Let’s make a difference
Speaking & Teaching
Do you know the best way to engage an audience? How about the best way to teach someone something they’ll remember? What about the best way to inspire and empower others? The best way to make a meaningful connection and impact? It’s through stories—vulnerable, authentic, and genuine storytelling that connects us all at a deeper level. But sharing our deepest struggles, mistakes, and vulnerabilities isn’t always easy, especially with a room full of people you may not know. That’s why finding a speaker who can do that can be so difficult. Even though it may be harder to find someone willing to do this, it’s in this sharing of stories that we create the deepest connections and leave a lasting impact on others.
I wholeheartedly believe in the power of sharing stories because I’ve experienced its transformative effect in my own life. When I was going through the darkest and most challenging times, it was the stories of others—of their triumphs, their hurt, their joy, and their resilience—that helped pull me through.
As I journeyed through my own hardships, I discovered that speaking on these topics became a way for me to cope, make sense of my experiences, and channel my story into a greater purpose—to help others navigate their own challenges and lives.
So, at the core of every topic I speak on or teach, you’ll find a genuine desire to use my story in a way that will inspire, empower, educate, and equip others on their own journey—whatever that may be. Whether it’s chronic illness, passion, purpose, positive impact, overcoming adversity, learning to own your story, or one of the other topics I speak on that you can learn about below, I want to be here to help you put on an event, a seminar, a panel, a podcast—something that matters and can make a difference. If you’re looking for someone to join you in creating a meaningful impact on your audience, I’d be honored to partner with you to change lives through the power of stories. Let’s connect and make a difference together!
Hi there! I'm Haley James!
My journey as a speaker began the same as many speakers do – long before they are actually speaking anywhere – with the hardship that they will later come to speak on. As you may know already from my site, for me, that hardship happened in my early 20s when I became very sick with multiple chronic and rare conditions.
For 10 years, I was fighting for my life, relying on a feeding tube and infusions to survive. I spent many years advocating for myself in the doctor’s office and with insurance. Witnessing and experiencing how broken the system was firsthand really brought me to a place where I wanted to expand my advocacy efforts. I knew I could speak and share my story to try to make others feel less alone, bring awareness to the problems, and help others get the help they need—so I did.
Starting with just a few people here and there, my speaking engagements gradually expanded as I became more involved in disease-specific organizations, hosting statewide support groups, and speaking at online events. As my health improved, I became even more involved in chronic and rare disease advocacy, sharing my story and presentations with members of Congress and other patient advocates to try to make a difference legislatively for myself and others.
While I loved (& still love) being able to advocate in those ways, I knew that I didn’t want to stop trying to find more ways to help others like me—there was SO much more that I felt needed to be done. I didn’t know where to start though, so I reflected on all of the hard things I had been going through and tried to pinpoint what had helped me most. I realized the thing that in many ways saved me—was actually hearing people’s stories, experiences, tips & tricks online. Through hearing from these other patients, I was able to get to the right doctors, get diagnosed, and feel less alone on my journey.
Inspired by these creators, I decided I wanted to pay forward all that they had given me and create something to help all those going through what I had gone through and was still going through. While trying to figure out what I could do that would help, I came up with a formula that helped: Pain → Passion, Purpose, Positive Impact. I came up with this when reflecting on each pain point I experienced and asked myself how I could use my passions and talents to make a difference. What purpose could it serve, and how can it help make a positive impact on people most?
I applied this formula again and again, leading to the creation of three businesses, a non-profit, four podcasts, multiple YouTube channels, Instagram accounts, online stores, and so much more! Each project became a way to turn my pain into something positive, helping me heal and begin to truly turn that pain into something good that helped others!
But this formula didn’t just help me. I saw my friends struggling with their own hardships and their own pain, with many coming to me, knowing the depths of darkness I had been through, asking for guidance. One of the first things I could think to do was help share my formula with them. I watched as they, too, began to create lives they truly loved. This happened so many times that I even had two of them tell me that doing this helped save their lives because it gave them a reason to fight to stay. That had been my experience too. It became very clear that there was a real power in and a real need for this formula and message to be shared.
That’s when I began speaking publicly about my journey. All the parts of it: the mental health, the chronic illnesses, the rare diseases, advocacy & activism, learning to own your story, overcoming adversity, entrepreneurship, street interviews, and turning my struggles into my strength to create a life I truly love, filled with passion, purpose & positive impact.
