John Bobb-Semple: Leadership Culture
John Bobb-Semple a culture strategist and bridge-builder who empowers leaders to transform DEI values into action and build inclusive, connected teams.
- Highlights:
- Culture specialist focused on activating DEI principles through leadership and lived experience
- Bridge-builder who works with leaders from divergent perspectives to foster mutual understanding and shared growth
- Executive role in community health and well-being via Pottawatomie Go (Pogo), Oklahoma’s Blue Zones initiative
- Formats:
Keynote (30–60 min), workshop, culture audit session, or panel contributor
- Audiences:
Senior leaders, HR & DEI practitioners, leadership teams, change agents, public sector and nonprofit organizations
- Outcomes:
- Learn how to translate ideal DEI language into concrete, everyday behaviors.
- Strengthen relational agility — bridging divides and building shared purpose across difference.
- Embed leadership habits that align identity, values, and culture for sustainable transformation.
- Travels from: Edmond, OK
- **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000
Keynote Topics
WHY IT MATTERS
The impact of the pandemic will be felt for generations worldwide. The current pace of change and ongoing cultural friction is creating an opportunity for difficult conversations around the virtual water cooler and our dinner tables.
These conversations can result in a desire to “cancel”, confront, or ignore those who see our world differently.
As professionals navigating the tensions between personal beliefs and experiences and company values, how can we lean in to make positive change in our workplace, families, and communities?
Session snippets include;
- Empathy does not require perfection; it requires authenticity and humility.
- Bridges don’t begin until there is nothing underneath them.
- On our road toward greater inclusion and diversity, we must remember that there is no change in shame.
SHAPING SOLUTIONS
John Bobb-Semple will provide internal and interpersonal tools that:
- Increase cultural awareness and understanding
- Encourage interpersonal growth in a diverse environment
- Build bridges to develop an inclusive organizational culture
Session snippets include:
- “Empathy does not require perfection; it requires authenticity and humility.”
- “Bridges don’t begin until there is nothing underneath them.”
- “On our road toward greater inclusion and diversity, we must remember that there is no change in shame.”
Talent Short Bio
John Bobb-Semple is a leadership and culture specialist whose work centers on translating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into sustainable organizational practice. As a “bridge builder,” he collaborates with executives and cross-sector teams to cultivate belonging, trust, and shared purpose. Represented by Hawks Agency, John guides organizations to activate their values, mentor emerging leaders, and close cultural divides.
He also serves as Executive Director of Pottawatomie Go (Pogo), Oklahoma’s first Blue Zones certified community initiative, where he drives health, well-being, and community impact locally while speaking nationally.
Read Full Bio
John Bobb-Semple is a changemaker who lives to build bridges, innovate, and inspire real impact. A sought-after communicator, John speaks on racial reconciliation, resilience, community engagement, culture and leadership development.
As a Keynote Speaker, John will ignite your passion to enact change.
John is an inspiring speaker who will give you a framework to activate your values, cultivate the leader within, and unify a community to make a difference. He will ignite you and your audience’s passion to enact change!
John leads Blue Zones Project of Pottawatomie County, a community-wide well-being improvement initiative helping to make healthy choices easier for everyone in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Before joining Blue Zones Project, having served as the Senior Director of Community Impact at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
John Bobb-Semple holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University Central Oklahoma, where today he serves on the Board of Trustees of the UCO Foundation.
Additionally, John Bobb-Semple serves on the DHS Council of Voices and Advancing Oklahoma: A Statewide Conversation on Race advisory committee. As a Keynote Speaker, John will ignite your passion to enact change.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
Talent Videos
John Bobb-Semple: Speaker Demo Reel: Building Bridges and Leading with Purpose
In this 2½-minute demo reel, culture strategist and bridge-builder John Bobb-Semple shares his powerful approach to inclusive leadership, purpose-driven connection, and authentic organizational change.
Read Summary & Key Moments
Summary
This dynamic speaker reel showcases John Bobb-Semple’s engaging delivery style and his ability to translate empathy and inclusion into action. The video blends keynote clips, interviews, and audience moments, illustrating his passion for bridging divides and helping leaders turn values into practice.
