Ken Okel: Motivational Speaker
Motivational keynote speaker Ken Okel leverages broadcast journalism experience to deliver creative leadership solutions that boost performance, engagement and everyday execution.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Former broadcast journalist at WPBF, WSPA, WSIL and KAET
- Covered major hurricane relief efforts
- Author of Stuck on Yellow
- Host of the 2 Minute Takeaway Podcast
- Formats: Motivational Keynote Speaker and Event Emcee
- Audiences: Corporate teams, associations, leadership conferences and organizations seeking stronger execution and creative problem solving.
- Outcomes:
- Practical tools to improve daily performance and execution
- Enhanced leadership and accountability skills
- Renewed engagement through interactive learning experiences
- Travels from: Fort Lauderdale, FL
- **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Accepting The Dare: Your Secret Weapon
Remember, as kids, when you could turn down a dare? Today, workplace challenges may offer you no choice. You have to respond and you need to be at the top of your game.
Busy leaders often find themselves defined by how they perform under pressure. In this keynote session, you’ll change the way you approach challenges, inspire your team, and create a path out of uncertainty.
You Will Learn:
- How top performers maximize their performance on the job.
- The question smart news reporters ask and how it can build your employee culture.
- The role communication plays with your team and your customers.
- What you should be celebrating during challenging times.
- What a ballerina knows about trust that can transform you and your organization.
- This session also includes Ken’s signature piece, The Police Dog Attack Story.
The Comeback: Thriving in Your Busy World
If you feel like you never have enough time to get your important work done, then you’re not alone. The problem isn’t competence but the fact that you don’t get enough time to perform what you do best.
In this engaging session, you will learn actionable strategies designed to end your struggle with the clock. It’s a mindset makeover that will give you back your edge.
You Will Learn:
- How to control distractions that steal your time.
- Understanding how newscasters embrace the challenges of daily deadlines.
- Maximizing your employees, even if it means waving goodbye to the good ones.
- How to avoid costly communication misunderstandings.
- The surprising role toilet paper plays in your ability to delegate.
- This session also includes Ken’s signature piece, The Police Dog Attack Story.
Talent Short Bio
Ken Okel is a motivational keynote speaker and former broadcast journalist who understands what it means to perform at a high level every day. Having worked in television news for stations including WPBF, WSPA, WSIL, KAET and the Cable Ace Award winning Fort Collins Evening News, Ken built his career around delivering under pressure, covering major events such as hurricanes Wilma, Frances and Jean.
Today, he channels that real world performance mindset into engaging leadership presentations for companies and associations. Known for his creative problem solving and relatable storytelling, Ken equips audiences with practical tools to overcome workplace challenges and transform professional performance.
He is the author of Stuck on Yellow and host of the 2 Minute Takeaway Podcast. Over the course of his career, he has marketed everything from global brands to a three legged kitten, reinforcing his ability to connect with diverse audiences and industries.
Read Full Bio
Ken Okel understands the importance of performing at a high level every day, having worked in broadcast news.
Today, as a motivational keynote speaker, audiences enjoy his creative solutions to their problems. (WPBF, WSPA, WSIL, KAET, and the Cable Ace Award Winning Fort Collins Evening News), hurricane relief (Wilma, Frances, and Jean), and professional ballet (not a typo).
Today, as a motivational keynote speaker, audiences enjoy his creative solutions to their problems.
Ken is the author of the book, Stuck on Yellow, hosts the 2 Minute Takeaway Podcast, and has marketed everything from global brands to a three-legged kitten.
Today people know about Ken Okel for his leadership presentations to companies and associations.
Audiences are engaged and entertained as they learn from his experiences and gain the tools necessary to transform their professional lives. Some enjoy taking part in Ken’s famous Paper Hat Exercise.
Ken continues to use his broadcasting skills in interviews, as a Master of Ceremonies, and in webinars. Ken is a Past President and two time Member of the Year of the Florida Speakers Association and a 15+ year member of the National Speakers Association.
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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?
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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