Shasta Nelson: Workplace Culture

Quick Facts:

Highlights:
  • Shasta Nelson is internationally recognized as a pioneer in social wellness and workplace friendship development. 
  • Nelson has written acclaimed books like Friendships Don’t Just Happen! and The Business of Friendship, establishing her as a trusted authority on friendship and social well-being.
  • Shasta developed the “Frientimacy Triangle” model, highlighting the essential components of connection: consistency, vulnerability, and positivity. 
  • Known for her relatable style and insightful content, Nelson captivates audiences, leaving them with practical tools and inspiration.

Formats:

Audiences:

Outcomes:
Reading time: 3 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Grass Valley, CA
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

ACCELERATING HIGH-TRUST, RESILIENT, AND REWARDING RELATIONSHIPS

Did you know that employees who have meaningful relationships at work are seven times more likely to be engaged in their jobs, take fewer sick days, collaborate more effectively, provide better customer service, and have higher loyalty to their companies? Belongingness is the #1 factor for employee satisfaction, and creating a culture of belonging is an effective solution for decreasing turnover and increasing employee fulfillment. 

In this dynamic and interactive program, social relationships expert and author of The Business of Friendship: Making the Most of Our Relationships Where We Spend Most of Our Time, Shasta Nelson provides a framework to evaluate belongingness within your teams and delivers practical tools to create and accelerate the high-trust and resilient relationships that boost employee productivity, retention, and profitability.
 
PERFECT FOR LEADERS & ORGANIZATIONS WHO WANT TO:

  • Increase employee retention, engagement, and collaboration​
  • Inspire and gift their employees with skills to improve their well-being and fulfillment at work and in their personal lives​
  • Create a culture of belonging

AUDIENCES WILL LEAVE WITH:

  • The latest research on how meaningful relationships at work impact employee engagement and retention​
  • The 3 requirements of all healthy relationships and how they establish a culture of belonging​
  • A framework to evaluate belongingness within your teams and identify areas of improvement to focus on for maximum impact​
  • Strategies to implement the 3 requirements in your company culture and accelerate high-trust and resilient relationships at work

WHY THE SUCCESSFUL LEADER IS THE CONNECTED LEADER

 We frequently talk about how lonely it is “at the top,” and yet we’ve almost resigned ourselves to believing that’s the way it has to be. Just as our team members need to have meaningful relationships at work to be more engaged and productive, our leaders need to feel connected and supported. The stats speak for themselves: 60 percent of CEOs say they’re lonely, and three-fourths of them say that it’s hurting their performance.

​But it doesn’t have to be this way—leaders who have supportive relationships at work are more resilient through crisis, communicate more effectively, and enjoy increased longevity and health. 

​In this fun and interactive program, social relationships expert and author of The Business of Friendship: Making the Most of Our Relationships Where We Spend Most of Our Time, Shasta Nelson delivers strategies to create and maintain the supportive relationships that your leaders need and addresses the biggest fears around boss-employee friendships, such as favoritism, confidentiality breaches, and more. 

PERFECT FOR LEADERS & ORGANIZATIONS WHO WANT TO:

  • Boost leadership performance, resilience, and job satisfaction​
  • Improve communication and trust between leaders and team members​
  • Ensure their leaders’ health and well-being by building better relationships professionally & socially
  • Combat potential favoritism, power imbalances, and confidentiality breaches arising out of boss-employee friendships

AUDIENCES WILL LEAVE WITH:

  • The latest research on how meaningful relationships at work impact leadership performance, resilience, and communication​
  • The 3 requirements of all healthy relationships and how they establish a culture of support and belonging​
  • Strategies to strengthen the 3 requirements and create the supportive relationships that will boost your leaders’ performance and job satisfaction​
  • Insight into addressing the biggest fears around boss-employee friendships, such as favoritism, power imbalances, confidentiality breaches, firing and/or reprimanding a friend, and more

THE SOCIAL SECRET TO A LONGER, HAPPIER LIFE

How many of us struggle to muster the energy to socialize with strangers or even with our closest friends? Making new friends or deepening our existing relationships is uncomfortable, awkward, and—at times—painful. But choosing to avoid social discomfort often leaves us feeling lonely, with over 61% of the United States and 73% of Gen Z-ers feeling lonely on a regular basis.