John opens by defining leadership as a relational act one rooted in trust, curiosity, and courage. Through vivid stories and approachable humor, he connects with audiences on themes of belonging, emotional intelligence, and culture transformation. He emphasizes that inclusion is not a checkbox, but a journey that requires intentional listening and shared accountability.
As the reel progresses, we see examples from his community work and corporate sessions, including initiatives through Blue Zones Project Pottawatomie County, where he has led programs to improve health, well-being, and connection. His message underscores that progress happens “one conversation at a time,” and that leaders who commit to empathy and openness create ripple effects far beyond their organizations.
The reel closes with John’s core insight: “Bridges aren’t built in theory — they’re built through relationships.” His authenticity, presence, and optimism make his message deeply resonant across business, community, and education audiences.
Key Moments
- 00:30 – 01:10: Defining leadership as connection and daily practice
- 01:10 – 01:50: Inclusion in action — empathy, trust, and belonging
- 01:50 – 02:20: Community leadership highlights — collaboration and courage
- 02:20 – 02:35: Closing reflection — building bridges through relationships
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
- (57)
Peter Vidmar stands as a testament to the heights that can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and excellence. As the highest-scoring American gymnast in Olympic history, Peter’s journey from a young enthusiast to a celebrated Olympic champion serves as an inspiring narrative for audiences worldwide. His core message emphasizes the principles of Risk, Originality, and […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Summer Olympians
- (65)
Sarah Schauer is a force of unfiltered humor and raw authenticity in the world of comedy. With a straightforward demeanor and a penchant for calling it like she sees it, Sarah has carved out a unique niche for herself in the digital realm as a self-proclaimed “Youtuber when I feel like it, Ex-Viner, and all […]
- Travels from: Greenville, SC
- Social Influencer
- (71)
Dr. Eric Thomas, affectionately known as “ET, The Hip Hop Preacher,” stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of motivational speaking. With a Ph.D. to his name, Dr. Thomas transcends traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending the roles of author, speaker, educator, pastor, and Audie Awards Finalist. His journey from adversity to triumph has captivated […]
- Travels from: Lansing, MI
- Motivational Speakers
- (31)
- (3)
Marian Bacol-Uba is a dynamic TEDx speaker, conscious business coach, and international bestselling author dedicated to empowering individuals to transform their lives. As the founder of Thriver Lifestyle, she guides entrepreneurs to embrace their power and thrive both personally and professionally. Marian’s journey from overcoming personal trauma to becoming a beacon of resilience and conscious […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Inspirational Speakers
- (33)
Alli Webb is the co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Drybar, the nation’s leading blow dry bar offering customers no hair cuts and no hair color, just professional blow outs at an affordable price. After leaving the hair care workforce in 2005 to start a family, Alli looked for an opportunity to continue pursuing the […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Business Speakers
- (27)
- (10)
Joshua M Evans is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and workplace culture expert, known for his energetic and engaging presentations that inspire organizations to create more purpose-driven, engaged teams. With over a decade of experience in corporate leadership and training, Joshua has transformed how businesses approach employee engagement, helping them build meaningful connections and drive […]
- Travels from: Houston, TX
- Generational Speakers
- (34)
Susan Feniger is a celebrated chef, author, and entrepreneur. Her professional collaboration with Mary Sue Milliken (CITY, Ciudad, Too Hot Tamales) has led to the groundbreaking Border Grill empire, with locations in Santa Monica, Downtown LA, LAX Airport Tom Bradley International Terminal, Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay, and a second outpost in Las Vegas at […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Chefs Speakers
- (38)
Country comedian Jerry Carroll harvests a bumper crop of high hilarity in his fast-paced, high-energy show about everyday life. His relatable topics crack up the most hard-to-please crowds. Jerry found comedy growing up on his family’s farm. For 20 years, he worked the farm before finally pursuing his life’s dream of entertaining people and making […]
- Travels from: Greensboro, NC
- Comedian Performers
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.