Jeff Nussbaum
Former White House Speechwriter; Author, Undelivered; Founder, The Humor Cabinet
Biography
Jeff Nussbaum most recently served as a special assistant and senior speechwriter to President Joe Biden. In May 2022, his book Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would Have Rewritten History hit shelves. Writing in The Washington Post, Historian Douglas Brinkley called Undelivered a “hell of a fun ride” and described Nussbaum as having, “a witty, Art Buchwald-esque writing style.” Over the past quarter century, Jeff has helped clients pen and promote bestselling books, prepare commencement speeches and viral TED talks, and deliver winning comedy routines at venues ranging from the Alfalfa Club to the Al Smith Dinner. From 2005 to 2020 he served at West Wing Writers, becoming a partner in 2007. As a founder of The Humor Cabinet, he has worked on humor speeches for dozens of elected officials and corporate executives. He has also served as a creative consultant for the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Jeff has also played an integral role in the past six Democratic National Conventions. He helped direct the speechwriting and messaging operations for the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 conventions, and served as on-site writer, editor, and presentation coach in 2000 and 2004. From 2001 to 2004, Jeff served as Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle’s deputy communications director and speechwriter. Prior to that, he served as a speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore in the White House, and later as a senior speechwriter for Gore-Lieberman 2000. Jeff was the co-author and collaborator with James Carville on the 2003 bestseller Had Enough? Jeff also collaborated with former Senator Bob Graham on his book Intelligence Matters. Jeff has appeared on the Today Show, PBS Newshour, CNN, and NPR’s Studio 1A. He has been profiled in Esquire and The Jewish Insider. He has also had commentary published under his own name in The Washington Post, Politico, The Atlantic, FiveThirtyEight, The New York Daily News, The Daily Beast, McSweeney’s, Washington Monthly, and many others. Jeff is a graduate of Brown University. He lives outside of Washington, DC, with his two daughters.
Speech Topics
Being Funny is Serious Business: Tools, Tips and Techniques to be (seriously) Funny
Elements of Persuasion: Become a Strong Speechwriter in One Hour
History on a Razor’s Edge: Lessons about Language and Leadership from the book Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would Have Rewritten History
Language of Leadership with Historical
Videos
Books
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Jeff Nussbaum's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Jeff Nussbaum's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Jeff Nussbaum's speaking fee?
The typical range for Jeff Nussbaum's speaking fee is $10,000–$25,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Jeff Nussbaum to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Jeff Nussbaum for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Jeff Nussbaum's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Jeff Nussbaum through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Jeff Nussbaum

Arthur C. Brooks
• Arthur C. Brooks is the William Henry Bloomberg Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School and Professor of Management Practice at the Harvard Business School • Brooks is the author of 12 books, including the #1 New York Times bestseller "From Strength to Strength,” and national bestsellers “Love Your Enemies” (2019) and “The Conservative Heart” (2015) • Named by Fortune Magazine’s “50 World’s Greatest Leaders” and was awarded six honorary doctorates • Served for ten years as president of the Washington, D.C.-based American Enterprise Institute (AEI), one of the world’s leading think tanks
Fee Range: Inquire
Travels From: MA

Erin Brockovich
• Iconic environmental activist and consumer advocate • Real-life inspiration for Oscar-Winning film Erin Brockovich • New York Times Bestselling Author • President, Brockovich Research & Consulting
Fee Range: $25,000–$32,000
Travels From: CA
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