DESI PAYNE
MAKE YOUR CURRENT JOB YOUR DREAM JOB! Energizing Leaders-Beating Burnout-Inspiring Teams!
Desi Payne is a leading authority on workplace culture, stress management, and team engagement. As an award-winning international keynote speaker, she is on a mission to help professionals "Make Your Current Job Your Dream Job" by equipping them with the tools to overcome burnout, negativity, and overwhelm in high-pressure environments. Desi’s expertise is rooted in her 25-year career in the hospital industry, her successful journey as a business owner and entrepreneur, and her personal triumph as a cancer survivor. This real-world experience gives her a deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s leaders and teams.
Desi has delivered keynote presentations, workshops, and trainings in 27 states and internationally, impacting hundreds of organizations, including industry leaders like Farm Bureau Insurance, Century 21, Kinseth Hospitality, and McLeod Health. Her reputation for combining actionable content with humor and memorable storytelling has made her a sought-after speaker for conferences, corporate events, and leadership retreats.
As a certified John Maxwell Leadership Trainer, Desi brings world-class leadership principles to every stage and has had the privilege of sharing the spotlight with legendary leaders such as John C. Maxwell. She is also a regular TV personality on the lifestyle program, Hello Iowa!
Desi is the host of The Energized Leader podcast, where she interviews exceptional leaders across America, providing listeners with practical, real-life strategies for inspiring teams and transforming workplace culture. Desi is also the author of three books—Manage Stress Without Losing Your Mind, Give Me Some Chocolate…I’m Stressed!, and Do You Work with the Living Dead.
Desi's approach blends research-backed frameworks with authentic storytelling and interactive engagement, ensuring every audience walks away empowered and equipped for change. Whether she’s speaking to frontline staff, corporate managers, or C-suite executives, Desi Payne is the speaker who turns every keynote into an unforgettable, energizing experience that sparks growth and lasting impact.
Desi Payne is a leading authority on workplace culture, stress management, and team engagement. As an award-winning international keynote speaker, she is on a mission to help professionals "Make Your Current Job Your Dream Job" by equipping them with the tools to overcome burnout, negativity, and overwhelm in high-pressure environments. Desi’s expertise is rooted in her 25-year career in the hospital industry, her successful journey as a business owner and entrepreneur, and her personal triumph as a cancer survivor. This real-world experience gives her a deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s leaders and teams.
Desi has delivered keynote presentations, workshops, and trainings in 27 states and internationally, impacting hundreds of organizations, including industry leaders like Farm Bureau Insurance, Century 21, Kinseth Hospitality, and McLeod Health. Her reputation for combining actionable content with humor and memorable storytelling has made her a sought-after speaker for conferences, corporate events, and leadership retreats.
As a certified John Maxwell Leadership Trainer, Desi brings world-class leadership principles to every stage and has had the privilege of sharing the spotlight with legendary leaders such as John C. Maxwell. She is also a regular TV personality on the lifestyle program, Hello Iowa!
Desi is the host of The Energized Leader podcast, where she interviews exceptional leaders across America, providing listeners with practical, real-life strategies for inspiring teams and transforming workplace culture. Desi is also the author of three books—Manage Stress Without Losing Your Mind, Give Me Some Chocolate…I’m Stressed!, and Do You Work with the Living Dead.
Desi's approach blends research-backed frameworks with authentic storytelling and interactive engagement, ensuring every audience walks away empowered and equipped for change. Whether she’s speaking to frontline staff, corporate managers, or C-suite executives, Desi Payne is the speaker who turns every keynote into an unforgettable, energizing experience that sparks growth and lasting impact.
The Energized Employee: Beating Burnout, Staying Positive, Uplifting Others During Tough Days
Imagine this: You walk into your workplace and feel it immediately, the tone is lighter, people communicate with respect, and everyone gets along. The work is still demanding, but the atmosphere gives you energy instead of draining it. Now that feels like a dream job!
But let’s face the reality is that many employees today are disengaged, disconnected, burned out, and overwhelmed. If that sounds familiar, it might be time for a...
The Magic of Connecting for Leaders
Do you know the secret to becoming a great leader?
Are you under the illusion of what your team thinks of you?
Would you like to learn the magic of connecting?
If yes, then Desi wants to vanish your misconceptions of what connecting is.
