Events

PSA Thames Valley November 2025: The Thriving Speaker: Foundations, Strategies and Support

20 November|15:30 - 20:30|Green Park Conference Centre - Reading - See full address

About this event

In a profession that demands both independence and connection, The Thriving Speaker brings together two powerful keynote sessions designed to help you build a speaking business that lasts.

Discover the strategies that will make you valuable to big businesses and get you booked regularly, and how to build a support network that will keep you motivated, balanced, and thriving.

Our keynote speakers are:

Sam Bishop
– A Psychologist and Leadership Expert who will be sharing an inside view of his speaking business and how to add value that will keep you getting booked

Mike PaganFeeling Isolation as a Speaker? You’re Not Alone – Let’s Tackle It Together

A few words from Mike what to expect from his talk:

“Being a professional speaker is an amazing career, but let’s be honest—it can also feel incredibly lonely at times. I’ve been part of the PSA for over 20 years now, and in that time, I’ve learned plenty of lessons (often the hard way) about managing the highs, the lows, and the isolation that comes with this job.

That’s why I’m running The Isolated Speaker workshop. It’s not about me having all the answers—it’s about sharing ideas, experiences, and practical strategies we can all use to make this journey easier and more rewarding. We’ll explore the four pillars of Mental Wealth: Self-Care, Coaching, Professional Networks, and Peer Support Groups, and how to use them to build the right support around you, work smarter, and actually enjoy what you do.

This isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s about making the work you do more effective, so you can spend less time feeling stuck and more time thriving. If you’ve ever felt isolated or wondered how to take the next step, this session is for you.

Let’s connect, share, and build something better together. I’d love to see you there.”

Why attend?

Expand your reach — Learn proven strategies to position your expertise and attract more speaking opportunities with high-value clients.

Strengthen your support network — Build the professional connections, coaching relationships, and peer groups that sustain long-term success.

Enhance your performance — Develop the mindset and self-care habits that help you show up with confidence, clarity, and impact.

Work smarter, not harder — Discover practical tools to manage your business effectively and focus on what truly drives results.

Keynote speakers

Sam Bishop
Mike Pagan
FPSA - Foundation Director
Mike Pagan - FPSA - Foundation Director

Mike Pagan is a dynamic speaker, author, and Mental Wealth advocate with over 20 years of experience in the professional speaking world. Known for his engaging, relatable style, Mike specialises in helping individuals and businesses improve productivity, build powerful support systems, and enjoy the journey along the way. A long-standing member of the PSA, he combines personal lessons with practical strategies to empower audiences to work smarter, not harder.

Event agenda

15:30
Doors Open & Networking
16:00
Keynote: Sam Bishop
18:00
Networking Supper
19:00
Keynote: Mike Pagan
20:30
Final notices / Close

The venue

Get in touch with the organiser

Carolyn  Whitehouse

Regional President, PSA Thames Valley

Buy tickets for:

PSA Thames Valley November 2025: The Thriving Speaker: Foundations, Strategies and Support

Ticket types

Members Early Bird
£40
+ VAT and fees
Members Standard
£45
+ VAT and fees
First Time Visitors
£30
+ VAT and fees
Non Members
£60
+ VAT and fees
Professional Speaking Association
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