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Available to book

Speaker & military strategist

John Loveday

Transform leadership and resilience with John Loveday, speaker and military-to-business strategist. John works with organisations to develop high-performance teams and crisis management skills, delivering battlefield-tested insights for executive leadership development.

Trusted by Pathway Group, Eden Hotel

John Loveday, Speaker | Leader, Veteran, Entrepreneur
John Loveday

John Loveday

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

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

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Birmingham, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

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John Loveday's biography

At a glance

  • Former frontline soldier
  • Co-Founder and CEO of Study Academy
  • Expert in leadership, resilience, and high-performance strategies
John Loveday is a former frontline soldier turned business leader whose journey has taken him through some of the world’s most challenging environments. Serving in the British military, he operated in high-stakes situations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he honed essential skills in leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure. After transitioning from the battlefield to the boardroom, John faced the complexities of building a successful business. He applied the leadership principles he developed in the military to navigate the corporate landscape, demonstrating how real-world experience can inform effective team management and strategic planning. His insights into resilience and adaptability are particularly relevant for those seeking to excel in demanding circumstances. John’s personal story is one of overcoming adversity and leveraging experiences to inspire others. He has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, each shaping his leadership and approach to team dynamics. His ability to translate military discipline into business success provides a unique perspective that resonates with audiences from various backgrounds. John's talks are engaging and offer practical strategies that attendees can implement in their lives and organisations. By sharing his journey, John empowers individuals and leaders to thrive in high-pressure environments, making his insights invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their performance and resilience.

John's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Battle-Tested Leadership
In this talk, John Loveday shares insights from his experiences in Afghanistan, illustrating how battlefield leadership principles can enhance resilience and decision-making in business and life. Attendees will discover practical strategies for leading with confidence, maintaining composure under pressure, and inspiring others. This talk promises real-world lessons and valuable insights, equipping participants with the mindset needed to confront challenges and lead with purpose.

Why we recommend booking John

Transform your team's performance with John Loveday, a former soldier and business leader. His battlefield-tested insights on resilience and strategic decision-making empower organisations to thrive under pressure. Book now to access actionable strategies for success.

Check John's availability

Trusted by Pathway Group, Eden Hotel

Testimonials

John's talk, Bomb Blast to Boardroom, at our Coffee and Natter event was nothing short of extraordinary. His journey, from surviving the fiercest battles in Afghanistan to overcoming personal and professional challenges, captivated everyone in the room. I've heard many speakers, but John's ability to translate battlefield leadership into real-world resilience and business success is truly unique. His story is raw, powerful, and deeply moving. There was a palpable sense of inspiration in the air, leaving everyone with a renewed perspective on leadership, adversity, and the power of perseverance.

Safaraz Ali

CEO, Pathway Group

John delivered an unforgettable talk at the Enterprising Women Event at the Chambers of Commerce. Having known him for years, I had no idea of the extraordinary experiences he had lived through, enough to fill five lifetimes. His story was raw, powerful, and deeply inspiring. There wasn't a dry eye in the room as he shared his journey from the battlefield to business, weaving in hard-earned lessons on resilience and leadership. A truly remarkable speaker who leaves a lasting impact on everyone who hears him.

Jayne O'Malley

Group Operations Director, Eden Hotel

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book John Loveday for my next event?
Email john.loveday@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 John'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.

John Loveday draws on first-hand accounts from his military service in Afghanistan and Iraq, structuring his talk around the direct transfer of battlefield leadership principles — such as decision-making under pressure and maintaining composure — into business contexts.

What is John Loveday's speaking style like?
John Loveday draws on first-hand accounts from his military service in Afghanistan and Iraq, structuring his talk around the direct transfer of battlefield leadership principles — such as decision-making under pressure and maintaining composure — into business contexts.

John Loveday draws on first-hand accounts from his military service in Afghanistan and Iraq, structuring his talk around the direct transfer of battlefield leadership principles — such as decision-making under pressure and maintaining composure — into business contexts.

What topics does John Loveday specialise in?
John Loveday speaks on battlefield leadership principles, resilience under pressure, and decision-making in high-stakes environments. He is a former frontline British soldier who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and is Co-Founder and CEO of Study Academy.

John Loveday speaks on battlefield leadership principles, resilience under pressure, and decision-making in high-stakes environments. He is a former frontline British soldier who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and is Co-Founder and CEO of Study Academy.

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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.

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.