Sam Quinones: Investigative Journalist

    Sam Quinones

    Quick Facts:

    • Highlights:
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

    Talent Services

    Investigative journalist Sam Quinones is the best-selling author of Dreamland, the eye-opening chronicle of the causes underlying the American opioid crisis. Quinones’ work brought national attention to the topic, helping to breaking the silence and stigma surrounding the epidemic.

    Dreamland was honored as one of the best books of the year by Amazon.com, Slate.com, the Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, the Seattle Times, the Boston GlobeEntertainment Weekly, Audible, as well as the Wall Street Journal and .

    Quinones has been a reporter for over 30 years. He spent 10 years living and working as a freelance writer in Mexico, where he specialized on immigration, drug trafficking, and gangs. His first two books – True Tales From Another Mexico: The Lynch Mob, the Popsicle Kings, Chalino and the Bronx and Antonio’s Gun and Delfino’s Dream: True Tales of Mexican Migration – gave a voice to marginalized Mexican populations and are considered cult classics.

    Sam Quinones

    Quinones wrote for the LA Times for 10 years. He is currently back to freelancing and frequently contributes to National GeographicPacific Standard Magazine, the New York Times, and Los Angeles Magazine.

    Sam Quinones is a journalist, storyteller, former LA Times reporter, and author of three acclaimed books of narrative nonfiction.

    His most recent book is Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic by Bloomsbury Press.

    His career as a journalist has spanned almost 30 years. He lived for 10 years as a freelance writer in Mexico, where he wrote his first two books. In 2004, he returned to the United States to work for the L.A. Times, covering immigration, drug trafficking, neighborhood stories, and gangs.

    Contact us at Speakers Inc 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...

    Peter Diamandis - Image 08 (April 8, 2026)
    • (5 reviews)

      He helps leaders leverage innovation to solve global challenges and scale impact.

      • Business Innovation
      Jason O Harris - Image 09 (April 2, 2026)
          Leadership keynote speaker Lt. Col. Jason O Harris delivers military-tested strategies to build resilient teams, strengthen leadership, and drive performance in high-pressure environments.
          • Leadership Speaker
          Jeff Havens
              Business growth keynote speaker Jeff Havens blends humor with practical leadership and communication strategies to help organizations improve culture, engage teams, and navigate modern workplace challenges.
              • Generational Communication
              Julie Foudy - Image 02 (April 30, 2026)

                  She helps teams build trust, leadership and lasting impact.

                  • Soccer Legend
                  JP Pawliw-Fry - Image 06 (January 26, 2026)
                  • (4 reviews)
                    Leadership and performance expert JP Pawliw-Fry helps organizations excel under pressure by strengthening emotional intelligence, resilience, and decision-making when it matters most.
                    • High Performance
                    Kristen Brown - Image 03 (May 4, 2026)

                        She helps teams stay energized, resilient, and performing at their best.

                        • Expert Mindset Mastery
                        Emily Jaenson - Image 01 (January 27, 2026)
                            Sports leadership expert who builds confident, resilient teams with practical frameworks to develop authentic leaders, boost performance, and translate athletic lessons to corporate culture.
                            • Confident Leadership
                            Bjorn Heyerdahl - Image 02 (April 24, 2026)

                                Inspires purpose, resilience, and sustainability through exploration and leadership.

                                • Viking Environmentalist
                                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.

                                Speakers Inc.

                                Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

                                We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

                                Find the Perfect Speaker

                                Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

                                © 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.