Ross Shafer
Six-Time Emmy Award Winning Comedian & Talk Show Host; Funny Motivational Speaker
Biography
Six-time Emmy award winner Ross Shafer is known to millions of television viewers as a host of Match Game and Days End on the ABC Television Network, The Late Show on the FOX Broadcasting Company network, Love Me--Love Me Not on the USA Network, and the internationally syndicated broadcast of the Miss America Pageant. Off Stage with Ross Shafer, a weekly television interview show hosted, written, and produced by Shafer, is distributed internationally. Celebrity guests range from rap artist Sir Mix-A-Lot to the legendary Tony Bennett. Ross Shafer’s television credits also include guest appearances on 21 Jump Street, Hollywood Squares, Bloopers & Practical Jokes, and Win, Lose, Or Draw. Ross Shafer has also hosted numerous television infomercials including "VCR Voice Programmer", "QVC Shoppers Club", and "Ordinary People-Extraordinary Powers". As a comedian, Ross Shafer performs in Las Vegas, Reno, and Atlantic City. Shafer's television comedy credits include Evening at the Improv, Comic Strip Live, Caroline's Comedy Hour, and The A-List. Ross Shafer also appears at major comedy clubs throughout North America including The Improv, The Punchline, Catch a Rising Star, and Carolines. His cruise ship engagements have included Royal Caribbean, Royal Viking, Norwegian, and Princess cruise lines. On the corporate lecture circuit, Ross Shafer is a popular after-dinner entertainer, keynote speaker, and seminar presenter. Shafer has appeared for a diverse group of corporate clients including: Alaska Airlines, Apple Computer, Canada Life, Network General, Nordstrom, Nutrena Feeds, Raytheon, and Seagram International. Association engagements have included Air Carriers Purchasing Conference, American Society of CLU & ChFC, American Society for Training and Development, and Book Publicists of Southern California. Ross has authored several books, including the controversial, yet funny, Nobody Moved Your Cheese, and his best-selling cookbook, Cook Like a Stud, which is a hilarious cooking demo of delicious recipes that men can prepare in the garage using their own tools. and. The Customer Shouts Back!, is a result of 11 years of customer response research. Ross has also recently formed The Customer Empathy Institute because he is convinced the reason customer service hasn't improved is because we haven't tried to understand the customers' emotional state before, during, and after the transaction. Ross' latest book is Absolutely Necessary: Bulletproof Tactics That Will Put You in High Demand. Ross Shafer also presents unique special event programs for conventions. The "Talk Show Biz" is his behind-the-scenes look at the world of Oprah, Sally, and Phil and is packed with gossip, anecdotes, and an insider's insight into this highly competitive phenomenon. Ross Shafer motivates and empowers audiences to excel with his experience as a stand up comedian, television show host and corporate consultant. Ross Shafer is frequently asked if he can be interactive with your audience. The answer is a resounding “YES.”. His style is to engage the audience at several points during his keynote. He often likes to present “from the floor” so that he can start a dialogue with your audience members. During a breakout session, Ross is on the floor at all times; bouncing between audience members.
Speech Topics
Are You Still Relevant? How to Future-Proof Your Company & Yourself
In this fun and enlightening Keynote, you will learn how to future-proof your company while energizing your team members. Your attendees will leave with the tools to achieve a 2-year lead on their competition. Ross encourages your audience to accept that Relevance is a moving target. Ross unveils inspiring case studies that span the landscape of retail, manufacturing, B2B, construction, tech and healthcare.
RATTLED! How to go from Shook…to Solid
None of us can perform at our peak levels when we have been confronted by a catastrophic family event, a disruptive workplace dilemma, or a global pandemic. How do you bounce back to your highest levels of creativity and innovation during or after the crisis has abated? This program is interactive, fun, emotional, and impactful.
Success - It’s On You
Too often our team members stall their own growth until they get validation and encouragement from their leaders. This program will inspire your team members to take charge of their own careers... when nobody is around to guide them. They must learn to be accountable/responsible to and for... themselves.
Interactive Ross “On the Fly”
Ross Shafer is frequently asked if he can be interactive with your audience. The answer is a resounding YES. His style is to engage the audience at several points during his keynote. He often likes to present “from the floor” so that he can ask questions of your audience members. During a breakout session, Ross is on the floor at all times; bouncing between audience members. The video will give you an idea of how he does that…and what can happen…even when unexpected events crop up.
POW vs WOW - Cracking the Code on Customer Loyalty
The On-Demand Economy has caused customer expectations to change. “WOW-ing” the customer does NOT create loyalty anymore. It is reducing the “POW” moments that makes customers “sticky.” Customers want to buy from companies that don’t disappoint them…and from people who don’t make mistakes. In this highly entertaining and inspiring presentation, Ross will share the simple, yet powerful system he developed to help his clients quickly improve their customer experience scores. (EXAMPLE: one of his larger clients raised their JD Power scores 21 points in 90 days).
The Ultimate Emcee and Keynote Speaker
Ross is Highly Interactive and Very Comfortable On-the-Fly. Ross Shafer is frequently asked if he can be interactive with your audience. The answer is a resounding “YES.” His style is to engage the audience at several points during his keynote. He often likes to present “from the floor” so that he can start a dialogue with your audience members. During a breakout session, Ross is on the floor at all times; bouncing between audience members. •THE ULTIMATE EMCEE: Ross hosts a select number of multi-day events for his high-end clients each year. Because Ross is a trained talk and game show host (helmed over 1,000 network broadcasts), he is the perfect choice for moderating your executive panel discussions and complex award banquets. Ross will keep the programs lively and on task; drawing on his vast experience and lightning wit to navigate (and rescue) even the most unpredictable situations. •TALK SHOWS/PANEL MODERATION: Ross is adept at handling back-to-back breakout sessions that may feature a myriad of presenters. He has hosted such luminaries as President George Herbert Walker Bush, Jack Welch, Colin Powell, Bob Dole, James Carville, Tom Peters, Marcus Buckingham, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, to name a few. Since many high profile presenters are more comfortable being interviewed by a “pro,” Ross is able to show the utmost respect from the opening introduction throughout the Q & A – yet he doesn’t shy away from the probing questions your people want answered. •GAME SHOWS: Finally, Ross is a popular favorite for hosting custom game shows. Not only do these formats lend themselves to imparting important training information about your company (in a fun way), they also encourage participation by the entire audience. Ask us how Ross and his game partners at (Game Show America) can create a custom “TV” show for you.
Clean Corporate Comedy Show
While Ross was buying and selling businesses, he was also moonlighting as a Standup Comedian. He won several national and international comedy contests, which propelled him to become a headliner at all of the major U.S. comedy clubs and Casinos. As his reputation grew, he also performed throughout Europe and two separate tours in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was Ross’s comedy chops that caught the attention of NBC affiliate KING-TV, where he created the Emmy Award-winning Comedy Talk show ALMOST LIVE! Hollywood then called him to take over as host of the FOX LATE SHOW, where he competed against David Letterman and Johnny Carson. His credits include more than 1,000 hours of network TV as a clean standup comedian on such shows as Evening at the Improv, The A-List, Comedy Central’s Laugh Factory, Caroline’s Comedy Hour, The Green Room with Paul Provenza, and more. Ross Shafer’s material is non-political, non-controversial, and completely HR safe! If you want your attendees to leave your conference in high spirits and energized, then have your attendees experience Ross’s misadventures and his successes all delivered in his friendly, quick-witted style. Audiences love Ross’s comfortable, engaging style and he makes certain nobody is offended. He is interactive with the crowd and ensures some of the biggest laughs come from audience members who aren’t trying to be funny.
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Ross Shafer's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Ross Shafer'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 Ross Shafer's speaking fee?
The typical range for Ross Shafer'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 Ross Shafer 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 Ross Shafer for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Ross Shafer'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 Ross Shafer 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 Ross Shafer

