A motivational speaker is a public speaker who delivers talks with the goal of motivating or inspiring the listeners in the audience. Such speakers may make an effort to confront or change the audiences in whom they speak. The speech itself is referred to as a pep talk in certain circles.
In addition to schools, universities, and places of worship, motivational speakers may give talks at businesses and government agencies as well as conferences, trade fairs and summits. They can also speak at community groups and other comparable settings.