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Public speaking & storytelling advisor

Jay Acunzo

Transform business communication with Jay Acunzo, public speaking and storytelling advisor. Jay works with everyone from top execs to bestselling authors to develop distinctive ideas and deliver compelling narratives that drive results. Featured by Forbes and LinkedIn and trusted by Salesforce, Mailchimp, and GoDaddy for his expert insights on standing out in crowded markets.

Trusted by Salesforce, Mailchimp, GoDaddy

Jay Acunzo, Speaker | Differentiation And Storytelling
Jay Acunzo

Jay Acunzo

Boston, United States

Typical fee range

$11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Boston, United States

Starting from

$11k–25k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Jay Acunzo's biography

At a glance

  • Speaker on differentiation and business storytelling
  • Former Google and HubSpot marketing leader
  • Creator of award-winning content for major brands
Jay Acunzo teaches business leaders how to differentiate through storytelling and strategic communication. He helps executives, founders, and marketing teams compete on the impact of their ideas rather than the size of their budgets. After working in marketing roles at Google and HubSpot, Jay wrote Break the Wheel and built an advisory practice serving clients including Mailchimp, Salesforce, Wistia, and GoDaddy. Forbes described his marketing newsletter as one "you need to subscribe to", and LinkedIn named him among 15 must-hear marketing podcasters. He has directed documentaries, hosted podcasts, and created award-winning content for startups and Fortune 500 companies. Jay transforms how leaders approach their messaging and presentations. He works with bestselling authors, TED speakers, and seven-figure coaches to develop thought leadership that cuts through noise. His methods help clients move beyond generic industry advice and create communication strategies rooted in their experiences and perspectives. Whether addressing expo audiences of 4,000 or closed-door summits of 40 executives, Jay delivers insights that attendees can apply to their own work immediately. Audiences learn how to craft compelling narratives that connect with their specific markets and gain practical techniques for developing original points of view that set them apart from competitors. Jay provides concrete methods for translating expertise into memorable stories that drive business results. Book Jay to help your team communicate with greater clarity and influence in overcrowded marketplaces.

Jay's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Resonance Over Reach
In this session, speaking and storytelling advisor Jay Acunzo explores how to stand out in a crowded marketplace. He emphasizes that you don't need to be the biggest or best; instead, focus on becoming a favorite. Attendees will learn a framework to clarify their message, develop a Signature Idea, and implement techniques that influence buyer behavior, enabling them to compete effectively and drive revenue.
The Last Great Advantage
In the AI era, public speaking remains an irreplaceable skill that enhances personal value and drives action. Jay Acunzo will lead an engaging session demonstrating how to transform public speaking into a superpower. He will analyze standout speakers, share effective frameworks, and provide actionable tools. Attendees will learn a repeatable structure for impactful presentations, discover three essential elements often missing from talks, and gain techniques to captivate audiences, ensuring their next presentation is their best yet.

Why we recommend booking Jay

Jay's background at Google and HubSpot give him the real-world industry insights teams need when it comes to brand differentiation, with or without massive budgets. His client roster, including Mailchimp, Salesforce, and Wistia, proves his ability to translate strategic storytelling into measurable business outcomes, particularly valuable for teams competing in crowded markets.

Check Jay's availability

Trusted by Salesforce, Mailchimp, GoDaddy

Testimonials

Multiple attendees came running up to me and said: “that was the best keynote I’ve ever seen!

Mary Jo

I was literally saying to our event manager: “we hit it out of the ballpark with this guy!

Veronica Martinez

Attendees and my leadership team kept commenting over and over on how meaningful and memorable his session was. I very much appreciated how customized his session was to our very diverse audience. We loved him so much, we’re already booking him for another event!

Haley Sevalstad

Featured Projects

Jay Acunzo - Break The Wheel book cover
Jay Acunzo - How Stories Happen book cover

frequently asked questions

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How do I book Jay Acunzo for my next event?

What is Jay Acunzo's speaking style like?

Jay Acunzo uses a framework-based teaching format, walking audiences through a structured method for developing a Signature Idea and building repeatable presentation structures. He draws on analysis of standout speakers and case studies from his advisory work with named brands to ground each framework in observable examples.

What topics does Jay Acunzo specialise in?

Jay Acunzo speaks on standing out in crowded markets, public speaking as a competitive skill, and developing a Signature Idea to influence buyer behaviour. He built his advisory practice following senior marketing roles at Google and HubSpot, and counts Mailchimp, Salesforce, and GoDaddy among his clients.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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Booking a speaker with PepTalk starts with a short brief: your event, audience, date, budget, and format. Send it through getapeptalk.com or hello@getapeptalk.com and you'll get a shortlist within 24 hours. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, fees, travel, and logistics end to end.

I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

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Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

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 logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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 comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

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 book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.