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Decentralized tech CEO & speaker

Jay Graber

Transform social media strategy with Jay Graber, speaker, decentralized technology pioneer. Jay works with organizations to implement user-centric platforms, blockchain innovation, and digital empowerment as CEO of Bluesky and former developer for Zcash cryptocurrency.

Trusted by Bluesky, Zcash

Jay Graber, Speaker | CEO of Bluesky, Innovator
Jay Graber

Jay Graber

Seattle, United States

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

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Seattle, United States

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Jay Graber's biography

At a glance

  • CEO of Bluesky social platform
  • Advocate for decentralised social media
  • Founder of event planning website Happening, Inc.
Jay Graber is an American software engineer and the CEO of Bluesky, a microblogging social platform that aims to redefine the digital landscape. With a background in Science, Technology, and Society from the University of Pennsylvania, Jay has always been at the intersection of technology and societal impact. Her journey from co-founding a student time bank programme to leading a pioneering social media platform highlights her commitment to innovation and community empowerment. Jay's career began in 2015 as a software engineer at SkuChain, followed by a unique stint soldering bitcoin mining equipment in Washington. Her technical expertise deepened as she worked as a junior developer for Zcash cryptocurrency, and in 2019, she founded Happening, Inc., an event planning website. These experiences laid the groundwork for her role at Bluesky, where she became the first CEO in August 2021. Initially conceived within Twitter, Bluesky emerged as a public benefit corporation with a mission to create a more open and user-centric social media environment. Under Jay's leadership, the platform officially launched in February 2023, offering an open-protocol operation that encourages user participation and innovation. Her vision for Bluesky is rooted in decentralisation, aiming to give users control over their data and foster a healthier online ecosystem. Despite her professional focus on social media, Jay maintains a minimalist approach to social platforms in her personal life, valuing intentional and meaningful interactions. This philosophy is reflected in Bluesky's ethos, as the platform seeks to empower users rather than exploit them for profit. As the digital world continues to evolve, Jay's work with Bluesky represents a significant shift towards a more democratic and user-focused internet. Her leadership and vision have the potential to reshape how we engage with social media, offering a platform that prioritises user choice and independence.

Jay's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Jay

Book Jay Graber to host your event for her visionary leadership in decentralised social media. As CEO of Bluesky, she champions user empowerment and innovation, offering insights into creating healthier online ecosystems. Her unique perspective will inspire and engage your audience, driving meaningful discussions on the future of digital platforms.

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Trusted by Bluesky, Zcash

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Jay Graber for my next event?
Email jay.graber@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 Jay's 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.

What is Jay Graber's speaking style like?
Jay Graber draws on her direct operational experience building and scaling Bluesky to frame discussions around decentralised social media architecture and user data ownership, grounding her talks in the technical and governance decisions made during the platform's development.

What topics does Jay Graber specialise in?
Jay Graber speaks on decentralised social media, open-protocol technology, and the ethics of user data ownership. She is CEO of Bluesky, the public benefit corporation she has led since its inception in 2021, overseeing its public launch in February 2023 as a user-centric alternative to mainstream social platforms.

Jay Graber speaks on decentralised social media, open-protocol technology, and the ethics of user data ownership. She is CEO of Bluesky, the public benefit corporation she has led since its inception in 2021, overseeing its public launch in February 2023 as a user-centric alternative to mainstream social platforms.

What information do I need to provide to book a speaker?

To get the sharpest shortlist, share your event date, audience, format, key objectives, and budget. A rough idea is enough to start. The more context PepTalk has, the more precisely the team can match a speaker to your brief. Send it via getapeptalk.com.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

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.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

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.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

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.

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

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

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.

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 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.

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, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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.