Top 5 Motivational Speakers Across Australia

In a world increasingly driven by digital interactions, the power of a live speaker to captivate an audience is more valuable than ever. Whether it's a corporate event, a school assembly, or a community gathering, a great speaker can inspire, educate, and entertain. But how do you choose the right speaker for your event? And what makes a good guest speaker? In this blog, we'll explore these questions and introduce you to five of Australia's top motivational speakers.

A good guest speaker is not just someone who can talk, but someone who can connect, inspire, and leave a lasting impression. They should be knowledgeable about their subject matter, but also relatable and engaging. They should be able to adapt their message to suit the audience and the occasion. They should be professional, reliable, and easy to work with. And most importantly, they should have a message that resonates, one that people will remember long after the event is over.

1. Corporate Conferences: For industry insights and professional development.

2. School Assemblies: To inspire and educate the younger generation.

3. Community Events: To bring people together and promote a cause or a message.

4. Product Launches: To generate buzz and excitement.

5. Fundraisers: To encourage donations and support for a cause.

Every event is unique, and so are its requirements for a speaker. At Pickstar, we help you find the perfect match. Whether you're looking for someone to inspire your team, educate your community, or entertain your audience, we have a wide range of speakers to suit all needs and budgets.

Amanda Johnstone is a force to be reckoned with in the world of technology and social impact. As the CEO of Transhuman, she's one of Australia’s most globally recognised AI technologists. TIME Magazine has awarded her as a Next Generation Leader for her work in social impact technology, and she's been profiled by numerous peak bodies including GSMA and Singularity.

1. Tech-Savvy and Impactful: Amanda is at the forefront of AI and technology, making her an ideal speaker for events focusing on the future, technology, and social impact. Her insights are not just theoretical; they are based on real-world applications and innovations.

2. Global Recognition: With accolades from TIME Magazine and other global platforms, Amanda brings a level of credibility and international perspective that is rare to find. She's not just a leader in Australia; she's recognized globally.

3. Social Impact: Beyond her tech prowess, Amanda is deeply committed to social issues. Her work in suicide prevention and mental health adds a layer of depth and relevance to her talks, making her a well-rounded and impactful speaker.

1. Tech Companies: Given her background in AI and technology, Amanda would be an ideal brand ambassador for tech companies, especially those focusing on AI, machine learning, and social impact.

2. Educational Institutions: With her expertise and global recognition, Amanda can add immense value to educational programs focusing on technology, AI, and social impact.

3. Mental Health Initiatives: Amanda's work in suicide prevention makes her a powerful spokesperson for mental health initiatives, adding credibility and a personal touch to campaigns.

Amanda Johnstone was born in Tasmania and displayed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. At just 17, she co-founded the award-winning retail chain, Sebachi, under the mentorship of Cotton On founder, Nigel Austin. Amanda's early life was marked by a keen interest in technology and a desire to make a social impact. These formative years set the stage for her later achievements in AI technology and her global recognition as a leader in social impact technology.

Eric Bailey isn't just a speaker; he's a catalyst for transformation. With a dynamic presence that commands attention and a story that resonates across continents, Eric is a powerhouse of motivation. His journey from the professional basketball court to the international stage has been nothing short of remarkable, and his evolution from athlete to motivational speaker mirrors the ascent of a true champion.

Eric Bailey isn't just a speaker; he's a catalyst for transformation. With a dynamic presence that commands attention and a story that resonates across continents, Eric is a powerhouse of motivation. His journey from the professional basketball court to the international stage has been nothing short of remarkable, and his evolution from athlete to motivational speaker mirrors the ascent of a true champion.

1. Elevate with Eric's Proven Strategies: Eric's insights aren't mere theories – they're tried-and-true strategies that have been refined through real-world experiences. His captivating presence on stage emanates from a rich history that spans from the basketball court to the global stage, allowing him to deeply connect with audiences from all walks of life.

2. Global Perspective, Universal Impact: With a global footprint, Eric Bailey has touched lives across 13 continents, instilling hope, and courage in the hearts of countless individuals. His messages transcend cultural boundaries, uniting audiences in a shared pursuit of excellence and personal growth.

3. Storytelling that Resonates: Eric's powerful storytelling weaves a tapestry of relatable experiences, creating a bridge between his life lessons and the aspirations of his listeners. His stories aren't just anecdotes – they're life-altering narratives that inspire change and foster resilience.

Eric's early life could have been a script of despair, but he chose a different path. With unwavering determination, he refused to be defined by his circumstances. Instead, he embraced the challenges as stepping stones, propelling him toward a destiny beyond anyone's imagination. Born with a bone disease and abandoned by his biological parents, Eric journeyed through the unforgiving streets of South-Central Los Angeles. Rather than succumb, he channelled these struggles to forge strength. In a neighbourhood synonymous with challenges, he unearthed his unbreakable spirit.

