Kara Richardson Whitely

Kara Richardson Whitely

Keynote Speaker: CEO of The Gorgeous Agency, Empowering Organizations to Connect, Engage, and Grow with the Plus-Size Market

Kara Richardson Whitely Biography

Kara Richardson Whitely is the founder & CEO of The Gorgeous Agency, an outdoor adventurer and influencer, and author of the memoir "Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro at 300 Pounds," which is soon to be a movie produced by and starring "This Is Us" actress Chrissy Metz.

Richardson Whitely has partnered with brands like Peloton, Columbia Sportswear, L.L. Bean, Keen, and Discover Puerto Rico to showcase bodies of all sizes and build positive brand sentiment in the plus-sized community. Her mission to encourage people of all sizes and abilities to get active outside made her a great fit for Come Alive Outside’s Board of Directors.

She has also presented at Pfizer, Google, Uber, Dartmouth, Purdue and many more, and has been featured in countless media outlets such as The New York Times, the "Today" show, "Good Morning America," CBS' "The Talk," She Explores, and more.

Contact a speaker booking agent to check availability on Kara Richardson Whitely and other top speakers and celebrities.

Kara Richardson Whitely Speaking Topics

Moving Mountains: A Journey of Resilience and Triumph

Join Kara Richardson Whitely as she shares her extraordinary journey of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro three times while navigating life in a larger body and battling food addiction. Through powerful storytelling from the world's highest peaks, Kara illustrates how we all face our own mountains—whether they're personal struggles, professional challenges, or societal barriers.

This inspirational keynote explores the universal themes of perseverance, self-acceptance, and the courage to keep climbing even when the path seems impossible. Kara's authentic narrative demonstrates that our greatest obstacles often become our most profound teachers, and that transformation happens one step at a time.

Audiences will leave motivated to:

  • Embrace their own challenging journeys with renewed determination
  • Reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth
  • Find strength in vulnerability and authenticity
  • Take the next step toward their personal summit, whatever it may be

Perfect for conferences, corporate events, and organizations seeking an unforgettable message about human resilience and the power of persistence.

Moving Mountains: Navigating Body Image and Mental Health on Campus

Designed specifically for college audiences, this powerful presentation combines Kara Richardson Whitely's inspiring Kilimanjaro expeditions with critical conversations about body image, eating disorders, and mental health in academic environments.

Kara candidly shares her personal struggles with binge eating disorder while accomplishing extraordinary physical feats, creating a safe space to discuss the often-hidden challenges students face. She addresses the unique pressures of campus life, social media comparison culture, and the intersection of mental health with academic success.

Students will gain insights on:

  • Recognizing signs of disordered eating in themselves and peers
  • Breaking the silence around binge eating disorder and food addiction
  • Building resilience during the most challenging years of self-discovery
  • Accessing support systems and resources on campus
  • Cultivating self-compassion while pursuing ambitious goals

This talk empowers students to seek help, support one another, and understand that their worth isn't determined by their appearance or the number on a scale. Kara's story proves that healing and achievement can coexist, and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Unlocking Growth in the Untapped Plus-Size Segment: The $1 Trillion Opportunity

Discover the massive untapped potential in the plus-size market with Kara Richardson Whitely, CEO of The Gorgeous Agency and recognized authority on body-inclusive marketing. As 68% of American women wear size 14 or above, brands can no longer afford to ignore this $1 trillion market segment.

Drawing from her unique dual perspective as both a consumer advocate and marketing executive, Kara reveals why traditional approaches fail and how forward-thinking brands are winning by embracing authentic inclusivity. This isn't about token representation—it's about smart business strategy backed by compelling data.

Attendees will learn:

  • Why the plus-size market represents one of the largest growth opportunities in retail and beyond
  • Common mistakes brands make when attempting to reach this audience (and how to avoid them)
  • Practical strategies for authentic product development, marketing, and customer experience
  • How body inclusivity drives loyalty, increases market share, and enhances brand reputation
  • Real-world case studies of brands successfully capturing this demographic

Whether you're in retail, hospitality, healthcare, fitness, or any consumer-facing industry, this presentation provides actionable insights to transform your approach and unlock significant revenue growth while making a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Kara Richardson Whitely Videos

Kara Richardson Whitely / Author + Motivational Speaker

How do I book Kara Richardson Whitely to speak at my event?

Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Kara Richardson Whitely for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Kara Richardson Whitely, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Kara Richardson Whitely or any other speaker of your choice.

