Ben Cohen Speaking Fee: $50,000 to $75,000

Ben Cohen, born on March 18, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American entrepreneur, activist, and philanthropist best known as the co-founder of Ben & Jerry's Homemade Inc. Growing up in Merrick, Long Island, Cohen met his future business partner, Jerry Greenfield, during junior high school. Their enduring friendship laid the foundation for a business that would become synonymous with innovative flavors and social responsibility. After high school, Cohen attended various colleges but did not complete a degree. He explored different jobs, including working as a crafts teacher for emotionally disturbed adolescents. In 1977, seeking a change and inspired by a shared love of food, Cohen and Greenfield decided to start a business together. They initially considered bagels but ultimately settled on ice cream due to lower startup costs. The duo enrolled in a $5 correspondence course on ice cream making from Penn State University and, in 1978, opened their first scoop shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont. Ben & Jerry's quickly gained popularity for its rich, chunky flavors and commitment to quality. Under Cohen's leadership as CEO, the company implemented groundbreaking practices, such as profit-sharing with employees and sourcing from local farmers, setting new standards for corporate social responsibility. Beyond the business, Cohen has been a vocal advocate for various social and political causes. He co-founded the nonprofit Stamp Stampede, aimed at reducing the influence of money in politics, and has supported initiatives related to economic justice and environmental sustainability. In February 2025, Cohen and Greenfield expressed interest in buying back Ben & Jerry's from its parent company, Unilever, due to disagreements over the company's social activism. Despite the challenges, Cohen's dedication to using business as a force for good remains unwavering, inspiring entrepreneurs and activists alike.