Emma Hannigan

Journalist, MC and Keynote Speaker

Emma Hannigan is a veteran journalist with 25+ years reporting. She now empowers business leaders who are struggling to articulate their message to take control of their story and that authentic voice has positive implications not only for their business but for their lives as a whole.

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Emma Hannigan is a feisty, rebellious, and highly experienced journalist with more than 25 years reporting on major international events. Her work has ranged from the highs of Barack Obama’s historic election and the coronation of Tonga’s king, to the lows of Sydney’s Lindt Café siege and live coverage on CNN of the sex abuse Royal Commission.

Having interviewed countless people across continents and in all kinds of situations, Emma has honed the skill of asking the right questions to uncover the heart of every story. She has also developed a gift for teaching others to do the same—turning personal and professional narratives into compelling, authentic stories that resonate with audiences, clients, media, and investors.

Emma grew up in a small fishing village in rural Ireland, immersed in a family where storytelling was valued above all. Inspired by her mother, a writer, Emma’s early life was filled with workshops, poetry readings, and the understanding that every story is a unique form of currency.

She began her journalism career at age 15 in local radio, and after more than a decade with leading broadcasters in Ireland and the UK, including BBC, RTE, and TV3, Emma moved to Sydney. There, she spent 11 years as a senior journalist with SBS TV, traveling the world in pursuit of stories that inform, engage, and inspire.

Topics

  • Storytelling for business growth – to increase sales, growth and media attention
  • Authenticity through storytelling – how to communicate more authentically
  • Women in leadership – how the stories we tell can empower others
  • Media savvy skills – an insider’s view on how to attract media attention
  • Own your story and change the world
  • Staying authentic in an Insta culture
Having seen Emma Hannigan hold the attention of an audience of many hundreds at black tie award dinners and conducting Q&As at cocktail parties, I can confidently say that she has a combination of a professional and personable style as well as substance that makes her a captivating MC. She reads her audience perfectly, gets and holds their attention, pitches to their interests, times it well and engages with them while bringing an authentic humour and knowledge to each event, to help make them a success. Australian Industry Group
The Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce has engaged Emma as a speaker at numerous events with hundreds of guests. Her warmth, humour and intellect makes her an engaging speaker and MC. Guests leave feeling connected and engaged. Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce
I recently attended an amazing talk by Emma. She absolutely nailed it. She convinced us of how powerful in marketing it is to tell a good authentic story and importantly she gave us excellent practical steps to develop our story. She was delightful while asking probing questions to tease out a truly authentic story capable of grabbing media attention. She is a genius. Jelix Ventures
Emma, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience and wisdom with the LWYD (Love What You Do) Collective tribe of women. It was such an incredible night and I am so thankful for your openness, your vulnerability and willingness to share from the heart. I love how authentically you show up and how impactful your stories & insights were for the attendees. It was a pleasure to work with you and I look forward to working with you in the future. LWYD Collective Founder & Host