All of this has brought me here now, where I speak on a variety of topics and aim to share my experiences and by doing so inspire, educate, empower, and equip the audience I am speaking to, no matter the topic. I have spent the last few years honing my craft and my messages so that I am able to get out there and share it with others with the hope that it will help them on their journey—whatever that may be. I would love nothing more than to come alongside you and make a difference in people’s lives and the world—together.
Current Positions
CEO/Founder, Advocate, YouTuber & Podcast Host
It’s Haley James Media
CEO/Founder & Designer
The Chronic Collective
CEO/Founder, Designer & Podcast Host
Health & Home
CEO, President & Founder (Non-Profit)
Rise & Rally
OTHER BUSINESS SPEAKING INFO
Common Topics I speak on
I specialize in a range of areas including motivational speaking, educational presentations, and sharing my personal experiences and commentary on a variety of topics.
Using my own life experiences and challenges as a backdrop, I offer practical advice, support, and actionable strategies for individuals and organizations looking to make a positive impact in their lives and communities.
If you think I might be a good fit, reach out! I’m always looking for new opportunities to connect with others on a similar mission as me! I look forward to working with you to make a difference!
As a motivational speaker, I am passionate about helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals by sharing my insights and experiences on topics such as passion, purpose, positive impact, goal setting, resilience, entrepreneurship, and self-advocacy. My goal is to inspire, motivate, and empower audiences to reach their full potential and create the life they truly desire. Whether it’s a podcast, panel, keynote speech or workshop, I am committed to delivering engaging and informative presentations that leave a lasting impact!
Common Topics:
- Passion and Purpose
- Goal Setting and Achievement
- Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Service & Impact
- Self-Advocacy and Empowerment
- Leadership and Team Building
- Personal Growth and Development
- Mindset and Motivation
- Communication and Influence
- Success Strategies and Habits
Through my passion project and societal movement, “Someone Needs to Hear Your Story”, where I aim to empower individuals to embrace their experiences, their triumphs and challenges, and own and share their stories – it became very clear that this practice of asking intentional questions and sharing our stories is not something we naturally do in our lives and shouldn’t be limited to my interviews on the streets. I believe it should be a normal and typical occurrence in our day-to-day conversations taking place around kitchen tables, in our workplaces, at get togethers, holidays and more! But we don’t ask those questions or have those conversations – and I think that should change. That’s why I have taken up speaking on ways we can own and share our stories with others and also inspire, empower and equip others to do the same. I truly believe that our stories are invaluable tools for connecting with others, inspiring change, and fostering empathy in our communities and I hope that by speaking on this topic and using tools I have created such as the “Someone Needs To Hear Your Story” card deck to help facilitate these discussions with the audience, I can encourage others to truly own their stories through the act of sharing them with others.
As someone who has spent the last decade navigating 20+ chronic conditions, treatments, medical aids, rare diseases, infusions, and both western and eastern medicine, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities that come with managing chronic illness. Through my personal experiences, I have become a passionate advocate for patient empowerment, education, and access to quality healthcare.
As a speaker, I draw upon my own journey and share insights and strategies to help others navigate their own healthcare journey. Whether it’s understanding the healthcare system, advocating for yourself or loved ones, or managing multiple conditions, I am committed to providing informative and engaging talks that help patients and healthcare professionals alike!
Common Topics:
- Patient Empowerment and Advocacy
- Chronic Illness Management
- Navigating the Healthcare System
- Integrative Medicine and Complementary Therapies
- Patient Advocacy & Activism
- Healthcare Communication and Collaboration
- Coping with Medical Trauma and PTSD
- Mental Health and Chronic Illness
- Rare Disease
- Caregiving and Family Support
- Enteral Nutrition
- Self-Care and Wellness Practices
As someone who has navigated over 20 chronic conditions, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with recognizing symptoms, finding the right diagnosis, and accessing the care and support needed to manage chronic illnesses. That’s why I’m passionate about sharing my own story and experiences with others. By speaking openly and honestly about my journey, I hope to help other patients recognize their symptoms sooner, know where to get help, and feel less alone in their struggles.
It’s important to note that it’s not and should never be on the patient to figure out their symptoms and get the right diagnosis. That’s why I’m also available to speak to medical professionals in an office or conference setting to talk about and raise awareness of these conditions. By educating healthcare professionals about the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of chronic illnesses, we can ensure that patients receive the proper care and support they need. My goal is to help prevent other patients from going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for as long as I did, and I’m committed to advocating for better healthcare practices and policies that prioritize patient care and well-being.
