Maurice Ashley: Chess Grandmaster
- Highlights:
- First African-American Chess Grandmaster, Analyst, Commentator and Emcee
- Made history in 1999 when he became the first African-American chess grandmaster
- Provides dynamic live tournament coverage of world-class chess competitions and matches
- Shares how chess principles and strategies can be applied to improve business practices and assist with personal growth
- Travels from: New York, NY
- **Fee range: $20,001 - $35,000
Keynote Topics
Seeing from a different point of view:
Chess is often known as a thinking game. In order to beat your opponent, you must step into their shoes and think about how they would think.
In Maurice’s session, he will show you how to transfer the chess move thought process and adapt that same way of thinking into your own business and life.
This fascinating session will help get your brain thinking in ways you never expected to use.
The difference between the excellent and the exceptional
Though most people are satisfied with aspiring to mastery, chess players aim beyond the merely excellent and seek the level of the highly exceptional.
In this session, allow a world-renowned chess Grandmaster to show you the powerful keys to taking your business and your life into the rarified air that many desire but few ever achieve.
Making great decisions:
The decision-making process is central to the design and execution of anything. Chess as a guide to the decision making process.
Chess-based guidelines on improving your position that will increase the possibility of success by:
- Weighing the possibilities and possible outcomes
- Prioritizing
- Looking for opportunities and knowing when to stop
- Using the power of intuition
- Making the most of your strengths
Read Full Bio
Maurice Ashley made history in 1999 when he became the first African-American chess grandmaster. He is a three-time national championship coach, author of Chess for Success: Using an Old Game to Build New Strengths in Children and Teens, ESPN commentator, iPhone app designer, puzzle inventor, and motivational speaker.
Maurice is well known for providing dynamic live tournament coverage of world-class chess competitions and matches. His high-energy, unapologetic, and irreverent commentary combines Brooklyn street smarts with professional ESPN-style sports analysis. He has covered every class of elite event, including the World Chess Championships, the US Chess Championships, the Grand Chess Tour, and the legendary “man vs. machine” matches between Garry Kasparov and IBM’s Deep Blue.
Maurice Ashley | Motivational Speaker
Traveling the world as an ardent spokesperson for the many character-building effects of chess, Maurice shares how chess principles and strategies can be applied to improve business practices and assist with personal growth. Maurice also acts as a master of ceremonies and inspirational speaker at business conferences and high-class chess events.
Maurice Ashley has received multiple community service awards from city governments, universities, and community groups for his work. In recognition of his immense contribution to the game, he was inducted into the US Chess Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Brooklyn Technical High School Hall of Fame in 2018.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
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
- (11)
Doc Hendley is the founder and president of Wine to Water, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing clean water to communities in need around the world, Doc has transformed the lives of countless individuals. His journey from a small-town bartender to a global humanitarian leader is both inspiring and humbling, demonstrating the profound impact one […]
- Travels from: Boone, NC
- Humanitarian Speakers
- (51)
Ishmael Beah, a globally renowned humanitarian, author, and advocate for child rights, stands as a beacon of resilience, hope, and perseverance. As a former child soldier from Sierra Leone, Beah has transformed his traumatic experiences into powerful messages that inspire, uplift, and call for change. His profound journey, chronicled in his best-selling memoir A Long […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Inspirational Speakers
- (35)
Dr. Robert Cialdini seminal work has unraveled the underlying principles that drive human behavior, offering invaluable tools for those seeking to master the dynamics of influence. Through his compelling presentations, Dr. Cialdini illuminates the pathways to achieving desired outcomes by ethically applying the principles of persuasion. Dr. Robert Cialdini’s academic journey began with a Bachelor […]
- Travels from: Phoenix, AZ
- Negotiation Speakers
- (52)
Jackie Kallen, renowned as “The First Lady of Boxing,” has shattered glass ceilings in the male-dominated world of professional boxing. Her journey from a show business journalist to one of the sport’s most successful managers is a testament to her resilience, vision, and unwavering determination. Kallen’s story not only highlights her significant contributions to boxing […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Motivational Speakers
- (9)
Bubble Sphere is great for a space that has a pool or body of water that is not being utilized at your event. The performer will amaze the audience with contortion, light shows, and costumes this act can also be used on the ground for a snow globe-like effect. Step into a world of enchantment […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Water Performers
- (42)
Brett King is a world-renowned futurist and speaker, recognized for his profound insights into the future of business, technology, and society. As an International Bestselling Author and media personality, King has captivated audiences worldwide with his compelling narratives on the digital revolution and its implications. King’s illustrious career is marked by his relentless pursuit of […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Artificial Intelligence
- (28)
- (4)
Shane Snow is a renowned keynote speaker, celebrated author, and esteemed entrepreneur whose expertise in high performance, culture, and teamwork has transformed organizations worldwide. As the co-founder of the content technology company Contently and an acclaimed journalist, Shane’s insights into the dynamics of collaboration and innovation have positioned him as a thought leader in today’s […]
- Travels from: Chicago, IL
- Human Values
- (17)
- (1)
Madeleine Black is a powerful keynote speaker, author, and advocate whose compelling journey of survival and resilience has transformed countless lives worldwide. Known for her courage in breaking the silence on sexual violence, Madeleine uses her story as a catalyst for change, inspiring audiences to confront trauma, embrace forgiveness, and foster understanding. Her work centers […]
- Travels from: Edinburgh
- Inspirational 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.
