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Speaker & survival expert

Jessica Buchanan

Transform crisis into resilience with Jessica Buchanan, speaker and survival expert. Jessica empowers organizations to develop change management strategies and crisis response capabilities, delivering powerful insights from her dramatic rescue by SEAL Team Six after 93 days in captivity.

Trusted by SIGINT Systems, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association, Bluegrass Business Media

Jessica Buchanan, Speaker | Humanitarian Aid Worker
Jessica Buchanan

Jessica Buchanan

Richmond, 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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Book Jessica

Richmond, United States

Starting from

$11k–25k

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Jessica Buchanan's biography

At a glance

  • Inspirational survivor of Somali pirate kidnapping
  • Author of Impossible Odds detailing her dramatic rescue
  • Keynote speaker on resilience and overcoming challenges
Jessica Buchanan shares her incredible story of survival and resilience after being kidnapped by Somali pirates and held captive for 93 days. Through her harrowing experience, she learned that the human spirit is unbreakable and we have the strength to overcome any obstacle. Buchanan's story is chronicled in her book, "Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six." She now shares her tools for finding strength and facing challenges with audiences, teaching them to remain hopeful, dig deep, and trust their instincts. Buchanan offers keynote presentations and training on change management, coping through crisis, and finding strength in any situation. Her powerful storytelling and practical exercises inspire and empower audiences to embrace change and thrive in adversity. Organisations have praised Buchanan's dedication, courage, and ability to captivate audiences with her inspirational story.

Topics, sessions and talks

Coping Through Crisis: How 93 Days With Somali Pirates Prepared Me For COVID-19
Jessica Buchanan shares how her harrowing experience with Somali pirates equipped her with resilience and coping strategies for navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impossible Odds: A Story Of Strength And Survival
Jessica Buchanan shares her story of the impossible odds facing her during her 93 days of captivity by Somali land pirates and her determination and efforts to survive the harrowing and most painful experience of her life. In sharing her story with audiences, she provides to use in everyday life to help find strength in any situation or challenge.
Change Is Your Proof Of Life
Change is inevitable, whether it’s chosen or thrust upon you, but you always have a choice. Jessica Buchanan, a New York Times Bestselling Author, Humanitarian, and Survivor, shares her dramatic rescue by SEAL Team Six after being held hostage by Somali Pirates. Through storytelling and practical exercises, Jessica teaches how to collaborate with change and develop strategies to thrive. Attendees will learn to build a collaborative mindset, redefine change, and find purpose in hardship, empowering them to grow and succeed.

Why we recommend booking Jessica

Jessica's firsthand experience with extreme adversity and her triumphant recovery offer unparalleled insights into resilience, change management, and overcoming obstacles. Her powerful storytelling and practical strategies will inspire and equip your team to thrive in the face of challenges. Booking Jessica will not only captivate your audience but also empower them with the tools to navigate any crisis with strength and confidence.

Check Jessica's availability

Trusted by SIGINT Systems, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association, Bluegrass Business Media

Testimonials

Jessica was the very best! Her gripping story kept the ACE Summit audience hanging on every word. Beyond her story is a great person who will provide a rich experience for all who come in contact with her. It was an honor to meet and become friends with Jessica.

John Kelly

CEO, Bluegrass Business Media

Jessica was an EXCELLENT guest speaker for our spouse's breakfast event at the Broadmoor. I was fortunate to meet with her personally before the event and she shared so much about her life, both before and after such a harrowing experience. I was moved to tears when I read her book IMPOSSIBLE ODDS, and I don't think there was a dry eye in the ballroom as she shared her experience with all of us.

Beth Szymczak

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association

Jessica was a fantastic speaker, I know she touched so many in our audience yesterday. Many of our guests came up to me after her presentation and raved. It was an honor to have Jessica tell her story. I will be forever touched her courage and dignity.

Kelley Stachurski

Director, SIGINT Systems

Featured Projects

Jessica Buchanan - Deserts To Mountaintops: Our Collective Journey To (Re)Claiming Our Voice book cover

frequently asked questions

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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