Jess Pettitt: Comic. Emcee. Speaker
Jess Pettitt helps organizations foster inclusion, authentic communication, and meaningful cultural change through humor, empathy, and actionable diversity strategies.
Quick Facts:
- Nationally recognized diversity and inclusion expert
- Keynote speaker and organizational consultant
- Author of Good Enough Now
- More than 20 years of facilitation experience
- Formats:
- Keynote speaker, DEI expert, facilitator, leadership trainer, and author
- Audiences:
- Corporate leaders, HR teams, educators, nonprofits, government agencies, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and organizational leadership programs.
- Outcomes:
- Foster more inclusive and empathetic workplace cultures.
- Improve communication around identity and equity.
- Empower individuals to create meaningful organizational change.
- Travels from: Eureka, CA
- **US Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Conversations That Matter Keynote
Let’s face it, there are people and topics that at some point are just off limits. You just can’t do it or them right now. Even worse, often it is a difficult topic that you have to bring up with a difficult person.
Learning Outcomes:
- Learn a 3 part framework or model for taking responsibility of how they show up.
- Develop skills for a significant and powerful (and free) method to change culture around difficult topics and see other’s as differently right.
- Utilize personal patterns to recognize them in others so we can leave room for edits in our stories.
- Personally recognize our “kryptonite” and how habitually it limits our behaviors, responses, and beliefs as well as fuels us to build momentum when we need it the most.
Good Enough Now Keynote
Sitting around pointing fingers and waiting for change to appear on the horizon—has it ever worked for you?
Do you feel imbalance between who you are and who you think you should be?
Do you see fulfillment, better relationships, and stronger teamwork as something to work for, but not possible now?
Learning Outcomes:
- Being true to yourself
- Building on your strengths
- Supporting others in their strengths
- Building better teams
- Serving others
- How to lead others better
Talent Short Bio
Jess Pettitt is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, diversity and inclusion expert, facilitator, and author known for helping organizations create more inclusive, empathetic, and effective workplace cultures. With more than 20 years of experience leading conversations around equity, identity, and organizational dynamics, Jess combines humor, vulnerability, and practical strategies to inspire meaningful change.
Jess is widely respected for her ability to translate complex and sensitive topics into approachable, actionable discussions that encourage honest reflection and authentic communication. Her engaging presentation style creates environments where audiences feel comfortable exploring challenging issues while developing practical tools for personal and organizational growth.
Drawing from her background in higher education, organizational consulting, and identity development, Jess brings a deep understanding of how personal experiences intersect with systemic workplace dynamics. Her work focuses on helping individuals recognize their influence, build empathy, and take ownership of their role in shaping inclusive cultures.
Videos
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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?
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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.
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- 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.