Successful Speakers
Successful Speakers P/L is a specialist bureau that presents people who have earned the right to speak from experience. Individuals with extraordinary success in their chosen field and have hard - won learning’s to share with audiences. They deliver speeches, corporate presentations and trainings that are educational, motivational and entertaining.
Please give us as much information as possible about your event so that we can help by recommending speakers ideal to delivering your best possible outcomes.
This Months Top 40 Successful Speakers
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Defence Force Leader
General Cosgrove had a highly decorated and respected military career spanning over four decades. He is an internationally renowned speaker with vast experience on a range of world affairs topics. Awarded in 2001 with Australian of the Year this recognition sums up an inspiring and accomplished career of excellence as a great leader who embodies the personal characteristics of strength, courage and commitment.
Pitch Doctor/ Marketer/ Entrepreneur//Staff Engagement/ Presentation Skills
Rising from mailboy to CEO of Australia's biggest ad agency Ian Elliot became the industry's most prolific new business winner. He has adapted his pitch winning skills to apply to every business, big or small and documented the tools in the best selling Book 'Stop Bitching, Start Pitching'. He also regularly speaks internationally on subjects including, Staff Engagement, Customer Delight, Brand Building and Life Planning. He is also a professional public company director. If increasing revenue is your goal then Ian can provide the usable tools and motivation to ingrain a successful sales culture in your business.
Mao's Last Dancer
Li Cunxin (pron “Lee Schwin Sing”) is a remarkable man borne of a remarkable story. He has published an incredible book about his extraordinary life. Later it was made into a box office hit film. In ‘Mao' s Last Dancer’, Li recounts his determination, perseverance, vision, courage and hard work, and in particular, the sacred family values and integrity that he learned in poverty-stricken China that have driven him to become one of the best dancers in the world. Li was born into utter poverty in Mao’s communist China, at the age of 11 he was selected to train in Madame Mao's Beijing Dance Academy. When he was 18, Li was awarded one of the first cultural scholarships to go to America, and subsequently been offered a soloist contract with the Houston Ballet. Two years later, Li defected to the West in a dramatic media storm, which involved the then Vice President, Mr George Bush Snr.
Futurist & Demographer
It’s Mark McCrindle’s job to predict the future. He has the knack of taking the social pulse of the nation, and the success and health of business rests upon it. Mark engages audiences with his interactive style to motivate them into achieving higher performance. He extensively researches the new generations and accurately tracks emerging trends, then steers his research findings towards leaders in sales, marketing, HR, and management to help them understand the times in which they operate, and not just be observers.
Olympic Skating Gold
The events leading to Steven’s rise to fame in men’s speed skating took place all in a matter of moments, leading to victory and a gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics. It would be Australia’s first gold at a Winter Olympics. Steven’s inspiring story has conceived the phrase “He’s done a Bradbury” and given it a home in the Australian vernacular. His theme is "Passion and Persistence"
Antarctic Expedition Leader
Rachael Robertson had the unique honour of leading a 12 month expedition to the Antarctic’s Davis Station, and is only the second female to do so. No ordinary leadership role, Rachael shares her leadership and team building experiences of a group of 18 people she barely knew faced with 9 months in isolation together, whilst juggling the responsibilities of her role in the highest, driest, coldest and windiest place on earth. The photo images are breathtaking.
Mr Body Language
Allan Pease has mastered the art of communication from verbal and non verbal perspectives. He coaches audiences how to interpret the words and actions of any conversation or negotiation. He is in great demand for TV appearances because of his entertaining and informative style. Two quotes probably sum him up best. "When Allan and Barbara Pease write, I read. And underline. And learn. and laugh. And steal." - Tom Peters. Empower yourself with these simple strategies for greater impact in your communication". - Anthony Robbins
Baker from Beechworth
One of Australia’s greatest success stories, be inspired by the “Baker from Beechworth” who turned a poorly performing regional bakery into a thriving business that not only enjoys $4 million of annual turnover, but is credited with reviving an entire community. A self confessed kindergarten drop out, Tom’s instinctive business skill and acumen has him at the top of his game, and his business model emulated world-wide. Audiences relate to his Aussie larrikin style and charming guile.
Journalist & Ex-Wallaby
Former Wallaby and highly respected columnist, Peter FitzSimons is described by ABC’s Andrew Denton as "Australia's finest sports journalist." Peter has flexed journalistic muscle interviewing every Australian Prime Minister since Gough Whitlam and a host of international figures including George Bush and Diego Maradona. He has authored eighteen best-selling books and is the biographer of several, great Australian personalities. One of the most popular after-dinner speakers in Australia, Peter is a lively and humorous raconteur.
