Understanding the Roles: Keynote Speakers, MCs, and Panelists
Not Sure Who to Put on Stage? Let’s Break It Down.
Planning an event can feel like juggling a dozen flaming torches while riding a unicycle—on a tightrope. There’s the venue, the schedule, the sponsors… and, of course, who’s actually speaking on stage. You know you need someone to bring the room together, inspire the crowd, or share expert insights—but do you need a keynote speaker? An event host or emcee/MC? A panelist? All three?
This blog will walk you through what each role brings to the table (or the stage), when to book them, and who’s doing it best. Spoiler: you don’t have to choose one instead of the other—often, a strong mix is the magic formula.
Find your next keynote speaker, event host, or event panelist here!
What Is a Keynote Speaker?
What is a keynote speaker? A keynote speaker is your event’s headliner—the person who sets the tone, delivers your most important message, and gives attendees something unforgettable to walk away with. They’re often booked for conferences, leadership retreats, or summits where transformation, motivation, or thought leadership is the goal.
Keynotes are prepared, polished, and often customized to your audience.
Dive deeper in our guide to finding the perfect keynote speaker for your event!
Book a keynote speaker when you want to:
- Inspire and energize your audience
- Dive deep into a major theme or idea
- Open or close your event with a memorable moment
Featured Talent:
She’s raw, real, and ridiculously powerful on stage. Jody has a way of holding a room with laughter, vulnerability, and hard-hitting truth.
“I’ve genuinely never received this level of positive feedback for a speaker before… even our most seasoned attendees were raving.” – CEO, Alberta Mortgage Brokers Association
A fearless advocate for equity and inclusive leadership. Celina challenges audiences to be bold, take risks, and rethink power.
“She encouraged us to challenge the status quo… It is time that people realize their power.” – J. Kovitz, HRPA
Madison doesn’t just speak—she connects. Her talks on identity, community, and resilience are uplifting and unforgettable.
“Madison’s speech was fabulous and was definitely the highlight of our conference.” – Wei-Han, Community Options, Inc.
Get to know Madison and what makes her an amazing choice for your next event!
What Does an MC or Host Do?
Think of your host as the glue that holds the whole event together. They keep things running smoothly, guide the audience from segment to segment, and bring warmth and energy throughout the day. A great emcee/MC (Master of Ceremonies) doesn’t just read names off a script—they elevate your program, give shoutouts to sponsors, introduce speakers with flair, and keep the momentum going.
Check out our guide to finding the best Host or MC for your event!
Book a host when you want to:
- Keep your event on time and on track
- Smoothly transition between speakers or segments
- Keep your audience engaged from start to finish
Featured Hosts/Emcees:
A TSN anchor and founder of the Her Mark Summit, Kate’s calm confidence and quick wit make her a top-tier emcee.
“Kate was fantastic… so easy-going. Already thinking of other events we can invite her to.” – Canadian Associate of Land and Energy Professionals
Sickboy Podcast (Jeremie, Brian, Taylor)
Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, this trio brings a warm, inclusive vibe to any event. Their chemistry is infectious.
“Exactly the type of humour, delicacy, and brevity we needed for the day.” – Canadian Cancer Society
Devin’s journalistic eye and compassionate presence bring both storytelling and structure to the events he hosts. He knows how to make everyone feel seen and heard.
See how Devin shines as he hosts the Paralympic Games in Paris!
What Is a Panelist?
Panelists are the secret sauce to any event that thrives on discussion. They don’t deliver full speeches—they respond, react, share stories, and riff with each other or a moderator. And here’s the important part: panelists aren’t limited to group formats. They can also take part in fireside chats—one-on-one or small group conversations that feel relaxed, insightful, and incredibly engaging.
Whether it’s an industry panel, a leadership roundtable, or a fireside-style Q&A, the best panels are curated, diverse, and packed with personal insight. Panelists bring real stories, lived experience, and dynamic energy to your agenda.
Book panelists when you want to:
- Showcase a range of perspectives
- Host a Q&A, panel discussion, or fireside chat
- Encourage open, real-time dialogue
Featured Panelists:
Entrepreneur, author, and creator of Miss Vickie’s Chips, Vickie brings down-to-earth business savvy and relatable storytelling to every panel she joins. With warmth and wisdom, Vickie delivers a candid look at the realities of business building before social media, before funding rounds, and before the playbooks existed—reminding audiences that integrity, resilience, and connection still matter most.
Financial educator and podcast host, Jessica’s sessions blend money smarts with humour and honesty.
“Her talk resonated well with our audience… brilliant and exactly what we needed.” – E. Garratt, HR FutureFest
Recently inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, Daniele is a celebrated coach and leader in Canadian sport. She brings thoughtful insights on leadership, performance, and breaking barriers—making her a compelling presence on fireside chats and leadership panels alike.
When Should You Book A Keynote Speaker or Host For Your Event?
So, how do you decide who to bring in—and when?
If you want someone to set the tone, energize your audience, or deliver a powerful message that aligns with your event theme, a keynote speaker is the way to go. They’re there to inspire, challenge, and leave a lasting impression.
Need someone to guide your event from start to finish, keep the program flowing, and make sure everything runs smoothly? That’s where a host or MC shines. They keep the energy up, manage transitions, and help the audience stay engaged throughout the day.
Looking to add a variety of voices, encourage discussion, or explore a topic from multiple angles? A panelist (or better yet, a thoughtfully curated panel) brings dialogue, authenticity, and audience interaction to the table.
Each role plays a distinct part and when used together, they can transform your event from ordinary to outstanding. Planning a multi-day conference or a jam-packed agenda? Mix and match! A keynote can open the day, an MC can guide the program, and a panel can close it with thoughtful discussion.
Before making any decisions, see what’s trending in the event industry so far this year!
A Great Keynote Speaker Evokes Emotion and Transformation
International keynote speaker, Dr. Jody Carrington, reflects on her experience with Indigenous communities and how genuine acknowledgement can be the quickest path back to the “good” in our relationships.
Get in touch with Dr. Jody Carrington’s booking agent for event inquiries.
Final Thoughts: Build the Right Lineup
Choosing the right people for your event isn’t about picking one over the other—it’s about creating a lineup that works together. A great host keeps things smooth. A powerful keynote speaker delivers a message that sticks. A compelling panel brings a conversation to life.
And when you get it right? That’s when the magic happens.
Need help finding the right keynote speaker, host, or panelist for your event? Contact Talent Bureau and we’ll help you build a lineup your audience won’t stop talking about.
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