Jo Rust: Motivational Speaker

Jo Rust is a world record-holding adventurer and mental health advocate who blends lived experience with psychological expertise to inspire resilience, self-belief, and transformative personal growth.

Quick Facts:

Highlights:
  • First person to circumnavigate Africa solo on a motorcycle, covering 45 000 km through 28 countries
  • Mental health coach and advocate with academic grounding in psychology, neuroscience, and psychiatry
  • Author and activist dedicated to reducing stigma around mental illness
  • Member of the MENSA high IQ society

Formats:

Motivational speaker, mental health advocate, and world record-holding adventurer.


Audiences:

Corporate teams, leadership groups, wellness events, mental health organisations, and audiences seeking authentic insight into resilience and personal transformation.


Outcomes:
  1. Increased understanding of resilience through both scientific insight and lived experience
  2. Practical strategies for managing adversity, anxiety, and sustained performance under pressure
  3. Renewed self-belief and a deeper sense of possibility for personal growth
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Johannesburg

Keynote Topics

Jo Rust will take you on an empowering journey where you will discover you own unique strengths, your purpose, and how to ignite the spark of living life as your most authentic self.

She’ll equip you with life-changing, tried-and-tested, scientifically proven tools and techniques on how to: understand your own mind, cope with stress and anxiety in a healthy way, motivate yourself and those around you, effectively communicate with absolutely anyone, overcome automatic negative thoughts, setting boundaries, achieving goals, and most importantly – taking care of your own mental health.

Talent Short Bio

Jo Rust is an internationally recognised adventurer, author, speaker, and mental health coach whose life story bridges extreme exploration with deep personal transformation. Battling Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Complex-PTSD, and chronic suicidality from a young age, Jo’s journey is defined by extraordinary resilience and an unyielding commitment to healing. Supported by her academic background in psychology, neuroscience, and psychiatry, she offers a rare blend of scientific understanding and deeply lived experience.

Jo set a world record by circumnavigating the African continent solo on a motorcycle, covering 45 000 kilometres through 28 countries in 12 months. The physical and emotional demands of the expedition became a vehicle for profound self-discovery, purpose, and courage. Today, she translates those lessons into powerful keynotes that explore mindset, endurance, vulnerability, and the possibility of reclaiming one’s life after immense struggle.

Jo Rust’s journey from battling mental illness to becoming a world-renowned adventurer, speaker, and mental health advocate is as awe-inspiring as it is poignant. Drawing from her own experiences, Jo offers a unique perspective on resilience, overcoming adversity, and the power of the human spirit. With a background in psychology, neuroscience, and psychiatry, Jo brings a wealth of knowledge to her presentations, enriched by her personal triumphs and struggles.

As a world record holder for circumnavigating the African continent solo on a motorcycle, Jo brings a wealth of real-world experience to her talks. Her epic journey of 45,000 kilometers through 28 countries over 12 months not only tested her physical endurance but also served as a catalyst for profound self-discovery and healing. Jo’s ability to translate her adventures into universal lessons on courage, determination, and self-belief resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.

Beyond her adventurous spirit, Jo Rust is a seasoned author, mental health coach, and activist. Having battled Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Complex-PTSD, and chronic suicidality since a young age, Jo’s journey is one of profound transformation and resilience. Her status as a member of the MENSA high IQ society underscores her intellectual prowess and deep understanding of the human mind.

Event planners seeking a speaker who can captivate, inspire, and leave a lasting impact on their audience need look no further than Jo Rust. With her riveting personal story, combined with her expertise in mental health, psychology, and adventure, Jo offers a truly transformative experience for attendees. Her ability to connect authentically with audiences of all backgrounds ensures that her message resonates deeply, leaving attendees feeling empowered and inspired to overcome their own obstacles.

Jo’s compelling narrative serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the potential for growth even in the face of adversity. By sharing her journey of triumph over mental illness and her record-breaking motorcycle expedition, Jo instills hope and courage in her listeners, encouraging them to embrace their own inner strength and pursue their dreams fearlessly. Event planners can trust Jo Rust to deliver a memorable and impactful presentation that will elevate their event to new heights.

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Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Virtual speaking appearances can indeed offer cost savings compared to in-person events. Virtual speaking rates are often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and logistics. This makes virtual events a cost-effective alternative for organizations looking to book speakers within a budget.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

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