Stan Phelps
Authority on Driving Differentiation, Increasing Customer Loyalty, and Promoting Employee Engagement
Biography
Stan Phelps is the Founder of PurpleGoldfish.com, a think tank of customer experience and employee engagement experts based at the Frontier in Research Triangle Park. He is a TEDx speaker, Forbes contributor and IBM Futurist that inspires leaders to think differently about their most important stakeholders. Stan’s keynotes and workshops focus on the value of customer experience as a competitive differentiator and the importance of employee engagement in building a strong corporate culture. He has spoken at over 250 events in 15 countries (US, Canada, UK, Spain, Ecuador, Peru, The Netherlands, Russia, France, Germany, Australia, Bahrain, Malaysia, Israel and Sweden) for Fortune 500 brands such as IBM, Target, ESPN, UPS, and Citi. Prior to focusing on speaking, Stan held leadership positions at IMG, adidas, and the PGA of America. He also spent seven years as Chief Solutions Officer at Synergy, an award winning experiential marketing agency. At Synergy, he helped create larger than life brand experiences for brands such as KFC, M&M's, Starbucks and organizations such as NASCAR, MLS, and the USTA. Stan started writing and speaking in 2009 on the belief that "differentiation via added value" can be a game changing strategy. For far too long, the overwhelming majority of marketing has fixated on the eyes and ears of the prospect. Not enough has been focused on creating experiences for current customers that drive referrals. Great customer experience is about being so remarkable that people can't help but talk about you. That if you absolutely delight someone – they will not only come back, but they'll bring their friends. Stan received his BS in Marketing and Human Resources from Marist College, a JD/MBA from Villanova University, and a certificate for Achieving Breakthrough Service from Harvard Business School. He is a Past-President of the AMA Triangle, a 700+ member chapter of the American Marketing Association. He also currently serves on the Advisory Board for Special Spectators. Stan lives in Cary, North Carolina with his wife Jennifer and two boys Thomas & James.
Speech Topics
(Focus: Purpose) Purpose-Driven Success: Winning Hearts, Minds, and Profits with Purpose
Purpose has changed the way we work and how customers buy. This program reveals how businesses can embrace their purpose to drive engagement, fuel profits, and make an impact on society.
(Focus: Employees) Beyond Compensation: Driving Engagement Through Meaningful Employee Experiences
Employee engagement is more than salary. In this keynote, discover 15 “little extras” to boost loyalty, productivity, and culture using the I.D.E.A. process. Create a workplace that values, grows, and inspires.
(Focus: Leadership) Leading Across Generations: Bridging the Gaps for a Unified Workforce
Leading five generations requires understanding each group’s values. This keynote equips leaders with strategies to recruit, train, and inspire a multigenerational team, boosting cohesion, productivity, and innovation.
(Focus: Leadership & Sales) Excel Under Pressure and Thrive in the Game of Business
In a fast-paced world, thriving under pressure is key to client success. This keynote unveils the Kerage Styles framework, helping leaders manage stress, boost sales, and build lasting client relationships. In today’s fast-paced business world, excelling under pressure is essential for building lasting client relationships and driving sales success. This keynote introduces the Kerage Styles framework, guiding leaders through techniques for managing their own behavior under pressure while deepening connections with clients. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for enhancing client acquisition, improving sales conversions, and creating meaningful, long-term relationships.
(Focus: Marketing) Unleash Your Brand’s Uniqueness to Stand Out in a Sea of Sameness
How do you stand out in the marketplace? This program provides an unconventional eight-part F.L.A.W.S.O.M.E. framework for achieving competitive separation. In a crowded marketplace, blending in means losing out. This keynote introduces the F.L.A.W.S.O.M.E. framework, an eight-part approach that embraces authenticity and turns perceived flaws into competitive strengths. By amplifying your brand’s unique “weirdness” and embracing authenticity, this program guides you in crafting a memorable brand identity that truly stands out. Learn actionable ways to discover, amplify, and leverage the distinctive elements within your brand DNA for lasting differentiation.
(Focus: Customer Experience) Creating Wow Through Customer-Focused Micro-Moments
Today’s customer experience is shaped by the small yet impactful moments that add value and reduce friction. This keynote introduces the Purple Goldfish concept, offering 10 innovative strategies for transforming customer interactions into memorable experiences. Learn how small gestures can drive customer loyalty, enhance retention, and boost word-of-mouth advocacy. Participants will explore practical ways to implement the I.D.E.A. process to create value through empathy and intentional customer-focused actions.
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Stan Phelps's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Stan Phelps'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 Stan Phelps's speaking fee?
The typical range for Stan Phelps's speaking fee is $8,000–$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 Stan Phelps 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 Stan Phelps for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Stan Phelps'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 Stan Phelps 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 Stan Phelps

Scott Kress
Scott Kress is a highly accomplished leadership and team development trainer, author and keynote speaker. He is also a highly accomplished wilderness guide. He was recently elected to the College of Fellows of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society and is one of only 33 international Polar Guides in the world. Scott has only one goal; to assist teams, leaders, and individuals in reaching their peak performance. This is accomplished through combining the latest team and leadership theory with cutting edge experiential training to create one of the most effective training programs available today. Scott’s team and leadership development programs are custom designed to meet each client’s needs. Scott has gained great insight into the inner workings of leadership and high performance teams through almost 30 years of leading adventure expeditions. He has guided and summitted peaks throughout the world. Scott has stood on the summit of Mount Everest and is one of less than 300 people in the world to climb the 7 summits (the highest mountain on each of the 7 continents).
Fee Range: $6,000–$10,500
Travels From: Intl

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.
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