Bonnie Bernstein: Motivational Journalist
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Bonnie Bernstein is one of the most accomplished female sports broadcasters in history, bringing her experience and confidence from the spotlight to every stage she graces.
- Bonnie’s engaging presence and natural charisma make her a standout event host, setting the tone for memorable corporate events, galas, and conferences.
- With her background in interviewing top athletes, executives, and thought leaders, Bonnie is an expert at fostering collaboration, guiding discussions, and creating inclusive environments.
- Whether managing a live audience or virtual event, Bonnie brings the highest level of professionalism and poise to ensure seamless execution.
- Travels from: New York, NY
- **Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Team First: Compelling stories from the sidelines to inspire your workforce
What is the definition of a great leader? From Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson to Joe Torre and Derek Jeter to Bill Belichick and Tom Brady, Bonnie has covered some of the all-time greats in sport.
She shares her collection of stories from coaches and players about teamwork, communication and conquering obstacles, as well as on-the-job lessons gleaned from her days with ESPN and CBS Sports and as VP, Content and Brand Development, of Campus Insiders
Seizing Your Second Chance: Overcoming professional hurdles and personal crisis
Even in today’s world, there is public sentiment that women shouldn’t cover men’s sports. With 20 years invested in the industry, Bonnie has clearly proven the naysayers wrong!
In this presentation, she reflects on embracing skepticism as motivation to become one of the most accomplished women in sports broadcasting and tells her very personal story of the life-threatening illness that changed the course of her career and her priorities in life.
Additional Topic
My PhilosoP: A woman’s guide to achieving success in a man’s world
Glass ceilings are made to be shattered!
Hosting:
Event Host
As an event host, Bonnie Bernstein brings unmatched charisma and professionalism to the stage. With her background as an award-winning sports broadcaster, Bonnie has a unique ability to command attention and create a dynamic atmosphere.
She seamlessly blends energy, wit, and grace to ensure every event runs smoothly and keeps the audience engaged. Whether it’s a corporate gala, a charity fundraiser, or a major conference, Bonnie’s polished presence elevates the experience for attendees, making her a trusted choice for high-profile events.
Facilitator
In her role as a facilitator, Bonnie Bernstein excels at fostering collaboration and guiding productive discussions. Her years of experience moderating panels and conducting interviews with top athletes, executives, and thought leaders have honed her ability to ask insightful questions, navigate complex topics, and encourage meaningful participation.
Bonnie’s approachable demeanor and sharp communication skills ensure that every participant feels heard, helping organizations achieve their objectives while maintaining a positive and inclusive environment.
Moderator
As a seasoned moderator, Bonnie Bernstein is adept at steering conversations with poise and precision. Drawing from her extensive experience in journalism and broadcasting, she brings a deep understanding of how to manage diverse perspectives and keep discussions on track.
Whether leading panels on innovation, leadership, or industry-specific challenges, Bonnie’s thoughtful approach ensures that key messages are highlighted, debates remain engaging, and audience involvement is maximized. Her ability to balance professionalism with relatability makes her a standout choice for moderating panels and discussions of any scale.
Read Full Bio
Bonnie Bernstein is recognized by the American Sportscasters Association as one of the most accomplished female journalists in her field.
After spending 17 years covering some of the nations’ most prestigious sports events on-air for ESPN and CBS, she is now helping build a network both in front of and behind the camera.
Bernstein is the “face” and Vice President, Content and Brand Development, of Campus Insiders, a digital collaboration between IMG College, America`s premiere college sports marketing company, and Silver Chalice Ventures.
SCV is founded by Chicago White Sox and Bulls owner, Jerry Reinsdorf. Beginning in August, 2013, Bernstein will host a daily show during the college football season and NCAA Basketball Championship; her efforts elsewhere are focused on creating original programming for the network, developing the talent roster and securing corporate partners with the CI sales team.
Bonnie foray into the executive world comes after eight years with the ESPN family in a variety of roles. She hosted several high profile shows for “The Worldwide Leader,” including NFL Live, Outside the Lines, Jim Rome is Burning and First Take; seasoned her radio chops as host of New York Football Live on ESPN Radio in New York; canvassed the sidelines for Sunday Night Baseball and ESPN on ABC College Football; and continues to be a contributor for ESPN`s women`s platform, espnW.
Additionally, Bernstein is currently the lone female fill-in host for the nationally syndicated TV/radio program, The Dan Patrick Show.
Prior to her second run at “The Worldwide Leader in Sports,” Bernstein spent eight years at CBS, where she was the Lead Reporter for the NFL and the NCAA Men`s Basketball Championships.
Bonnie Bernstein contributed features for The NFL Today; hosted the NCAA Woman’s Gymnastics Championships as well as the Network`s Emmy-nominated anthology series, Championships of the NCAA; and anchored CBS` studio shows, SportsDesk and At the Half. Track and field, figure skating, and the U.S. Open Tennis Championships rounded out her assignments at the Network.
During Super Bowl XXXVIII, Bernstein became the first sideline reporter to serve as both a network TV (CBS) and network radio (Westwood One) correspondent on the same broadcast.
