Kate O’Neill

Speech Topics

• Meaningful Growth

  IDEAL FOR: corporate leaders, cultural leaders, organizational leaders - considers that not all growth is meaningful - advocates creating relationships with customers based on an understanding of their motivations and what compels them - offers a framework for growth that adds value

• Automation, Integration, AI, and the Future of Meaningful Human Experience

  IDEAL FOR: industry conferences, corporate events, forward-thinking technology events - considers that every day our physical surroundings and our digital interactions converge more and more, through data analytics, connected devices and the Internet of Things, wearable technology, geo-tagged and geo-targeted social media, surveillance, sensors and beacons, and so on - posits that our human experiences create a targeted feedback loop, defining our opportunities, our relationships, our knowledge, and, ultimately, our selves - advocates thinking beyond the customer context to a holistic human experience that blends online and offline interactions, and building lifetime value through relevant and respectful use of data - explores the relationship between meaning, intention, data tracking, and human experience - offers practical insights on how businesses can harness data and technology to create innovative experiences that form the basis of more meaningful and profitable relationships with customers

• Pixels and Place: Connected Experiences and Integrated Human Experience Design

  IDEAL FOR: IoT conferences, corporate events, integrated design events - considers that there is no “online” and “offline” anymore - argues that whether you’re offering a product for purchase, a travel destination, a healthcare service, an education, or just about anything else, what you’re really offering is an experience – and your customers increasingly expect these experiences to be integrated, contextually relevant, and meaningful - describes an approach to serving people relevant digital interactions while meeting them in the context of their physical surroundings – for more memorable, more meaningful, and more integrated digital and physical experiences - applies that approach to the needs of your audience - content may focus more on brands as placemakers or on digital user experience, exploring digital placemaking and strategy: the meaning of place, and how digital “place” creates context for behavior, reactions, and experience and what marketers and designers can do to harness that - covers real-world, current examples from a variety of industries and review action-ready ideas for implementing integrated experiences

• Human-Centric Digital Transformation: Purpose, Alignment, Meaningful Experiences

  IDEAL FOR: corporate leaders, technology leaders, civic leaders, cultural leaders, business audiences - intended to help companies, organizations, cities, museums, and entities of all kinds solve strategic problems arising from integrating data and emerging technology into their business model, operations, and experience strategy - encourages aligning the data model and technology deployment in these areas around human experiences meaningfully, respectfully, and profitably - makes the case that business can’t ignore the need for digitization, and humanity can’t ignore the need for purpose and meaning - provides a framework to align the entire organization, offer efficiencies, clarify priorities, uncover inconsistencies that hold back growth, simplify decision-making, and put resources where they matter most

• Humanity At Scale: Data, Emerging Tech, and the Future of Meaningful Human Experience

  IDEAL FOR: corporate audiences, industry conferences - considers the emphasis in business on artificial intelligence, automation of various kinds, and digital transformation - proposes that the future of human experiences – and even the future of humanity itself – can feel uncertain - explores the relationship between meaning, intention, data tracking, and human experience - presents the case for why the future of humanity is in creating more meaningful, dimensional, and integrated experiences - offers practical insights on how businesses can harness data and technology to create innovative experiences that form the basis of more meaningful and profitable relationships with customers - demonstrates how emerging technologies like chatbots, wearables, IoT devices, and more can be included in this kind of human-centric strategy

• AI Strategy for Leaders: From Hype to Human-Centered Impact

  The gap between AI's promise and its practical implementation is wide—and getting wider. This keynote cuts through the noise to give leaders a clear framework for AI adoption that prioritizes readiness, governance, and human outcomes. Audiences leave with actionable insights on bridging the "Alignment Gap" between technology delivery and organizational capability. **Key themes:** - Board-level AI literacy - Risk, readiness, and governance - Human skills and the future of work - The Alignment Gap - How to make better tech decisions

• The Tech Humanist Future: Creating Meaningful Experiences at Scale

  As AI and algorithms increasingly shape customer interactions, organizations risk losing the human connection that builds loyalty and trust. This keynote explores how to design technology-enabled experiences that feel genuinely human—scaling personalization without sacrificing meaning, and leveraging AI while preserving authentic human engagement. **Key themes:** - AI + customer experience - Human-machine collaboration - Experience strategy - Ethical data use - Organizational culture shifts

• Strategic Optimism for Smart Cities

  As delivered at Smart City Expo Barcelona. Smart city initiatives often prioritize technology over people. This keynote reframes "smart" around human outcomes—livability, equity, sustainability, and community resilience. Drawing on work with cities like Amsterdam and Austin, Kate shows how to build urban innovation strategies that put residents first and use technology as a tool, not a goal. **Key themes:** - Human outcomes as the core of “smart” - Tech + community design - Inclusive digital futures - AI for public good - Urban innovation frameworks

• What Matters Next: Human-Friendly Tech Decisions in a Fast-Moving World

  Based on the Thinkers50-recognized book. Leaders face a constant stream of technology decisions—AI adoption, digital transformation, data strategy—often without clear frameworks for evaluating impact. This keynote provides a practical approach to making tech decisions that balance innovation with human outcomes, helping organizations move forward confidently in an uncertain, fast-changing world. **Ideal for:** Executive audiences, all-hands, leadership summits **Key themes:** - AI & data strategy - Meaningful innovation - Human-centered transformation - Strategic foresight - Responsible tech governance

Books

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Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I check Kate O’Neill's availability or request a quote?

  You can inquire about Kate O’Neill'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 Kate O’Neill's speaking fee?

  The typical range for Kate O’Neill's speaking fee is $18,000–$32,000. 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 Kate O’Neill 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 Kate O’Neill for my event?

  The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Kate O’Neill'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 Kate O’Neill 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.