​The damage to our health, happiness, and longevity is devastating. Feeling disconnected is as harmful to our well-being as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, twice as harmful as being obese, and is the equivalent of being a lifelong alcoholic. So what’s the solution?

​In this energizing program packed with real-world research and inspiring stories, social relationships expert Shasta Nelson explores the #1 health factor more important than kale and treadmills and teaches us how we can enjoy long, connected lives.

PERFECT FOR:

  • Hospitals and other healthcare organizations who want to teach their communities and employees how to improve mental health through belongingness and human connection​​
  • Leaders and organizations who want to improve their employees’ health and well-being

AUDIENCES WILL LEAVE WITH:

  • The latest scientific discoveries on the devastating side effects of loneliness and the health benefits of belongingness​
  • A framework to reflect on and assess your social health, and identify which takeaway will make the biggest difference in fostering meaningful connection in your own life​
  • Healthy expectations of relationships and their discomforts, such as conflict, disappointment, and insecurities

THE 3 REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Did you know that over 60% of us feel lonely on a regular basis? With the constant connectivity of today’s world, it’s never been easier to meet people—but it’s never been harder to form meaningful relationships. The truth is, most of us aren’t lonely for more interaction, but rather for more intimacy, more support, and more depth. But how do we create these relationships we all want?

​In this energizing program packed with real-world research and inspiring stories, social relationships expert Shasta Nelson unlocks the secret to turning acquaintances and casual friendships into deep, supportive connections and reaching a level of trust that she calls “frientimacy.” 

PERFECT FOR:

  • Fundraising galas, nonprofit organizations, philanthropic foundations, client appreciation events, and community-focused events

AUDIENCES WILL LEAVE WITH:

  • The 3 requirements of all healthy relationships and how they work together to deepen our connections​
  • The ability to identify which of the 3 requirements need to be developed in your own relationships​
  • Tools to strengthen the 3 requirements and achieve the supportive relationships you’re craving

Shasta Nelson is a pioneering force in social relationship building, providing insights and guidance on how to cultivate meaningful connections in personal and professional life. With over a decade of experience in friendship development and workplace engagement, Nelson is renowned for her ability to help individuals and organizations understand the art and science of connection.

Through her work, she has demonstrated that strong relationships are foundational to personal fulfillment and workplace success. Nelson is a bestselling author, sought-after keynote speaker, and media contributor whose expertise empowers audiences to foster meaningful and trust-filled relationships.

Shasta Nelson

A pioneer in belongingness, Shasta Nelson is an in-demand keynote speaker, popular media resource and contributor to the Harvard Business Review, and author of three books in which she teaches how to build healthy relationships, including The Business of Friendship: Making the Most of the Relationships Where We Spend Most of Our Time.

For over 15 years, Shasta has been translating the science of human connection into actionable practices that lead to greater belonging in our communities and workplaces. Her expertise has activated organizations such as Google and LinkedIn to intentionally create and accelerate the high-trust and resilient relationships that lead to higher employee retention, engagement, and collaboration.

As a leading voice in social wellness, Shasta Nelson brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to her speaking engagements. She has authored several bestselling books on friendship, including Friendships Don’t Just Happen! and The Business of Friendship: Making the Most of Our Relationships Where We Spend Most of Our Time. Nelson’s work is backed by years of research, underscoring her understanding of the unique ways relationships impact both our personal lives and work environments.

In her extensive research and practice, she has developed and taught the “Frientimacy Triangle,” a proven framework that highlights the three essential qualities of healthy and supportive friendships: consistency, vulnerability, and positivity. Her expertise in this model, paired with her psychological insight into human connection, provides her with unique qualifications for discussing the value of connection in the workplace and beyond. Nelson has addressed audiences across multiple industries, helping individuals and teams improve collaboration, resilience, and job satisfaction through stronger interpersonal bonds.

