Hall of Fame keynote speaker Meridith Elliott Powell shows leaders how to turn uncertainty into opportunity and build teams that think, adapt, and act.
5.00 of 5
Top rated!5 of 5
“Thank you so much for speaking at our conference. Wow our members LOVED you. You had them on the edge of their seat, taking notes, and totally engaged. Exactly the information they needed as they into the challenges of 2023.”
Michele Pipitone
VP, Satellite Inc.
Meridith Elliott Powell is a Hall of Fame keynote speaker, business growth expert, and leadership strategist who helps organizations thrive in uncertain times. With executive leadership experience across finance, healthcare, travel, and tourism, she understands the realities leaders face in fast-changing markets. During her career, Meridith noticed a common challenge: leaders often carry the full mental load while teams bring problems instead of solutions. To change that dynamic, she studied how resilient organizations navigate disruption and turn uncertainty into opportunity. Today, Meridith equips leaders with practical strategies to empower teams, accelerate decision-making, and build cultures that adapt, innovate, and grow in any climate.
Meridith Elliott Powell is a Hall of Fame keynote speaker and award-winning author known for helping organizations navigate uncertainty and accelerate business growth. With executive leadership experience across finance, healthcare, travel, and tourism, she brings real-world insight to every stage she steps onto.
Her message resonates with executives, entrepreneurs, and global audiences who are facing rapid change and rising expectations. Markets move faster, competition grows stronger, and teams are expected to innovate while managing daily challenges. Meridith equips leaders with strategies to move beyond reaction and create organizations that thrive in uncertainty.
Each year, she delivers more than 80 keynote presentations, from intimate executive retreats to arenas with more than 4,000 attendees. Her ability to translate complex business challenges into clear, actionable strategies makes her a trusted partner for conferences, leadership events, and corporate gatherings.
Early in her career, Meridith noticed a leadership pattern that slowed organizations down. Leaders carried the full mental load, while teams brought problems instead of solutions. Decision-making stalled, innovation slowed, and leaders were forced to spend their time troubleshooting instead of leading strategy.
To address this challenge, Meridith developed her ASK FOR CHANGE™ 3-Step Proven Formula. The framework helps leaders transform uncertainty into strategic advantage by shifting how teams think, communicate, and take ownership.
Her approach focuses on three core areas:
Instead of expecting leaders to have all the answers, Meridith encourages them to ask powerful questions such as:
What do you see? What would you try? What would you change?
When leaders ask for change, they create the conditions for innovation, ownership, and growth.
Meridith Elliott Powell’s credibility is built on decades of business experience combined with recognized speaking excellence. She is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) and a recipient of the Council of Peers Award for Excellence (CPAE) — the highest honor in the speaking profession and recognition that places her in the Speaker Hall of Fame.
Her expertise has earned her numerous industry recognitions, including:
Named among Inc.’s Top 41 Motivational Speakers
Recognized as one of the Top 15 Business Growth Experts
Listed among LinkedIn’s Top 100 Sales Influencers
She is also the award-winning author of several business books, including THRIVE, which provides practical strategies for succeeding in uncertain markets.
This combination of leadership experience, research, and storytelling allows Meridith to connect deeply with audiences and deliver insights that leaders can apply immediately.
Meridith’s impact extends well beyond the conference stage. As an invitation-only LinkedIn Learning instructor, she reaches more than 800,000 learners worldwide through online programs focused on leadership, sales, and business growth.
Her digital courses offer professionals globally accessible strategies for navigating change, building resilient teams, and growing their organizations in challenging economic climates.
Through books, online learning, live events, and digital content, Meridith maintains a strong and engaged presence across professional networks. Her insights are widely shared among leaders seeking practical ways to succeed in today’s volatile business environment.
Organizations that book Meridith Elliott Powell gain more than a keynote speaker. They gain a strategist who helps leaders rethink how their teams operate, respond to disruption, and drive results.
Her presentations combine research, real-world leadership experience, and engaging storytelling to deliver practical strategies audiences can use immediately.
Whether speaking to thousands at a global conference, delivering targeted insights in the boardroom, or appearing as an expert commentator on television, Meridith brings clarity, energy, and actionable insight to every audience.
For organizations ready to move from reacting to change to leading through it, Meridith Elliott Powell delivers the mindset and strategies that turn uncertainty into opportunity.
5 of 5
“Thank you so much for speaking at our conference. Wow our members LOVED you. You had them on the edge of their seat, taking notes, and totally engaged. Exactly the information they needed as they into the challenges of 2023.”
