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Design leader & AI innovation strategist

John Maeda

John Maeda helps organizations harness creativity and design thinking in the age of AI. A leadership speaker and former President of Rhode Island School of Design, John works with technology companies and creative teams on innovation strategy, digital transformation, and human-centered design. Author of The Laws of Simplicity, advisor to Microsoft and Automattic.

Trusted by Microsoft, Automattic, Rhode Island School of Design

John Maeda, Speaker | Design, AI & Innovation

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John Maeda's biography

At a glance

  • Pioneer at the intersection of design and technology
  • Author of the influential book The Laws of Simplicity
  • Former President of Rhode Island School of Design
John Maeda bridges the worlds of technology, design, and art, helping organizations understand how creativity drives innovation in an increasingly automated world. Maeda has served as President of the Rhode Island School of Design, held leadership roles at MIT's Media Lab, and worked as a technology executive at companies including Automattic and Microsoft. He is the author of several influential books, including The Laws of Simplicity. His work sits at the intersection of computation and human expression, a space that grows more relevant as AI reshapes industries. Maeda draws on decades of experience leading both academic institutions and technology companies to show how design thinking and artistic practice create competitive advantages. He translates complex ideas about technology into frameworks that business leaders, educators, and creatives can act on immediately. Audiences leave Maeda's sessions with a clearer understanding of how AI changes creative work, practical approaches to embedding design principles into organizational strategy, and a renewed appreciation for the human skills that technology cannot replicate. His insights are grounded in real leadership experience across academia, startups, and major tech firms. Book John Maeda to give your audience a credible, original perspective on where technology and human creativity meet next.

Why we recommend booking John

Maeda brings rare dual credibility as both RISD president and technology executive at Microsoft and Automattic, positioning him to translate how design thinking creates competitive advantage as AI reshapes creative work. His frameworks help leadership teams embed human-centered principles into strategy while identifying which capabilities remain distinctly human in automated environments.

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Trusted by Microsoft, Automattic, Rhode Island School of Design

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book John Maeda for my next event?
Email john.maeda@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 John Maeda 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 John Maeda'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 John Maeda directly.
What is John Maeda's speaking style like?
John delivers clear, actionable insights on technology and creativity, blending real leadership experience with practical frameworks. His engaging style helps audiences understand and apply design thinking in today’s evolving landscape.
What topics does John Maeda specialise in?
John Maeda specialises in discussing art, design, technology 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.

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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.

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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!

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