Audie Cornish: CNN Correspondent

Journalist and keynote speaker Audie Cornish brings clarity, credibility, and deep insight into politics, culture, and current affairs shaped by decades at NPR and CNN.

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Former co-host of NPR’s All Things Considered
    • Veteran political and national affairs correspondent
    • Covered presidential elections, Congress, and major national crises
    • Interviewed cultural icons, policymakers, and leading authors
  • Formats: Journalist keynote speaker, moderator, media host
  • Audiences: Organizations, conferences, universities, and leaders seeking insight on media, politics, culture, and informed civic dialogue
  • Outcomes:
    1. Clearer understanding of today’s media and political landscape
    2. Insight into effective communication in polarized environments
    3. Perspective on journalism’s role in democracy and leadership
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • **Fee range: On Request

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

  • Interviewing and Intimacy – How to Break Through Vulnerabilities
  • Media Trends
  • Moderating Sessions

Talent Short Bio

Audie Cornish is a respected journalist, moderator, and keynote speaker known for her sharp analysis, thoughtful interviews, and trusted presence across major national news platforms. She first gained national recognition as a co-host of NPR’s flagship program All Things Considered, where she helped guide conversations on politics, culture, and breaking news for millions of listeners.

Audie began her journalism career at the Associated Press in Boston in 2001, reporting during the period surrounding the September 11 attacks. She later joined WBUR, where she covered defining stories including the Massachusetts same-sex marriage debate and the Catholic clergy abuse scandal. In 2005, she moved to NPR’s National Desk, reporting from Nashville on Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath and major developments across the Southeastern United States.

Her work later took her to NPR’s politics team and Capitol Hill, where she covered the 2008 presidential election, the rise of the Tea Party movement, healthcare reform, and economic policy following the Great Recession. Known for her versatility, Audie has interviewed a wide range of voices spanning entertainment, literature, and public policy.

Audie Cornish has become a recognized and trusted voice on the airwaves as co-host of NPR’s flagship news program, All Things Considered. Cornish’s career in journalism began at the Associated Press in Boston in 2001, just before the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

The following year, her love of radio brought her to Boston’s WBUR, where she reported on the legislative battle in Massachusetts over same-sex marriage, the Catholic clergy sex abuse scandal, and other major news. After joining NPR’s National Desk in 2005, she reported from Nashville, covering the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana and other news in the Southeastern United States.

Audie Cornish later joined the NPR politics team to covering the 2008 presidential race and the historic election of Barack Obama. She returned to Washington to cover Capitol Hill for NPR, reporting on Obamacare, the rise of the Tea Party movement and federal financial policy after the Great Recession in 2008 .

Her interview subjects have ranged from pop stars such as singer Maren Morris and actor Richard Gere, to political figures such as former First Lady Michele Obama and Senator Ben Sasse, to literary icons like Ta-Nehisi Coates.

Audie Cornish is based in CNN’s Washington, D.C. bureau. She lives in the Washington, D.C. area with her husband — fellow journalist and author Theo Emery — and two sons.

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...

  • (50)

Connie Podesta is a game-changing, idea-generating ball of fire whose rare blend of humor, substance, style and personality have made her one of the most memorable, in-demand speakers in the world today. 25 years. Two million people. 1000 organizations. Hall of Fame speaker. Award-winning author. Nine books. Former radio/TV personality. Human relations expert. Therapist for 30 years. […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (10)
  • (1)
Andrea Guendelman

Andrea Guendelman is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur who specializes in Expansive Leadership—helping individuals and organizations unlock potential through openness. She is a leading force in creating platforms for minority professionals and the tech industry. Through her own experiences as a Harvard-trained corporate lawyer and an entrepreneur, she co-created Bevisiblelatinx, Wallbreakers, and most recently, Speak – a […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (15)
Jim Knight

Jim Knight is a renowned keynote speaker, author, and training and development expert known for his expertise in helping organizations of all sizes achieve excellence and what he often refers to as “rock star” status. With a background in education and a passion for helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential, Jim Knight has […]

  • Travels from: Winter Garden, FL
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (58)

Ari Gunzburg learned about death early in life. He experienced a traumatic moment when only 10 years old, when his teacher passed away while on a hiking trip. This would affect his life deeply and change his perspective forever. Following the death of this teacher, there was trouble afoot at school for all of the […]

  • Travels from: Baltimore, MD
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (1)
BE BETTER THAN YOUR BS Risha Grant

After years of conversations and consultations, research and interviews regarding diversity & inclusion, Risha Grant has learnt that companies don’t have diversity problems; they have people problems. For too long, diversity has been blamed for loss of productivity, discrimination and a litany of other workplace faux pas, but diversity has never been the issue. It can’t […]

  • Travels from: Tulsa, OK
  • Diversity Speakers
  • (43)
Meredith Breitstein - Image 04 (January 23, 2026)

A 6-time award-winning keynote speaker Meredith Breitstein tours the world encouraging leaders to step into their destiny, walk through fear, and SHINE by finding their courage.  She specializes in helping teams, and her audiences speak up, stand out, and command a room with their presence.  After coaching thousands of leaders she has learned there are 5 steps all […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (56)
Lior Arussy

Lior Arussy stands as an eminent figure, revered worldwide for his profound insights into Customer Experience and Strategy Execution. A luminary in his field, Lior embodies the convergence of visionary thinking, consulting prowess, and an unyielding commitment to transformative change. With over two decades of experience, he has spearheaded over 200 corporate transformations globally, earning […]

  • Travels from: Trenton, NJ
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (12)
  • (3)
Eva Saha

Eva Saha stands at the forefront of professional hosting, renowned for her exceptional command of audiences both in person and virtually. With a career spanning multiple platforms, Eva’s journey to becoming a sought-after host, emcee, and moderator is marked by her innate warmth, commanding presence, and a natural ability to connect with diverse audiences. Eva’s […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Business Emcees
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.