Dr. Abbie Maroño: Behavioral Scientist
When you work with Dr Abbie Marano, you operate at your highest level, build deeper trust, influence with precision, and deliver better results.
Quick Facts:
- One of the youngest known experts to have delivered behavioral science training to the US Secret Service, FBI, and INTERPOL.
- Recognized by the U.S. Department of State for extraordinary ability in behavioral science.
- Awarded one of Central Florida’s most influential young leaders
- Formats:
- Keynote Speaker | Psychology Expert | Leadership and Communication Specialist
- Audiences:
- Business leaders, executives, sales professionals, HR teams, educators, managers, and organizations seeking stronger communication, influence, and leadership effectiveness
- Outcomes:
- Understand the psychology behind decision-making and human behavior
- Learn practical techniques for building trust and influencing outcomes
- Improve communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills
- Travels from: Orlando, FL
- **US Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
SPEAKING & TRAINING TOPICS
Dr. Abbie’s work focuses on the human side of leadership, communication, and performance. Her topics include
- Building trust and credibility
- Nonverbal communication and presence
- Communication under pressure
- Navigating resistance and difficult conversations
- Reading the room accurately
- Ethical influence and cooperation
- Decision-making and emotional control
- Leadership, confidence, and composure
These topics can be delivered as high-impact keynotes for conferences, leadership retreats, executive offsites, sales meetings, and corporate events, or as interactive workshops and trainings for organizations that want deeper practical application.
The Trust Advantage: Using Nonverbal Communication to Build Credibility and Influence
Dr Abbie reveals how trust, credibility, and influence are shaped before words fully land.
Attendees will learn how to –
- Build trust and credibility through face, voice, body language, attention, and presence
- Understand the two questions people instinctively ask: “Can I trust you?” and “Can you deliver?”
- Recognize shifts in comfort, engagement, and resistance
- Read the room without relying on misleading body language myths
- Adapt communication in meetings, pitches, negotiations, and difficult conversations
The Hidden Half of Leadership, and How to Master It
Dr Abbie reveals the hidden half of leadership: staying composed, reading what is really happening, and responding effectively under pressure.
Attendees will learn how to –
- Regulate their own reactions before emotion overrides judgment
- Stay composed during conflict, feedback, negotiation, and high-stakes conversations
- Recognize shifts in emotion, engagement, and resistance in others
- Read what is happening beneath the surface of a difficult interaction
- Redirect conversations toward trust, cooperation, and better outcomes
Gaining the Upper Hand: The Art and Science of Ethical Influence
Dr Abbie teaches participants how to build trust, create cooperation, and influence ethically. In this interactive training, attendees learn a practical five-part framework based on core principles of human behavior, then apply it through realistic scenarios, guided exercises, and discussion.
Participants will learn how to –
- Build trust and cooperation more intentionally
- Understand the five core principles behind ethical influence
- Navigate resistance without increasing defensiveness
- Strengthen relationships in high-stakes conversations
- Improve communication, negotiation, and leadership outcomes
- Apply the framework immediately in real-world interactions
Trusted by federal agencies, global organizations, and senior leaders operating in high-stakes environments.
Talent Short Bio
Dr. Abbie Maroño is a behavioral scientist, keynote speaker and expert in trust, influence, persuasion and nonverbal communication. She translates complex psychological research into practical strategies that help leaders and teams better understand human behavior, communicate effectively and build stronger relationships.
After earning her PhD in Psychology, Abbie became a professor at 23. By 27, she had delivered behavioral science training to personnel from 29 U.S. federal agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Secret Service, as well as INTERPOL. Her expertise has also been recognized by the U.S. Department of State for extraordinary ability in behavioral science.
Today, Abbie works with organizations through keynote speaking, training and expert witness services. Her proprietary training, The Upper Hand, explores the behavioral science behind influence, persuasion, trust and nonverbal communication.
A TEDx speaker and widely featured media expert, Abbie has contributed behavioral insights to BBC News, Fox News, WIRED, Reuters, Forbes and Court TV. She has also been recognized among Central Florida’s 40 Under 40 and as an American Heart Association Leader of Impact.
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
Reviewers highlight Dr. Abbie as an outstanding presenter for professional audiences, praised for translating complex behavioral science into clear, evidence-based, practical insights. The session is described as highly engaging and received very positive feedback. No specific weaknesses or drawbacks are mentioned.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
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Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude travel and accommodation where required.