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Hospitality expert & bestselling author

Will Guidara

Transform customer experiences with Will Guidara, speaker, hospitality leadership expert. Will works with organizations to elevate service culture and drive business growth, delivering insights from his New York Times bestseller and experience leading the world's best restaurant.

Trusted by Hermes

Will Guidara, Speaker | Renowned Restaurateur & Author
Will Guidara

Will Guidara

Nashville, United States

Typical fee range

$76k–100k

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

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Nashville, United States

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$76k–100k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Will Guidara's biography

At a glance

  • Visionary restaurateur of Eleven Madison Park
  • Author of New York Times bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality
  • Co-founder of the Welcome Conference for hospitality professionals
Will Guidara is a renowned restaurateur and author, best known for his pivotal role in transforming Eleven Madison Park into the world’s best restaurant. His insights into service and leadership, detailed in his New York Times bestseller, Unreasonable Hospitality, offer valuable lessons that extend beyond the culinary world. Will's journey in the hospitality industry has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of customer experience. He faced numerous challenges in his career, from navigating the competitive landscape of fine dining to adapting to guests' evolving expectations. Through these experiences, he developed a philosophy centred on the importance of genuine human connections, which has proven essential in fostering customer loyalty and driving business success. In addition to his work at Eleven Madison Park, Will co-founded the Welcome Conference. This initiative brings together hospitality professionals to discuss and share best practices. This platform highlights his belief in the universal application of exceptional service, regardless of the industry. His influence also extends to the entertainment sector, where he serves as a co-producer on FX's The Bear, further showcasing his dedication to promoting the transformative power of hospitality. Will encourages teams to exceed customer expectations, turning ordinary interactions into memorable experiences. By embracing his principles, organizations can cultivate a culture of unparalleled hospitality, leading to increased customer satisfaction and business growth. With a wealth of experience and a passion for service, Will is a compelling voice in the conversation about elevating customer experiences across all sectors.

Will's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Exceed Expectations: How Unreasonable Hospitality Leads to Success
Will Guidara transformed Eleven Madison Park into the world's best restaurant by understanding that food, service, and design are merely ingredients for human connection. He inspired his team to engage genuinely with guests and adopt a personalised approach. In his talk, Will shares the lessons that propelled EMP to the top and demonstrates how an unreasonable commitment to human connection can create unforgettable experiences.
How To Build A Brand Centered On Unreasonable Hospitality
Will Guidara will discuss the shift from a manufacturing to a service economy, highlighting that over three-quarters of America’s GDP now stems from services. He emphasises that merely providing good products or efficient service is insufficient; the focus must be on how people feel during their interactions. Will believes we are on the brink of a hospitality economy and will share insights on transforming ordinary transactions into extraordinary experiences. Attendees will learn how to cultivate a brand centred on exceptional hospitality.
Why Hospitality Is Today’s #1 Leadership Skill
Will Guidara emphasises that hospitality is the essential leadership skill in today's world. As remote work becomes the norm, leaders must intentionally foster community and connection among their teams. Guidara, renowned for his success in running the world’s top restaurant, shares insights on transforming individuals into cohesive teams. Attendees will learn how to create an environment where employees feel inspired, connected, and effective, ultimately enhancing their leadership capabilities through the principles of hospitality.
Giving More vs. Less: Why Hospitality Is The Greatest Tool In Problem-Solving
In his talk, Will Guidara explores the concept of using hospitality as a powerful problem-solving tool. He challenges the conventional approach of pushing harder and cutting back, advocating instead for creativity and generosity in finding solutions. Guidara argues that during challenging times, embracing a hospitality mindset can lead to more effective outcomes. Attendees will learn how to apply these principles to enhance their decision-making and foster a culture of extraordinary service.

Why we recommend booking Will

Unlock your team's potential with Will Guidara, the mastermind behind Eleven Madison Park's rise to the world's best restaurant. His insights from Unreasonable Hospitality and the Welcome Conference can transform customer experiences and drive growth. Book Will today for measurable results.

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Trusted by Hermes

Testimonials

Will had a phenomenal impact on our teams from both Paris and New York. His enthusiasm and passion for hospitality resonated with everyone. He offered out of the box thinking and ideas, and he delivered his message with genuine authenticity and emotion. Already the wheels are in motion at Hermes for Unreasonable Hospitality!

Hermes

Will was incredible - completely the perfect fit for our event and wowed the crowd. People were still buzzing about it this morning as they were heading home from the conference. He mentioned that we don't use the word awesome enough as adults... so I can sum it up with: He. Was. AWESOME!!

Four Seasons

WHAT A DAY! Will is incredibly kind, smart, and fun! Our leaders loved Will's keynote and said he was our best speaer of all our years doing this! It was wonderful!

Featured Projects

Will Guidara - Unreasonable Hospitality book cover
Will Guidara - Unreasonable Hospitality: The Field Guide book cover
Will Guidara - The Bear TV Series book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Will Guidara for my next event?
Email hello@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 Will'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.

Will Guidara draws on case studies from his tenure at Eleven Madison Park to illustrate how specific operational and cultural decisions translate into measurable improvements in customer experience, framing business principles through the lens of real service interactions he and his team encountered.

What is Will Guidara's speaking style like?
Will Guidara draws on case studies from his tenure at Eleven Madison Park to illustrate how specific operational and cultural decisions translate into measurable improvements in customer experience, framing business principles through the lens of real service interactions he and his team encountered.

Will Guidara draws on case studies from his tenure at Eleven Madison Park to illustrate how specific operational and cultural decisions translate into measurable improvements in customer experience, framing business principles through the lens of real service interactions he and his team encountered.

What topics does Will Guidara specialise in?
Will Guidara speaks on unreasonable hospitality as a business philosophy, brand-building in a service economy, and hospitality as a leadership skill for remote and hybrid teams. He led Eleven Madison Park to the number one ranking in the World's 50 Best Restaurants and authored the New York Times bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality.

Will Guidara speaks on unreasonable hospitality as a business philosophy, brand-building in a service economy, and hospitality as a leadership skill for remote and hybrid teams. He led Eleven Madison Park to the number one ranking in the World's 50 Best Restaurants and authored the New York Times bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality.

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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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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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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.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

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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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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.