How much does it cost to book Kara Richardson Whitely for a speaking engagement?

Speaking fees for Kara Richardson Whitely, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Kara Richardson Whitely are $10,000 - $20,000 for live events and Below $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Kara Richardson Whitely, click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.

What topics does Kara Richardson Whitely speak about?

Kara Richardson Whitely is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Author, Influential Women, Women, Executive Leadership, Diversity & Inclusion, Adventure, Inspirational, Motivational, Personal Growth, Empowerment, Women's Empowerment, Women's Health, Addiction & Recovery, Mental Health, Fitness, College and Resilience.

Where does Kara Richardson Whitely travel from?

Kara Richardson Whitely generally travels from Summit, NJ, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances.

Who is the agent for Kara Richardson Whitely?

AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully secured keynote speakers like Kara Richardson Whitely for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Kara Richardson Whitely for your next private or corporate function.

What is a full-service speaker booking agency?

AAE Speakers Bureau is a full-service speaker booking agency, meaning we can completely manage the speaker’s or celebrity’s engagement with your organization from the time of booking your speaker through the event’s completion. We provide all of the services you need to host Kara Richardson Whitely or any other speaker of your choice, including offer negotiation, contractual assistance, accounting and billing, and event speaker travel and logistics services. When you book a speaker with us, we manage the process of hosting a speaker for you as an extension of your team. Our goal is to give our clients peace of mind and a best-in-class service experience when booking a speaker with us.

Why is AAE Speakers Bureau different from other booking agencies?

If you’re looking for the best speaker recommendations, paired with a top-notch customer service experience, you’re in the right place. At AAE Speakers Bureau, we exclusively represent the interests of our clients - professional organizations, companies, universities, and associations. We intentionally do not represent the speakers we feature or book. That is so we can present our clients with the broadest and best performing set of speaker options in the market today, and we can make these recommendations without any obligation to promote a specific speaker over another. This is why when our agents suggest a speaker for your event, you can be assured that they are of the highest quality with a history of proven success with our other clients.


Kara Richardson Whitely is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics including Author, Influential Women and Women. The estimated speaking fee range to book Kara Richardson Whitely for live events is $10,000 - $20,000, and for virtual events Below $10,000. Kara Richardson Whitely generally travels from Summit, NJ, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Tara LaFon Gooch, Jessica Cox and Tracee Ellis Ross. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Kara Richardson Whitely for an upcoming event.

Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 18/12/2025.

Kara Richardson Whitely Speaking Topics

  • Moving Mountains: A Journey of Resilience and Triumph

    Join Kara Richardson Whitely as she shares her extraordinary journey of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro three times while navigating life in a larger body and battling food addiction. Through powerful storytelling from the world's highest peaks, Kara illustrates how we all face our own mountains—whether they're personal struggles, professional challenges, or societal barriers.

    This inspirational keynote explores the universal themes of perseverance, self-acceptance, and the courage to keep climbing even when the path seems impossible. Kara's authentic narrative demonstrates that our greatest obstacles often become our most profound teachers, and that transformation happens one step at a time.

    Audiences will leave motivated to:

    • Embrace their own challenging journeys with renewed determination
    • Reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth
    • Find strength in vulnerability and authenticity
    • Take the next step toward their personal summit, whatever it may be

    Perfect for conferences, corporate events, and organizations seeking an unforgettable message about human resilience and the power of persistence.

  • Moving Mountains: Navigating Body Image and Mental Health on Campus

    Designed specifically for college audiences, this powerful presentation combines Kara Richardson Whitely's inspiring Kilimanjaro expeditions with critical conversations about body image, eating disorders, and mental health in academic environments.

    Kara candidly shares her personal struggles with binge eating disorder while accomplishing extraordinary physical feats, creating a safe space to discuss the often-hidden challenges students face. She addresses the unique pressures of campus life, social media comparison culture, and the intersection of mental health with academic success.

    Students will gain insights on:

    • Recognizing signs of disordered eating in themselves and peers
    • Breaking the silence around binge eating disorder and food addiction
    • Building resilience during the most challenging years of self-discovery
    • Accessing support systems and resources on campus
    • Cultivating self-compassion while pursuing ambitious goals

    This talk empowers students to seek help, support one another, and understand that their worth isn't determined by their appearance or the number on a scale. Kara's story proves that healing and achievement can coexist, and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

  • Unlocking Growth in the Untapped Plus-Size Segment: The $1 Trillion Opportunity

    Discover the massive untapped potential in the plus-size market with Kara Richardson Whitely, CEO of The Gorgeous Agency and recognized authority on body-inclusive marketing. As 68% of American women wear size 14 or above, brands can no longer afford to ignore this $1 trillion market segment.

