Availability dot

Available to book

Design thinking leader & facilitator

Fred Dust

Fred Dust transforms organizational communication and leadership dialogue through design thinking methodology. Former IDEO Global Managing Partner works with Fortune 500 companies and international institutions including the United Nations to facilitate collaboration, navigate workplace conflict, and build consensus across divisions.

Trusted by IDEO, United Nations, Fortune 500 companies

FRED DUST, Speaker | Author of Making Conversation

Book Fred

United States

Starting from

Contact PepTalk for fees

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Fred Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Fred Dust's biography

At a glance

  • Former Global Managing Partner at IDEO
  • Author of Making Conversation
  • Designer of high stakes conversations and dialogue
Fred Dust helps organizations rebuild meaningful dialogue in an era when productive conversation has become rare and urgently needed. As former Global Managing Partner at IDEO, Dust spent decades designing conversations for clients ranging from the United Nations to Fortune 500 companies. His book, Making Conversation, outlines a practical methodology for transforming how people communicate across divides. Dust's framework draws on his years facilitating high-stakes discussions between groups with competing interests. He teaches leaders how to structure conversations that move past polarization and toward genuine collaboration. His approach works because it treats conversation as a designable experience, one that can be intentionally shaped to produce better outcomes in boardrooms, communities, and personal relationships. Audiences leave Dust's sessions with concrete tools: how to create the conditions for honest exchange, how to listen in ways that surface unexpected ideas, and how to design meetings that generate real alignment rather than performative agreement. His methods are grounded in decades of real-world application at global scale. Book Fred Dust to give your audience a proven system for turning difficult conversations into creative breakthroughs.

Why we recommend booking Fred

Fred Dust brings IDEO's design rigor to the conversation challenges your teams face daily, with methods proven across UN negotiations and Fortune 500 boardrooms. His framework gives leaders practical architecture for moving past polarization into genuine alignment, particularly valuable when cross-functional or stakeholder dialogue has stalled.

Check Fred's availability

Trusted by IDEO, United Nations, Fortune 500 companies

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Fred Dust for my next event?
Email fred.dust@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Fred Dust for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Fred Dust's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Fred Dust directly.
What is Fred Dust's speaking style like?
Fred delivers practical, engaging sessions that equip leaders with tools for honest dialogue and collaboration. His approach transforms challenging conversations into opportunities for creative breakthroughs and genuine alignment.
What topics does Fred Dust specialise in?
Fred Dust specialises in discussing creative conversation, human connection, design thinking and more.
What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, feel free to email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

Can I book podcast guests through PepTalk?

Yes. PepTalk books commercial podcast guests every week of the year. A high-profile voice can boost your podcast's reach and deliver ideas to your audience at scale. Fees typically start from £1,200 / $1,500, depending on the expert. Our network includes bestselling authors, industry leaders, and cultural figures who have appeared on leading global podcasts — and many host their own. Whether you want bold insights, candid stories, or deep expertise, we'll help you find the right guest to elevate your show.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.