Brian Wesbury: Economist

    • Highlights:
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Chicago, IL
    • **Fee range: On Request

    Keynote Topics

    The unemployment rate is rising, the auto and housing markets are in shambles. The government is bailing out banks, printing money with abandon and handing out billions in stimulus checks.

    But is the economy as bad as people think? Is a government rescue going to work? How long and deep will the recession be? Should we fear inflation or deflation? What about excess debt versus de-leveraging?

    Brian Wesbury, an internationally known economist, will address these questions and more in what should prove to be an entertaining and informative event.

    Wesbury shows that the future may be scary to ponder, but it will ultimately be profitable, globally and over the long haul.

    He reveals the real reasons behind the “Panic of 2008” and why it seems so much more severe than past crises.

    He uncovers a history of entrepreneurship that you should trust, as well as explains how a V-shaped recovery can take place and how wealth you had thought you lost can be found again.

    The traumatic economic upheaval of 2008 caused many analysts and investors to believe that any recovery would be fragile, short-lived and volatile. Instead, while the recovery has been relatively slow, it has been both persistent and consistent. Brian Wesbury, calls it a Plow Horse Economy.

    It’s not going to win any races, but it’s not going to keel over and die either. This recovery is not a new normal something different than we have seen before, but in fact is being driven by new technologies the same thing that has driven growth in the US for more than two centuries.

    This does not mean all is well. Large debt, big deficits, bad policy, high government spending and problems in Europe are all things to worry about. But, putting them in perspective is the key to successful investing and business management. Just maybe things aren’t as bad as you think.

    Brian Wesbury, a winner of the Wall Street Journal’s annual economic forecasting award, nationally acclaimed speaker and author will help navigate these confusing and volatile times.

    Brian Wesbury is Chief Economist at First Trust Advisors L.P., a financial services firm based in Wheaton, Illinois.

    Mr. Wesbury has been a member of the Academic Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago since 1999. In 2012, he was named a Fellow of the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, TX where he works closely with its 4%-Growth Project.

    His writing appears in various magazines, newspapers and blogs, and he appears regularly on Fox, Bloomberg, CNBC and BNN Canada TV.

    In 1995 and 1996, he served as Chief Economist for the Joint Economic Committee of the U.S. Congress. 

    The Wall Street Journal ranked Brian Wesbury the nation’s #1 U.S. economic forecaster in 2001, and USA Today ranked him as one of the nation’s top 10 forecasters in 2004.

    Brian Wesbury | Expert Economist

    Mr. Wesbury began his career in 1982 at the Harris Bank in Chicago. Former positions include Vice President and Economist for the Chicago Corporation and Senior Vice President and Chief Economist for Griffin, Kubik, Stephens, & Thompson.

    Mr. Wesbury received an M.B.A. from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management, and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Montana.

    McGraw-Hill published his first book, The New Era of Wealth, in October 1999. His most recent book, It’s Not As Bad As You Think, was published in November 2009 by John Wiley & Sons.

    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!

    View further speakers

    • (13)
    speakers inc

    Derek Ostovani, one of the nation’s top Corporate Magicians and Mentalists resides in San Diego, California, and has traveled across the country and internationally to share his unique art of performance and sleight of hand abilities. He has performed at theaters across the nation including The Magic Castle in Hollywood, The Chicago Magic Lounge, and […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Magicians
    • (34)
    Monica Sheri Scott

    Monica Sheri Scott is shaping environments where individuals are inspired to elevate their perspectives and align their daily practices for tangible progress. With nearly two decades of leadership experience, Monica has honed her expertise in mentoring leaders, cultivating teams, nurturing culture, and empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of both personal and professional realms. Monica […]

    • Travels from: Edmond, OK
    • Culture Speakers
    • (46)
    • (2)
    Bethany Hamilton

    Bethany Hamilton, a name synonymous with resilience and triumph, has captivated the world with her incredible journey of overcoming adversity. Best known for her remarkable story of survival and perseverance following a shark attack that left her with one arm, Bethany has transformed her personal challenges into a platform for motivating and inspiring others. As […]

    • Travels from: Hanalei, Hawaii
    • Inspirational Speakers
    • (26)
    Sara Dean - Image 02 (January 29, 2026)

    Sara Dean is not your average speaker. With over a decade of experience in leadership development, executive coaching, and organizational psychology, Sara brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her presentations. As the founder of a successful coaching consultancy, Sara has worked with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits alike, helping leaders at all […]

    • Travels from: Seattle, WA
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (22)
    Dr. Terence Keel - Image 06 (January 22, 2026)

    Terence Keel is more than a professor; he is a trailblazer in the realms of academia and social justice. As a Full Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), he holds a prestigious split appointment in the Department of African American Studies and the UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics. With an unwavering […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Diversity Speakers
    • (8)
    Julie Austin

    Julie Austin is an award-winning author, inventor, futurist, innovation speaker, and member of the World Future Society. She’s an internationally known thought leader on the topic of innovation, and CEO of the consulting firm Creative Innovation Group. She’s been an innovation keynote speaker for corporations such as Procter & Gamble, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Northrop Grumman, and […]

    • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
    • Futurists Speakers
    • (24)
    Melissa Majors

    In an ever-evolving world where businesses strive for excellence, leadership and innovation go hand in hand. Melissa Majors, an accomplished business leader, is a shining example of how education, innovation, and inclusion can be strategically woven together to drive success. Not only is she a prominent advocate for inclusion, but she is also the author […]

    • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (35)
    Joseph Teti

    Joseph Teti is a name synonymous with excellence and resilience in the realm of special operations. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Teti has emerged as a highly decorated combat veteran, renowned for his expertise and unwavering commitment to duty. From the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to other global hotspots, Teti’s journey exemplifies the […]

    • Travels from: Charlotte, NC
    • Military 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.

    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.