Biography
Karen Mills has been a nationally touring comedian for over twenty-five years. She can be heard daily on SiriusXM comedy channels and clips from her comedy special "Pink Pants" have gotten over 21 million views. Karen appeared on Season 12 of America’s Got Talent and has had numerous appearances on The Grand Ole Opry. She is currently touring theaters across the country with Leanne Morgan. Karen and Leanne have worked together since 2004 when they first met doing the Southern Fried Chicks comedy tour. Karen has spent a lifetime entertaining. First as a point guard, “Little Mills” was always a crowd favorite. She started playing basketball in the 3rd grade and eventually earned a full scholarship to the University of Tennessee @ Chattanooga. In 1981, Karen led the nation in assists and became the first Division 1, first-team All American in UT-Chattanooga’s history, male or female. Her #12 uniform was retired and in 1981 she became the first women inducted into Chattanooga’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Karen has a straight-forward approach to the realities of life. Her smart, funny, keen observations will keep you laughing at yourself as you relate to her experiences. Even Ovarian cancer couldn’t stop her from turning her pain into punchlines. Diagnosed in 2013 after a routine checkup, Karen was determined to take on the disease with hope and humor and in 2016 she was chosen to present her talk, "Cancer is a Laughing Matter" at TEDxChattanooga. Whether you are looking for straight, laugh out loud comedy or comedy with a message, clean comedian Karen Mills can inspire, energize and bring any crowd together through the joy of laughter.
Speech Topics
Humor for the Tumor (Cancer Survivor Events)
In May 2013 Karen was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She has spent 20 years on the road as a professional comedian and overnight she went from wanting her own TV show to just wanting to poop. Cancer changes your priorities. What it didn’t change was Karen’s sense of humor. Karen will take you on a hilarious journey through her diagnosis, surgery and chemotherapy and give you cancer tips that she wishes someone had given her, like never order a wig on the internet! Laugh and be inspired as Karen reminds you that your spirit shines through your smile not your hair.
Preparation Meets Opportunity...The Shot that Knocked by Mama’s Wig Off (Comedy and Motivation)
In 1976 during the Tennessee girls’ high school state basketball championship, Karen hit a shot with 3 seconds left on the clock to win the game. She had prepared her entire life for that moment. What she hadn’t prepared for was the eruption of the fans when the ball went through the basket — “Everyone was jumping and hugging and shaking my mother and they knocked her wig right off her head.” Karen received a full basketball scholarship to UT-Chattanooga where she earned All-American honors and was the first female inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame.
Turn the Radio Down So I Can See...And Other Mid-Life Observations (Stand Up Comedy)
Karen Mills has spent 18 years as a professional comedian. She has performed at theaters, conventions, women’s expos and countless corporate events. “People are always coming up to me after my show and saying, ‘Thank you so much, you don’t know how much I needed to laugh,’ or telling me how long it’s been since they laughed.” This is a health crisis! Laughter reduces stress, diminishes pain, lowers blood pressure, fights depression…who doesn’t need that, especially as we get older! Last time I went to the doctor, I had gained 10 lbs. and shrunk an inch…that’s right, I’m bringing sexy back!
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Karen Mills's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Karen Mills'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 Karen Mills's speaking fee?
The typical range for Karen Mills's speaking fee is $5,000–$10,000. 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 Karen Mills 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 Karen Mills for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Karen Mills'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 Karen Mills 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 Karen Mills
Amy Vetter
Amy Vetter is an expert on authentic leadership and putting the soul back into business. She’s a transformational keynote and TEDx speaker and the creator of the B3 Method for developing work-life harmony. Amy is also an accomplished CPA and recognized as one of the Most Powerful Women in Accounting. She regularly contributes her business insights to Inc, Entrepreneur, Accounting Today and CPA Practice Advisor. Over the past 25-plus years, Amy has become a well-known advocate and evangelist for leadership, entrepreneurship, and the accounting profession. Through her expertise on these topics, Amy has inspired audiences as a keynote speaker on: authentic leadership, work-life balance, productivity, women’s leadership and empowerment, entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, and the future of accounting and financial advisory services.
Fee Range: $8,000–$12,500
Travels From: OH
Stephanie Decker
In March of 2012, a tornado ripped through the town of Henryville, Indiana. Stephanie Decker, a 37-year-old mother, found herself in a life-altering moment. As her house began to disintegrate around her, she shielded her two young children with her body. Her dream home fell in, crushing her legs, but because of her heroic actions, Stephanie’s children were amazingly unscathed. It was a miracle that she even survived and made it to the hospital. At that point, doctors determined that parts of both legs would need to be amputated. Since the accident, Stephanie has been featured on The Today Show, The Ellen Degeneres Show, ABC World News Tonight as “Person of the Week”, USA Today, USA Weekend, and People Magazine. She was featured in Successful Meetings list of Most Reliable Keynote Speakers who surpass expectations. She was also named as one of the L’Oreal’s 2014 Women of Worth Honorees and nominated for the 2015 Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award for her foundation work.
Fee Range: $7,000–$13,000
Travels From: IN
Trisha Meili
For years Trisha Meili was known to the world as The Central Park Jogger. Her amazing story of survival and recovery was detailed in her best-selling memoir I Am the Central Park Jogger: A Story of Hope and Possibility. Today, Trisha speaks to groups, including health care providers, businesses, universities, brain injury associations and sexual assault centers about her journey of recovery and healing.
Fee Range: $6,000–$7,500
Travels From: FL
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