Looking for a reading list that moves you, motivates you, and makes you think? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating personal growth, or planning an unforgettable event, these authors bring real stories, bold ideas, and fresh perspectives straight to your bookshelf and your audience. So, if you’re wondering, “Where can I find keynote speakers who are also authors?” — this is your answer. Discover your speaker-inspired reading list with books by keynote speakers such as Kaleb Dahlgren, Jesse Lipscombe, Jessica Moorhouse, and more. This list is complete with book recommendations, speaker bios, and links to learn more or book them for your next event.
6 Books by Keynote Speakers Who Inspire On and Off the Stage
Crossroads by Kaleb Dahlgren
About Kaleb: Kaleb Dahlgren is a Humboldt Broncos crash survivor, Type 1 diabetes advocate, and mental wellness speaker. He shares his story with courage, grace, and a dose of optimism that’s hard to forget.
About the Book: Crossroads is Kaleb’s powerful memoir about surviving tragedy, living with chronic illness, and finding purpose through pain. It’s a story of resilience, gratitude, and finding your own “why”—even when the road gets dark.
“We never know the true meaning of courage until we face it head-on in life: Kaleb’s story is truly a story of courage. Crossroads is an amazing book that will take you back to your early days of hockey and sports and make you realize how important community and family really are.” – Wayne Gretzky
Read the book: Crossroads
Book Kaleb for your event: Contact Kaleb Dahlgren’s booking agent.
The Art of Doing by Jesse Lipscombe
About Jesse: Jesse Lipscombe is an actor, activist, entrepreneur, and speaker who’s not afraid to say what needs to be said—and do what needs to be done. He’s also the force behind the #MakeItAwkward movement.
About the Book: In The Art of Doing, Jesse shares actionable lessons about taking risks, getting uncomfortable, and building a life rooted in purpose. If you need a push to get started—or get serious—this is it.
“I wish I had this book decades ago, it would have made some of the tough spots a lot easier.” — Jason Priestley
Read the book: The Art of Doing
Book Jesse for your event: Contact Jesse Lipscombe’s booking agent.
Everything But Money by Jessica Moorhouse
About Jessica: Jessica Moorhouse is a personal finance educator, speaker, and podcast host who’s helped thousands of Canadians take control of their money—and their mindset.
About the Book: Everything But Money is a fresh take on personal finance that goes beyond budgets and savings goals. Jessica explores the emotional, cultural, and psychological sides of money—because your net worth isn’t your self-worth. Did we mention that Everything But Money has become a National Bestseller?
“Buy this book! Whether you are rich or poor, old or young, you’ll connect with Jessica Moorhouse’s humility, research and impressive wisdom in Everything but Money.” — Andrew Hallam, bestselling author of Millionaire Teacher
Read the book: Everything But Money
Book Jessica for your event: Contact Jessica Moorhouse’s booking agent.
The Save of My Life by Corey Hirsch
About Corey: Corey Hirsch is a former NHL goalie and Olympic silver medalist who’s now one of the loudest voices in sports mental health advocacy.
About the Book: In The Save of My Life, Corey pulls back the curtain on professional sports, mental illness, and the pressure to perform. It’s raw, honest, and ultimately, hopeful—a must-read for anyone who thinks success and struggle can’t co-exist.
“A riveting look behind the mask of an NHL goalie, The Save of My Life offers understanding and hope to anyone living with mental illness” – Harper Collins Canada
Read the book: The Save of My Life
Book Corey for your event: Contact Corey Hirsch’s booking agent
Feeling Seen by Dr. Jody Carrington
About Jody: Dr. Jody Carrington is a psychologist, bestselling author, and speaker known for bringing warmth, humour, and realness to every stage—and every conversation.
About the Book: Feeling Seen is all about connection: why we need it, what gets in the way, and how to get it back. Jody weaves together research, stories, and lived experience to remind us that being seen is where healing begins.
“Dr. Jody’s refreshing mix of real life experiences, coupled with spot on quotes, practical information, and a true passion for wanting to see people bring out the best in each other has resulted in this masterpiece which truly has something for everyone.”
Read the book: Feeling Seen
Book Jody for your event: Contact Jody’ Carrington’s booking agent
From the Ashes by Jesse Thistle
About Jesse: Jesse Thistle is a Métis-Cree professor, historian, and bestselling author. Once homeless, now a celebrated academic, Jesse speaks with profound empathy and insight about reconciliation, addiction, and Indigenous history.
About the Book: From the Ashes is Jesse’s unforgettable memoir—a story of trauma, survival, identity, and the power of transformation. It’s as heartbreaking as it is uplifting.
“An illuminating, inside account of homelessness, a study of survival and freedom. Jesse Thistle delivers a painfully lyrical book, a journey through the torrents of addiction and trauma, masterfully sliding in humour and moments of heart-expanding human connection. I found myself gasping out loud at parts, unable to put the book down. Jesse’s story shows us that there is nothing that cannot be transformed.” — AMANDA LINDHOUT, bestselling co-author of A House in the Sky
Read the book: From the Ashes. Check out the New foreword by Gabor Mate
Book Jesse for your event: Contact Jesse Thistle’s booking agent
The Impact of From the Ashes by Jesse Thistle
Often, the journey to wellness and to finding oneself can be uncovered through the smallest acts of kindness we receive from and give to others. Bestselling author of From the Ashes, Jesse Thistle, joins CHCH News ahead of the “A Mental Health Morning” event.
Ready to Read and Book These Speakers?
These aren’t just authors. They’re world-class speakers who inspire real change. If you’re planning an event and want a speaker who can connect with your audience on the page and the stage, you’re looking at the right list.
Let us help you find the perfect speaker:
Explore more books by popular keynote speakers
FAQs – 6 Must-Read Books by Keynote Speakers
What are the benefits of booking a keynote speaker who has written a book?
Authors often bring deeper insight, thought leadership, and a clear message to your event. Their storytelling is polished, their ideas are well-developed, and their work resonates both on and off stage. Plus, audiences love a speaker with a take-home resource they can dive into afterward.
Can I gift the speaker’s book to attendees?
Absolutely! Many of our clients love adding a signed book to their event swag or as part of a VIP package. It’s a thoughtful, high-impact way to reinforce the speaker’s message long after the event ends.
How do I know which speaker-author is right for my event?
That’s where we come in. Our team will help match you with a speaker whose story, expertise, and tone align with your goals, audience, and budget. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, retreat, or fundraiser, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Can these speakers tailor their talk to themes from their book?
Yes! Most speakers are happy to customize their keynote to reflect the themes, tone, or chapters of their book—especially if it’s relevant to your event’s goals. We’ll work closely with them to ensure it’s the right fit for your audience.
Where can I find more keynote speakers who are authors?
Right here. Talent Bureau represents a growing list of authors and thought leaders who bring both lived experience and page-turning insight. Explore more keynote speakers.
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