    Drawing from her unique dual perspective as both a consumer advocate and marketing executive, Kara reveals why traditional approaches fail and how forward-thinking brands are winning by embracing authentic inclusivity. This isn't about token representation—it's about smart business strategy backed by compelling data.

    Attendees will learn:

    • Why the plus-size market represents one of the largest growth opportunities in retail and beyond
    • Common mistakes brands make when attempting to reach this audience (and how to avoid them)
    • Practical strategies for authentic product development, marketing, and customer experience
    • How body inclusivity drives loyalty, increases market share, and enhances brand reputation
    • Real-world case studies of brands successfully capturing this demographic

    Whether you're in retail, hospitality, healthcare, fitness, or any consumer-facing industry, this presentation provides actionable insights to transform your approach and unlock significant revenue growth while making a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Kara Richardson Whitely Videos

Kara Richardson Whitely / Author + Motivational Speaker
  • How do I book Kara Richardson Whitely to speak at my event?

    Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Kara Richardson Whitely for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Kara Richardson Whitely, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Kara Richardson Whitely or any other speaker of your choice.
  • How much does it cost to book Kara Richardson Whitely for a speaking engagement?

    Speaking fees for Kara Richardson Whitely, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Kara Richardson Whitely are $10,000 - $20,000 for live events and Below $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Kara Richardson Whitely, click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Kara Richardson Whitely speak about?

    Kara Richardson Whitely is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Author, Influential Women, Women, Executive Leadership, Diversity & Inclusion, Adventure, Inspirational, Motivational, Personal Growth, Empowerment, Women's Empowerment, Women's Health, Addiction & Recovery, Mental Health, Fitness, College and Resilience.
  • Where does Kara Richardson Whitely travel from?

    Kara Richardson Whitely generally travels from Summit, NJ, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances.
  • Who is the agent for Kara Richardson Whitely?

    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully secured keynote speakers like Kara Richardson Whitely for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Schedule button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Kara Richardson Whitely for your next private or corporate function.
  • What is a full-service speaker booking agency?

    AAE Speakers Bureau is a full-service speaker booking agency, meaning we can completely manage the speaker’s or celebrity’s engagement with your organization from the time of booking your speaker through the event’s completion. We provide all of the services you need to host Kara Richardson Whitely or any other speaker of your choice, including offer negotiation, contractual assistance, accounting and billing, and event speaker travel and logistics services. When you book a speaker with us, we manage the process of hosting a speaker for you as an extension of your team. Our goal is to give our clients peace of mind and a best-in-class service experience when booking a speaker with us.
  • Why is AAE Speakers Bureau different from other booking agencies?

    If you’re looking for the best speaker recommendations, paired with a top-notch customer service experience, you’re in the right place. At AAE Speakers Bureau, we exclusively represent the interests of our clients - professional organizations, companies, universities, and associations. We intentionally do not represent the speakers we feature or book. That is so we can present our clients with the broadest and best performing set of speaker options in the market today, and we can make these recommendations without any obligation to promote a specific speaker over another. This is why when our agents suggest a speaker for your event, you can be assured that they are of the highest quality with a history of proven success with our other clients.
BOOKING INFORMATION REQUEST
KARA RICHARDSON WHITELY

We are happy to assist you with your interest in booking a speaker or celebrity for your event, your organization, and the type of talent you would like to secure, and an agent will be in touch shortly.

Fill out the form below to or call us at 1-800-698-2536 if need immediate assistance.

Tell us about your event!

We respond to most inquiries within 4 hours. Under special circumstances, it may take up to 24 hours.


This website is a resource for event professionals and strives to provide the most comprehensive catalog of thought leaders and industry experts to consider for speaking engagements. A listing or profile on this website does not imply an agency affiliation or endorsement by the talent.

All American Entertainment (AAE) exclusively represents the interests of talent buyers, and does not claim to be the agency or management for any speaker or artist on this site. AAE is a talent booking agency for paid events only. We do not handle requests for donation of time or media requests for interviews, and cannot provide celebrity contact information.