Michele Pipitone VP, Satellite Inc.
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“You were amazing as always. Loved having you back — and each time you come you deliver new, relevant and even more powerful content. THRIVE could not have been more spot on.”
Caroline Sutton Senior Meeting Planner, CRMCA
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“WOW you were amazing! I knew your energy would be perfect so I gave you the toughest spot (after lunch keynote) and the toughest topic — customer and market growth in a down turning economy — you over delivered. Thank you so much for the interviews, the late night meetings, and even scheduling interviews even on weekends. We searched so long to find the perfect speaker. It was your topic and research that attracted us, but wow — you were so much more. Right from the start... the way you rolled up your sleeves and dug in was a total and pleasant surprise. You were more than a speaker — you were a partner.”
Sumit Bhansali Fortive
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“That was amazing — you had 600 attendees on the edge of their seats for more than an hour — I don’t know that I have ever seen one of our keynotes have the team so captured. And how you tied every strategy of your 9-step formula to exactly what we were doing in our company blew our CEO away. You did in 60-minutes what he has been trying to do for a year — rebuild confidence, get our team motivated, and give them a path to success. Thank you so much for the time, energy and passion you poured into getting to know us, and for creating such a powerful message!”
Casie Carlson Doosan Bobcat
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“That was amazing! Your message was exactly what we needed to hear. Your energy for an after lunch keynoter is off the chart, and your ability to be energetic, engaging and so relevant — sheer perfection!”
Sarah Higging NYRSA (NYRSA, NYHA Annual Conference)
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Wow they loved you! Thank you for making our PEI Conference the talk of Las Vegas.”
Sarah West Director of Conferences & Events, PEI
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“AMAZING! Best one yet. Meridith knocked it out of the park.”
Jason Frazier CEO, Skyhawks
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“WOW — can't tell you how many compliments I received regarding your presentation. You delivered 110%. It was just what we asked for. Alfredo [Franchise founder] told me you were worth every penny and then some. Honestly, he has never liked any of our outside speakers!! You really impressed him. You are incredible — best speaker we have ever had!”
Sit Means Sit Franchise
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“I just need to share what a terrific experience it was working with you these past few months – and also what a consummate PRO and PLEASURE you are to work with in person! Mad respect for your energy, your attitude, your focus, your cooperation, and just a general knack for being a delightful human being. Everyone LOVED you!”
Starshine Roshell LinkedIn
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Thanks so much for a great session. I received so many positive comments about your presentation. I was so impressed by the level of audience engagement you had and how relevant you made it. It was very impressive how you were able to connect so many things that Krysta (our first speaker) had said to your strategies for success.”
Daragh Mcabee CEO, IMPA
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Amazing job today — love your confidence, enthusiasm, and your ability to engage everyone. Such an awesome message, and presented so well. YOU CRUSHED IT.”
Michael Gilpin FASTSIGNS
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“WOW — LOVE your energy! Our franchisees loved you and your message so much. The perfect way to wrap up our conference. Thank you so much for investing so much in us.”
Julie Klinger SVP, Human Resources, Nothing Bundt Cakes
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“She had me in the first 30-seconds — high energy, amazing content, stories so relevant to VOYA Financial — how she crafted her message to connect with such a diverse audience — fantastic!”
Barb Orvis Senior Meeting Planner, Voya Financial
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Meridith had our Advisor/Owners captivated from start to finish, and the positive feedback has been tremendous. We’ll definitely ask her back.”
Ken Adams Managing Partners, Edward Jones
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“You are exactly who our 'pros' needed right now! Your message on how to turn uncertainty to competitive advantage is so relevant and so strong. Love the research you have done, your proven methodology, and the energy and value you bring when delivering. Putting your ideas into action right now.”
Alexa Greenberg Director of Meetings & Events, HouseCall Pros
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Hands down one of the BEST Speakers we have had in ten years. Our owners LOVED you. We have never had a speaker who had capacity attendance for both keynotes. Your energy, your message, and your ability to engage our members — the best we have seen.”
Bruce Phibbs VP, ABM Franchising
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“I absolutely loved your session. You are AMAZING. Your message is super strong and your delivery on point. I want you back next year!”
Colleen Sieber COO, CarePatrol
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“You were FANTASTIC!! Truly!! ‘Thrive’ is such a great message... there was so much from that session, we have years of content... so thankful to have you. You are a POWERFUL virtual presenter!”
Becky Bongiovanni CEO, CarePatrol
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Fantastic — THRIVE is a powerful message, and our members loved you!”