Today technology transforms the way we communicate. In fact, technology has taken over our lives in so many ways that we’ve truly lost the skills of listening...
Give Me Some Chocolate...I'm Stressed!
In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, it’s easy to feel drained, overwhelmed, and stretched too thin. How do you energize excellence when everything around you seems to zap your energy? How do you accomplish more with less—without burning out?
In this high-energy session, motivational speaker Desi Payne will share her powerful
“3-L Framework” to help you recognize, reduce, and respond to stress in healthier, more productive...
High-Road Leadership Workshop
- Would you like a leadership training experience that keeps everyone talking?
- Are your leaders on the Low Road, Middle Road, or High Road of leadership?
- Do you want high interaction and fun while learning how to be a High-Road leader?
Say GOODBYE to dull, boring, lifeless leadership workshops!
This four-hour leadership training with Desi Payne is just...
The Connective Power of Laughter
Are you having a fun annual celebration and need the perfect banquet speaker? Maybe you need a dynamic session to re-energize everyone after lunch. This keynote delivers just that!
More than just entertaining and engaging, this laughter-filled experience will have your audience laughing and learning about the amazing science behind laughter. Did you know that laughter relaxes your muscles, releases feel-good hormones, boosts your...
D.I.S.C. Energize Your Team with Incredible Communication Skills
What if you could tap into your greatest motivations and dramatically improve your relationships and accelerate your results?
Then communication training with Desi is the best solution!
Participants are introduced to the DISC model and begin by exploring their personal profiles to better understand their own communication style and behavioral preferences. They then learn about the full spectrum of...
Team Building with Humor & Purpose
How would you like to add a team-building session to any of Desi’s programs to reinforce what your team just learned?
Desi offers team-building experiences that are both fun and purposeful. You can either extend one of your scheduled sessions or have her lead an engaging breakout session designed to strengthen connections and learning.
Her team-building is packed with laughter, interaction, and purpose. Five reasons to add team...
29 recommend DESI
Post your own verified review when you hire this speaker through eSpeakers.
Evans Junior High School
On-Site
S.Z., Teacher, Evans Junior High School
Verified @ottumwaschools.comOur Professional Development session on DISC was outstanding! It opened my eyes! It was as if a spotlight of clarity illuminated my mind to the qualities of my peers and students but also held a mirror to my own! It was illuminating and also empowered me to grow into my blind spots. Your presentation is a self-awareness super tool and I am thankful I was a part of it!
President
On-Site
D.W., SAHMA, President
Verified @tmo.comAt the SAHMA Alabama/Mississippi Conference last week, I had the pleasure of watching, listening to, interacting with, and learning from an amazing speaker, Desi Payne KEYNOTE SPEAKER. Desi was fun, full of energy, motivating, and most of all, informative. We got some great ideas to use to help motivate and inspire our teams, and boost their overall morale. I would certainly recommend having Desi speak at any event as a keynote speaker.
MCFOA
On-Site
D.M., Vice-President, MCFOA
Verified @ci.albertlea.mn.usDesi, your presentation on dealing with stress and negative people was PERFECT for the end-of-week conference send off. I received RAVE reviews from the group that your energy, humor, and engaging presentation made the last day of the conference so much fun and memorable. You engaged the group and provided helpful tools to be the BEST version of ourselves in the workplace and at home. Thank you so much!
International Institute of Municipal Clerks
On-Site
D.J.R.U., Director of Professional Development, International Institute of Municipal Clerks
Verified @iimc.comDesi Payne delivered an exceptional keynote. Desi was not only down to earth and easy to work with but also electrifying, hilarious, and thoroughly entertaining. Her dynamic presentation captivated the entire audience, making everyone feel involved and engaged. Desi's unique ability to inspire and motivate shines through as she effortlessly connects with a diverse audience, resonating equally with young professionals and seasoned experts. Her charisma and genuine approach make her a standout speaker who leaves a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of hearing her.
