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

  • (45)
  • (6)
Kate Vitasek: Collaborative Culture

Kate Vitasek is a distinguished authority in collaborative business relationships, renowned for her pioneering work in transforming traditional business models into cooperative partnerships that drive innovation and mutual success. Her groundbreaking “Vested” business model has redefined how organizations approach outsourcing and strategic alliances, emphasizing a “What’s-in-it-for-We” philosophy that fosters shared value and long-term sustainability. Recognized […]

  • Travels from: Seattle, WA
  • Culture Speakers
  • (47)
Tom Goodwin - Image 07 (January 27, 2026)

Tom Goodwin is a dynamic and sought-after speaker who is at the forefront of innovation in marketing and artificial intelligence. With a career spanning over two decades, Tom has earned a reputation as a thought leader and visionary, constantly challenging the status quo and inspiring audiences around the world. His insights into the digital landscape […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (15)
Arlan Hamilton - Image 06 (March 10, 2026)

Arlan Hamilton is a trailblazing entrepreneur who defies the odds and inspires countless individuals with her remarkable journey. Rising from homelessness to becoming a prominent figure in the venture capital industry, she is the epitome of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in her vision. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Backstage Capital, Arlan has […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (63)
Joe Roberts

Joe Roberts, famously known as “The Skidrow CEO,” has one of the most powerful personal stories in the speaking world. His journey from living on the streets of Vancouver’s skid row to becoming a successful entrepreneur, author, and keynote speaker demonstrates a profound transformation of both character and circumstance. Joe has faced catastrophic failure firsthand, […]

  • Travels from: Vancouver, BC
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (27)
Linda Bernardi

Linda Bernardi is a trailblazer in the world of innovation, renowned for her unique vision and unwavering commitment to disrupting the status quo. As an “innovation provocateur,” Linda helps organizations break free from their comfort zones, challenge conventional wisdom, and shatter outdated paradigms. Her mission is to drive the creation of market-changing products, services, and […]

  • Travels from: Seattle, WA
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (67)
Adam Braun

Adam Braun is a distinguished figure renowned for his multifaceted expertise in professional upskilling, the future of work, and sustainability. As a New York Times bestselling author and prominent leader, he navigates the realms of entrepreneurship and philanthropy with unparalleled vision and impact. Currently serving as the CEO of Climate Club, Braun spearheads initiatives that […]

  • Travels from: Westport, CT
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (45)
Robert O’Neill - Robert O'Neill - Robert O Neill

Robert O Neill is one of the most highly decorated combat veterans of our time, renowned for his leadership, bravery, and resilience under pressure. A former Navy SEAL with a distinguished career spanning over 16 years, Robert’s exceptional contributions to national security have made him an iconic figure in military and leadership circles. Having served […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Military Speakers
  • (19)
  • (7)
mike lee

Mike Lee is a globally recognized keynote speaker, internationally sold author, and coach who shares high-performance leadership lessons from inside the hearts and minds of the NBA’s elite. With over 15 years of experience working with basketball’s top 1%, including NBA MVPs Steph Curry and Joel Embiid, Mike has cultivated a deep understanding of the […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Leadership 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.

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.