Demographic and Social Change Expert
Bernard is a leading commentator and advisor to corporate Australia on consumer, cultural and demographic trends. He is sought after by blue-chip companies to stimulate thought provoking discussion, and property investors and developers on matters of trend forecasting. Author of best-selling The Big Shift, Bernard has released two other books, is a magazine and newspaper columnist, and guest on television programs including Business Sunday, SBS debate show Insight, and 60 Minutes. Bernard is a compelling and entertaining speaker.
Sales, Customers, Adversity
Brad has come from the Poorhouse to the Penthouse to the Bighouse and back. One of Australia’s most gifted speakers, Brad was founder and CEO of FAI Home Security. His insights to the sales process, staff motivation and customer delight are unparalleled. A multi-millionaire, he was embroiled in the FAI/HIH debacle which saw him serve 5 years in jail. He is back in business with a renewed enthusiasm and moral compass tempered by his experiences. Brad’s story is gut wrenching, insightful, hilarious, educational and entertaining.
Corporate MC/ Magician of the Mind / Motivational Humorist
Timothy Hyde is a highly experienced and highly entertaining Corporate MC and Entertainer, with nearly 30 years experience working for corporations Australia wide and in the USA, South Africa and New Zealand. As a Motivational Humorist Timothy uses his skills as a Magician, Actor, Teacher, Comedian & Speaker to entertain, educate and inform. His repertoire of Stories, Magic, Humour and Insights results in highly focused, sophisticated and memorable presentations.
Wallaby Captain
Wallabies captain, natural leader and inspirational team-mate the Nick Farr-Jones story finds pride of place amongst the pages of Australia’s rugby history. He was the captain who brought home the Rugby Union World Cup in 1991, the 1992 Bledisloe Cup and while at the helm shared victory of 36 successive tests for the side between 1998 and 1992. Known as a motivational leader with strength of character. Nick is a qualified lawyer and international banker. He has become one of Australia's most popular speakers.
Comedian, TV personality
The perfect risk free choice of corporate MC and comedian. his witty clean and friendly stage manner make him one of Australia's most popular comedians and TV personalities , including Dancing With The Stars, Thank God Your're Here, Spicks and Specks, Rove and The Footy Show. A Vietnamese refugee as a 2 year old, he also has a Bachelor of Law. An incredible and inspiring story sits beneath this very funny man.
Co-host - 'Today Show'
Lisa Wilkinson is a respected journalist and corporate presenter who exhibits her talents in magazine publishing, television and radio. She runs a thriving international magazine consultancy. Lisa’s relaxed and informative delivery style, exemplified in her co-host role on the Nine Network’s Today Show, has made her a popular presenter and facilitator.
Swim Coach & Motivator
One of Australia’s most successful Olympic coaches, Laurie’s unique style of motivation and guidance saw his star pupils break records in a number of gold medal winning performances. In his own sporting life, Laurie overcame the challenge of having a single lung, and asthma, to join the Wallabies and tour NZ in 1964. Today, he is a highly successful businessman, motivator and speaker who supports the “knuckles down the wall” approach in pursuing his personal credo of “Striving for Excellence”.
International Affairs Commentator
Best known for his expert commentary role on global affairs on the Seven Sunrise program, Keith is a huge thinker. His depth of understanding of global issues, terrorism, law, cultures, and business is extraordinary. He's a leading academic and member of the exclusive 'Club of Rome'with only 100 members which include Mikhail Gorbachev, Bill Gates and Al Gore. He was voted 'Australian Communicator of the Year in 2004.
Founder – ModelCo Beauty Products
Starting with just one product in 2002, Shelley has built the fastest growing and one of the most respected beauty brands in the world today. With over 150 products in 20 countries and ranged in the worlds best departmant stores, Modelco is a phenomenon. Voted 'Best New Beauty Brand' in the USA, Shelley is an exceptional entrepreneur and leader who has great vision, consumer insight, creativity, drive & integrity. 2006 Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Her story is amazing.
Test Cricketer/ Commentator
A few of the first things you’ll notice about Kerry is wit, wisdom and a penchant for sport. This former Test cricketer turned media personality packed up his vast sporting knowledge and became a regular presenter on popular TV show The Fat. He has continued a strong and successful media career commentating for ABC radio, and combines it with his role as a specialist tutor with Adelaide’s AIS Cricket Academy. His presentations are jam packed with inside stories and humour.
Diplomat /Corporate Leader
Ken Gillespie rose through the Australian Army beginning as an apprentice Brickie and ending as the Chief of Australia’s Army. He is recognised for his skills in ‘the business of army’ having overseen significant strategic and structural change at all levels. He conceived and implemented the largest structural change in 40 years involving 48,000 people and a $6 Billion operating budget. He was instrumental in implementing major people strategies relating to gender equality, workforce rehabilitation, career and talent management, workforce communication and safety. He successfully managed high output rates in complex financial, security and political environments while overseeing a complex capital investment plan.