Ottumwa Community School District
On-Site
B.M., Assistant Superintendent, Ottumwa Community School District
Verified @ottumwaschools.com"The feedback gathered from our teachers when Ms. Desi Payne was our keynote speaker was overwhelmingly positive. Desi skillfully combined humor with relevant and insightful content and storytelling which captivated our audience's attention and promoted engagement throughout the session. In addition to her engaging speaking style, she facilitated opportunities for meaningful discussion among participants, fostering an environment in which educators felt comfortable sharing their experiences and ideas. The interactive activities mixed with storytelling which she integrated into her presentation not only served to reinforce the material but also encouraged collaboration among our teachers. Most notably, Desi provided our teams with a wealth of practical ideas that they can readily implement within their own classrooms and team meetings. These approaches were designed to enhance team effectiveness and ultimately contribute to a more positive and productive school climate. Overall, Desi's keynote address was a valuable experience that equipped our educators with the tools and inspiration needed for continued growth and improvement."
Iowa Land Records
On-Site
K.D.C., Marketing Director, Iowa Land Records
Verified @clris.comDesi Payne led an incredible workshop that helped our team uncover their communication styles through fun and engaging games. Her energetic approach helped make people feel more at ease, and the interactive activities kept the entire group involved and laughing. Desi met with us before the event to learn more about our goals and then helped us choose a program that fit our needs. After her engaging presentation, we left with a better understanding of ourselves and practical tools to improve communication. Don't miss out on hiring Desi for your next event!
New Hampshire School Nutrition Association
On-Site
R.P., President, New Hampshire School Nutrition Association
Verified @windhamsd.org"Desi Payne delivered an absolutely incredible keynote—energetic, engaging, and truly one-of-a-kind! Her passion and innovative insights had the entire audience up out of their seats, leaving us all fired up to revolutionize school nutrition."
FNB Community Bank
On-Site
S.B., Event Planner, FNB Community Bank
Verified @thefnb.comDesi is phenomenal! Her ability to keep everyone engaged and laughing all while delivering an empowering message is unmatched. I can’t say enough positive things about her!
FNB Community Bank
On-Site
S.H., President & CEO, FNB Community Bank
Desi delivers in every way a Keynote Speaker should. She’s energetic, interactive and very relatable. Her keynote contained excellent content that all work environments could benefit from.
Town and Country Credit Union
On-Site
B.H., President & CEO, Town and Country Credit Union
Verified @townandcountry.orgDesi Payne brought the energy for her keynote at our employee event. She got our team moving, laughing and thinking about how they can change their perspective and leverage fun to reboot their brains.
Waverly Chamber of Commerce
On-Site
T.T., Executive Director, Waverly Chamber of Commerce
Verified @waverlychamber.comDesi is a refreshing keynote speaker who inspires her audiences with thought-provoking points while she makes learning fun. Her presentations have a clear agenda and she engages her audiences with humor and real-world experiences, which help to transmit her message of the importance of connecting with others in our ever-changing business landscape. When you hire Desi, you hire a passionate leader, an entertaining educator, and a kind-hearted human who will not disappoint.
Maryland Bankers Association
On-Site
R.L., President & CEO, Maryland Bankers Association
Verified @mdbankers.com“Desi knocks it out of the park. Her energy, storytelling, and engaging discussions pull you out of the everyday grind and into a place of empowerment. I’d highly recommend Desi to any organization that wants the best out of their team.”
Avera Cancer Institute
On-Site
K.V.B., VP Oncology, Avera Cancer Institute
Verified @avera.org“I firmly believe in the power of gratitude and optimism in the workplace……Desi was able to deliver actionable suggestions in a highly engaging environment. We all left motivated!”
Digital Media Specialties
On-Site
I.C., Owner, Digital Media Specialties
Verified @gmail.comI've had the pleasure to attend multiple speeches and seminars featuring Desi Payne as a guest motivational speaker. Three things make Desi stand out as an effective speaker: she is engaging, she is poignant, and most importantly, she is memorable. Desi engages her audiences in unique ways that engage participants' hearts and minds through captivating stories, playful demonstrations, and heartfelt humor. Add in her infectious enthusiasm and it's easy to understand why I've lost track of time during her presentations! Desi regularly speaks on poignant topics in ways that people of all backgrounds can understand and interpret. Her use of humor to break down complex and emotional issues (such as workplace performance and attitudes) provides a fresh perspective on how to approach problems and conflicts. She is easy to understand, easy to relate to, and easy to feel connected to, both on and off stage. Overall, these professional and personal qualities make Desi one of the most memorable speakers I have experienced. Not only is she engaging with topics that matter, but her passion and enthusiasm for her work tie her directly to her performance as a speaker. From now on, whenever I encounter another "workplace zombie", I'll always think of Desi.
