London’s most inspirational and popular speakers have been revealed in a new poll.
Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson, Dragons Den star Steven Bartlett and Olympic legend Dame Kelly Holmes all came in the top 20 – based on votes from those who had attended events across the capital.
The list, which comprises official data gathered after 450 exclusive London-based events, was conducted by the Motivational Speakers Agency, London’s leading keynote speakers’ agency.
Director Jack Hayes who devised the top London Motivational Speakers poll said: “This list pinpoints the speakers who have left the biggest impression on their audiences in London over the last year.
“There is a diverse mix of names, but everyone on the list shares one thing in common.
“The fact that they were able to inspire, engage and spark change among those they addressed at events.
“Their place in the top 20 underlines the impression many left on their audiences.”
The capital stands out as a premier hub for keynote speaking events, and so many exquisite venues such as The Shard and The Gherkin, unparalleled connectivity, and vibrant diversity. The capital’s reputation for quality is unmatched, featuring cutting-edge industry clusters, world-class galleries, and innovative event concepts. Moreover, London’s status as a global tech and financial hub brings together expertise and world-class talent, ensuring that events can tap into a deep pool of knowledge and creativity.”
With Croydon’s very own Dr Jo Salter taking top spot, as the most popular and trusted thought leader – see below for the results:
Dr Jo Salter
Britain’s first female fast-jet pilot, Jo shares lessons on leadership, risk, and inclusion from the cockpit to the boardroom, inspiring confidence and high performance under pressure.
Susie Wolff
Managing Director of F1 Academy and former Formula One driver, Susie is a pioneering advocate for women in motorsport, inspiring audiences to challenge conventions and pursue excellence fearlessly.
Bear Grylls
Adventurer and survival expert, Bear shares gripping stories of endurance and leadership from his global expeditions, teaching resilience, courage, and teamwork in the face of adversity.
Jason Fox
Former Special Forces Sergeant turned TV personality, Jason delivers powerful talks on mental resilience, leadership, and overcoming trauma drawn from his experiences on covert operations and recovery.
Steven Bartlett
Entrepreneur and “Diary of a CEO” host, Steven empowers audiences with insights on innovation, self-belief, and success, drawn from building Social Chain and his journey as a young CEO.
Roz Savage
Record-breaking solo ocean rower, Roz motivates audiences with her incredible story of resilience, courage, and environmental advocacy, proving that change begins with a single brave step.
John Amaechi
Psychologist and former NBA player, John inspires leaders to foster inclusion, purpose, and authenticity, combining sports experience with organisational psychology.
Sir Richard Branson
Entrepreneurial icon and Virgin founder, Richard inspires innovation, risk-taking, and optimism, encouraging audiences to think big and lead with passion.
Floella Benjamin
Actress, author, and Baroness, Floella shares her uplifting journey from the Windrush generation to the House of Lords, championing diversity and kindness.
Matthew Syed
Author and former Olympian, Matthew explores growth mindset, high performance, and learning from failure to unlock personal and organisational potential.
Sir Clive Woodward
World Cup-winning rugby coach, Clive reveals principles of teamwork, leadership, and thinking clearly under pressure, drawn from elite sport and business.
Rachel Botsman
Global expert on trust and innovation, Rachel helps organisations navigate change through transparency, adaptability, and purpose in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Jamie McAnsh
Paralysed in 2014, Jamie’s story of climbing Kilimanjaro and rebuilding his life inspires audiences to embrace adversity and resilience.
Dame Kelly Holmes
Double Olympic champion, Kelly speaks candidly about resilience, identity, and mental health, motivating audiences to achieve goals despite setbacks.
Jim Lawless
Performance expert and freediver, Jim inspires bold change and self-belief through lessons learned from pushing physical and professional limits.
Jamil Qureshi
Performance psychologist to elite athletes and leaders, Jamil energises audiences with strategies for unlocking mindset, motivation, and world-class performance.
Mandy Hickson
Former RAF fast-jet pilot, Mandy shares lessons on teamwork, decision-making, and thriving under pressure, empowering women and leaders alike.
Lord Sebastian Coe
Olympic legend and architect of London 2012, Seb inspires excellence through stories of leadership, discipline, and creating lasting legacy.
Tracy Edwards
Trailblazing sailor and MBE, Tracy led the first all-female crew in the Whitbread Round the World Race, inspiring teamwork and perseverance.
Jason Robinson
Rugby World Cup winner and England captain, Jason’s story of determination and leadership motivates audiences to overcome adversity and reach peak performance.
Visit the Motivational Speakers Agency for more information on the top London Motivational Speakers
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