History and Values

That means providing not just service, but solutions. We know keynote speakers and work with you to meet your program objectives whether you need a world leader, business thought-leader, moderator, leadership expert, inspirational speaker, motivational speaker or any other type of professional public speaker. We anticipate problems before they arise so you don't need to worry about them.

Just as we take pride in our reputation for providing quality keynote speakers, we are equally proud of the partnerships we've fostered with our customers. We are committed to your success.

Washington Speakers Bureau History

Founded in 1979, the Washington Speakers Bureau has become the world's #1 speakers bureau by putting people first. Founders Bernie Swain, Paula Swain and Harry Rhoads, Jr. have revolutionized the lecture industry by setting the standard for commitment, trust, and care.

Only the Finest Speakers
One look at the list of keynote speakers we represent and you'll agree: You won't find keynote speakers of this caliber, variety, knowledge, or experience anywhere else. From political leaders to media headliners, best-selling authors, moderators, business speakers and economic experts, to humorists and great achievers from entertainment, inspirational speakers and motivational sports speakers, and politics, our keynote speakers are, quite simply, the most intriguing people in the world – they bring new insights and ideas to your audience.

Service. Solutions. Peace of Mind.
Our agent team is the most knowledgeable in the business. WSB agents work with you to determine your goals and objectives. Then they find the right keynote speaker to fulfill those goals and objectives, while meeting your budget. WSB makes it our business to know which keynote speakers are thought-leaders on the issues most important to you. We put our word behind the experience you've promised your audience.



Our event coordinators gather background on your event, audience and objectives and create an event profile that incorporates all the details. They also handle all the logistics and travel arrangements for your keynote speakers. They are available to you 24/7 for any concerns you may have. Their fastidious and professional approach to event planning means you have one less thing to worry about – your keynote speaker will be prepared, informed, and ready for your event. We promise nothing less than seamless execution, because that is the standard we live by. And that leaves both you and your speaker with great peace of mind.

Our Values

As Good As Our Word
More than 170 of the world's greatest leaders and experts from diverse backgrounds have chosen Washington Speakers Bureau to represent them exclusively on the strength of a handshake. They have put their trust in WSB, which has set the speakers bureau standard for integrity, service and quality. With confidence in our values, our keynote speakers have joined a company that was built on the founders' dedication to excellence. Our word is our bond—a guarantee of exceptional performance that has resulted in unwavering loyalty from those we serve—both speakers and clients.

The Reputation for Greatness
At WSB, our reputation means everything. Living up to that reputation is a daily commitment. For us, it means exclusively representing only great keynote speakers, responding to your every request quicker and faster than anyone else, caring about the work we do for you, and paying attention to every detail. It means doing everything the right way. It means doing everything better than anyone else. It means having the best staff of professionals in the industry—agents, associates and our recognized and highly acclaimed event coordinators—all dedicated to you.

Real-time Knowledge
WSB agents and associates, like our speakers, keep a finger on the pulse of the world. Visitors to our company headquarters will discover an open air of discussion in a bustling newsroom atmosphere. Televisions are positioned throughout all five floors – tuned-in to the latest news reports and world events. Issues are as important to us, as knowledge and insight are our competitive advantage. We are much more than a speakers bureau; we are an organization of ideas and thought.

The Artistry of Collaboration
The success of any event is greatly determined by the quality of its collaborators. People working together with a common goal — asking questions, listening, learning and being creative — can succeed at anything. At WSB, we pride ourselves on being the best event partner you will ever have. All of us are committed to exceeding your every expectation.