Conditions I Have/Had & Can Speak On:
- Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy (A.A.G.)
- Autonomic Small Fiber Neuropathy (A.N.)
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (P.O.T.S.)
- Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction (C.I.P.O.)
- Gastroparesis
- Intestinal Dysmotility
- Esophageal Dysmotility
- Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (S.M.A.S.)
- Bilateral Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (T.O.S.)
- Heavy Metal Poisoning
- Raynaud’s
- Celiac Disease
- Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia
- Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (M.C.A.S.)
- Muscle Tension Dysphonia (M.T.D.)
- Medical Induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-P.T.S.D.)
- Mold Illness
- C-Difficile
- Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth (S.I.B.O.)
- Traumatic Brain Injury
I have truly benefited from having access to a range of medical devices and medications that have helped me manage my symptoms and maintain my quality of life.
Whether it’s talking to other patients and families about what it’s been like to have a feeding tube or addressing a group of blood donors at an event to thank them for their life-saving donations, I’m passionate about sharing my own experiences with medical aids and treatments to help raise awareness about their importance, educate others on the experience, and help other patients feel empowered!
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (I.V.I.G.)
- AMT G-JET Feeding Tube
- NJ Feeding Tubes
- Mayo Clinic
- Saline Infusions
- Home Health
- Dexcom
- Kate Farms
- Motility Testing
- Autonomic Testing
I specialize in a range of areas including motivational speaking, educational presentations, and sharing my personal experiences and commentary on a variety of topics.
Using my own life experiences and challenges as a backdrop, I offer practical advice, support, and actionable strategies for individuals and organizations looking to make a positive impact in their lives and communities.
If you think I might be a good fit, reach out! I’m always looking for new opportunities to connect with others on a similar mission as me! I look forward to working with you to make a difference!
As a motivational speaker, I am passionate about helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals by sharing my insights and experiences on topics such as passion, purpose, positive impact, goal setting, resilience, entrepreneurship, and self-advocacy. My goal is to inspire, motivate, and empower audiences to reach their full potential and create the life they truly desire. Whether it’s a podcast, panel, keynote speech or workshop, I am committed to delivering engaging and informative presentations that leave a lasting impact!
Common Topics:
- Passion and Purpose
- Goal Setting and Achievement
- Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Service & Impact
- Self-Advocacy and Empowerment
- Leadership and Team Building
- Personal Growth and Development
- Mindset and Motivation
- Communication and Influence
- Success Strategies and Habits
Through my passion project and societal movement, “Someone Needs to Hear Your Story”, where I aim to empower individuals to embrace their experiences, their triumphs and challenges, and own and share their stories – it became very clear that this practice of asking intentional questions and sharing our stories is not something we naturally do in our lives and shouldn’t be limited to my interviews on the streets. I believe it should be a normal and typical occurrence in our day-to-day conversations taking place around kitchen tables, in our workplaces, at get togethers, holidays and more! But we don’t ask those questions or have those conversations – and I think that should change. That’s why I have taken up speaking on ways we can own and share our stories with others and also inspire, empower and equip others to do the same. I truly believe that our stories are invaluable tools for connecting with others, inspiring change, and fostering empathy in our communities and I hope that by speaking on this topic and using tools I have created such as the “Someone Needs To Hear Your Story” card deck to help facilitate these discussions with the audience, I can encourage others to truly own their stories through the act of sharing them with others.
As someone who has spent the last decade navigating 20+ chronic conditions, treatments, medical aids, rare diseases, infusions, and both western and eastern medicine, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities that come with managing chronic illness. Through my personal experiences, I have become a passionate advocate for patient empowerment, education, and access to quality healthcare.
As a speaker, I draw upon my own journey and share insights and strategies to help others navigate their own healthcare journey. Whether it’s understanding the healthcare system, advocating for yourself or loved ones, or managing multiple conditions, I am committed to providing informative and engaging talks that help patients and healthcare professionals alike!
