Jessica Holmes

Speech Topics

• Power Laughs: Using Humour to Build Resilience

  There’s no better way than humour to remind us we’re all in this together, so take a load off with some laughs! Stress is a part of life, especially with the triggers a pandemic brings, but we are more likely to live healthy, productive lives if we maintain our physical and emotional resilience. This touching, honest, and laugh-out-loud presentation offers simple, achievable steps to redirect our thoughts and take charge of our well-being. Jessica Holmes proves that comedy is more than an entertainment form; and she teaches audiences how anyone can use comedy as a powerful filter, through which we can navigate, stressful situations, and power us to recover from setbacks, and face challenges more easily.

• Depression: The Comedy

  This is a frank and hilarious account of how it took Jessica Holmes two years to get diagnosed as depressed. It started small: she resented “fun stuff” like girls night out, developed a loathing for words like “wellness,” and avoided foods that promised to prolong her life. Even when she yawned her way through an emceeing job for Oprah Winfrey it didn’t sound any alarms for her. In the nearly two years that she transitioned from “cheerleader” to “zombie”, she hadn’t taken stock of how far she had veered from her ideal life of fulfillment and gratitude. Jessica’s story, which has a deeply happy ending, relates to anyone who has ever been on a downhill trajectory, whether with health, relationships, or career, who forgot to stop and ask “where am I?” She weaves comedy, characters and music in and out of the presentation to bring levity to a serious subject. She has written about her experience with depression and anxiety in her humorous new book, also called Depression The Comedy.

• Master of Ceremonies

  Whether in English, French, or a mix of the two, Holmes provides a memorable performance filled with great off the cuff moments and interactions with the audience. By researching your company in advance of the big day, she’s able to custom tailor the show and incorporate your companies’ values into her performance. Weaving comedy in and out, Holmes maintains a great pace throughout the event, never losing sight of the bottom line: it’s your special event, and it deserves to be extraordinary!

• Understanding Mental Health: The Good, the Bad, and the Funny

  The negative stigma surrounding mental illness leads to more unnecessary suffering for the one in five working Canadians dealing with mental health conditions. And the stress and isolation of COVID-19 has led to higher rates of burnout and presenteeism. It’s time to talk but discussing mental health doesn’t have to be heavy or burdensome. Comedian and Bell Let’s Talk ambassador Jessica Holmes breaks down the stigma by using heart and humour to share her experience with depression. She weaves comedy, characters, and music to bring understanding and hope to a serious subject, describing how she went from successful entertainer who opened for Oprah Winfrey to couch potato who slept more than the cat! Holmes shares the lessons she wrote about in her heartwarmingly funny book Depression The Comedy to motivate your team to prioritize their well-being. Your team will learn: • Where to begin if they or someone they know is struggling. • How a small shift in perspective can increase their fulfillment and happiness at work. • Simple, achievable steps to improve mental health. • That no one is alone, and we’re all entitled to a sense of well-being. Holmes’ story, which has a deeply happy ending, leaves your team with a better understanding of mental illness, more empathy and understanding for those suffering with it, and that wonderful feeling you get from belly laughs.

• Bring on the Joy! Building Resilience and Engagement in Times of Change

  Years of flux and uncertainty have left people burnt out and many are still grappling with disconnection. It’s more important now than ever to foster a sense of well-being and engagement in the workplace. Comedian and Bell Let’s Talk ambassador Jessica Holmes presents a moving, funny, and energetic talk that encourages positive mental health and reengages your sense of purpose. Drawing on inspiration from her own journey through depression, Holmes shares how she reconnected with her love of life and work, drawing parallels with this new chance we all have to thrive after setback. Holmes’ call to action combines comedy with inspiration from the field of positive psychology. She delivers insights into: • Simple, sustainable steps to improve mental health. • Shifting perspective to increase fulfillment and happiness at work. • Moving forward with empathy for yourself and others (one of the most important parts of a successful team!). • Renewing your sense of purpose and energy by engaging with your values. • Reigniting your creativity. This talk honours the courage it has taken to come this far and reconnects audiences with their greatest qualities to bring on personal and professional joy!

• The 60-Minute Perspective Makeover: Proven Tips to Living an Awesome Life!

  The secrets of success are the same no matter what business you’re in, and success begins with getting motivated. Inspiration and comedy unite in this 60-minute transformational presentation from “I should…” to “I will!”. Energizing and funny, Jessica Holmes’ call to action combines her trademark character comedy with quirky anecdotes to deliver motivational insights into: • Finding greater meaning in your work. • Using positive psychology to be happier day to day. • Setting and reaching your goals. • Learning to laugh at life’s shortcomings. Holmes gives quick, achievable “how to’s” about these topics and more, in a laugh-out-loud hour of fun. The audience receives introspective takeaways to guarantee that her presentation makes a meaningful impact.

Books

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Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I check Jessica Holmes's availability or request a quote?

  You can inquire about Jessica Holmes'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 Jessica Holmes's speaking fee?

  The typical range for Jessica Holmes's speaking fee is $10,000–$15,000. 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 Jessica Holmes 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 Jessica Holmes for my event?

  The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Jessica Holmes'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 Jessica Holmes 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.