Bonnie Bernstein first joined ESPN in 1995 as its Chicago Bureau Chief, where she covered Michael Jordan and the Bulls` second historic “three-peat.” She also filed game reports and features for SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight, NFL Countdown and College GameDay.
In 1993, Bernstein made local television history at KRNV-TV in Reno, NV (NBC), as the “Biggest Little City`s” first-ever female weekday sports anchor. She began her television career at WMDT-TV (ABC) in Salisbury, MD, anchoring weekend news, and broke into broadcasting in radio as the News and Sports Director for WXJN-FM in Lewes, DE.
Outside of broadcasting, Bernstein is a passionate public health advocate. She is an Ambassador for ING KiDS Rock, a school-based youth fitness program, and Co-Chaired the Coalition supporting congressional passage of the National Foundation on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, which raises private funds for childhood obesity initiatives.
Additionally, Bonnie Bernstein is the Co-National Spokesperson for the Coalition to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis. Since surviving near-fatal blood clots in 2006, she has canvassed the country promoting DVT education and awareness and helped influence federal DVT legislation and a “call to action” issued by the U.S. Surgeon General.
Numerous publications have documented Bernstein`s work, including The New York Times, USA Today, Sports Illustrated and TV Guide and lifestyle magazines such as Glamour, Self, Men`s Health and Celebrity Living. In 2010, she received Pop Warner`s “Female Achievement Award” for serving as a positive role model for kids.
Bonnie Bernstein has been named one of New York Moves Magazine`s “Power Women” and Jewish Women International has included her on its “Ten Women to Watch” list, an exclusive group selected from the United States, Canada and Israel for their professional achievements.
She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Maryland`s prestigious Merrill College of Journalism. Bonnie Bernstein currently serves on the College`s Board of Visitors as well as the Advisory Board for the Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism.
While at College Park, Bernstein was a four-time Academic All-America selection (gymnastics) and received the Thomas M. Fields Award for academic and athletic excellence.
Bernstein was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and grew up in Howell, N.J. She presently resides in New York City.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Bonnie Bernstein
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
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.
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...
- (53)
Dr. Jessica Kriegel is a renowned workplace culture strategist, researcher, and speaker dedicated to transforming company cultures for business success. With a dynamic presence and an evidence-based approach, she has helped Fortune 100 companies, global brands, and industry leaders foster intentional cultures that drive performance, innovation, and employee engagement. Her expertise lies in decoding organizational […]
- Travels from: Sacramento, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (14)
Dr. Mark van Rijmenam is a globally recognized strategic futurist, keynote speaker, and thought leader on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the future of work. As an in-demand speaker, he equips organizations with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate digital disruption, drive innovation, and prepare for the rapidly changing technological landscape. His ability to translate […]
- Travels from: Sydney, NSW
- Futurists Speakers
- (60)
Sophia Amoruso is a visionary who redefined the e-commerce landscape and built a global brand from the ground up. As the founder of Nasty Gal and Girlboss, she has transformed the way women approach business, leadership, and personal growth. Her journey from selling vintage clothing on eBay to running a multi-million-dollar fashion empire is a […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Leadership Speakers
- (14)
- (3)
Meet Kristel Bauer, a distinguished corporate wellness expert and TEDx speaker whose mission is to facilitate transformative journeys towards enhanced happiness, success, and well-being for both individuals and companies alike. With a multifaceted background spanning Integrative Psychiatry, business acumen, and media proficiency, Kristel brings a unique blend of insights and strategies to empower, inspire, and […]
- Travels from: Chicago, IL
- Workplace Wellness
- (19)
Uri Levine is a globally recognized serial entrepreneur, tech visionary, and champion of problem-driven innovation who has dedicated his career to disrupting inefficient markets and creating large-scale value for consumers. Best known as the co-founder of Waze, the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, Uri helped build a platform that fundamentally changed how hundreds […]
- Travels from: Tel Aviv-Yafo
- Innovation Speakers
- (48)
Erica Baker is a Principal Group Engineering Manager at Microsoft. She is a former Senior Engineering Manager at Patreon, and Senior Engineer at Slack Technologies. She is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in tech, and expanding access to tech education. Erica’s career in tech began fifteen years ago doing domain administration for the University of Alaska Statewide […]
- Travels from: Oakland, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (19)
Jenn Lim is the bestselling author of Beyond Happiness, and the CEO of Delivering Happiness [DH], a company she and Tony Hsieh [the late CEO of Zappos.com] cofounded to create happier company cultures for a more profitable and sustainable approach to business. Delivering Happiness started as a book (New York Times and WSJ Bestseller, which sold one million copies worldwide) and […]
- Travels from: Oakland, CA
- Culture Speakers
- (28)
With years of experience in media and broadcasting, Juliette Vara is a seasoned emcee who brings unparalleled expertise to every event she hosts. From intimate charity gatherings to massive corporate conferences, Juliette has captivated audiences of all sizes, ensuring each event is memorable, engaging, and seamlessly executed. Juliette Vara | Professional Emcee Juliette Vara’s journey […]
- Travels from: Nashville, TN
- Event Emcee
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
