Top 18 Marketing Speakers You Need to Hear in 2026
The best thing a skilled marketing speaker can offer is something you haven't heard before. Their expertise usually stems from operating in a different context, or solving a range of problems, or learnings from their time in the industry.
The pressure to stay relevant while delivering results can leave little room to think beyond the next campaign. And, even as a marketing leader, sometimes you need to hear a new take on positioning and strategy to help you feel like you can take on the world.
The speakers on this list have built brands from scratch, led global campaigns, navigated acquisitions, and found ways to grow in challenging markets.
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These 20 speakers will give you ways to think differently about brand, growth, and industry direction. While some are keynote veterans, others are practitioners who've built and now scale what they now teach. And, they are all worthy of your attention.
If you're putting together a conference program, or just want to get a read for people speaking to the real challenges of modern marketing leadership, you'll find notable recommendations here.
Best Marketing Speakers in 2026
Liza Adams
Liza Adams is an AI strategist and fractional CMO with over 20 years of experience in B2B marketing, having worked with major tech companies like Smartsheet and Juniper Networks. She focuses on
…Liza Adams is an AI strategist and fractional CMO with over 20 years of experience in B2B marketing, having worked with major tech companies like Smartsheet and Juniper Networks. She focuses on using AI as a strategic partner in marketing, rather than just a tool for content generation.
Liza developed the GRACE framework to guide marketers in engaging effectively with AI, emphasizing predictive analysis and strategic planning. Recognized as a thought leader in AI, she advocates for diversity and inclusion, highlighting the importance of human judgment alongside AI’s analytical capabilities. Her unique approach makes her a valuable voice among marketing speakers, especially for CMOs and marketing leaders interested in integrating AI into their strategies.
“Your clients' questions are changing quickly. They've moved on from how to adopt AI to what new ways of working AI makes possible.”
Jay Acunzo
Jay Acunzo is a seasoned storytelling consultant and speaker with over 20 years of experience in B2B storytelling and content marketing, having held leadership roles at Google and HubSpot. He specializes in
…Jay Acunzo is a seasoned storytelling consultant and speaker with over 20 years of experience in B2B storytelling and content marketing, having held leadership roles at Google and HubSpot. He specializes in transforming experts into influential thought leaders by focusing on impactful intellectual property rather than just content production. Acunzo is known for his book Break the Wheel, which critiques conventional industry advice, and his collaborations with brands like Mailchimp and Salesforce. His approach enhances public speaking skills and clarifies messaging, aiming to resonate more deeply with audiences.
“Don’t market more. Matter more. When you matter more, you need to shout less.”
Andy Crestodina
Andy Crestodina is a co-founder and the Chief Marketing Officer of Orbit Media, a leading digital agency based in Chicago. With over 20 years of experience, Andy specializes in content marketing, SEO,
…Andy Crestodina is a co-founder and the Chief Marketing Officer of Orbit Media, a leading digital agency based in Chicago. With over 20 years of experience, Andy specializes in content marketing, SEO, and analytics, providing strategic guidance to more than a thousand businesses. His expertise is underscored by his authorship of “Content Chemistry,” a widely respected book in the industry. As a top-rated speaker at major conferences, Andy is known for his engaging style and ability to demystify complex marketing concepts. His sessions offer actionable insights, making him an invaluable resource for any marketing leader looking to elevate their strategies.
“Sometimes, starting a company is easier than finding a job.”
Pam Didner
Pam Didner is a seasoned expert in B2B marketing strategy, strategic planning, sales and marketing alignment, and content marketing. She’s renowned for her work with Fortune 500s and high-growth tech firms (Cisco,
…Pam Didner is a seasoned expert in B2B marketing strategy, strategic planning, sales and marketing alignment, and content marketing. She’s renowned for her work with Fortune 500s and high-growth tech firms (Cisco, 3M, Southwest Airlines, TE Connectivity). Pam brings over 20 years’ of experience working across accounting, supply chain, sales enablement, global marketing operations, and demand generation, go-to-market, and content marketing, giving her a rare business-wide perspective.
