Riley Gaines: Women Empowerment

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Riley Gaines achieved remarkable success as a collegiate swimmer at the University of Kentucky, securing 12 All-American honors and establishing herself as a standout athlete.
    • With five Southeastern Conference titles under her belt, Riley demonstrated exceptional dedication and athletic prowess, making her one of the top female swimmers in her league.
    • Riley’s personal story, combined with her athletic achievements, makes her a compelling speaker on topics such as women’s empowerment, athletic equality, and integrity in sports.
Reading time: 4 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Nashville, TN
  • **Fee range: On Request

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

  • Stand Firm With Your Voice When Others Want You Silenced
     
  • Equal Recognition of Gender Differences in Athletics
     
  • Courage Begets Courage and There is Strength in Numbers

Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer and an outspoken advocate for women’s rights in sports, has made waves beyond the pool. A 12-time All-American swimmer with five SEC titles, she was a celebrated athlete at the University of Kentucky with a promising path to a career in dentistry.

Riley Gaines

However, her future took an unexpected turn after her experience competing against Lia Thomas, a biological male swimmer, at the 2022 NCAA Women’s Swimming Championship. That moment not only altered Riley’s life trajectory but also became the catalyst for her advocacy, pushing her to the forefront of the movement for preserving fair competition and female spaces in sports.

With personal experiences and a steadfast commitment to protecting women’s rights, Riley Gaines is now a sought-after keynote speaker, known for her unwavering voice on women’s empowerment, athletic equity, and courage to stand up against adversity.

Riley Gaines’ expertise in athletic competition and advocacy stems from both her extraordinary achievements and her direct encounters with the challenges faced by women in sports today. Her time at the University of Kentucky was marked by her dedication, resilience, and passion for excellence, earning her prestigious accolades including 12 All-American honors and five SEC titles. But it was her experience competing against a biological male athlete under controversial circumstances that solidified her resolve to stand up for female athletes.

This lived experience has provided Riley with a unique and authentic perspective on the issues facing women in sports today. She understands the struggles and mental tolls of navigating a landscape that sometimes undermines female athletes’ efforts, achievements, and rights. This background gives Riley a deep-rooted understanding of her subject, enhancing her ability to connect with audiences who share her concerns about equality, respect, and fair play.

As an advocate for maintaining fairness in women’s sports, Riley Gaines has emerged as an expert on the ethical and societal implications of allowing biological males to compete in female athletic categories. Her insight extends beyond sports, encompassing broader themes of women’s rights, safety, and the preservation of spaces designed specifically for women.

Riley Gaines’ experience extends beyond the swimming pool. Following her championship moment, she transitioned into a public advocacy role, speaking out courageously about the need for women’s rights in sports. Her experiences have prepared her well for this role: not only does she possess firsthand knowledge of the mental and physical demands of competitive sports, but she also understands the complexities and implications of today’s policy decisions on female athletes.

With experience speaking at various events, including major women’s empowerment conferences and athletic symposiums, Riley has established herself as a knowledgeable and persuasive voice for her cause. She has connected with audiences across the nation, sharing her story, her insights, and her conviction to protect spaces for female athletes.

In her speeches, Riley combines the expertise gained through years of elite athletic training with her powerful advocacy, emphasizing the necessity of fairness in competitive sports. Her experiences as a female athlete and her courage in facing public scrutiny make her not only an informed speaker but also an inspiration to women everywhere who strive to protect their spaces and their rights.

Riley Gaines stands as a powerful advocate for women’s rights in sports, bringing a unique blend of athletic excellence and unwavering commitment to the stage. Her firsthand experience as a champion swimmer who faced adversity has fueled her passion for protecting spaces for female athletes. Riley’s ability to speak with authenticity and conviction resonates deeply with audiences, making her a compelling keynote speaker who inspires action and awareness.

For event planners seeking an impactful speaker on women’s empowerment, athletic equality, and perseverance, Riley Gaines is an exceptional choice. Her story and her advocacy continue to make waves, inspiring audiences to take a stand for fairness and integrity. Through her partnership with Speakers Inc, Riley Gaines is accessible to those who seek to empower, inform, and inspire.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

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!

You may be interested in...

  • (27)
  • (13)
Allison Massari

Allison Massari, an extraordinary inspirational speaker hailing from the scenic town of Belvedere, California. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as she not only overcame unimaginable adversity but has dedicated her life to inspiring others through her compelling story and motivational insights. Allison’s life took a drastic turn in […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (49)
  • (1)
Matt Mayberry

Matt Mayberry is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker and a leading global expert in leadership development, culture change, and organizational performance. With a background as a former NFL linebacker for the Chicago Bears, Matt transformed his career from the football field to the business world. His ability to inspire and motivate both leaders and teams […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (11)
Anna Maria Chavez

The first woman of color to lead the iconic Girl Scouts of the USA in their 104-year-old history, Anna Maria Chávez is a renowned leadership expert who harnesses the power of technology and her passion for public service to transform organizations, earning her a place in U.S. News and World Report’s “STEM Leadership Hall of Fame” […]

  • Travels from: Trenton, NJ
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (31)
Dr. Paula Stone Williams - Image 08 (January 19, 2026)

Dr. Paula Stone Williams is an advocate and renowned globally for her tireless work in championing gender equity, LGBTQ rights, and religious tolerance. As a transgender woman, Paula brings a unique and invaluable perspective to her endeavors, shedding light on the profound disparities inherent in societal structures. A dynamic keynote speaker, Paula’s story of transition […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • LGBTQ Speakers
  • (51)
  • Featured
Kanya Sesser - Image 14 (January 23, 2026)

Kanya Sesser is an internationally recognized para-athlete, groundbreaking model, actress, and motivational speaker whose life epitomizes resilience and determination. Born without legs and abandoned as a baby in Thailand, Kanya overcame immense challenges to become a global symbol of empowerment. Her motto, “No legs, no limits,” captures her journey of defying expectations and inspiring others […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (33)
Dr. Lisa D. Jenkins

Dr. Lisa D Jenkins is a distinguished cultural strategist renowned for her expertise in cultivating environments of impactful cultural diversity within organizations. With a track record of excellence, she has garnered recognition as an award-winning professional speaker, empowering teams to thrive in multicultural settings. Lisa’s journey is enriched by her diverse background, including pivotal roles […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Diversity Speakers
  • (8)
Hannah Ubl

Meet Hannah Ubl, a dynamic force in the world of professional speaking, dedicated to transforming organizations into places where people thrive. With a passion for challenging traditional workplace norms, Hannah’s mission is clear: to create workplaces that don’t suck. As the Co-founder of Good Company Consulting, she brings a fresh perspective to the table, advocating […]

  • Travels from: Minneapolis, MN
  • Culture Speakers
  • (25)
  • (1)

Madeleine Black is a powerful keynote speaker, author, and advocate whose compelling journey of survival and resilience has transformed countless lives worldwide. Known for her courage in breaking the silence on sexual violence, Madeleine uses her story as a catalyst for change, inspiring audiences to confront trauma, embrace forgiveness, and foster understanding. Her work centers […]

  • Travels from: Edinburgh
  • Inspirational Speakers
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 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
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.