Not the highlight reel. The part before it.
Apply to speak at an Ugly Talk event. We are looking for founders, executives, and industry leaders who are not afraid to share the real, unfiltered truth about their journey. The wins, the losses, the ugly parts nobody talks about.
Why Speak at Ugly Talk?
Share Your Story
Our stage is built for the real, unfiltered truth. No pitch decks, no humble brags. Just honest conversations about the setbacks, pivots, and lessons that shaped your journey.
Expand Your Reach
Get featured across our website, social channels, podcast, and Grey Journal media network. Your story reaches thousands of founders and entrepreneurs.
Join 180+ Alumni
Become part of our growing speaker alumni network. Past speakers have included founders, investors, Fortune 500 execs, and industry disruptors.
Inspire Action
Your story has the power to change someone's trajectory. Ugly Talk speakers don't just inspire — they provide actionable insights others can use immediately.
What We Look For
- Battle-tested founders and leaders who have faced real setbacks
- Willingness to be vulnerable and share the unfiltered truth
- Actionable insights, not just motivational platitudes
- Experience relevant to our core topics (see below)
- Ability to engage an audience in a candid, no-ego format
Topics We Cover
Mistakes, Missteps, and Missed Opportunities
Candid conversations with successful founders about mistakes, misjudgments, and missed opportunities.
Failing Like a Pro & The Art of Bouncing Back
How founders pivot and bounce back from major setbacks.
AI Startups and AI Implementation
How founders have built thriving AI companies vs. struggled or failed.
The Future of eCommerce
Evolving technology pushing the industry to the next frontier.
Fashion and Entertainment Business
Artists and designers on experiences in entertainment and art industries.
Web3 and Crypto Ventures
Tough questions to Web3 and crypto innovators.
How to Fundraise with VCs & Angels
No-filter discussion with founders who raised money the hard way and on easy mode.
Where We Host Events
Ugly Talk events take place in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Austin, Miami, Boston, Honolulu, Detroit. Let us know which city you are based in and we will match you with the right event.
Apply to Speak
Ready to share your story? Fill out the form below and tell us about the setback that shaped you.