When planning your corporate or university event, your keynote speaker often takes center stage — but they’re only one piece of a much larger talent puzzle. Today’s audiences crave variety, and event planners are responding by booking a diverse mix of talent that engages, entertains, and educates in unexpected ways.
Whether you’re building an agenda for a multi-day conference, a single-night gala, or a virtual experience, there’s more than one way to captivate your audience. Here are just a few types of talent to consider when thinking beyond the keynote speaker.
1. Emcees & Moderators
A great emcee sets the tone for the entire event. From keeping sessions on time to injecting humor between panels, a seasoned host helps maintain energy and flow. Moderators are also key for fireside chats or Q&As, especially when navigating complex topics or high-profile guests. The right host can go beyond the keynote to elevate your event from a series of segments to a seamless story.
Emcees aren’t just timekeepers — they’re the connective tissue of your event. They introduce speakers with intention, reset the room after tough conversations, and bring warmth and clarity when transitions get bumpy. Moderators, meanwhile, are your secret weapon for drawing out insight. A skilled moderator knows when to dig deeper, when to pivot, and how to make even a virtual conversation feel personal. Together, emcees and moderators shape the audience experience — not just what people hear, but how they feel throughout the day.
2. Entertainers: Comedians, Magicians, Musicians
Nothing beats laughter or awe to make an event memorable. Booking a stand-up comic, magician, musical act, or entertainer can be a perfect fit for dinners, awards shows, or client appreciation events. Talent like this bring a surprise-and-delight element that breaks up heavy content, goes beyond the keynote, and boosts morale.
Beyond the wow factor, entertainers help create shared moments your audience will talk about long after the event ends. Whether it’s a comic riffing on industry quirks, a magician weaving in custom messaging, or a band getting everyone on their feet, the right performance adds personality and emotional lift. It’s not just about filling a time slot — it’s about creating an atmosphere where people connect, recharge, and remember why they showed up.
3. Industry Experts & Panelists
Not every speaker has to command a 60-minute slot. Industry-specific experts, authors, and niche thought leaders often shine brightest in panels, fireside chats, or breakout sessions. They bring depth, dialogue, and actionable insights to your agenda without needing the full spotlight.
These voices can offer fresh takes on familiar challenges, especially when paired with other perspectives. A well-curated panel turns passive listening into real-time learning, while breakout sessions with specialists invite candid questions and richer discussions. Think of them as your content anchors — the ones who ground your event in relevance, nuance, and real-world takeaways.
4. Workshop Leaders & Strategists
Looking to turn inspiration into implementation? Workshop leaders are a smart way to provide hands-on value. Whether it’s a leadership trainer, inclusion and belonging strategist, or mindfulness coach, these professionals give attendees practical takeaways they can apply right away.
They also create space for reflection and growth, helping participants move from passive note-taking to active problem-solving. Workshops go beyond the keynote and can spark new ideas, surface hidden challenges, and strengthen team dynamics in ways keynotes alone can’t. When done well, they leave your audience not just motivated — but equipped.
5. Celebrity Guests & Influencers
From film and TV actors to sports stars and content creators, well-known personalities can boost attendance, media coverage, and social engagement. These bookings don’t have to revolve around a traditional keynote — they can lead conversations, attend meet-and-greets, or simply add star power to your lineup.
The key is aligning their presence with your event’s purpose. A thoughtful Q&A, a fireside chat about their journey, or even a surprise cameo can feel more authentic than a scripted speech. When used strategically, celebrity guests don’t just draw a crowd — they amplify your message and create moments that make headlines and memories alike.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to building an unforgettable event program. The most successful events are the ones that mix talent types strategically — making all attendees feel like part of something special.
If you’re ready to explore all the possibilities, AAE Speakers can help. We offer unbiased guidance and access to thousands of speakers, entertainers, emcees, and experts across every industry. Let’s build your next unforgettable lineup together.