Natalie Toler Virginia Automobile Dealers Association
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“You were amazing. Our sales team loved you, and your message of how to push through this challenge was exactly what we needed to hear.”
Katie Allen Medtronic
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“You far exceeded our high expectations between your energy and strategic approach. The time you invested showed in how spot on your message was for our team. Congratulations on the standing ovation!”
Pete Corle Chief Commercial Officer, Solstice Advance Materials
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Fantastic. Your message ('THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Your Competitive Advantage') was exactly what our members needed to hear. You customized it all so well and made it so relevant for our members. Thank you!”
Mark Leazer Executive Director, AOPD
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Perfection - far exceeded our expectations - and our expectations were high. Your message was carried through the entire conference and was the perfect kick-off. No one could have done it better!”
Rob Carpio SVP, Waters Corporation
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Our reps loved you! Your message was so spot on, your energy, your stories — just perfect.”
Mark Hunter Clopay
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Our Global Council raved about your message, your energy, and your ability to be so engaging, and relatable with such a diverse audience. Nine different countries, five interpreters, and high-level professionals with a variety of challenges and opportunities — you NAILED IT!”
Pam Brown MDRT
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"I have heard nothing but positive comments about your program — our members loved you. Plus you are a joy to work with!"
Molly Mullins Nahad
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"She had me in the first 30-seconds: high energy, amazing content, stories so relevant to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Every board member, dishwasher, and raft guide, needs to experience Meridith!"
John Burton Chief Marketing Officer, Nantahala Outdoor Center
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"Fantastic presentation — you made the first in-person meeting of the MDRT Global Council in two years worth the wait. Incredible energy, tactical strategies, and fresh perspective on how to capitalize on these shifts in the marketplace. Just the speaker we needed. Nine different countries represented — and you were relevant for every single leader."
Randy Scritchfield President, Million Dollar Roundtable
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"You nailed it! The perfect message — exactly what we needed for our team. Powerful leadership message, perfect delivery, and your energy is off the chart!"
Yasser Yousseff President, The Budd Group
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"WOW — you were amazing. Your customization was just incredible. Your energy, your message... you were the talk of the event — they loved you! Thank you for everything — you have been amazing to work with!"
Patti DeWalt Butler Builders
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"You were amazing as always. Loved having you back — and each time you come you deliver new, relevant and even more powerful content. THRIVE could not have been more spot on!"
Caroline Sutton Senior Meeting Planner, CRMCA
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“THE BEST presentation I’ve heard in MONTHS! Loved listening to your insights — you totally shifted my paradigm. I’m so excited to follow you and learn more!”
Carolyn Chivetta Director of Business Development at Anvil Analytics + Insights
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"Bar none, one of the BEST speakers we have ever had. No one ever stays for the second session, and every single CEO came back — UNBELIEVABLE. You can guarantee we will be working together again."
Bruce Phibbs ABM Industries
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"Thank you — you were amazing. We have never had a speaker with a MORE relevant message. You had our members on the edge of their seats, taking notes and totally engaged. You're funny, motivating, and THRIVE is exactly the message every employer and CEO needs to hear. Total joy to work with — again thank you."
Linda Olejniczak Director of Research and Event Planning, ASE (American Society of Employers)
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"One of the BEST experiences we have ever had with a speaker. You were the talk of the event — our members loved you! Surveys are at an all-time high. So appreciate you going above and beyond to customize and deliver. We will definitely have you back."
John Henderson Director of Learning and Development, EANE (Employers Association of Northeast)
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
“Best speaker ever at our annual conference.”
Mike Koerner TV & Radio host, Eagle Communication
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
"Meridith also provided the audience with the toolkit they need to implement the THRIVE mentality and it was the most used resource at our conference! I would highly recommend Meridith to anyone who needs a high-energy, knowledgeable, and passionate speaker. We can’t thank her enough!”
Mallie Reynolds Associate, Association Partnership at the National Association of Manufacturers
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
Thank you for the outstanding sessions. Your leadership and sales strategies are really helping our company advance to the next level and more modern times.
Gary Shorman CEO, Eagle Communications
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
Meredith. I’ve invested an enormous amount of money in training during COVID. And, I learned more in your 60-minute session than anything else I’ve tried in the past 3 months. I’m so grateful. Thank you for sharing your strategies, ideas, and experience.
Andy Thomson Product Manager at Inuit
Meridith Elliott Powell
5 of 5
You are a ROCK STAR! You took our event to a whole new level. Your innovative message, your energy – amazing!
