Jess Pettitt: Comic. Emcee. Speaker

    Jess Pettitt helps organizations foster inclusion, authentic communication, and meaningful cultural change through humor, empathy, and actionable diversity strategies.

    Jess Pettitt - Image 02 (May 27, 2026)

    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:
      1. Foster more inclusive and empathetic workplace cultures.
      2. Improve communication around identity and equity.
      3. Empower individuals to create meaningful organizational change.
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Eureka, CA
    • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

    Talent Services

    Keynote Topics:

    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.

    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.

    Jess Pettitt is a leading keynote speaker, diversity and inclusion expert, and acclaimed author whose work challenges audiences to think critically, communicate authentically, and embrace their unique roles in creating a more inclusive world. With over 20 years of experience in facilitating conversations around equity, identity, and workplace dynamics, Jess brings a unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and actionable strategies to her presentations.

    Known for her engaging and relatable style, Jess is a sought-after speaker for organizations that want to foster meaningful dialogue, ignite cultural change, and empower individuals to take ownership of their impact.

    Jess’s career spans over two decades, during which she has facilitated thousands of workshops, keynotes, and training sessions for corporations, universities, and non-profits. Her clients include Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and government agencies, all seeking to build more inclusive and effective workplaces.

    As the author of Good Enough Now, Jess offers a fresh approach to personal and professional growth by encouraging individuals to embrace their imperfections and start where they are. Her book has been celebrated for its approachable style and practical insights, making it a go-to resource for leaders and teams looking to drive meaningful change.

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