Motivational Speaker, Founder of Thinktastic, TEDx Speaker, Community Mark Awardee, Marketing Innovator & Leadership Commentator
Mike Stevenson’s Biography:
Mike Stevenson is a celebrated keynote and motivational speaker known for his electrifying energy, bold perspective and ability to spark meaningful change in every audience he meets. As the founder of Thinktastic and a respected TEDx speaker, he has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most impactful voices on creativity, resilience and future thinking. His most notable achievement is being one of only 21 UK company directors to receive the prestigious Community Mark, recognising his long standing commitment to social impact.
Mike’s journey began far from the boardrooms and global stages he commands today. Expelled from school at 15, he spiralled into homelessness, addiction and a period of profound instability that would later shape the raw authenticity of his work. During these early years he took on a string of jobs including steelworker, wine bottler and hospital orderly, experiences that grounded his understanding of people and sharpened his instinct for communication. Music and acting became unexpected lifelines, giving him his first taste of performing and teaching him how to hold the attention of a room, a skill that still defines his delivery.
His professional career accelerated during his move into marketing and community engagement, where he crafted campaigns that stood out for their imagination and impact. Mike went on to establish Thinktastic, which was voted Scottish Small Company of the Year for its innovative approach to culture change and creative thinking. He became a trusted collaborator for major organisations including M&S, Sky TV, British Gas and Standard Life, consistently producing work that challenged convention and raised performance. Alongside this, he became a three time winner of the Business in the Community Award, a winner of New Start Magazine’s Better Places Award, and a regular voice in national media. In 2025 he delivered a series of high level leadership keynotes across Europe, strengthening his position as one of the continent’s most sought after speakers on human creativity and reinvention.
Why Hire Mike Stevenson?
People book Mike because he has lived the extremes of human experience and turns those stories into something practical, hopeful and immediately useful for teams. He speaks about reinvention, adversity, mindset, creativity and the courage needed to thrive in a changing world. These themes matter to organisations navigating uncertainty and looking for a message that feels real, relevant and grounded in experience. Mike brings unmistakable clarity and warmth to the stage, leaving audiences energised and ready to take action.
Mike Stevenson’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Mike Stevenson’s inspirational career:
- 2025 – Featured international keynote contributor at European innovation and leadership events
- 2011 – Winner of New Start Magazine’s Better Places Award
- 2008 – Founder of Thinktastic, voted Scottish Small Company of the Year
Videos
Mike Stevenson’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“…a fantastic presentation yesterday. It was or rather you were ‘inspirational’. I was greatly impressed by how you won them over with your excitement, passion, enthusiasm and humour, and then went for the jugular and challenged them all to sit up and take stock.” – Christine, Business in the Community
“…an extraordinary person, a fantastic speaker, who conveys a positive spirit and inspiring attitude. He is very humble, entertaining, engaging and positively challenging in his approach…” – Professor Thilo, Professor of Health Systems Management, University College Dublin
“…high energy, stretching, fun and fast paced.” – Anne, Edinburgh Napier University
“…those 30 minutes of your speech (one year on) still resonate inside my mind. Everyone I speak to about Thinktastic smiles and wants to shake your hand… I am inspired by you.” – Ermis, Oregon University
“A huge thanks to Mike Stevenson for delivering an inspiring and passionate speech about his life and our future. Great end to a great day.” – Jonathan, Director, Harvey, Donaldson and Gibson
“Every young person should hear this man. He is the master of empowerment.” – Gill, Entrepreneur, children’s author and speaker
“Excellent presentation. The feedback from staff has been fantastic and you were a huge hit with the crowd.” – Darren, Chief Executive, Habinteg Housing Association, Holywood
“If you’ve ever been a room where Mike has the podium you can literally feel the surge of adrenaline lift those around you.” – Colin, Social Tailor
“In all my work on my radio shows, podcasts and keynote speaking I have yet to hear a more compelling speaker than Mike Stevenson.” – Simon, The Growth Strategist and host of the Business Show on Dublin FM
“Inspirational and full of humour… The key messages around ambition, taking ownership, motivation and being wary of complexity sellers were well aligned to our priorities, and guided our conversation in the sessions after our dinner. The audience felt more moved by your words than previous speakers because your background and challenges were much more relatable… we really enjoyed it.” – Matt, Executive Vice President, Energy, Element Materials Technology
“It takes rare insight, skill and confidence to inspire business leaders to a common vision and cause. That’s why I brought Mike Stevenson’s Thinktastic to London; they, uniquely, have it all and get results.” – Gail, Chief Executive, Logic Homes
“It was such a fantastic day yesterday and there has been so much great feedback from staff that I just wanted to email to thank you so much for all your efforts to make it the success that it was; we’re all energised to put it into practice now!” – Sandra, Head of Comms, Grampian Housing Association
“Mike – you inspire so many people and are one of the best speakers I have ever heard; keep sharing, keep making a difference.” – Bob, former Chair of Scottish Enterprise and CEO of the Wood Group
