Audiences today are looking for more than inspiration alone. They want context, clarity, and ideas that help them understand change as it happens. From leadership and geopolitics to artificial intelligence and workplace culture, event planners are prioritizing speakers who can address timely topics with credibility and real-world insight.
The topics below reflect the conversations organizations are already having. Each one is supported by speakers who bring depth, perspective, and practical takeaways to the stage, helping audiences better navigate what’s next.
Leadership & change
Leadership is tested most during moments of change. Whether organizations are navigating uncertainty, transformation, or growth, effective leaders must build trust, align teams, and move forward with purpose.
Kate O’Neill offers a modern, human-centered approach to leadership shaped by decades at the forefront of digital innovation. Known globally as the “Tech Humanist,” O’Neill helps leaders understand how technology decisions affect people, culture, and long-term value. As founder and CEO of KO Insights, she advises organizations on building data-driven and AI-enabled strategies that are both ethical and commercially sound. Her bestselling books, including “Tech Humanist” and “What Matters Next,” provide practical frameworks for navigating innovation without losing sight of human impact.
Mike Abrashoff brings leadership lessons forged under pressure. As the youngest officer in the Pacific Fleet, he took command of the USS Benfold when it was among the Navy’s lowest-performing ships. Within a year, it became the best in the fleet using the same crew. Abrashoff’s transformation focused on culture, empowerment, and accountability rather than command and control. His bestselling book, “It’s Your Ship,” continues to resonate with organizations seeking meaningful, sustainable change.
Navigating geopolitics
Global events increasingly shape markets, organizations, and communities. Audiences are eager for insight that explains how geopolitical forces influence economic conditions and strategic decision-making.
Andrew Busch brings a market-focused perspective to geopolitics and global economics. As the first Chief Market Intelligence Officer for the U.S. government, Busch translated complex economic data into clear insights for policymakers and regulators. Today, he advises organizations across industries on how global events impact markets, helping audiences understand the economic consequences of geopolitical change.
Anja Manuel offers a diplomatic and policy-driven lens. A former U.S. State Department official and co-founder of Rice, Hadley, Gates & Manuel, she advises companies navigating international markets alongside some of the nation’s most experienced national security leaders. As Executive Director of the Aspen Strategy Group and Aspen Security Forum, Manuel helps audiences understand global power dynamics, foreign policy decision-making, and the long-term implications of international competition.
Civic law & American democracy (America250)
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, interest in the Constitution and civic responsibility continues to grow. Organizations are seeking speakers who can explore America’s democratic foundations while connecting them to present-day challenges.
Jeffrey Rosen is a leading voice in this space. As President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, Rosen has made constitutional dialogue accessible to audiences nationwide. Through his podcast, “We the People,” and bestselling books, including “The Pursuit of Happiness,” he encourages thoughtful discussion across ideological lines and helps audiences see the Constitution as a living framework.
Akhil Amar brings deep scholarly authority to constitutional conversations. A Sterling Professor at Yale University, Amar is one of the most cited constitutional scholars in the country. His work traces the evolution of America’s legal system across generations, offering audiences historical context and clarity on how constitutional principles continue to shape public life.
AI & transformation
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how organizations operate, how decisions are made, and how people work. Audiences want insight that goes beyond hype to address real opportunities and responsibilities.
Ian Beacraft approaches AI through the lens of innovation and the future of work. As founder and CEO of Signal and Cipher, he advises global brands on applying emerging technologies in practical, actionable ways. Known for his immersive presentation style, Beacraft helps audiences understand how AI works and how it can drive growth, creativity, and cultural change.
Mutale Nkonde brings a critical perspective on ethics, policy, and social impact. As founder of AI for the People and a UN advisor on artificial intelligence, Nkonde focuses on how AI policy affects real lives. Her work emphasizes responsible innovation, governance, and accountability, making her insights especially relevant for organizations navigating the societal implications of new technology.
Culture & team performance
Culture plays a defining role in engagement, retention, and results. As workplaces continue to evolve, leaders are seeking strategies that support people while driving performance.
John Register brings a powerful message shaped by resilience and lived experience. A U.S. Army veteran and Paralympic silver medalist, Register shares lessons on navigating adversity, leading through uncertainty, and building momentum during times of change.
Heather E. McGowan offers a future-focused perspective on people and performance. A strategist and bestselling author, McGowan helps organizations activate human capabilities like adaptability, curiosity, and empathy. Her work equips leaders to build cultures that evolve alongside change rather than resist it.
Across industries, the message is consistent. Audiences want speakers who can help them understand change, navigate complexity, and move forward with confidence. The topics above reflect today’s most in-demand conversations, and the speakers featured bring insight, credibility, and relevance to each one. Contact us today to get started booking your next speaker.
