Speaking and Keynotes

Mara Palmer is a keynote speaker and strategist who helps leaders move from compliance to culture. With two decades of HR and compliance expertise, Mara brings a mix of research, real-world case stories, and humor to the stage. She shows leaders how to foster trust, inclusion, and psychological safety — delivering keynotes that inspire and equip audiences with practical tools.

From Compliance To Culture: Building Workplaces That Work for People

In this keynote, Mara redefines HR and risk management by showing how compliance can actually build a stronger culture. Through real stories and research on psychological safety, she teaches leaders how to turn policies into purpose—and build trust instead of fear.
Whether you're in HR, a business owner, or an executive, you’ll leave with practical tools to protect your people, boost engagement, and lead with integrity. This isn’t just a talk—it’s a new way to lead.

Additional Keynote Topics

Courage to Connect: Leading with Humanity in the Workplace
A powerful keynote on overcoming fear, embracing vulnerability, and fostering authentic connections that strengthen culture.
The SDEB™ Model: Strengths-Driven Engagement & Belonging
A framework for transforming employee engagement by aligning strengths, fostering connection, and building inclusive workplaces where people thrive.
Compliance as a Catalyst: Redefining Risk in Human Terms
A reframing of compliance as a leadership tool that builds trust, psychological safety, and sustainable growth.
Leading Through Change with Empathy and Strategy
How leaders can guide their people through organizational transitions with resilience, transparency, and trust.

Keynote Takeaways

Human-First Leadership: Replace fear with trust and empathy to unlock stronger teams.
Engagement Strategies: Inspire belonging and boost long-term team commitment.
Sustainable Culture: Align policies with values for cultures that last.

What Audiences Are Saying:

“Mara’s keynote was the perfect balance of inspiration and practical tools. Our leaders walked away energized and ready to take action.”
— Small Business Owner, HR Conference

Attendee

“She has a unique ability to make compliance feel human and engaging. Our team now sees policy through a whole new lens.”
— Nonprofit Executive Director

“Mara connects with audiences in a way that’s authentic and real. She mixes humor with deep insight — the kind of speaker you remember long after the event.”
— Conference Organizer