Finance Commentator & Journalist
Michael was one of the first to specialise in financial journalism in commercial broadcasting. He is well known to Australians as the Finance Editor of The Nine Network with at least weekly appearances over 18 years. He has the ability to interpret complex finance issues or world events and explain them to broadcast and live audiences. He has a tremendous grasp of world financial markets and their impact on our economy. He provides thought provoking opinions and tests the theories of our politicians and economists. He is a fabulous Emcee and after dinner speaker.
Teamwork Specialist
A rugby league career that saw him captain andcoach his beloved Balmain club and the NSW Blues as well as captain Australia gave Wayne an insight to the powerful psychological and physiological impacts of teamwork. Wayne has combined this practical, experience with his Bachelor of Science Degree to deliver audiences techniques and habits to get more from the collective horsepower, spirit and IQ of any group.
Founder – IBISWorld – Futurist and Strategic Leader
Australia’s foremost strategist, futurist and forecaster, Phil Ruthven’s big picture insight has made his company, IBISWorld, the leader in its field. Company director to several organisations, advisory boards and charities, Phil’s comments on business, economic and social issues are dispensed across radio, TV, newspapers, magazines and documentaries. He continues to be one of the nation's most frequent and prolific commentators, delivering numerous speeches and addresses each year to eager audiences.
Customer Service Expert
Graeme Alford is one this Australia’s foremost authorities on Customer Service. Having spent years with Bob Ansett at Budget Rent a Car his passion for the customer has no bounds.
Graeme Alford is the author of the 6 module video series “Legendary Customer Service” and is the permanent guest columnist in The Customer Service Bulletin. Graeme Alfordwas an inaugural member of the executive that set up the Australian Customer Service Association in 1990.
Founder - Video Ezy
At just 13 years of age Ray left school unable to read or write. By 27 his aptitude for business saw him amass a fortune in the millions, whilst revolutionising the video movie industry. Ray went on to establish well known franchise Video Ezy which now operates in five Australian states and stores in New Zealand. Today, Ray manages a range of import/export enterprises, along with manufacturing innovations, event management and retail training.
The Power of Commitment
Tony Mowbray became the fastest Australian to sail solo, non- stop and unassisted around the world. He endured 6 months of incredibly challenging conditions including freezing temperatures, isolation and mountainous seas. 2years earlier, Tony and his crew on board his yacht 'Solo Globe Challenger' were part of the 1998 Sydney to Hobart yacht race which resulted in the worse race conditions on record and the tragic loss of 6 men.
Executive Director, The Children First Foundation
Captivated by the work of Mother Theresa, Moira Kelly stuck to her childhood vow to work with the revered nun and was inspired to begin her own journey of humanitarian aid. In 1999 Moira opened the doors on The Children First Foundation, an organisation run to connect children the world over with the medical treatment needed to live. From Bosnia to the Bronx Moira has given hope and life to hundreds of families, facilitating the treatment of their children, and overseeing their after care on her farm outside Melbourne. Moira is driven by her philosophy, "Wherever there is the greatest evil, the greatest good can be achieved."
Motivational Expert/ Sales
Robin Daubeny is regarded as the most unique and sought after motivational speaker in Australia. His presentations entertain, educate and motivate. Attendees take away proven, positive self-help ideas that can change performance, behaviour and lives in general. His success in business and sport resulted in him being appointed as a consultant at the Australian Institute of Sport in 2007, where he works with elite athletes helping to improve performance and helping them to be successful in other areas when their sporting career finishes.
Inspirational Cyclist
Louise was among a squad of six cyclists training on country roads in Germany when an oncoming, out of control car hit the pack leaving them scattered and one of their team mates dead. Louise recounts her three year journey to “normality” in her powerful and emotional presentation. Courage and strength, depression and forgiveness – her experience covers the full gamut of emotion. Louise is regularly called upon to share her heartfelt story to inspire and motivate others.
Futurist, Science and Technology
Dr Deane Hutton is one of Australia’s best-known Science Communicators and Futurists. For more than 25 years, he has been sharing his enthusiasm for science and technology with others through nation-wide television, as well as through books, radio and the internet. His work on television has included programs for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and Australia's National Nine Network. For 18 years he was a writer-presenter of the international award-winning Curiosity Show, and over 8 years as science presenter on Australia’s top variety program Hey Hey It’s Saturday.
Oscar Winning Director
Celebrated film director, Adam Elliot, used talent and tenacity to push himself to the pinnacle of the Film industry. He has entertained audiences with his quirky and innovative animations like his 2003 Oscar for Best Animated Short Film with Harvie Krumpet. His other films, Uncle, Cousin, and Brother emphasise the abundant talent this wunderkind holds. Named Young Victorian of the Year in 1999, Adam has received numerous acknowledgements and distinctions, and continues to inspire and nourish the industry as an ambassador, patron and juror. His story is hugely inspiring.
