Brian Smith Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Brian Smith is the Australian-born founder of UGG, the globally recognized brand known for its sheepskin boots. After studying at UCLA's Graduate School of Management, he ventured into entrepreneurship with just $500, importing six pairs of sheepskin boots from Australia to California. Initially met with skepticism, he persisted, selling boots from the back of his van at surf spots and swap meets. His grassroots approach, combined with authentic marketing and endorsements from the surf community, transformed UGG into a cultural phenomenon. Over 17 years, Smith expanded the brand into a multi-million-dollar enterprise. In 1995, he sold UGG to Deckers Outdoor Corporation. Under Deckers' stewardship, the brand's reach broadened, and UGG became synonymous with casual luxury, achieving over $1 billion in annual sales. Smith's journey is detailed in his book, The Birth of a Brand, where he shares insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the importance of authentic branding. Beyond UGG, Smith founded Prefast, a company specializing in pre-cast concrete walls for California schools, and patented a lightweight wall panel technology. Although the company faced challenges during the 2008 recession, Smith's ventures reflect his commitment to innovation and infrastructure development. Today, Smith is a sought-after speaker, sharing his experiences and philosophies with audiences worldwide. His talks emphasize the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of aligning business practices with personal values. Residing in Southern California, he continues to surf and enjoys spending time with family and friends.