“Mike challenged us to step away from the ‘it’s too difficult’ zone, then left us buzzing, enthused, inspired and up for change.” – Dr Anne, National Clinical Lead, Long Term Conditions, NHS Scotland
“Mike delivered a very simple but powerful message, through his anecdotes from around the world: Get engaged, seize opportunities when they present and know the best is yet to come! A thoroughly interesting man and a great speaker!” – Wing Commander Darren, RAF Boulmer
“Mike inspired every single person at the University of Stirling Symposium… he didn’t just speak, he activated everyone to positively impact the world and live life at 100% every day.” – Robert, Founder at Appreciate
“Mike is an enigma. He is such an inspirational man, and you will be left in awe of his presence and amazing skill at capturing the attention of his audience. His life and business experience are phenomenal, and his wit and charm make him stand out from the rest. Be prepared to be refreshed, motivated, enthused and uplifted. I, for one, would highly recommend Mike as a motivational speaker for your team!” – Ann, Performance Manager, Habinteg Housing Association, Derry
“Mike is the most impressive public speaker I have seen. When I worked with him on PR ventures, he would go from the Today programme to a freezing cold Winter Garden gig in Sheffield (where he held the audience spell bound) without missing a beat; compelling, original and professional in every environment.” – Amy, Axa Insurance
“Mike reminded the team and I that everyone of us really does make a difference and that how we describe and deliver that difference counts. Instead of teachers and leaders… following Mike’s Disney-like magic… we became the architects and facilitators of our children’s hopes and dreams. That matters. It was both a privilege and an inspiration to see and hear you.” – Katrina, CEO, Tees Valley Education
“Mike Stevenson was truly inspirational. He reminded us that it is within our gift to enhance our own lives and the lives of the people around us. That there is learning to had everywhere and that we all have unique experiences and knowledge to bring to the table. The best is yet to come.” – Liz, Astrazeneca, Liverpool
“Mike stoked the fire of inspiration and innovation and his ideas and stories have made me a better leader.” – Eugene, Training and Design Manager, British Gas
“Mike totally exceeded my expectations. He was charming, witty, extremely knowledgeable, passionate, considerate, captivating and just full of gusto in his delivery as our guest speaker. Mike will without doubt shock, enthuse and astound you all at the same time. I would highly recommend Mike Stevenson as a motivational speaker.” – Ann, Quality and Performance Manager, Habinteg Housing Association, Ulster
“Mike’s speech was entertaining, full of energy, engaging, inspirational and thought provoking. His powerful message was delivered with superb humour but sprinkled with science and insight. Business people in Lochaber will be talking about his message for years to come.” – Frazer, Chief Executive, Lochaber Chamber of Commerce
“Seeing at first hand 270 under pressure health professionals inspired to run with and pledge to new ideas was uplifting. Mike used fun, humour, motivation and positive participation to lift, energise and empower people to go and make change happen.” – Jacqui, Chief Health Professions Officer, Scottish Government
“Still a positive buzz around; the way you involve young people and make them feel important is a skill that cannot be taught.” – Scott, City of Edinburgh Council
“The most motivating speaker I know. From seeing Mike talk in front of 1000s of people on stages (virtually), to speaking with you 1:1. There is always one recurring theme: I feel motivated and optimistic about our future and can’t wait to get back on my purpose!” – Moh, Ethical Growth Hacker
“This isn’t just motivation, this is ‘World-Class’ Mike Stevenson Motivation. Mike is always top of my recommended list for anyone looking for long term results along with the ‘WOW’ factor. Live or Virtual, Mike inspires, excites and motivates like no other speaker I know. Forget Branson and Geldof and call this man now. You will not regret it.” – Kenny, Celebrity Speakers and Presenters
“This morning everyone is talking about what they did differently at the weekend… so inspiring.” – Ruth, Head of Scottish Parliament Film Unit
“Truly inspirational and totally amazed at how he managed to engage with and motivate our staff… he’s helped us take stock of where we are, what we want to achieve and how we will achieve it. Still on a total buzz!” – Laura, Citizens Advice Bureaux Scotland
“You are a master craftsman Mike. You are such a fabulous speaker and presence. I’m blown away by your class.” – Feargal, CEO of ATPO and Founder of the Irish Resurgence Series
“You really have inspired a change.” – Pauline, Headteacher, Royal High School, Edinburgh
“You went beyond the limits of my expectations and were a huge hit with the audience.” – George, Chair, Scottish Business Continuity
“You will be TOTALLY motivated AND Inspired by Mike’s words of Wisdom, Humour, Talent and just darn right Captivated!! The word ‘Motivate’ implies a ‘move to Act’ … if you or your team need this in any shape or form, then book Mike Stevenson NOW! Then ‘fasten your seat-belts’ and be prepared to SOAR!” – Dr Susie, CEO and Leadership Coach
“Your speech was easily the best of the conference; so uplifting.” – Oliver, Kings College London
Speaking Topics
Mike Stevenson’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Community Impact and Social Change
- Creativity and Innovation
- Future Thinking and Mindset
- Leadership and Culture
- Overcoming Adversity
- Reinvention and Personal Transformation
How Much Does Mike Stevenson Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Mike Stevenson?
The cost of hiring Mike Stevenson varies according to your event format, location, and audience size. For an accurate and tailored quote, contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.