National
Keynote Speaker & Storyteller
Transforming audiences through perseverance, empathy, humor, and lived experience.
Vera Jones is a nationally recognized speaker, former ESPN & BTN broadcaster, author, professor, and storyteller whose message has reached millions worldwide.
Her blend of humor, empathy, and real‑life resilience makes her one of the most relatable and impactful speakers today.
MILLION VIEWS
In 2017, Vera’s keynote story went viral, reaching more than 47 million viewers worldwide. Her message of perseverance and empathy resonated across cultures, industries, and generations.
“Just to believe that you can make an impact by being vulnerable and sharing your story like that, that it could inspire so many people. That was an experience I’ll never forget… That set the tone for what I believe would be my legacy.”
RELATABLE STORYTELLING
Grounded in lived adversity, inviting the audience to feel deeply and explore their humanity.
PERSONABLE STAGE PRESENCE
Warm, witty, and wise persona that allows diverse audiences to instantly connect.
ENGAGING DELIVERY
Blends humor, empathy, & storytelling that keeps audiences engaged and excited to learn.
REAL PERSEVERANCE
Inspiring message shaped by real life experience.
CUSTOMIZABLE KEYNOTES
Tailored to corporate, education, faith-based, and women’s events.
PROFESSIONAL & RELIABLE
Easy to work with from inquiry to stage.
01
Now I See
Moving from Blindness to Breakthrough
A powerful keynote based on Vera’s lived experience raising her son through blindness and medical adversity. Audiences learn how to face challenges with resilience, faith, and focus. The result: Practical tools to keep moving even when life knocks the wind out of you. Perfect for conferences and commencement.
AUDIENCE OUTCOMES:
- Navigate change
- Faith over Fear
- Lead with vision
02
LEADERSHIP 6-S
HOW TO LOVE THEM AND LEAD THEM WITH EMPATHY
Empathy isn’t the opposite of accountability; it’s a leadership superpower. Vera unveils the six research-backed workplace motivators essential for fostering self-awareness, driving engagement, and mastering interpersonal communication.
AUDIENCE OUTCOMES:
- Improve empathic communication
- Forge deeper connections
- Lead with emotional intelligence
03
FAN YOURSELF
A RESILIENCE & EMPOWERMENT EXPERIENCE
A humorous, empowering keynote about challenging stereotypes, finding your voice, and leading with confidence. The result: 5 reasons to fan yourself with clarity and self confidence and don’t forget to dance! Perfect for women’s conferences, youth events, and empowerment programs.
AUDIENCE OUTCOMES:
- Increase confidence
- Challenge limiting beliefs
- Embrace authenticity
04
Play Through the Foul:
REBOUND. RETHINK. RENEW.
Sometimes life has a way of sitting us on the B.E.N.C.H. Audiences will leave with Vera’s 5-step signature framework to help them get back in the game and win again! Drawing on Vera’s basketball experience, Play Through the Foul challenges athletes, coaches, leaders and teams to develop the resilience, perspective, and perseverance required to keep playing when life doesn’t play fair.
AUDIENCE OUTCOMES:
- Build resilience
- Shift mindset
- Strengthen perseverance
AUTHENTIC. INSPIRING. IMPACTFUL
Event planners consistently praise Vera for her professionalism, preparation, and ability to connect with any audience. Every keynote reflects her commitment to the event’s goals and brings warmth, humor, and authenticity on and off the stage.
“I don’t want my life to have been lived in vain… I just want to be able to hear ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ That is why I’m here.”
SPEAKING PARTNERS
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The Impact Vera Leaves Behind
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