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Creative nonfiction pioneer & author

Lee Gutkind

Transform storytelling and creative writing with Lee Gutkind, speaker, creative nonfiction pioneer. Lee works with diverse audiences to uncover compelling narratives and develop impactful communication skills, delivering expert insights as founder of Creative Nonfiction magazine and award-winning author of over 30 books.

Trusted by MD Anderson UTHealth Houston, Fashion Institute of Technology

Lee Gutkind, Speaker | Writer, Innovator, Educator
Lee Gutkind

Lee Gutkind

Pittsburgh, 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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Pittsburgh, United States

Starting from

$11k–25k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

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Lee Gutkind's biography

At a glance

  • Founder of Creative Nonfiction literary magazine
  • Renowned speaker and educator on storytelling
  • Author of over 30 books on diverse subjects
Lee Gutkind is an accomplished writer, speaker, and literary innovator. He is the founder of the literary magazine Creative Nonfiction and has a talent for teaching people from all walks of life how to uncover compelling stories and make them impactful. Lee has shared his ideas with audiences worldwide, speaking at various venues, including medical centres, museums, scientific organisations, library associations, and universities. He has also contributed his expertise to publications such as The New York Times and National Public Radio. With over 30 books to his name, Lee has explored diverse realms, immersing himself in subjects such as the motorcycle subculture. He has played a pivotal role in establishing creative nonfiction programs at the University of Pittsburgh and Goucher College, as well as organising conferences and literary festivals that enrich the writing community. Currently, Lee serves as the Writer-in-Residence at Arizona State University and holds a professorship in the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication. He has been recognised throughout his career with numerous honours and awards, including the Steve Allan Individual Award by United Mental Health. Contact the PepTalk team today for fee information and to check speaker availability.

Topics, sessions and talks

You Can't Make This Stuff Up
Writing creative nonfiction – from memoir to literary journalism and everything in between.
Same Time Next Week: True Stories Of Working Through Mental Illness
Lee Gutkind shares compelling true stories of resilience and recovery, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating their journeys through mental illness.
Lead with Stories: Inspire Action and Acceptance Through Powerful Narratives
Lee Gutkind discusses the power of narrative in persuading and motivating people by sharing compelling, true stories that resonate and inspire action and acceptance of ideas.
Stuck In Time: The Crisis of Childhood Mental Health and How We Can Help
Lee Gutkind discusses the critical issue of childhood mental health, highlighting its tragic persistence and offering insights into potential solutions for improvement and support.
Almost Human: Our Future With Robots
Lee Gutkind explores the evolving relationship between humans and robots, discussing the future implications and ethical considerations of our increasing reliance on robotic technology.

Why we recommend booking Lee

Lee Gutkind's unparalleled expertise in storytelling and creative nonfiction can transform how your team communicates, fostering a culture of compelling and impactful narratives. His vast experience speaking at diverse venues ensures he can tailor his insights to your specific industry needs, enhancing creativity and innovation within your business. Booking Lee will not only inspire your team but also equip them with practical tools to harness the power of storytelling in achieving business objectives.

Check Lee's availability

Trusted by MD Anderson UTHealth Houston, Fashion Institute of Technology

Testimonials

Lee is one of those rare gifted writers who are also eloquent speakers—and importantly, entertaining speakers, who engage an audience and hold their attention from start to finish. In particular, the transplant surgeons and their staff loved his talk about organ transplantation.

Anand B. Karnad

Professor of Medicine, MD Anderson UTHealth Houston

Lee Gutkind is the total package! Not only is he the authority on creative nonfiction, but he is also a compelling, entertaining, and flexible speaker. We were fortunate to have him on campus for several days, during which he read his own excellent work, lectured on genre and craft, and created an energetic dialogue with students and faculty during a series of class visits. We all learned a lot from Lee, and enjoyed ourselves very much in the process!

Amy Lemmon

Fashion Institute of Technology

Lee brought such passion, thought, and enthusiasm to the discussion. Our audience was clearly rapt, and many people told me afterwards how much they enjoyed the program . . . Lee is a superb storyteller and can teach anyone how to tell great stories at the same time. We'd be honored to have him back for a future program.

Frances A. Rosenfeld, Ph.D.

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Lee Gutkind for my next event?
Email lee.gutkind@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 Lee'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 Lee Gutkind's speaking style like?
Lee Gutkind structures sessions around the use of true, first-person and reported narratives drawn from his own research and writing practice, using these stories to illustrate how narrative technique can shift audience perception and motivate acceptance of ideas.
What topics does Lee Gutkind specialise in?
Lee Gutkind speaks on creative nonfiction writing, mental health and resilience narratives, and the use of storytelling to drive action and acceptance. He is the founder of Creative Nonfiction literary magazine and the author of over 30 books, and currently serves as Writer-in-Residence at Arizona State University.
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.

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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.

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.

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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!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.