One Woman Comedy Show. Los Angeles, CA
On-Site
K.K., Author, Comedian, Actress, One Woman Comedy Show. Los Angeles, CA
Verified @gmail.comDesi created an amazing workshop! From the minute I walked in, there was an air of enthusiasm. I learned how important it is to manage stress and the different strategies to do that.
Balanceback
On-Site
M.C., CEO, Balanceback
Verified @gmail.com"Desi Payne is an engaging and entertaining motivational speaker. I had the honor of having her speak at one of my events in front of 10k students. She had the students engaged the entire time -including the teachers! If you need a speaker that will not only entertain, but move your audience to take positive steps towards success, book Desi Payne—you will be glad you did!" Marie Cosgrove, CEO Balanceback & Author Greater Fortune, Essential Lessons from the Entrepreneur Who Bought the Company That Fired Her
Ottumwa Leadership Academy
On-Site
D.T.H., Dean, Ottumwa Leadership Academy
Verified @pcsia.netIf your organization is looking for someone to fire you up on leadership issues, Desi Payne is your speaker. I have seen her speaking at our local Leadership Academy as well as Regional Leadership Conferences. Her interactive, humorous style will give your attendees practical information on leadership and personal growth. As a John Maxwell Trainer, she is well versed in successful leadership techniques. Her background in clowning helps her put a humorous twist to the important information she brings. I am confident you will be pleased with her speaking style and audience response. Dr. Ted Haas, Dean of Ottumwa Leadership Academy, 2015-2016.
Farmers Insurance
On-Site
T.S., Agent, Farmers Insurance
Verified @farmersagency.comI highly recommend Desi Payne to speak for your organization because of who she is. You will see and hear humor but also the seriousness of her all at the same time. I've known Desi for over 25 years and have been in her audience, helped her with presentations, and witnessed what the " Hero of the Heartland" can do. (Which is also an award she received in 2013 for her extraordinary work with students in schools.) Desi gets her audiences involved with her, gets feedback, and spreads her enthusiasm amongst the audience. Would I recommend Des Payne to be a speaker for your organization ? YES!
Tatsuda Leadership Consulting & Tatsuda's IGA
On-Site
K.T., President, Tatsuda Leadership Consulting & Tatsuda's IGA
Verified @gmail.comDesi Payne is a versatile, entertaining, and educational speaker and teacher. In 2017, I had the opportunity to work with her in Costa Rica, facilitating leadership training for business and government agencies with the John Maxwell Leadership Foundation, and was amazed by her unique and memorable approach to training people. In late 2018, my company sponsored Desi to come to my community to work with our students and educators. In less than a week, Desi gave three different presentations to over 1,200 students, educators, and administrators, ages 5 - 65. Desi's professionalism, talent, humor, and message left my community stronger and better equipped to take on the challenges of life. I hope to bring her back in the future. Katherine Tatsuda, President Tatsuda Leadership Consulting & Tatsuda's IGA, Ketchikan, Alaska --
Ottumwa Leadership Academy
On-Site
H.T., Executive Director, Ottumwa Leadership Academy
Verified @leadottumwa.org"If you are looking for an energetic and inspiring speaker, look no further than Desi Payne! She has spoken three different times for our Leadership NOW! Annual Regional Conference - both as a workshop facilitator and as a keynote. Desi is highly engaging and can interact with people of all ages." Hollie Tometich Executive Director Ottumwa Leadership Academy
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
On-Site
J.H., Conference Coordinator, South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Verified @state.sd.usDesi was easy to work with and very personable. Her energy was contagious. She kept everyone engaged and some wishing it was longer! When asked what the attendees enjoyed the most, this was one response: “All the activities and group participation and her story telling and laughter! I thought it was one of the best Professional Administrative Day presentations ever given.”