Pam is a respected author, having penned several books, including Global Content Marketing, Effective Sales Enablement, and The Modern AI Marketer series, each addressing strategic challenges in modern B2B marketing.
Through writing, podcasting (B2B Marketing and More), and speaking, she shares frameworks, templates, and insights that practitioners can apply immediately. Check out her speaking topics and 2026 events.
Having penned several books on effective sales enablement and global content marketing. Her unique approach combines practical insights with a focus on leveraging AI to enhance marketing efforts. For those in leadership roles, Pam’s philosophy of integrating sales and marketing processes offers a compelling blueprint for success.
Her consulting work focuses on solving real business problems, especially sales and marketing alignment, revenue attribution, and AI adoption, areas where many organizations struggle. She helps marketers track what matters!
“Every company or individual is on their own AI journey. There's no single path or timeline, honestly. The key is to keep learning!”
Zontee Hou
Zontee Hou is a digital marketing strategist and speaker with nearly 20 years of experience. She is the founder of the boutique digital marketing agency, Media Volery, and has worked with organizations
…Zontee Hou is a digital marketing strategist and speaker with nearly 20 years of experience. She is the founder of the boutique digital marketing agency, Media Volery, and has worked with organizations such as the International Monetary Fund and Allstate Insurance. Zontee is noted for her expertise in data-driven personalization and has been recognized as one of LinkedIn’s 16 marketers to follow in 2021. Her approach is informed by her academic background, having taught at Columbia University and City College of New York, which helps her connect marketing strategies with business objectives effectively. If you’re seeking a marketing speaker who combines practical insights with strategic depth, Zontee’s unique blend of industry experience and teaching acumen makes her an excellent choice.
“When asked, I said that marketers need to double-down on our best customers and go deep, instead of wide.”
Melanie Deziel
Melanie Deziel is a renowned marketing speaker and author, celebrated for her expertise in content marketing and creativity. With a background as the first editor of branded content at The New York
…Melanie Deziel is a renowned marketing speaker and author, celebrated for her expertise in content marketing and creativity. With a background as the first editor of branded content at The New York Times and a founding member of HuffPost’s brand storytelling team, she brings extensive experience in strategic content creation. Since 2015, she’s delivered keynotes and workshops worldwide, earning recognition as a top-rated speaker at major conferences like Content Marketing World. Melanie’s unique approach focuses on unlocking creative potential and establishing effective systems, making her a sought-after voice in the marketing landscape.
“Sometimes you just gotta rant about all the frustrating and terrifying and overwhelming ways that AI is hurting all the creators you care about until you get the "This post is too long to be sent via email" alert. And then you keep writing. Not sorry. ”
Tamsen Webster
Tamsen Webster is a keynote speaker and presentation strategist with over 25 years of experience in persuasive messaging. She specializes in helping leaders and organizations, such as Harvard Medical School and Fidelity
…Tamsen Webster is a keynote speaker and presentation strategist with over 25 years of experience in persuasive messaging. She specializes in helping leaders and organizations, such as Harvard Medical School and Fidelity Investments, craft impactful messages for lasting change. With a background in marketing and as a former TEDx Executive Producer, Tamsen has authored two best-selling books and was recognized on the Thinkers50 Radar in 2022. Her approach is rooted in simplifying complex ideas, making her a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their communication strategies.
“When your idea has it—when it makes sense to people on its own merits, when it's self-evidently valid—the positioning usually takes care of itself.”
Ashley Zeckman
Ashley Zeckman is the CEO of Onalytica, a leader in influencer marketing and content strategy, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With over 17 years in digital marketing, she has a well-established reputation for
…Ashley Zeckman is the CEO of Onalytica, a leader in influencer marketing and content strategy, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With over 17 years in digital marketing, she has a well-established reputation for leveraging AI in competitive research and significantly growing her firm’s client base. Ashley is a dynamic speaker, actively involved with the Minnesota Interactive Marketing Association and Women in Digital, where she serves as Speaker Chair. Her unique approach to influencer marketing makes her a sought-after speaker for marketing leaders looking to innovate and drive growth.