Linda Newsom-McCurdy Virginia Society of cpas
Meridith Elliott Powell
Keynote by speaker Meridith Elliott Powell:
These are unprecedented times! A marketplace where disruption is happening on steroids. One where there is more change building outside of your organization than in it. And a relentless pace of uncertainty that can radically impact your ability to grow your organization and keep your team motivated.
The only guarantee you have – is more change is coming. And if you’re not prepared - if you don’t have a plan – then research proves this level of uncertainty will negatively impact your ability to drive innovation, attract top talent and achieve bottom line results.
While uncertainty can seem daunting, the truth is uncertainty has an upside – it always has an upside. In fact, it can be your greatest asset to thrive, grow and turn disruption into opportunity. But you need a plan, you need a strategy, and you need the research that shows the path you exactly how to turn disruption to opportunity.
Join Business Growth Strategist and Award-Winning Author, Meridith Elliott Powell in this high powered keynote where she reveals the research, the stories and the methodology.
This keynote has it all – energy, engagement, and a personal plan of action for every attendee.
Key Takeaways:
Keynote by Meridith Elliott Powell:
In today’s fast-paced, constantly shifting marketplace, managing change is no longer enough—it’s outdated, it fails more than 70% of the time, and it leaves leaders, teams, and organizations frustrated and worst of all stuck.
It's Time To Do Something Different - It's Time To ASK for CHANGE.
In this high-energy, research-backed keynote, Hall of Fame Speaker and Business Growth Strategist Meridith Elliott Powell reveals her bold, innovative system designed to help leaders, sales professionals, and individuals not just survive disruption—but use it to fuel growth, engagement, and gain serious competitive advantage.
Built on a simple and actionable three-part framework, ASK for CHANGE gives you the mindset, strategies, and tools you need to turn fear to fuel!
This isn’t another “change management” talk. This is a proven playbook for accelerating through uncertainty and building a team that thrives in change.
Keynote by Meridith Elliott Powell:
Let’s face it, burnout is the new pandemic.
One in four employees are struggling with mental strength. The pace of change is relentless. Disruption is the norm. And all these challenges are squeezing your margins and driving down results.
Resilience is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s your competitive advantage.
This high-energy, research-backed keynote delivers real-world strategies to build mental fitness, boost resilience, and fuel performance. It’s designed for leaders who want to do more than just cope, they want to win.
In this powerhouse program you will learn exactly how to become the kind of leader and team that rises in chaos, adapts under pressure, and turns stress into strength.
This isn’t just inspiration. It’s transformation—with ROI.
Whether you’re leading a team, driving sales, or managing frontline operations, this keynote will give you the tools to shift mindsets, energize performance, and future-proof your organization.
Key Takeaways:
Keynote by Meridith Elliott Powell:
Uncertainty changes everything — customers, competition, and decision-makers. It’s time to update your approach to sales — from how you get through the door — to how you get the deal to close.
It’s challenging out there: A challenge to get above the white noise. A challenge to get to the decision-makers. A challenge to stand out from the competition. And a challenge to stay motivated.
Why?
Because sales has gone through a major disruption. If you’re still using traditional techniques, then you’re making sales so much harder than it has to be. To succeed, you need to evolve.
You need to transform how you attract clients – build your reputation – engage with the marketplace – and get results. Join us for this high-energy, highly interactive, and high-powered keynote where business growth strategist and keynote speaker Meridith Elliott Powell shares the innovative techniques you need to dominate, differentiate and deliver!
Key Takeaways:
Keynote by Meridith Elliott Powell:
Artificial Intelligence is changing everything: How you sell. How you lead. How you compete. How you grow. It’s moving faster than strategy. Faster than culture. And faster than most leaders feel prepared for.
But the truth is - AI is NOT the biggest threat to your organization. Your reaction to it is.
Because the organizations that win in the age of AI won’t be the ones with the best technology. They’ll be the ones with the best strategy. The ones with the team MOST in shape for change.
Success today is not about AI -it is about designing a team that can adapt faster, think differently, and turn disruption into opportunity.
In this high-energy, research-driven keynote, Hall of Fame Speaker and Business Growth Strategist Meridith Elliott Powell reveals the proven framework to help leaders and organizations not just survive the age of AI—but THRIVE in it.
Based on her groundbreaking research Meridith shows audiences exactly how to:
Because AI will change your business. But it doesn’t have to control your future.
The leaders that thrive won’t be the ones who wait for certainty. They’ll be the ones who lead through uncertainty.
And this keynote shows you how.
Watch Meridith Elliott Powell in action!
Watch Meridith Elliott Powell in action