Jeff Civillico
Jeff Civillico recently celebrated a 10-year run on the Las Vegas Strip as a Headliner with Caesars Entertainment at the iconic hotel properties The LINQ, The Flamingo, and The Paris. His clean, family-friendly "Comedy in Action” show remains highly acclaimed: voted “Best of Las Vegas” three years in a row by the Las Vegas Review Journal, named “Entertainer of the Year” by Vegas Inc, and honored by his fans with a 5-star rating on Yelp, Ticketmaster, and Google.
Fee Range: $17,500–$20,000
Travels From: NV

Tim Gard
Tim Gard, CSP, CPAE, is a motivational, funny keynote speaker, corporate entertainer, and emcee. Tim is known for bringing tears of laughter to audiences worldwide. More than an insightful and funny guy, Tim teaches people to be more resilient and resourceful using their own comedic style. He also coaches businesses on how to enhance productivity through employee enthusiasm by using appropriate workplace humor. An internationally recognized authority on stress reduction and conflict resolution, Tim’s easy- to-implement techniques demonstrate ways to diffuse, deal with, and ultimately avoid stressful encounters. Tim does not make light of serious issues; rather, he shines a light on previously unseen possibilities to overcome challenging situations.
Fee Range: $8,000–$15,000
Travels From: CO

Scott Bloom
A professional comedian, author, podcast host and tv personality who has built a reputation as the go-to choice for business humor, Scott has hosted hundreds of events over two decades for big and small organizations alike. As the son of a successful salesman, he was exposed to the principles of building a business at an early age. As a comedian, Scott cut his teeth at renowned improv and comedy clubs. And as a self-taught student of psychology, he’s explored what makes people tick and has written a book (albeit a farce) on how to get through life. He’s uniquely positioned to deliver significant concepts on connecting people, building relationships and making business seriously funny.
Fee Range: $12,000–$15,500
Travels From: CA

Jessica Holmes
Holmes has opened for comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Leslie Nielsen, and Ellen DeGeneres, as well as hosted events for such visionaries as Deepak Chopra, Tony Robbins, and Oprah Winfrey! Although a comedian at heart, having performed with the Second City and Just for Laughs, Holmes has recently delved into writing: penning the book I Love Your Laugh: Finding the Light in My Screwball Life. Born and raised in Ottawa en Anglais et Francais, Holmes sat back and enjoyed the hilarity that was her family: a handful of older brothers, a mormon father and a feminist mother. Not a sitcom, just her family.
Fee Range: $10,000–$15,000
Travels From: Intl
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