Melinda Briana Epler: Business Innovation

    • Highlights:
    Reading time: 1 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
    • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

    Keynote Topics

    Based on Melinda Briana Epler popular TED talk, this workshop provides actionable steps anyone can take to be a better ally and advocate for underrepresented people in the workplace. A roadmap for all of us to lead with empathy and become better allies for each other.

    In order to build empathy and understanding, we discuss some experiences colleagues might be going through, such as tokenism, impostor syndrome, stereotype threat, biases, microaggressions, harassment, bullying, marginalization and systemic inequities.

    Then we’ll focus on solutions: learning ways to avoid unintentionally offending or harming people, identifying key biases and microaggressions and their effects, developing a deeper understanding of allyship and empathy, hearing several examples of allyship and advocacy, and committing to tangible, actionable steps to be a better ally and advocate for underrepresented people in the workplace.

    In this session, Melinda Briana Epler works with team managers, executives or groups to create more inclusive teams.

    We discuss methods for creating welcoming team environments; building psychological safety; engaging colleagues through opportunities, processes and programs; retaining team members through transparency and authenticity, growth opportunities, and pathways for professional development; and creating a culture where everyone is valued for their unique experience and expertise and feels they belong.

    We walk through some key inclusive leadership skills, share best practices for modeling DEI for your team, as well as strategies for holding individuals accountable for building an inclusive team together, and we leave time to work through questions and troubleshoot key blockers for leaders.

    Melinda Briana Epler has over 25 years of experience developing business innovation and inclusion strategies for startups, Fortune 500 companies, and global NGOs.

    As CEO of Change Catalyst, Melinda currently works with the tech industry to solve diversity and inclusion together. Using her background in storytelling and large-scale culture change,

    She is a strategic advisor for tech companies, tech hubs, and governments around the world.

    Melinda co-leads a series of global solutions-focused conferences called Tech Inclusion, where she has partnered with over 450 tech companies and community organizations and hosted 43 solutions-focused diversity and inclusion events around the world.

    Melinda Briana Epler

    Previously, Melinda was a Marketing and Culture Executive and award-winning documentary filmmaker – her film and television work includes projects that exposed the AIDS crisis in South Africa, explored women’s rights in Turkey, and prepared communities for the effects of climate change.

    She has worked on several television shows, including NBC’s The West Wing.

    Melinda Briana Epler is a TED speaker. She speaks, mentors and writes about diversity and inclusion in tech, allyship, social entrepreneurship, underrepresented entrepreneurs and investing.

    Spoken on hundreds of stages around the world, including SXSW, Grace Hopper, Wisdom 2.0, the World Bank, Obama White House, Clinton Foundation, Black Enterprise, Google, Indeed, Capital One and McKinsey.

    Contact us at Speakers Inc 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

    • (56)
    Chef Stephanie Izard - Image 06 (January 20, 2026)

    Chef Stephanie Izard is a culinary force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. With her innovative approach to cooking and an impressive list of accolades, she has earned a well-deserved reputation as a talented and influential chef. Her journey in the world of gastronomy has been marked by creativity, hard work, and a […]

    • Travels from: Chicago, IL
    • Chefs Speakers
    • (9)
    Linda Edgecombe

    Linda Edgecombe is a change and leadership expert, Hall of Fame speaker, award-winning celebrity humorist, award-winning philanthropist, and bestselling author. With 30+ years of experience, Linda’s mission is to get people fired up and ready to shift! She passionately promises to deliver programs that create powerful shifts for inspired, energized and accountable professionals who show up everyday […]

    • Travels from: Kelowna, BC
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (16)
    Kevin L McCrudden - Image 08 (April 7, 2026)

    After 20 years in the personal and professional development space, Kevin L McCrudden is better known as “Mr. Motivation and America’s CMO – Chief Motivation Officer.” Kevin L McCrudden is an international author, speaker and the only motivational and leadership speaker in American history to ever have a day of recognition passed by The United […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (24)
    • (3)
    Helena Cantrall - Image 02 (March 17, 2026)

    Helena Cantrall is a dynamic and accomplished event host and emcee, known for her magnetic personality and seamless ability to captivate audiences across various event formats. With a rich background in entertainment, public speaking, and event management, Helena brings energy, professionalism, and a unique blend of warmth and charisma to every stage she graces. Fluent […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Event Emcee
    • (5)

    Ryann Richardson is a tech marketer-turned-founder and Diversity & Inclusion leader spent 10 years building brands then made history when she became the 50th Anniversary Miss Black America Her work earned her a spot as the youngest honoree on Savoy Magazine’s list of Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America and set her on the […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (11)
    Brent Gleeson - Image 10 (January 27, 2026)

    Brent Gleeson is a distinguished individual whose multifaceted career spans military service, entrepreneurship, literature, and public speaking. As a former Navy SEAL combat veteran, he brings a unique blend of leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking to the forefront. Gleeson’s journey from the rigors of military life to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship is a testament […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (41)
    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
    • (28)
    Dr. Patty Malone

    Dr. Patty Malone stands as an expert and authority in workplace communication, dedicated to facilitating organizations in achieving profound results, heightened productivity, and enhanced profitability through the conduit of clear and effective communication. In a landscape where miscommunication and misunderstanding drain companies of an astounding $37 billion annually, Dr. Malone’s commitment to fostering productive communication […]

    • Travels from: Fullerton, CA
    • Communication 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.