A pivotal mentor recognized Eric's potential, propelling him to secure a university education against all odds. Overcoming mental, emotional, physical, and financial hurdles, marked the inception of his transformative journey.

Although NBA dreams encountered setbacks, Eric's tenacity endured. He ventured to Australia in the early '80s, pioneering the National Basketball League (NBL). While injuries curtailed his playing career, his passion burned on.

For over 30 years, Eric's impact transcends borders. Giants such as Qantas, Footlocker, NBA, Pizza Hut, Robert Walters, John Deere, Scotia Bank, CIMB Bank, Toyota, RE/MAX and many more have sought his transformative insights.

Brooke Hanson OLY OAM is not just an Olympic Gold and Silver Medallist; she's a beacon of inspiration. As a professional motivational keynote speaker and master of ceremonies, Brooke draws from her exceptional achievements in both her sporting and personal life to inspire audiences and motivate organisations to achieve greatness.

1. Holistic Approach to Wellbeing: Brooke takes a holistic approach to energy health performance and inspires audiences to take charge of their well-being. Her areas of expertise include leadership, mental well-being, self-care, energy management, mindfulness, and motivation.

2. Versatile and Dynamic: Brooke's tailor-made talks cover a wide range of topics, including passion, purpose, love, leadership, resilience, and finding internal strength to overcome challenges. She connects with her audience on a deep level, sharing personal stories that make them smile, laugh, and even shed a tear.

3. Role Model for All Ages: Brooke's high-profile status as one of Australia's most recognised Olympians makes her an excellent role model for both the community and children. She has a unique ability to engage and inspire audiences of all ages.

Brooke Hanson was born in Melbourne, Victoria, and grew up with a love for swimming from a young age. Her parents recognized her talent and enrolled her in swimming lessons, where she quickly excelled. Brooke faced her share of challenges, including balancing school with rigorous training schedules. However, her determination and family support propelled her to the national stage while she was still a teenager. Her early years laid the foundation for her Olympic success and her subsequent career as a motivational speaker.

Mark 'Squiz' Squirrell OAM is a man whose experiences read like an adventure novel. From serving as an officer with the Australian Special Forces to working across the globe for NGOs and the United Nations World Food Programme as a humanitarian aid worker, Mark has seen it all. His presentations are interactive, embroiling the audience in time-critical and potentially life-threatening decision points in environments such as Somalia, the Gaza Strip, and Mount Everest.

1. Real-World Experience: Mark's experiences are not just stories; they are lessons learned in some of the most challenging environments on Earth. His presentations offer insights into leadership, decision-making, and performing under pressure.

2. Interactive and Engaging: Mark's sessions are tailored to ensure client objectives are aligned with the key messages. His presentations are interactive, making every talk a unique experience.

3. Inspiring and Motivating: Mark's story is one of courage, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He inspires audiences to think bigger, act bolder, and strive for their own summits in life.

Mark Squirrell, affectionately known as 'Squiz,' was born in Victoria and developed an early interest in adventure and the great outdoors. His family encouraged this adventurous spirit, which eventually led him to join the Australian Special Forces. The discipline, teamwork, and resilience he learned during his formative years prepared him for the challenges he would later face in war zones and on the peaks of the world's tallest mountains.

Dr Hannah Macdougall is an elite Para athlete, dual Paralympian and Bronze Medalist, Manager at Love Me Love You (mental health NFP), and Inclusion Advocate. 'Dr Han' applies her experiences and evidence-based knowledge in motivational speaking, workshops, and individual consultations.

1. Evidence-Based Insights: Hannah combines her experiences as an elite athlete and her academic background to offer evidence-based insights into motivation, resilience, and peak performance.

2. Inclusion Advocate: As an inclusion advocate, Hannah speaks powerfully about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in both sports and society.

3. Empowering and Engaging: Hannah's presentations provide tools and strategies to help her audience feel empowered and motivate them to take positive action, not only today but into the future.

Born in Victoria, Dr. Hannah Macdougall was diagnosed with a congenital limb deficiency. However, this never deterred her or her family from pursuing her dreams. From a young age, Hannah was involved in various sports, but it was swimming that captured her heart. Her family's support and her own indomitable spirit helped her overcome societal prejudices and physical challenges to become a dual Paralympian and an advocate for mental health and inclusion.

Choosing the right speaker for your event is a critical decision that can significantly impact its success. Whether you're looking for someone to inspire, educate, or entertain, Australia is home to a wealth of motivational speaking talent. Through Pickstar, you can find the perfect speaker to meet your specific needs and budget. From sports legends like Eric Bailey and Brooke Hanson to adventurers like Mark Squirrell and advocates like Hannah Macdougall, the options are as diverse as they are inspiring.

So, the next time you're planning an event and need a speaker who can truly make an impact, remember that the perfect candidate might just be a click away.