Common Topics:
- Patient Empowerment and Advocacy
- Chronic Illness Management
- Navigating the Healthcare System
- Integrative Medicine and Complementary Therapies
- Patient Advocacy & Activism
- Healthcare Communication and Collaboration
- Coping with Medical Trauma and PTSD
- Mental Health and Chronic Illness
- Rare Disease
- Caregiving and Family Support
- Enteral Nutrition
- Self-Care and Wellness Practices
As someone who has navigated over 20 chronic conditions, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with recognizing symptoms, finding the right diagnosis, and accessing the care and support needed to manage chronic illnesses. That’s why I’m passionate about sharing my own story and experiences with others. By speaking openly and honestly about my journey, I hope to help other patients recognize their symptoms sooner, know where to get help, and feel less alone in their struggles.
It’s important to note that it’s not and should never be on the patient to figure out their symptoms and get the right diagnosis. That’s why I’m also available to speak to medical professionals in an office or conference setting to talk about and raise awareness of these conditions. By educating healthcare professionals about the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of chronic illnesses, we can ensure that patients receive the proper care and support they need. My goal is to help prevent other patients from going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for as long as I did, and I’m committed to advocating for better healthcare practices and policies that prioritize patient care and well-being.
Conditions I Have/Had & Can Speak On:
- Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy (A.A.G.)
- Autonomic Small Fiber Neuropathy (A.N.)
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (P.O.T.S.)
- Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction (C.I.P.O.)
- Gastroparesis
- Intestinal Dysmotility
- Esophageal Dysmotility
- Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (S.M.A.S.)
- Bilateral Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (T.O.S.)
- Heavy Metal Poisoning
- Raynaud’s
- Celiac Disease
- Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia
- Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (M.C.A.S.)
- Muscle Tension Dysphonia (M.T.D.)
- Medical Induced Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-P.T.S.D.)
- Mold Illness
- C-Difficile
- Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth (S.I.B.O.)
- Traumatic Brain Injury
I have truly benefited from having access to a range of medical devices and medications that have helped me manage my symptoms and maintain my quality of life.
Whether it’s talking to other patients and families about what it’s been like to have a feeding tube or addressing a group of blood donors at an event to thank them for their life-saving donations, I’m passionate about sharing my own experiences with medical aids and treatments to help raise awareness about their importance, educate others on the experience, and help other patients feel empowered!
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (I.V.I.G.)
- AMT G-JET Feeding Tube
- NJ Feeding Tubes
- Mayo Clinic
- Saline Infusions
- Home Health
- Dexcom
- Kate Farms
- Motility Testing
- Autonomic Testing
Explore My Keynotes
Here are some of the types of places I speak & teach
ONLINE
GRADESCHOOL
COLLEGE
WORKSHOPS
HOSPITALS
G.I. CLINICS
NEURO CLINICS
E.D. CLINICS
CONFERENCES
INTERVIEWS
PANELIST
WEBINAR
PODCAST
YOUTUBE
SEMINAR
RADIO
Here are some of the types
of communities I speak to
Ready to put on a meaningful & memorable event?!
Hire Me to Speak on "Someone Needs To Hear Your Story"
Whether you want me to jump in and be part of your event or maybe you’re looking for some help to make your get-together unforgettable, I’m here for you! Whether it’s giving insightful conference talks that pump up the crowd or organizing fun icebreaker activities with my ‘Someone Needs to Hear Your Story’ cards, teaming up with me for your speaking gig or event will definitely turn into a good time.
I’m all about thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive university workshops, heartwarming workplace events, and captivating virtual webinars that go beyond location limits. By partnering with me, we can craft an event that sparks meaningful connections and empowers everyone to embrace the transformative potential of sharing their stories!
Ready to put on a meaningful & memorable event?!
Hire Me to Speak on "Someone Needs To Hear Your Story"
Whether you want me to jump in and be part of your event or maybe you’re looking for some help to make your get-together unforgettable, I’m here for you! Whether it’s giving insightful conference talks that pump up the crowd or organizing fun icebreaker activities with my ‘Someone Needs to Hear Your Story’ cards, teaming up with me for your speaking gig or event will definitely turn into a good time.
I’m all about thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive university workshops, heartwarming workplace events, and captivating virtual webinars that go beyond location limits. By partnering with me, we can craft an event that sparks meaningful connections and empowers everyone to embrace the transformative potential of sharing their stories!
Ready To Work Together? Here's How It Works!
01.
fill out the Form
Ready to learn more, move forward and get on the schedule? Great! Just click the button below and fill out the contact form choosing "Speaking and Teaching" as your reason for contact. Then myself or my team will reach out to you to discuss moving forward and next steps!
