Episode #533

How to Build The Perfect Speaking Career For You

With Ryan Vet

Whenever someone comes up and says ‘Hey, why am I not getting booked to speak?’, my first question is ‘how many professionals did you call today?'”

One of the best parts about being a speaker is that YOU get to decide what your speaking career looks like. Your story is unique, and the value you bring to your audience is something only you can deliver. This week, Ryan Vet joins us on the show to talk about how he found his way to a speaking career that was perfect for his strengths and passions.

Ryan got his start as a speaker when he was still in high school, and he hasn’t looked back since. And while everyone often thinks of paid speaking as being primarily keynotes, Ryan points out that the majority of paid gigs are often other formats. For his part, Ryan fell in love with training and found it incredibly fulfilling to help people immediately make changes in their lives and companies. During this episode, he shares some practical advice on how to find the path that is right for you — along with some horror stories and funny moments from his new book, Speak Goodr.

This is a solid episode that will encourage you to take the next (or first!) step in your speaking journey!

You’ll learn:

  • How to be clear about your message
  • Why you should embrace who you are as a speaker
  • How to be thoughtful when it comes to your business
  • What benefits come from watching your game tapes
  • Why you need to figure out your ideal persona
  • And much, much more!

You have to solve a problem with what you sell.

6 Proven Steps 2 (Phone Wallpaper) — The Speaker Lab

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About Ryan Vet

Ryan Vet’s journey as a speaker, entrepreneur, and thought leader is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of storytelling. He began his speaking career in 2008 as a student member of the National Speakers Association (NSA), delivering impactful presentations and establishing himself as a dynamic communicator.

After several years as a speaker, Ryan transitioned into the venture-backed startup world. Over the next decade, he held roles as a founder, executive, and president, leading companies during periods of rapid growth, including one that soared to a $750 million valuation. His business accomplishments soon earned him mentions and highlights on ABC, NBC, CBS, and in Forbes, where his leadership and entrepreneurial success drew national attention.

In 2020, following a successful business exit, Ryan returned to full-time speaking and thought leadership. By fall 2023, he was inducted into NSA’s Million Dollar Speakers Group, recognizing over $1 million in annual speaking-related revenue. Having delivered more than 800 presentations across four continents, Ryan is a globally sought-after speaker known for his actionable strategies that inspire transformation and growth. In 2022, he also acquired the Speaking Consulting Network, the largest membership organization for healthcare and dental thought leaders.

A best-selling author, Ryan’s fifth book, Speak Goodr, launches in January 2025. It chronicles 40 of the most outlandish stories from his speaking career, offering practical lessons for public speakers in every field. From pastors to corporate executives, teachers to professional speakers, Ryan’s work equips audiences to communicate with confidence and create lasting impact.

From startup boardrooms to global stages, Ryan Vet embodies his mission to “Inspire Forward,” empowering others to lead with purpose and connection.

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