Shasta Nelson is widely recognized as one of the top authorities in the field of friendship and relationship development. Her work has been featured in numerous prestigious outlets, including The New York Times, Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and Time, establishing her as a thought leader on the importance of social relationships for health and productivity. Nelson’s unique approach to social wellness has also led to her being featured as a guest expert on networks like CNN, NBC, and ABC, where she discusses the importance of building supportive and lasting connections.

As a speaker, Nelson’s authority shines through in her dynamic, relatable presentations, where she seamlessly combines science-backed data with real-world examples. Her academic background, paired with hands-on experience coaching companies and leaders on improving team dynamics, makes her a trusted figure in social relationship building. Event planners and audiences alike recognize her authority on the topic, often describing her as inspiring, insightful, and engaging.

Shasta Nelson’s expertise in social relationship building and friendship development has made her one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in her field. With a background grounded in research, a proven track record of success, and a genuine commitment to empowering others, Nelson helps audiences understand the critical role of meaningful relationships in both personal and professional success. Her presentations are tailored, engaging, and transformative, offering audiences a blueprint for fostering strong, supportive connections that enhance well-being and productivity.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Talent FAQ's

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

  • 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.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

Talent Resources

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more
Was this profile helpful?

You may be interested in...

  • (222)

Jason Silva is a multifaceted individual renowned for his captivating storytelling, visionary ideas, and dynamic presence both on screen and on stage. As an Emmy-nominated TV personality, filmmaker, and futurist, Jason has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide with his thought-provoking insights and impassioned delivery. About Jason Silva | Futurist Jason Silva’s journey into the […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Digital Speakers
  • (23)

Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut, is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and the senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. \ He received a BS from Columbia University, and MS degrees in mechanical engineering and in technology and policy, as well as a PhD in […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Business Speakers
  • (115)
Patricia Arquette

Actress, writer, and activist Patricia Arquette has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the realm of social advocacy. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Arquette has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades for her compelling portrayals on screen. From her Oscar-winning performance in “Boyhood” to her Emmy-winning role in “Medium,” she […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Empowerment Speakers
  • (20)
Nora Ali

Nora Ali is a dynamic event moderator and emcee, celebrated for her versatility, professionalism, and ability to create engaging and seamless experiences for audiences across the globe. With a strong background in journalism, business, and media, Nora brings a wealth of knowledge to every event she moderates, ensuring that panels, discussions, and keynote presentations run […]

  • Travels from: Manhattan, NY
  • Business Emcees
  • (14)
Steve Gutzler

Steve Gutzler is the President of Leadership Quest, a Seattle based Leadership Development company. Steve is a dynamic, highly sought after speaker who has delivered over 2500 presentations, to a who’s who list of clients including, Pandora Radio, Microsoft, Starbucks, Boeing, Cisco, Starwood Corporation, U.S. Security Administration, and Oxford Financial to name just a few. […]

  • Travels from: Seattle, WA
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • (87)
Gautam Mukunda

Gautam Mukunda is an internationally recognized expert in leadership and innovation. He often jokes that his life’s ambition is to have the world’s most confusing resume and that he’s most of the way there. He is a Research Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership. He is also the host of Nasdaq’s […]

  • Travels from: Boston, MA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (21)
Rebecca Walker

Rebecca Walker, a prominent figure in the literary world, a dedicated advocate for diversity, and a respected voice in the LGBTQ community. With a compelling blend of personal experience, intellectual insight, and a commitment to social change, Rebecca Walker captivates audiences worldwide as both an author and a keynote speaker. About Rebecca Walker: Rebecca Walker […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Diversity Speakers
  • (19)
Dr. Brian Glibkowski

Dr. Brian Glibkowski is a pioneering force in the realm of business communication, best known as the creator of Answer Intelligence (AQ)™. His groundbreaking work on the role of questions and answers in business and society has revolutionized how leaders, teams, and organizations approach problem-solving, decision-making, and strategy formulation. With a passion for enhancing communication […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Emotional Intelligence
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel

Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.