02.
Consult & Book Your Date
We always begin with a consultation call, during which we will discuss your requirements, preferred timing, and all the necessary details to schedule and initiate our work. It's during this call that we will determine the most suitable pricing package and address any questions or concerns you may have.
03.
Showtime!
Once the day we have been working towards finally arrives, you won't have to worry about a thing on my end! The hope for this day is that you will be able to focus on the people coming to your event and know that my portion of your event is all taken care of and ready to go! I already can't wait!
01.
fill out the Form
Ready to learn more, move forward and get on the schedule? Great! Just click the button below and fill out the contact form choosing "Speaking and Teaching" as your reason for contact. Then myself or my team will reach out to you to discuss moving forward and next steps!
02.
Consult & Book Your Date
We always begin with a consultation call, during which we will discuss your requirements, preferred timing, and all the necessary details to schedule and initiate our work. It's during this call that we will determine the most suitable pricing package and address any questions or concerns you may have.
03.
Showtime!
Once the day we have been working towards finally arrives, you won't have to worry about a thing on my end! The hope for this day is that you will be able to focus on the people coming to your event and know that my portion of your event is all taken care of and ready to go! I already can't wait!
Got Some Questions?
Don't Worry, I have Answers!
In general, I’m available globally! There may be special considerations due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, such as travel restrictions, but that is something we can discuss when we connect!
Absolutely. Any of my presentations, or custom talks, can be delivered virtually!
As the needs of each event are unique, please fill out the contact form and we will be in contact to set up a time to consult about what you are looking for, needing and how we can land on a price that works for you!
Yes, certain types of events are eligible for volunteer public speaking. This will be something we talk about when we have our first meeting!
Yes! This is part of what I do over on my interior design business, Health & Home. If you are interested in learning more about booking me to speak or teach on interior design and how to create a healthy home, head on over to this link to learn more!
Come Be Part Of The Bloom!
Come Be Part Of The Bloom!
What is The Bloom? The Bloom is my personal letter to you, dedicated to supporting your growth and flourishing in all aspects of life – from your health, well-being and entrepreneurial pursuits to overcoming obstacles, discovering passions, stepping into purpose and finding avenues for positive impact – The Bloom is all about helping you create a life you truly love – whatever that looks like for you!
I like to think of The Bloom newsletter as the water, soil, or sunlight I hope to be able to give you to help you grow and bloom in your own life! That’s why as a member of The Bloom community, you’ll get heartfelt personal letters from me sharing stories, resources, tools, inspiration and support to help you on your personal growth journey.
Come Be Part Of The Bloom!
What is The Bloom? The Bloom is my personal letter to you, dedicated to supporting your growth and flourishing in all aspects of life – from your health, well-being and entrepreneurial pursuits to overcoming obstacles, discovering passions, stepping into purpose and finding avenues for positive impact – The Bloom is all about helping you create a life you truly love – whatever that looks like for you!
I like to think of The Bloom newsletter as the water, soil, or sunlight I hope to be able to give you to help you grow and bloom in your own life! That’s why as a member of The Bloom community, you’ll get heartfelt personal letters from me sharing stories, resources, tools, inspiration and support to help you on your personal growth journey.
I'm Haley James!
I’m a California-based purpose-driven, multi-passionate entrepreneur, chronic illness & rare disease advocate, speaker, podcaster, designer, YouTuber, content creator and really, at my core, just a woman who wants to love & help people!
More specifically though, I’m here to love & help support YOU by inspiring, empowering and equipping you to overcome your obstacles, pursue your passions, step into your purpose and create a life you truly love so you can use your stories and gifts to make a positive impact in the lives of others!
I hope you’ll join me!
I'm Haley James!
I’m a California-based purpose-driven, multi-passionate entrepreneur, chronic illness & rare disease advocate, speaker, podcaster, designer, YouTuber, content creator and really, at my core, just a woman who wants to love & help people!
More specifically though, I’m here to love & help support YOU by inspiring, empowering and equipping you to overcome your obstacles, pursue your passions, step into your purpose and create a life you truly love so you can use your stories and gifts to make a positive impact in the lives of others! I hope you’ll join me!
THANKS FOR BEING HERE – I LOVE YOU, I MEAN IT ♡
THANKS FOR BEING HERE – I LOVE YOU, I MEAN IT ♡
