Cal Fussman: Leadership Storyteller
- Highlights:
- Cal turns his experiences with the icons into takeaways that every person can use in their work.
- Audiences will walk away understanding how Richard Branson leads, how Kobe Bryant overcomes fear, how George Clooney taps into creativity and how Larry King builds connection.
- Cal will customize lessons to the theme of your event so that each person in the audience is empowered with tools that can be used in their own work and life.
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- **Fee range: $35,001 - $50,000
Keynote Topics
What's Your Story?
In this age of information overload, only stories cut through the static and grasp attention.
Cal teaches techniques that can help both individuals and companies tell their stories in a way that stands out — and he does so through unforgettable stories of his interviews with the icons who’ve shaped history over the last half century.
Read Full Bio
For over four decades, Cal Fussman has interviewed hundreds of the world’s most influential individuals: Muhammad Ali, Jack Welch, Mikhail Gorbachev, Serena Williams, Jeff Bezos, Jimmy Carter, Kobe Bryant, Richard Branson, and the list goes on.
Now, as a New York Times bestselling author, keynote speaker, world-renowned interviewer, and host of the Big Questions podcast, Fussman travels the world teaching the world’s largest companies, universities, and associations about leadership, storytelling, innovation, teamwork, and more.
When Cal speaks, you’re listening to everyone he’s ever interviewed. Lessons and stories from hundreds of world icons, all coming through one man in a fedora.
Over the past several years, Cal Fussman has delivered keynotes for industry leading organizations including General Motors, Facebook, Pixar, Twitter, The Vanguard Group, Apple Music, Snapchat, Samsung, Turner Broadcasting, Vans, Lululemon, YPO, and Entrepreneur’s Organization; universities like UCLA and Georgetown; and at conferences as far as South Africa and Kenya.
After Cal spoke at Facebook, Chris Sanders in Global Marketing Solutions said: “We literally have people using the term, ‘Cal Question.’ He has become a part of our culture.”
Born in Brooklyn, Fussman spent ten straight years traveling the world, swimming over 18-foot tiger sharks, rolling around with mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and searching for gold in the Amazon.
He boxed against then-undefeated world champion Julio Cesar Chavez, won a James Beard award and served as sommelier atop of the World Trade Center.
He now lives with his wife—whom he met while on his quest to discover the world’s most beautiful beach—and his three children in Los Angeles, where he spends every morning eating breakfast with Larry King.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Cal Fussman
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!
View further speakers
- (21)
- (7)
As the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at The Walt Disney Company, Duncan Wardle is a globally recognized expert in creative leadership and innovation. His extensive experience at one of the world’s most iconic brands has earned him a reputation as a thought leader in fostering a culture of innovation, design thinking, and disruptive […]
- Travels from: Orlando, FL
- Innovation Speakers
- (20)
Kina Hart’s professional journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to workplace safety. The day that changed her life began unremarkably, much like any other workday. Yet, what unfolded was an unexpected workplace accident that left an indelible mark on her life. Now, Kina channels her experience into a potent message […]
- Travels from: Ione, WA
- Safety Speakers
- (35)
Anthony Trucks is not your average motivational speaker. With a remarkable journey that encapsulates resilience, determination, and the power of identity transformation, he has captivated audiences worldwide. From his humble beginnings in the foster care system to the pinnacle of professional football and beyond, Trucks’ story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to […]
- Travels from: Antioch, CA
- Motivational Speakers
- (25)
Dr. Amy Cuddy, a renowned Social Psychologist, Award-Winning Harvard Lecturer, and Bestselling Author. Dr. Cuddy is a dynamic and influential speaker, celebrated for her groundbreaking research on nonverbal communication, power dynamics, and the science behind personal transformation. Event planners seeking to elevate their next event should consider booking Dr. Amy Cuddy through Speakers Inc for […]
- Travels from: Venice, CA
- Healthcare Speakers
- (51)
Rawi Abdelal is recognized as one of the world’s foremost authorities on how globalization and geopolitics affect businesses, economies, supply chains and social structures Herbert F. Johnson Professor of International Management at Harvard Business School, faculty co-chair of the Bloomberg-Harvard City Leadership Initiative and faculty chair of the Harvard Business School/YPO Presidents’ Program Work focuses […]
- Travels from: Cambridge, MA
- Political Speakers
- (17)
Marc Porat is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience driving innovation in the tech industry. He is best known for developing the concept of “The Information Economy” and cofounding General Magic, the iconic Apple spin-off that pioneered the first smartphones and intelligent agents. In his presentations, Marc shares his AI strategic vision […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Futurists Speakers
- (34)
Leah Busque Solivan is not just a speaker; she’s a visionary entrepreneur who has redefined the way we approach productivity and task management. As the founder of TaskRabbit, she revolutionized the gig economy, empowering individuals to outsource errands and tasks with ease. Leah’s journey from a software engineer at IBM to a pioneering businesswoman showcases […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- STEM Speakers
- (32)
- (3)
In 1995, Mercedes Ramirez Johnson narrowly survived a commercial airplane crash that killed 160 people, including her parents. As one of only four survivors of this tragedy, she vowed that she would make her second chance at life count…and that she has – not only for herself, but also for the tens of thousands of […]
- Travels from: Dallas, TX
- Hispanic Speakers
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.