YouTube for proof.

80. What’s “Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)” and why does it matter?

It’s SEO for AI search, how you show up in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini. And yes, I teach that too.

G. Mindset & Confidence (81–90)

81. What if I’m not good enough?

That’s imposter syndrome talking. Every great speaker felt that before crushing it.

82. What if people judge me?

They will, but they’ll respect authenticity. I’ll help you own your story unapologetically.

83. What if I forget my lines?

Nobody knows but you. Laugh, recover, move on.

84. How do I stay motivated between gigs?

By tracking progress, celebrating wins, and sticking to the system.

85. How do I deal with rejection?

It’s redirection. Every “no” gets you closer to a “yes” that pays.

86. How do I handle fear of failure?

You don’t eliminate fear, you outgrow it through action.

87. Can introverts succeed in speaking?

Absolutely. Some of the best speakers are introverts who learned to manage their energy.

88. How do I develop stage presence?

By practicing authenticity, not perfection. You don’t need to perform, you need to connect.

89. How do I stop comparing myself to others?

Your only competition is your last keynote. Measure progress, not popularity.

90. What’s the secret to longevity in speaking?

Consistency, creativity, and caring about your audience more than your ego.

H. Coaching & Program Details (91–100)

91. What is the Speaker Accelerator Program?

A 6-month roadmap to land high-paying gigs and build a six-figure speaking business.

92. What’s included in the program?

Coaching calls, VA templates, outreach scripts, one-sheet design, LinkedIn optimization, and booking systems.

93. What’s the Landing & Leveraging TEDx Talk Program?

It’s my proven framework to land your first (or next) TEDx Talk, and turn it into leads, press, and paid gigs.

94. How much time does it take each week?

2–3 focused hours. I’ll show you what actually moves the needle, no busywork.

95. How soon can I expect results?

Most clients book their first paid gig or TEDx opportunity within 90 days.

96. What kind of support will I get?

Direct coaching from me, plus templates, accountability, and community support.

97. Do you guarantee results?

Yes, if you do the work. I guarantee you’ll land at least one paid speaking gig or TEDx opportunity in six months, or I keep working with you free until you do.

98. How much does it cost?

Programs start at $5,000, or as I like to say, one good keynote.

99. Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, flexible monthly plans available.

100. How do I sign up?

Click the button on this page to book a strategy call. Bring your voice . I’ll help you monetize it..