As the business landscape transforms, event themes and keynote speaker requests evolve with it. At Executive Speakers Bureau, we’re seeing some trends right on topics that resonate deeply with audiences and move beyond hype into action.

Here are four themes dominating client conversations right now:

1. AI in Business: From Buzzword to Boardroom

Artificial Intelligence is no longer optional – it’s a strategic imperative. Leaders want clarity on how to leverage AI without losing the human element. The most requested voices in this space combine technical knowledge with a practical, business-first approach.

Speakers to Watch:

  • Sol Rashidi – Former Chief Data & Analytics Officer at top Fortune brands, expert on turning AI into real-world ROI.
  • Zack Kass – Former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI, offering insider insight on generative AI’s direct impact on business and the marketplace.
  • Jonathan Brill – Futurist and renowned innovation strategist who helps companies see around the corner in their industry.
  • Shawn Kanungo – Known for bold, entertaining takes on disruption and digital transformation, along with showcasing real application.
  • Tiffani Bova – Former Global Growth & Innovation Evangelist at Salesforce who brings deep enterprise-level expertise.

2. Storytelling is the Superpower

Data informs, but stories inspire – and research shows stories are 22x more memorable than facts (Stanford). Today’s leaders want teams that can persuade, influence, and connect emotionally.

Speakers to Watch:

  • Brittany Hodak – Customer experience expert teaching how to turn your customers into lifelong advocates (“Superfans”).
  • Alex Banayan – Bestselling author of The Third Door, showing how to weave discovery and resilience into powerful narratives.
  • Louie Gravance – Former Disney storyteller, known for customer service magic.
  • Kindra Hall – One of the most trusted voices on the ROI of storytelling in sales and leadership.
  • Matthew Luhn – Pixar veteran who shows how to apply Hollywood storytelling to business challenges.

3. Mental Health & Digital Wellness

Burnout is at an all-time high – and organizations are realizing that resilience is now a business advantage. Leaders are asking for keynotes on digital wellness, mental stamina, and emotional health that translate into workplace impact.

Speakers to Watch:

  • Suneel Gupta – Mastering the link between energy, well-being, and performance.
  • Erik Qualman – Digital expert and wellness advocate showing teams how to manage today’s tech overload.
  • Sara Ross – Research-driven expert on emotional intelligence, energy management, and burnout recovery.
  • Shawn Achor – Global happiness researcher known for his work on “Positive Psychology,” offering tools for resilience and performance.
  • Ryan Campbell – Aviation survivor who speaks on the power of the joy-fueled resilience hidden in our hobbies, interests, and simple pleasures.

4. Purpose-Driven Leadership

Values aren’t soft skills—they’re business drivers. Employees and customers alike choose brands that lead with purpose, and organizations want speakers who can inspire alignment between mission and execution.

Speakers to Watch:

  • Sam Silverstein – Culture and accountability authority on values-driven leadership.
  • Adam Braun – Founder of Pencils of Promise, showing how purpose scales impact.
  • Seth Mattison – Future of work strategist helping organizations bridge culture, purpose, and performance.
  • Matthew Emerizian – Champion of workplace belonging and social impact.
  • Jenn Lim – NYT bestselling author on using happiness as a business model to increase productivity and profitability.

Final Takeaway

Speaker selection isn’t just about filling a time slot – it’s about shaping and aligning with the overall narrative of your event. These themes will continue to dominate conversations in 2025 and into 2026, and the right keynote can be the spark that moves your people from insight to action.

Ready to plan your next event? Contact Executive Speakers Bureau for a curated list of keynote speakers matched to your industry, budget, and goals.