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Former Google exec & innovation speaker

Steve Lerch

Elevate your digital strategy and consumer insights with Steve Lerch, former Google executive and innovation keynote speaker. Steve empowers organizations to leverage data-driven decision-making and storytelling for measurable growth. President of Story Arc Consulting, he advises iconic brands including GoPro, Roku, and Nest.

Trusted by GoPro, Roku, Nest, Phillips 66

Steve Lerch, Speaker | Digital Strategy Consultant
Steve Lerch

Steve Lerch

"Washington, D.C.", 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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"Washington, D.C.", United States

Starting from

$11k–25k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Steve Lerch's biography

At a glance

  • Former Google executive shaping digital and innovation strategy
  • President of Story Arc Consulting advising iconic brands
  • Global expert known for high-energy, insight-driven storytelling
Steve Lerch is a former Google executive who transforms organizations through digital strategy, consumer insights, and people-centered innovation. His unique approach blends data-driven decision making with storytelling to help businesses thrive in today's digital landscape. As president of Story Arc Consulting, Steve leverages years of experience advising iconic brands like GoPro, Roku, and major government agencies including FEMA. Previously at Google for nine years, he served as both a digital strategy advisor and Culture and Innovation Evangelist, teaching hundreds of new employees the cultural foundations driving Google's success. Steve helps organizations navigate complex business challenges by identifying untapped consumer insights, developing strategic digital marketing approaches, and fostering innovation cultures that don't depend on massive R&D budgets. He focuses on empowering teams to challenge assumptions, embrace data-driven decision making, and adapt quickly to changing consumer behaviors. Audiences leave Steve's presentations with practical frameworks for digital transformation, actionable strategies to connect with modern consumers, and renewed confidence in their ability to drive meaningful innovation. His high-energy style combines humor with compelling data to ensure concepts are both memorable and immediately applicable. Book Steve when you need a speaker who delivers both inspiration and tangible results your team can implement right away.

Steve's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Innovation Leadership: How To Think Differently
Steve Lerch challenges outdated assumptions about innovation by showing how meaningful breakthroughs emerge from people, curiosity, and culture rather than technology alone. Steve blends high energy with sharp storytelling to reveal how simple shifts in mindset can spark creative momentum, accelerate learning, and inspire teams to embrace change. Audiences explore practical ways to nurture ideas, question habits, and build environments where innovative thinking thrives.
Influencing Modern Consumers
Steve Lerch unpacks the motivations and patterns shaping today’s digital-first consumers, revealing why attention moves unpredictably across trends, platforms, and cultural moments. Steve’s humor and insight demystify behaviors that often seem irrational, showing how real-time data and authentic messaging can bridge the gap. Attendees explore strategies that help brands cut through noise, tap into cultural relevance, and connect with modern audiences in ways that are both intuitive and effective.
Practical Strategies For Embracing AI
Steve Lerch removes the intimidation surrounding artificial intelligence by translating complex tools into simple, relatable applications anyone can use. Steve’s approachable, playful style highlights how generative AI can streamline tasks, spark creativity, and unlock new opportunities across roles and industries. Through accessible examples and a clear framework, audiences explore how to integrate AI confidently into everyday work and build comfort with technology that is rapidly reshaping professional life.

Why we recommend booking Steve

Steve Lerch, a former Google executive, transforms organizations through his unique blend of data-driven insights, digital strategy expertise, and storytelling that empowers teams to challenge assumptions and connect with modern consumers. Book Steve for your next event to gain actionable frameworks and strategies your team can implement immediately for meaningful innovation and digital transformation.

Check Steve's availability

Trusted by GoPro, Roku, Nest, Phillips 66

Testimonials

Steve delivered a thought-provoking and wildly entertaining keynote on Modern Consumers. His insights into how storytelling, humor, and understanding modern trends can transform customer engagement were nothing short of inspiring. Steve’s ability to blend humor with actionable strategies—complete with memes, trends, and a bit of good-natured teasing of Millennials and Gen Z—had the room energized and engaged. He reminded us of the importance of truly understanding what resonates with our customers. Steve’s presentation reinforced the power of empathy, creativity, and attention to detail when it comes to creating customer experiences. If you’re looking for a keynote speaker who can inspire your team while keeping them entertained, I can’t recommend Steve enough. He brings energy, expertise, and an unparalleled ability to make complex topics feel approachable and impactful.

Sales Director, Amcor

We appreciate Steve's time prior to the event to understand our audience - and to connect while he was there. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive - he was a big hit!

Lightning Protection Institute

Steve was great!!! This information is so beneficial and ever-changing!! I look forward to implementing it in my business.

Featured Projects

Steve Lerch - Innovate book cover

frequently asked questions

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.