“AI is already shaping how buyers discover solutions. It favors credibility, authority, and trusted voices. Not brand noise.”
Dale Bertrand
Dale Bertrand is a seasoned marketing speaker known for his expertise in SEO and AI. With over two decades of experience, he has been instrumental in transforming SEO strategies for Fortune 500
…Dale Bertrand is a seasoned marketing speaker known for his expertise in SEO and AI. With over two decades of experience, he has been instrumental in transforming SEO strategies for Fortune 500 companies and startups. Dale specializes in leveraging AI to enhance search marketing, making him a sought-after speaker in the industry. His unique approach combines technical knowledge with practical marketing strategies, offering valuable insights to CMOs and marketing leaders looking to innovate their SEO efforts. Dale’s philosophy emphasizes the integration of AI in marketing to drive growth and efficiency, setting him apart in the field.
“The useful part of an interview starts when a candidate can't answer the question. That's when you learn whether they can reason out loud, absorb new information, and stay coherent when they're lost.”
Cindy Anderson
Cindy Anderson is the Chief Marketing Officer and Global Lead for Engagement & Eminence at the IBM Institute for Business Value. With a strong background in thought leadership, Cindy has co-authored research
…Cindy Anderson is the Chief Marketing Officer and Global Lead for Engagement & Eminence at the IBM Institute for Business Value. With a strong background in thought leadership, Cindy has co-authored research reports and published articles focusing on strategy implementation, project management, and technology. Her role involves overseeing a team of 30 editors, designers, and marketers, which highlights her leadership in the marketing field. As a founding board member of the Global Thought Leadership Institute at APQC, she brings a unique perspective to the table, making her a valuable speaker for marketing professionals interested in thought leadership and strategic implementation.
“AI is helping marketers deliver on the promise of marketing to an audience of one. No more chasing campaigns- it's time to use our data and let AI help reach the right person at the right time with the right message.”
Traci Alford
Traci Alford is the Global CEO of Effie Worldwide, a role that highlights her commitment to marketing effectiveness and brand growth. With a career that spans over a decade, she has developed
…Traci Alford is the Global CEO of Effie Worldwide, a role that highlights her commitment to marketing effectiveness and brand growth. With a career that spans over a decade, she has developed her expertise in brand stewardship and marketing leadership. Before joining Effie Worldwide, she held significant roles at Cadbury Schweppes, contributing to her extensive experience in the consumer goods industry. Her leadership at Effie Worldwide is marked by her advocacy for innovative and effective marketing strategies. Those seeking insights into effective brand strategies will find her perspectives and experiences particularly valuable.
“As an industry, it is important that we continue to evolve to ensure sustainable growth for our businesses.”
Michael Stelzner
Michael Stelzner is the founder and CEO of Social Media Examiner, a leading online resource in the social media marketing industry. With a focus on helping businesses leverage social media for improved
…Michael Stelzner is the founder and CEO of Social Media Examiner, a leading online resource in the social media marketing industry. With a focus on helping businesses leverage social media for improved marketing strategies, Stelzner has built a platform that offers original research, expert insights, and various resources such as newsletters and podcasts. Known for hosting the annual Social Media Marketing World conference, he provides extensive training and networking opportunities for marketing professionals. With a background in speech communications from San Diego State University, Stelzner’s dedication to the industry is evident in his contributions to marketing trends and his leadership in introducing the AI Business Society to aid marketers in mastering AI tools.
“I used to believe people wanted to change. I was wrong. Why? Because I've changed and it wasn't fun...Going through change came with all the emotions.”
Shannon McKinstrie
Shannon McKinstrie is a seasoned social media strategist and mentor with over 20 years of experience in media and marketing. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs alleviate the stress of managing social media
…Shannon McKinstrie is a seasoned social media strategist and mentor with over 20 years of experience in media and marketing. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs alleviate the stress of managing social media by providing strategic insights and training that lead to meaningful engagement and measurable results. Her unique approach combines marketing savviness with a personable style, making her a compelling choice for businesses looking to maximize their social media impact. Shannon believes in empowering business owners to stay connected with their audience through authentic content that resonates and converts.
