Kara Swisher: Speaker | Event Host

Kara Swisher is a leading tech journalist, bestselling author, and influential podcast host known for incisive reporting, unmatched industry access, and sharp analysis shaping global conversations on technology and power.

  • Highlights:
    • Host of On with Kara Swisher and co host of Pivot
    • Editor at large at New York Magazine and CNN contributor
    • Co founder of Recode and the Code Conference
    • Widely regarded as the most influential journalist covering Silicon Valley
    • Creator of Burn Book: A Tech Love Story (2024)
  • Formats:

    Keynote speaker, moderator, and technology journalist

  • Audiences:

    Tech conferences, business leaders, policy forums, media organizations, universities, and events seeking candid insight on technology, leadership, and the future of innovation.

  • Outcomes:
    1. Clear, informed analysis of the forces shaping the tech ecosystem and emerging AI landscape.
    2. Candid, high energy commentary that challenges assumptions and sparks meaningful dialogue.
    3. Deep context on industry history, leadership behavior, and the implications of digital power.
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • **Fee range: $75,001 - $100,000

Keynote Topics

Talent Short Bio

Kara Swisher is one of the most influential journalists in technology and a defining voice on the evolution of Silicon Valley, digital power, and the future of tech policy. Host of On with Kara Swisher, co host of the Pivot podcast, editor at large at New York Magazine, and a CNN contributor, she brings decades of frontline reporting and unparalleled access to the industry’s most consequential founders, executives, and innovators.

Swisher co founded Recode and the Code Conference, the country’s premier event on tech and media, after previously co producing and co hosting The Wall Street Journal’s D: All Things Digital series. She has interviewed leaders including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, and Ted Sarandos, shaping the public narrative around the commercial internet from its early days through today’s debates over platform power, misinformation, and the emergence of AI.

Named “Silicon Valley’s most feared but revered journalist,” Swisher has chronicled the tech industry since the early 1990s. Her forthcoming book, Burn Book: A Tech Love Story, blends memoir and reportage to examine the triumphs and failures of the internet era and the responsibility the industry holds as AI accelerates another global shift.

Kara Swisher is the host of On with Kara Swisher and co-host of the Pivot podcast. She’s editor-at-large at New York Magazine and a CNN contributor. Swisher is the co-founder of the technology website, Recode, and tech conference, Code, which is the country’s premier conference on tech and media.

Considered the top reporter in the tech game, Swisher has been reporting on the industry since the early 1990s. She was there when Amazon was looking for its first headquarters in Seattle, when Google was in its garage and when Netflix was just a small startup.

Once called “Silicon Valley’s most feared but revered journalist” by New York Magazine, Swisher has established herself as the oracle of the tech world with unrivaled access to the industry’s most significant leaders.

In 2024, Swisher will publish Burn Book: A Tech Love Story — part memoir, part history, and ultimately a witty, scathing, but fair accounting of the tech industry and its founders who wanted to change the world but broke it instead.

Burn Book includes soaring tales of innovation and brilliant entrepreneurs, as well as Silicon Valley’s much more complex history of striving, success, and failure. The book details how the commercial internet came into being and how, for all it has given the world, it now sits at the center of global power, creating a clear and present danger to humanity.

Yet despite the damage she chronicles, Kara Swisher remains optimistic about tech’s potential to help solve problems and not just create them. She calls upon the industry to make better, more thoughtful choices, even as a new set of powerful AI tools are poised to change the world yet again.

At its heart, this book is a love story to, for, and about tech from someone who knows it better than anyone. Kara Swisher is also the author of aol.com: How Steve Case Beat Bill Gates, Nailed the Netheads and Made Millions in the War for the Web, published by Times Business Books in July 1998. The sequel, There Must Be a Pony in Here Somewhere: The AOL Time Warner Debacle and the Quest for a Digital Future, was published in the fall of 2003 by Crown Business Books.

Kara Swisher was named to The Hollywood Reporter’s list of “Podcast Power Players” in 2022 and 2023, and to the 2023 Out 100.

She also received the “Pioneer Icon” award at the 2023 iHeart Podcast Awards. Additionally, Pivot was named one of the “Best Podcasts of 2022” by the New York Times and “Best Thought Leadership Podcast” at the 2022 Adweek Audio Awards.

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!

View further speakers

  • (53)
Maria Marin

Maria Marin is the leading motivational icon among Hispanics worldwide. Her message of motivation, personal growth and success reaches millions through her newspaper columns, best-selling books, international seminars and radio show. As a “life coach” she now reaches thousands of listeners with her national syndicated radio show, “El Show de Maria” on Univision Radio Network. […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (28)

Lili Gil Valletta is a distinguished authority in cultural intelligence and business transformation. As the co-founder and CEO of CIEN+, she has pioneered innovative strategies that help organizations harness the power of cultural diversity to drive growth and innovation. Her expertise and influence extend across various industries, making her a sought-after speaker for events focused […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (22)

DJ Pablo Bendr is an international music producer, DJ and pianist. His productions inhabit the terrain of melodic house, combining electronic dance elements with strong pop sensibility, featuring vocals from collaborating singers in the English and Spanish pop world. His songs currently rotate on several Top 40 radio stations across Chile, Argentina, Spain and California. […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Mobile DJ
  • (4)
Scott Dikkers

Scott Dikkers is a New York Times bestselling author, comedy writer, and comedian known for his innovative approach to both creativity and branding. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of comedy, earning global recognition for his leadership at The Onion and his ability to redefine comedy for modern […]

  • Travels from: Minneapolis, MN
  • Branding Speakers
  • (36)
Matt Mullenweg - Image 02 (January 29, 2026)

Matt Mullenweg, the visionary co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, has been a transformative force in the digital publishing world. His pioneering work in open-source web development has democratized online content creation, empowering millions globally. As a speaker, Matt captivates audiences with his insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and the future of work. Born on […]

  • Travels from: Houston, TX
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (23)
  • (1)
Eric McElvenny1-2

Eric McElvenny is more than just a speaker; he’s a living testament to resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. As a former Marine who served his country with valor, Eric’s journey took an unexpected turn when he was wounded in Afghanistan, resulting in the amputation of his right leg below the knee. […]

  • Travels from: Pittsburgh, PA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (59)

Sara Sutton, known as the “Queen of Remote Work,” has revolutionized the way professionals and companies view remote employment. With over 20 years of experience in the online job market industry, she has been a pioneering advocate for flexible work environments, long before they became a mainstream necessity. Sara’s leadership and vision have not only […]

  • Travels from: Boulder, CO
  • Organizational Skills
  • (11)
DJ MelBoogie

DJ MelBoogie is one of the country’s best-known female DJs. For 30 years, her roots have been deeply embedded in radio, both as a host, and mixshow format DJ. She has also hosted several events including Canadian Music Week, North By North East Indie Showcase, and has been a speaker/panelist at a variety of music […]

  • Travels from: Toronto, ON
  • Mobile DJ
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.