Merit Kahn
Merit Kahn, CSP, is the ultimate guide for leaders navigating the complex crossroads of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Certified in EI since 2008 and a Certified Speaking Professional since 2017—an honor held by fewer than 12% of professional speakers worldwide—Merit brings over two decades of expertise in sales training, leadership development, and business growth strategies. But don’t expect a cookie-cutter keynote; Merit’s rare blend of humor, substance, and style transforms her thought-provoking insights into unforgettable experiences. As a playwright, producer, author, and comedian, she weaves humor and heart into every program, proving that serious business can also be seriously entertaining.
Known for her dynamic energy and sharp wit, Merit helps leaders and sales teams unlock what she calls the “Magic in the Middle”—where AI’s efficiency meets EI’s human connection. Whether she’s challenging audiences to “open minds to close deals” or exploring how “AI computes, but EI connects,” Merit’s keynotes deliver actionable strategies for thriving in an AI-driven world without losing the human touch. Her universal messages—like "AI predicts trends, but EI predicts trust"—resonate across industries, inspiring professionals to embrace innovation while staying rooted in relationships, adaptability, and trust.
Beyond the stage, Merit’s creativity shines as the playwright, producer, and star of Optimistic Personality Disorder, her one-woman inspiring comedy show that’s captivated sold-out audiences nationwide. Her programs are always a masterclass in blending content, connection, and comedy, leaving attendees informed, inspired, and ready to take action. If you’re looking for a speaker who can make you laugh, think, and lead better—all in the same breath—Merit Kahn is the name you need to know.
Most Requested Programs
Brains, Bots, and Balance: Finding Humanity in a High-Tech World
AI might be smart, but Emotional Intelligence makes it wise. In this interactive and entertaining session, discover how to thrive in a world where AI handles the tough tasks, but EI handles the tough talks. Through humor, real-world examples, and practical tools, Merit Kahn unpacks how to balance tech-savvy with people-smart strategies. Whether you’re looking to build better relationships, predict trust, or connect authentically, this program will inspire and empower you to leverage the best of AI and EI. Get ready to learn, laugh, and lead in a world where humans are still very much wanted.
The Bot Stops Here: Leading with Humanity in an Automated Age
AI crunches numbers, but great leaders build connections—and today’s leadership demands both. In this entertaining and insightful keynote, Merit Kahn helps leaders uncover the “Magic in the Middle,” where technology enhances leadership without replacing the human touch. Through humor, relatable stories, and actionable tools, Merit teaches leaders how to foster collaboration, build trust, and inspire their teams in a tech-driven world. Attendees will leave with the confidence to embrace AI while leading with heart, humanity, and vision. It’s leadership reimagined for a future where humans and machines thrive together.
The Hybrid Human: Thriving at the Intersection of Tech and Touch
AI might predict trends, but only humans can predict trust—and that’s where your power lies. In this energizing keynote, Merit Kahn challenges audiences to reimagine what it means to thrive in an AI-powered world. Through engaging stories, humor, and actionable tools, she demonstrates how to harness both technology and humanity to create meaningful connections, drive innovation, and turn challenges into opportunities. You’ll leave inspired, motivated, and ready to find the "Magic in the Middle" of AI and human connection—where the real breakthroughs happen.
AI Opens Doors, Humans Close Deals: Winning Sales Strategies for a High-Tech World
AI tools can analyze data, predict trends, and streamline tasks—but they can’t build relationships or close the deal. That’s where you come in. In this energizing session, Merit Kahn shows sales teams how to use AI to enhance—not replace—their ability to connect authentically with clients. Learn how to balance the efficiency of AI with the personal touch that builds trust and loyalty. Attendees will discover actionable strategies to prospect smarter, personalize outreach, and turn insights into sales while staying focused on what matters most: creating human connection. It’s about selling smarter, closing faster, and building lasting relationships in a tech-driven world.
Testimonials
"I just saw Merit Kahn at our national education and training event and she was fabulous. She was incredibly funny and she got to engage a lot of people who typically don't engage. It was great." - Corebridge Financial
"There are very few people that are authentic and can weave in messages and comedy and really keep the crowd. I loved how you went out into the crowd and asked for challenges and who are the people that were most important and effective in their life getting a message across. I enjoyed that. Great job." - GRITT Summit
"Who would have thought CPAs could have fun, but let me tell you, Merit was awesome. She had us laughing. It was the last thing of our conference after three days. I would highly recommend her because if CPAs can laugh, everyone will laugh. It was great. Very informative, very interactive and I highly recommend it." - New England Practice Management Conference
"Merit Kahn was the best emcee for CISCA. She nailed it. There's not a lot of speakers rhat can make me that happy at eight in the morning so kudos to you!" - CISCA Annual Conference
"Merit was very energetic and hilarious. Outstanding work. I loved it. It woke me up and I started seriously looking at the next steps in my business and I got some great ideas. I especially liked the breakout session after your keynote because we really were able to apply what uou just talked about in the keynote and relate it to how it can help us." - Crestcom International