226: 10 Insider Tips from Event Hosts on What Makes a Speaker Stand Out

The Laylee Emadi Podcast — For Speakers, Coaches, and Course Creators

What do event hosts actually look for when they book speakers? I sat down with 10 powerhouse event hosts who not only curate stages, but often speak on them too, and asked exactly that.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain to bring you their top 10 tips. These aren’t just theories; they’re what real decision-makers are looking for when they choose who gets the mic. If you’ve ever wondered how to make yourself more bookable, this episode is for you.

Listen in as Jordan Gill, Elizabeth Henson, Amber Housely, Kristina Bartold, Jamie Fischer, Heather Leicy, Amanda Smith, Tomasha Suber, Christina Oliveraz, and Frances Ledgewood tell you exactly what makes them select a speaker!

These clips are part of a larger speaker interview series inside of Sought-After Speaker System, my course for speakers. Check out the full uncut interviews inside the course.

Want to become the kind of speaker event hosts are excited to put on stage? My Sought-After Speaker System shows you how to craft irresistible pitches, build relationships with organizers, and create signature talks that make you the obvious choice.

LEARN MORE

The Top 10 Speaker Tips from Event Hosts

Event hosts are getting more selective and more intentional.

With so many voices out there, the ones getting booked aren’t just the loudest. They’re the most aligned, the most prepared, and the most connected to the audience experience. If you’ve been wondering why your pitch isn’t landing, it might be because you’re skipping the human part.

These 10 tips aren’t just about strategy, they’re about showing up in a way that’s real, resonant, and ready to serve.

1. Don’t Skip the Video Application

Hosts want to see the real you. Your energy, your delivery, the way your face lights up when you talk about your topic, all of that matters just as much as your speaker sheet. Jamie and Heather emphasized how a video helps them see the heart behind your message.

2. Know the Audience You’re Speaking To

Your talk might be amazing, but if it’s not tailored to the specific needs of the event’s audience, it’s not going to land. Amanda Smith curates her speaker lineup based on what her people are actively struggling with and she chooses speakers who reflect those exact needs.

3. Be Someone the Host Wants to Learn From

This might sound simple, but it’s huge: hosts often create events they’d want to attend. Joanna Waterfall books speakers she’s personally excited to hear from. If your story resonates with her curiosity and passion, you’re in.

4. Be Expansive, Not Just Impressive

Your credentials are great, but how are you making the audience feel? Kristina Bartold looks for speakers who spark possibility. The kind of people who make the audience sit up, feel seen, and imagine what’s possible for themselves.

5. Skip the Fluff, Bring the How

Amber Housleymade it clear: her audience doesn’t just want to feel good, they want to leave with something they can use. Practical teaching, clear takeaways, and real action steps will always win over vague inspiration.

6. Help Create a Brave Space

Creating safety is just the starting point. Christina Olivarez wants speakers who help make the room brave—a space where women of color can be seen, celebrated, and supported in real ways.

7. Go Deep and Be Relatable

Forget polished perfection. Jordan Gill is all about speakers who are willing to go there. Vulnerability, depth, and authenticity are what make you memorable and magnetic.

8. Respect the Process (Even if You’re Invited)

Elizabeth Henson might personally invite you, but she still expects you to apply. Why? Because understanding the event’s mission and going through the same steps as everyone else shows respect and alignment.

9. Live Your Message

It’s not enough to speak about a topic, you have to embody it. Tomasha Suber shared that her attendees are watching you. Your social content, your offers, your presence—it all needs to reflect what you’re teaching.

10. Speak to What’s Real

Frances curates her events based on the day-to-day challenges her audience is facing. If your talk doesn’t feel real, it won’t connect. Show you understand what they’re going through and offer real solutions.

The Real Takeaway

There’s no formula to becoming a sought-after speaker, but there is a clear through-line in what event hosts value:

• Authenticity
• Depth
• Service
• Alignment

These 10 tips prove that getting booked isn’t about shouting the loudest. It’s about showing up with intention, clarity, and a heart to truly serve.

And if you want a step-by-step system to help you do just that—I’ve got you.

Want to become the kind of speaker event hosts are excited to put on stage? My Sought-After Speaker System shows you how to craft irresistible pitches, build relationships with organizers, and create signature talks that make you the obvious choice.

LEARN MORE

Mentioned in this Episode

The Sought-After Speaker System

Connect with the Guests

• Elizabeth Henson: elizabethhenson.co
• Jordan Gill: systemssavedme.com
• Amber Housley: amberhousley.com
• Kristina Bartold: highvibewomen.ca
• Joanna Waterfall: instagram.com/joannawaterfall
• Jamie & Heather: instagram.com/theconquercommunity
• Amanda Smith: dallasgirlgang.com
• Tomasha Suber: tomashasuber.com
• Christina Olivarez: thesocialbutterflygal.net
• Frances Ledgewood: ledgewoodfinestationery.com

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