APB Weekly: A Newsletter Featuring Industry Insights, Speaker Spotlights & More! (May 20)
20 May 2026
Industry Insight
Current trends, expert insights, and best practices across the speaking industry.
Navigating Recording Requests in Speaker Booking
As virtual access, content sharing, and post-event engagement continue to evolve, recording keynote sessions has become one of the most common points of discussion in speaker booking. Event planners often see recordings as valuable tools for extending audience impact and increasing accessibility, while speakers are balancing the need to protect their intellectual property with the reality that fresh keynote footage is important for future bookings and business growth.
The strongest outcomes tend to happen when recording requests start with flexibility rather than assumptions. We’re seeing more planners proactively include safeguards such as password-protected access, defined viewing timelines, and limits on public distribution, measures that often make approval easier and help speakers feel more comfortable when intellectual property is a concern. When that happens, everyone benefits, with planners gaining valuable content and speakers receiving fresh footage that can support future bookings.
The conversation has moved beyond whether recording is allowed to how recording can work for everyone involved.
Takeaway:
Approach recording discussions as a partnership, not a negotiation. When planners prioritize IP protection and speakers remain open to reasonable safeguards, the result is often stronger audience engagement and greater long-term value for both sides.
Speaker Spotlight
Timely highlights, notable achievements, and impactful voices shaping today’s conversations.
Daymond John Says Burnout Starts with the Wrong Motivation
Daymond John recently joined How I Solved It to share a different perspective on burnout, arguing that exhaustion often stems less from workload and more from chasing external validation, unchecked ego, and definitions of success that don’t align with personal values. At a time when leaders and entrepreneurs are navigating constant pressure to perform, John’s message is a timely reminder that long-term success depends on clarity of purpose, disciplined decision-making, and understanding the “why” behind the work.
+Learn more about Daymond John
Molly Jong-Fast Makes Cameo Appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2
Molly Jong-Fast, New York Times contributing opinion writer and MSNBC political analyst, makes a guest appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2 alongside voices including Kara Swisher, Tina Brown, and Jia Tolentino. Her cameo in the film’s glamorous Hamptons lunch scene reflects the growing crossover between influential media voices, politics, and popular culture—highlighting how today’s most recognizable commentators increasingly shape conversations far beyond traditional news platforms.
+Learn more about Molly Jong-Fast
New York Times Best Seller The Power of Beliefs Lands Shawn Achor on The Oprah Podcast
Shawn Achor’s new book, The Power of Beliefs, has been named a New York Times Best Seller, adding momentum to his work exploring how mindset shapes performance, resilience, and what people believe is possible. This summer, Achor will also be featured in a live taping of The Oprah Podcast with Oprah Winfrey, where the two discuss the science behind beliefs, success, and how shifting perspective can influence outcomes in work and life.
+Learn more about Shawn Achor
Rave Reviews
Event feedback, audience reactions, and memorable moments from the stage.
Kristel Bauer delivered an engaging keynote for nearly 2,000 employees at an insurance company’s Mental Health Awareness Month program, exploring burnout prevention, resilience, and sustainable success in high-pressure workplaces. Her relatable approach and actionable strategies resonated strongly with attendees, leaving employees with practical tools to protect well-being while sustaining performance and energy at work.
For an audience of more than 1,200 hospital and health system leaders, Daniel Dawes delivered a timely conversation at a major healthcare association conference focused on population health, equity, and inclusion. He explored how new determinants of health can improve outcomes and help reduce disparities across communities. His guidance and practical examples resonated deeply, leaving attendees energized to advance healthier and more equitable systems of care.
Juju Chang delivered a deeply personal and impactful conversation for a nationally recognized law firm in celebration of AAPI and Jewish Heritage Month, engaging more than 100 attorneys and staff through her “50% Korean, 100% Jewish” story. Her honesty, humor, and perspective resonated across the audience, generating overwhelming praise and leaving attendees wishing the conversation had continued.
Every week we’re inspired by the ideas, voices, and moments that move audiences forward.
At APB Speakers, we’re proud to help organizations bring those moments to life.