Indian Hills Community College, Ottumwa, IA
On-Site
M.T., President, Indian Hills Community College, Ottumwa, IA
Verified @indianhills.edu"Desi did a fantastic job of interacting with everyone and making her session fun. She uses compelling storytelling, humor, practical guidelines, and time-tested research to keep the audience engaged. We've had Desi on numerous occasions training our faculty. I highly recommend her speaking and training for your business or organization." Matt Thompson, President, Indian Hills Community College, Ottumwa, Iowa
Health Dimension Group
On-Site
S.W., Regional Vice President, Health Dimension Group
Verified @gmail.comWhen I left Iowa and ventured to live in California to work as a Vice President of a Senior Living company, I thought I would not have the opportunity to work with Desi again. However, we stayed in touch, and gladly so! She took off and developed not only a speakers' bureau opportunity, but also became an author! So when my company had its annual retreat, I recommended Desi to speak to a room of executives on work behaviors. This was a tough crowd, but she handled them like a pro. After the two-day event, they loved her, loved the outcomes of teamwork, and loved the laughter she provided! Desi gives inspiration to everyone she meets. So I follow her with a passion for learning more, dealing with work stress (which we all have on some level!), dealing with personalities, and most of all, eating chocolate to soothe the heart! To say I would fully recommend her is selling her short: I would say if you don't utilize her talents, your organization is missing out! Suzie Wood Regional Vice President of Health Dimension Group
Financial Partners, Inc.
On-Site
B.K., President, Financial Partners, Inc.
Verified @financialpartnersinc.netI would like to endorse Desi Payne as a speaker for any group. She is a very positive person and engages quite well with an audience quickly. She is always well prepared and provides numerous humorous anecdotes and stories. If you want your audience to laugh and feel more positive when they leave, Desi will come through for you. Your firm or organization will not be disappointed. Bob Kramer, President Financial Partners, Inc.
Ottumwa Partners in Progress
On-Site
S.S., VP, Organizational Communications, Ottumwa Partners in Progress
Verified @ottumwaiowa.comDesi, having been an audience member myself at your presentations, I can only say that your focus on positive, entertaining, and uplifting material always makes for memorable sessions. From "The Attitude Adjuster," to (my favorite) "Do You Work with the Living Dead?" and even "Give Me Some Chocolate…I'm Stressed," your product and style captivate an audience to be engaged and participatory. Spectators will be delighted to have you as a part of any conference, workshop, breakout session, keynote, or other essential participant. eSpeakers will certainly be making the right decision by adding you to their lineup of professionals. Blessings and best wishes. Sharon Stroh VP, Organizational Communications Ottumwa Partners in Progress
Community 1st Credit Union, Ottumwa, IA
On-Site
L.G., Marketing & Media Specialist, Community 1st Credit Union, Ottumwa, IA
Verified @c1stcreditunion.comDesi has spoken to many business professionals in my community, and I have had the pleasure of attending several of her programs. One of her programs deals with toxic people in the workplace. The lessons that she teaches all circle back to attitude, how we all have the choice to be either positive or negative about our day. Another great program is on stress in the workplace. Unfortunately, we all deal with stress often in our careers; she has a unique way to get across real-life action steps to help deal with those situations. Personally, Desi has taught me several things in my professional and personal life to help me be a better leader and help those around me make better choices. I absolutely recommend Desi Payne for any speaking opportunity you may have for people, young and old, who may need less stress, more resilience, and greater courage. She is such a dynamic and inspirational speaker. Lindsey Gould Marketing & Media Specialist Community 1st Credit Union, Ottumwa, IA
Cassling Healthcare
On-Site
E.S., Marketing Event Specialist, Cassling Healthcare
Verified @cassling.comDesi presented at a healthcare conference for our customers and provided an amazing experience! She was engaging, hilarious, and authentic, and presented content that really resonated with our audience. Desi was also great to work with pre- and post-event. She was timely on all responses and organized throughout the whole booking process. I would definitely recommend! Ellie Standard Marketing Event Specialist
Action COACH Heartland
On-Site
D.D., CEO & Head Coach, Action COACH Heartland
Verified @drewelow.comMy experience in working with Desi over the years has been one continuous adventure! Her 'make-you-smile' attitude is fueled by energy and passion and backed by humor and a bunch of FUN! It all is contagious, making her a true joy to work with. Desi is a pro with her highly interactive and people-focused approach. And most importantly, she truly embraces the idea that "laughter is the best medicine" with practical ideas that will add to your learning beyond the speaking or training session. As you look to grow programs for personal and professional development in your company, I highly recommend that you make Desi a key member of your team.
Proofpoint
On-Site
B.M., Customer Success Manager, Proofpoint
Verified @proofpoint.comDesi did a fantastic job for us in relating stress to our work and health in a humorist way. I would highly recomned her.





















