Great ideas deserve more than a slide deck.

Keynotes, workshops, and honest conversations that help people think differently, communicate with confidence, and work more creatively.

Let's Talk About Your Event

Rob Smith speaking to a large crowd of creatives at Creative Mornings Ottawa.

People standing in a line waiting for 'Kernels of Wisdom' illustration by Chelle Lorenzen.

I've spent more than 30 years helping creative professionals navigate change, strengthen their communication skills, and bring their best ideas to life.

Whether it's a conference keynote, industry event, workshop, podcast, or leadership session, my goal is simple:
Help people see things differently and leave with ideas they can actually use.

Before you invite someone to speak, you should probably hear them speak.

No high-production editing tricks. Just a quick look at how I show up, share ideas, and push creative teams forward.

Signature talks and interactive sessions.

Every audience is different. These are some of the conversations I’m most frequently invited to lead.

Wow. How. Now.

Have you become Tragically Competent?

Complacency kills creativity. With deadlines getting shorter we tend to default to a comfortable solution that won’t offend anyone and will get approved easily. This engaging presentation will break down the creative process into simple steps ensuring an interesting solution in an easily tracked period of time.

Audience takeaway: Practical strategies for remaining relevant, valuable, and confident in a rapidly changing creative world.

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Find Your Weird. Find Your Power.

How do you show up as a designer?

Creativity dies in an echo chamber. To thrive as a designer, you need the friction of outside opinions. In this interactive session, I share the blueprint to break out of your silo, embrace your “weird,” and build a community of critique that pushes you past your comfort zone.

Audience takeaway: A clearer understanding of their own creative persona, practical ways to communicate with their creative opposite, and a plan to build a trusted “creative board of directors.”

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Meet Your Monster.

Dissecting Imposter Syndrome.

We've all done it. Looking at the industry leaders, curated social media highlights, and our peers, subconsciously harvesting their best traits to stitch together a "Perfect Professional." The problem? That perfect professional doesn't exist. In this energetic and interactive session, we'll explore the hidden mechanics of imposter syndrome and the damaging role comparison plays in our creative careers. Through a hands-on exercise, you'll identify the unrealistic expectations you've subconsciously stitched together, uncover the habits that keep you chasing an impossible ideal and learn how to replace comparison with self-awareness.

Audience takeaway: Practical tools to recognize their strengths, stop focusing on their competitors, and build a healthier definition of professional success.

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Trusted by creative organizations, educators, and industry leaders.

I've spoken at a variety of creative events like DesignThinkers, In-House Design Conference, and Creative Mornings, attended talks at schools for the emerging creatives, and held events for a variety teams in healthcare, education, finance, tech, government, the creative industries, and more.

“A conference favourite”

The feedback received in our post-conference survey has been beyond amazing! We saw Robert’s session come up multiple times in the feedback as a favourite.

Youssef Elgaria

Events Coordinator, Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD)

“Educational and entertaining”

We have had the pleasure of having Robert present to students in our program over the past few academic seasons. We found his presentations both educational and entertaining. His topics are current and his knowledge extensive. Robert presents with an energy and honesty that captivates and inspires our students.

Coordinator / Professor, Graphic Design Program

Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology

“Grounded, kind, great listener”

Robert’s workshop taught me not to be ashamed of my own version of weirdness as a graphic designer, but instead to embrace it. He showed how different personalities can intertwine to create strategic and meaningful work.

Attendee

In-House Design Conference 2026

Rob Smith sitting at a desk, signing copies of his book 'Stop Looking for Zebras'.

Hey, I'm Rob!

For more than 30 years, I've worked across corporations, government, agencies, education, and entrepreneurship.
I've built brands, launched businesses, taught emerging professionals, and coached people through some of the most important transitions of their careers.

Today, I help creative professionals think more clearly, communicate more effectively, and build confidence in a rapidly changing world.

When I'm not speaking, you'll usually find me coaching, teaching, writing, and brainstoriming new exciting workshops.

Let's Talk About Your Event

More About Me

Some questions event organizers ask.

If you’ve got a question that isn’t answered here, feel free to reach out.

What audiences are you best suited for?

Creative professionals, educators, leaders, communicators, marketers, designers, students, and organizations navigating change.

What types of presentations do you give?

I deliver 45–60 minute mainstage keynotes, interactive panel discussions, and half-day or full-day workshops focused on practical, hands-on learning and collaboration.

Can presentations be customized?

Absolutely. Every audience is different, and each presentation is tailored to the goals and context of the event.

What kinds of challenges do people come to you with?

Everything from burnout, imposter syndrome, and creative blocks to leadership challenges, career direction, communication issues, portfolio feedback, presenting ideas, and navigating an AI-driven industry. Sometimes people don’t even know exactly what’s wrong yet — they just know something feels off creatively.

Are workshops available?

Yes. Many organizations pair a keynote with an interactive workshop for deeper learning and application.

Are virtual presentations available?

Yes. I offer both virtual and in-person engagements.

How far in advance should events be booked?

The earlier the better, but feel free to reach out regardless of timeline. If the calendar allows, I’m happy to make it work.

Are you willing to travel for speaking engagements?

Yes. I’m based just outside of Toronto, Canada but speak nationally and internationally. For events outside of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), standard travel and accommodation expenses apply.

What does your presentation setup require?

I keep things simple. I just need a reliable projector or screen with standard connections and a sound system (a lavalier or lapel mic is preferred so I can move freely). I don’t usually stand behind a podium.

How do I check availability and speaking fees?

Fees vary depending on the format, audience size, and location. Let’s make it easy: drop me a line robert@think-smith.com, or click below to book a time to talk about your event.

How do I check availability and speaking fees?

Fees vary depending on the format, audience size, and location. Click below to book a time to talk about your event.

Looking for a speaker who leaves people with more than notes?

The best presentations don’t end when the session does.

They spark new ideas, challenge old assumptions, and give people something useful to take back to their work.

If that sounds like the kind of conversation your audience needs, let's talk.

Let's Talk About Your Event

A black and white photo of Robert Smith writing notes on a wooden bench.

The toolbox for event organizers.

Planning an event is hard enough. Here are some photos, bios, and everything else you might need to promote and host a great session, all in one place.

Quick Downloads

Speaker One-Sheet (PDF)

Speaker Bios (PDF)

Full Media Kit

The Full Media Kit includes: Speaker One-Sheet, Speaker Bios, Approved Images, and Logos.

Download Full Media Kit

Great ideas deserve more than a slide deck.

Before you invite someone to speak, you should probably hear them speak.

Signature talks and interactive sessions.