Futurist and Demographer
Steve Tighe is one of Australia’s most compelling speakers on the future and innovation. He is recognised for his thought-provoking observations on today’s society, and his ability to express key insights about the future in an engaging and entertaining fashion. Steve is renowned for his clever use of metaphors, images and case studies, taking his audience on a virtual journey into the future, whilst alerting them to the drivers of future change and the implications for their business. Steve’s presentations focus on Australia’s evolving values and emerging trends and how these changes are re-shaping every aspect of our lifestyles including commuting, housing, employment, consumption, and the cities we choose to live in!
Test Cricket Great
He is one of only five Australian’s to have played more than 100 Test matches, and has the exclusive honour of having played the greatest amount of matches by any keeper in international history, at 119. For eleven years Ian Healy was a permanent fixture in the Australian Cricket Team, missing just one Test because of a broken thumb. Off the field, Ian joins the Nine Network team as sports commentator, and enjoys guest appearances, speaking engagements and MC roles.
Burns Specialist
Fiona, an established plastic surgeon and mother of six, became world renowned for her patented invention of spray on skin for burns victims. Her exceptional skill and leadership received deserved praise in 2002 when she and her team at Royal Perth Hospital treated the largest proportion of the Bali bombings survivors. This highlighted the ground breaking research into burns treatment taking place in Western Australia and subsequently led to Fiona receiving the 2005 Australian of the Year Award.
Mountaineer & Philanthropist
Known as the “Son of the Everest Pioneer", Jamling flies his own flag as an author, star of awe inspiring documentary Everest, runs an adventure travel company and motivates audiences globally with insights into the journey of both his father and himself. His philanthropic contributions add another dimension to Jamling’s admirable life: he is instrumental in connecting social services to remote Himalayan villages, and continues his involvement with the climbing club he founded aimed at keeping children off the streets.
Founder - Boost Juice
The founder of hugely successful Boost Juice Bars, Janine has grown it to become the number one juice bar business in the Southern Hemisphere. With plans to open throughout the UK and Asia. Janine admits she never imagined she would be leading a multi-million dollar empire, turning over $100 million annually in sales. A working Mum she epitomises the company slogan "Love Life".
Humanitarian
George is a well respected community figure who has supported some of the most vulnerable members in our community. Over the past 15 years he has coordinated innovative services and programs that have changed the lives of many Australians. Following completion of a psychology degree, George has worked extensively in the government and community sectors on various ground breaking projects. He has used his skills to find unique ways to involve the corporate world in his projects, such as the recent 2008 Homeless World Cup in Melbourne.
Miss Universe & Supermodel
Planet Jennifer just keeps growing. Since her crowning as Miss Universe in 2004 Jennifer Hawkins has gone on to achieve many of her professional goals: as Channel Seven personality fronting popular shows The Great Outdoors and Make Me A Supermodel, Pepsi and Myer spokesperson and ambassador for HIV/Aids awareness. Jennifer shares the story of her incredible climb to the top in numerous corporate speaking engagements.
Change Expert/ Future Thinking
Anders Sorman-Nilsson is a reformed lawyer, and the founder and creative director of the Sydney and Stockholm based research company - Thinque. His unique global perspectives have been helping leaders, teams, and business owners in the USA, Europe, Asia and Australia make sense of and harness disruptive trends in innovations, generations and communications. His misfit insights have recently been manifested in his book Thinque Funky: Upgrade Your Thinking and amplified by endorsements via AFR Boss Magazine, Wired (UK), and Monocle.
World champion surfer
Layne has achieved outstanding success in the surfing world. Winning multiple world titles has secured her reputation as the greatest professional female surfer in history. Layne’s competitive drive is renowned as is her commitment and tireless efforts to publicise women’s surfing. Her media role extends to television appearances as a sports reporter and commentator.
Why Book a Motivational Speaker?
Motivation can drive us to reach higher goals in life regardless of where we come from or what our specific goals may be. For those that aspire to achieve greatness and success in their chosen field or in life, there's nothing more inspirational or motivating than hearing the life experiences from a celebrity or well known public figure. Quite often the celebrity speakers will have tales of hardship and challenges that they themselves faced and overcame to be where they are today.
Motivational speakers come from all walks of life. Sporting heroes, business leaders, celebrity entertainers and charity workers to name a few. There has never been a better time to engage a motivational speaker with your audience as the Internet has made guest speakers accessible to the public. At Successful Speakers our mission is to be able to recommend an excellent motivational speaker from our database for whatever occasion you are looking to make a success.
We welcome you to browse through our list of celebrity speakers using the topic search or alphabetical search. Contact us once you've found a motivational speaker that you are interested in and we would love to help you arrange a booking. You can also contact us if you're stuck for ideas and need a few suggestions on suitable motivational speakers for your event.