“You’re not far off…you just need to say it differently so they see themselves in your content.”
Dr. Nici Sweaney
Dr. Nici Sweaney is a marketing speaker and founder of “AI Her Way,” dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs to harness AI for business growth. With nearly 20 years of experience in ethical
…Dr. Nici Sweaney is a marketing speaker and founder of “AI Her Way,” dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs to harness AI for business growth. With nearly 20 years of experience in ethical AI and a background with organizations like the United Nations and World Bank, she combines technical knowledge with a focus on equity and responsible innovation. Dr. Sweaney’s mission is to make AI an inclusive resource for women, addressing the barriers they face in accessing AI tools. She recently spoke at the Sydney Female Founder Festival, emphasizing the role of ethical AI in supporting female entrepreneurship.
“(We need) the kind of AI adoption that actually works - not hype, not fear, just real skills in real businesses.”
Pat Flynn
Pat Flynn is a leading figure in online entrepreneurship and digital marketing. With years of experience, he has become a respected keynote speaker, known for his engaging style and expertise in technology,
…Pat Flynn is a leading figure in online entrepreneurship and digital marketing. With years of experience, he has become a respected keynote speaker, known for his engaging style and expertise in technology, social media, and professional development. Pat is also an accomplished author, with his book “Will It Fly?” offering valuable insights into testing business ideas. His work is particularly appealing to marketing leaders due to his focus on audience engagement and brand development. Pat’s unique approach to connecting with audiences makes him a sought-after speaker in the field.
“If you're putting in the work on social media, but not capturing those connections, you're missing a huge opportunity.”
Ann Handley
Ann Handley is a digital marketing pioneer and the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, an education and training company for marketers worldwide. Known for her bestselling books “Everybody Writes” and “Content Rules,”
…Ann Handley is a digital marketing pioneer and the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, an education and training company for marketers worldwide. Known for her bestselling books “Everybody Writes” and “Content Rules,” Ann has co-founded ClickZ.com, a pioneering digital marketing news platform.
With over 15 years of experience, she’s a sought-after keynote speaker delivering around 40 talks annually, recognized for her innovative approach to marketing and content creation. Ann is also a LinkedIn Influencer and has been acknowledged by IBM as a key figure shaping modern marketing. Her philosophy emphasizes authentic and engaging content, making her a unique voice among marketing mentors.
“Marketing changes faster than a writer’s relationship with the (beloved) em dash in the age of AI. Change is what makes Marketing fun...and also challenging.”
Mari Smith
Mari Smith is a well-known social media expert, particularly recognized for her expertise in Facebook marketing. She has authored influential books like “The New Relationship Marketing” and “Facebook Marketing: An Hour A
…Mari Smith is a well-known social media expert, particularly recognized for her expertise in Facebook marketing. She has authored influential books like “The New Relationship Marketing” and “Facebook Marketing: An Hour A Day.” Known as “the Queen of Facebook,” Mari is associated with Mari Smith International, Inc. Her work focuses on social media strategies, making her a valuable connection if you’re looking to enhance your digital marketing efforts. Her unique approach and extensive experience set her apart in the field of digital marketing influencers.
“Make every moment count in the age of customer expectations.”
Shama Hyder
Shama Hyder is a Miami-based keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the founder of Zen Media, a B2B tech marketing and PR firm. With over 17 years in the industry, she specializes in
…Shama Hyder is a Miami-based keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the founder of Zen Media, a B2B tech marketing and PR firm. With over 17 years in the industry, she specializes in “Strategic Urgency,” helping businesses swiftly adapt to market changes, especially in the AI space. Hyder has advised over 500 brands, including giants like Chase and Microsoft, and has been recognized as a four-time LinkedIn Top Voice. Her influence extends globally, with speaking engagements in over 26 countries. Hyder’s work is distinguished by her focus on leveraging market signals for competitive advantage, making her a vital connection for anyone looking to excel in digital marketing.
“If your mind isn't blown every single day by what you're able to do with AI right now, you're not using it right. I'm not even being hyperbolic. I mean it.”
What's Next?
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