Tavis Smiley

Tavis Smiley Speaker Biography

Popular Talk Show Host, Author, Political Commentator and Philanthropist

From his celebrated conversations with world figures, to his work to inspire the next generation of leaders, as a broadcaster, author, advocate, and philanthropist, Tavis Smiley continues to be an outstanding voice for change. Smiley, who started his career as an aide to the late Los Angeles mayor Tom Bradley, hosts the daily, eponymous “Tavis Smiley” show on KBLA Talk 1580, Los Angeles’s flagship Black-owned-and-operated talk radio station. As a communicator known for depth, candor, and curiosity, Smiley has built a career centered on elevating diverse perspectives and advancing meaningful civic dialogue. His award-winning work across radio, television, and publishing has connected millions to the issues shaping American democracy, ranging from social justice and leadership to culture, business, and public policy. Today, his KBLA program continues that legacy with long-form, substantive interviews featuring top news-makers, thinkers, artists, and innovators.

The Tavis Smiley Foundation

The first American ever to simultaneously host signature talk shows on both public television and public radio, Smiley also created the Tavis Smiley Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission to enlighten, encourage and empower today’s youth.

Books

In addition to his radio and television work, Smiley has authored twenty books. His memoir, What I Know for Sure: My Story of Growing Up in America, became a New York Times best seller, and the book he edited, Covenant with Black America, became the first nonfiction book by a Black-owned publisher to reach #1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list. In 2009, Smiley was named one of TIME Magazine “World’s 100 Most Influential People.” His My Journey with Maya is a remarkable story of friendship, love and courage. In this book, Smiley shares personal memories of his twenty-eight-year friendship with Maya Angelou, one of history’s most fascinating women. My Journey With Maya is being adapted as a stage play by Tony-winning director Kenny Leon, and Smiley’s 2014 New York Times best seller, Death of a King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Final Year, is being produced as a television series special by Emmy-winner J.J. Abrams in partnership with Warner Brothers. His literary work reflects a commitment to amplifying underrepresented stories and providing frameworks for personal and collective advancement.

Keynote Speaker

In addition to his media pursuits, he serves as a lecturer, commentator, and moderator for national forums, universities, conferences, and civic institutions. Tavis Smiley discusses current events from a perspective not often heard in the media and speaks about everything from politics to sports to education and the need for cultural and racial harmony.

Accolades

In 2009, TIME magazine honored Smiley as one of “The World’s 100 Most Influential People.” The annual TIME 100 list profiles men and women whose power, talent or moral example has made a significant difference in the world.

Awards

Indiana University has named the atrium of its School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) building, The Tavis Smiley Atrium. Smiley is also the recipient of the Du Bois Medal from Harvard University and the 2009 Interdependence Day Prize from Demos in Istanbul, Turkey. Vanity Fair inducted him into their Hall of Fame.