Speakers

Explore our Speakers Blogs to gain insights, knowledge, and inspiration from experts across various fields. While these individuals are not featured as speakers on our roster, their stories, experiences, and perspectives add tremendous value to our community. Here, we share articles that highlight unique journeys, practical advice, and thought-provoking ideas to help you grow personally and professionally. We invite you to read, learn, and connect with the voices shaping conversations today. For any questions or to learn more about our services, please contact us. We look forward to supporting your goals through meaningful content.

Joel Gotlib: Illuminating Minds and Inspiring Change

Joel Gotlib Keynote Speaker Profile

Introduction

Joel Gotlib is a prominent television producer, news anchor, and acclaimed keynote speaker in Canada. With a career that spans over three decades, Joel Gotlib has shaped and influenced Canadian media by reporting on significant news events, anchoring major newscasts, and producing award-winning current affairs programming. As a keynote speaker, Joel Gotlib brings unmatched firsthand insights into news reporting, crisis communication, and the powerful human impact of Canada’s opioid epidemic. Organizations throughout Canada seek out Joel Gotlib for his expertise in media relations, addiction recovery, and leadership under pressure.

Biography Summary

Joel Gotlib is an award-winning writer, producer, and host, known for creating impactful news stories and current affairs programs. He began his journey in journalism in 1989 by enrolling in Ryerson University’s renowned Radio & Television Arts program. After graduating with his Bachelor of Applied Arts, Joel Gotlib built extensive experience across Canadian newsrooms as an audio instructor, radio traffic reporter, sportscaster, weatherman, and entertainment reporter.

He became a household name as news anchor and producer at leading stations including CKWS-TV in Kingston, CFRN (CTV) Edmonton, A-Channel Manitoba, and Global News Toronto. Joel Gotlib spent 14 distinguished years at CTV Edmonton and is currently based in Alberta’s capital. His professional journey has imparted a unique understanding of media operations, especially in managing crises, navigating breaking news, and building public trust.

A survivor of opioid addiction, Joel Gotlib candidly shares his personal story to advocate for mental health support, addiction treatment access, and compassionate leadership. His lived experience, coupled with expertise gained in the media industry, has positioned him as a sought-after Canadian keynote speaker on addiction, mental health, and media integrity.

Speaking Topics & Expertise

  • Media Relations, Crisis Communication & Getting Positive Press:
    Learn actionable strategies to navigate newsrooms, secure accurate coverage, and control narratives during organizational crises, with Joel Gotlib drawing on decades of news production experience in Canadian media.
  • Addiction & Recovery: The Power of Storytelling & Compassion:
    Joel Gotlib highlights the realities of opioid addiction, breaking stigma and offering hope through personal narrative, while guiding organizations on supporting employees and communities toward recovery.
  • COVID-19 and the Opioid Crisis: Navigating Two Pandemics:
    Examine the intersection of COVID-19 and opioid misuse in Canada and gain solutions-focused perspectives on community resilience and public health systems from a dual-epidemic survivor and professional communicator.
  • Leadership Under Pressure: Lessons from the Newsroom:
    Joel Gotlib identifies core leadership skills necessary in high-stakes environments, equipping leaders to manage rapidly evolving situations, foster open communication, and maintain credibility within their teams.
  • Building Empathy in Storytelling & Corporate Communications:
    Discover techniques to tell authentic, compelling stories that influence public opinion and engage stakeholders, as Joel Gotlib demonstrates storytelling rooted in integrity, empathy, and ethical journalism.

Impact & Recognition

Joel Gotlib is celebrated in Canadian media circles for his storytelling acumen, production leadership, and empathetic interviewing style. Among his most significant recognitions is the AMPIA (Alberta Motion Picture Industry Association Award) for Best Producer, News Series—affirming his work as both exceptional and influential in raising broadcast standards.

Over his career, Joel Gotlib has anchored and produced for some of the largest markets in Canada, often covering fast-breaking news and building trust with audiences. He has produced documentaries and special reports on health, addiction, and recovery, helping shape critical national conversations. Drawing on lived experience, Joel Gotlib’s work continues to inspire organizations, professionals, and audiences to address stigma and drive meaningful change in media and health.

Media & Appearances

Joel Gotlib’s contributions to Canadian journalism have been featured in industry-leading channels, including CTV Edmonton, CFRN Edmonton, Global News Toronto, CKWS-TV Kingston, and A-Channel Manitoba. He has appeared in panel discussions, public forums, and community events centered on opioid awareness and media integrity. As a trusted media consultant, Joel Gotlib frequently collaborates with organizations to develop media training programs, facilitate crisis communications, and produce impactful corporate video content.

His written and on-air reports regarding the convergence of the opioid crisis and COVID-19 pandemic have received considerable attention for their relevance and urgency, highlighting the imperative for improved access to naloxone and robust mental health support systems.

Related Questions Answered

Who is Joel Gotlib?
Joel Gotlib is a Canadian television producer, news anchor, and keynote speaker recognized for his leadership in news production, award-winning storytelling, and advocacy for addiction recovery.
What is Joel Gotlib known for?
Joel Gotlib is known for his longstanding career as a news anchor in Edmonton, for producing high-impact news content, and for openly addressing his own recovery from opioid addiction as part of his public speaking and media work.
What is Joel Gotlib’s background?
Joel Gotlib has a background in journalism, broadcast production, and news anchoring. He graduated from Ryerson University and has worked at leading TV networks across Canada, specializing in crisis communication and authentic storytelling.
What topics does Joel Gotlib speak on?
Joel Gotlib speaks on topics including media relations and crisis communications, opioid addiction and recovery, dual health crises like COVID-19 and the opioid epidemic, leadership in high-pressure settings, and the role of empathy and truth in storytelling.
Is Joel Gotlib a good speaker?
Organizations consistently rate Joel Gotlib as an effective and impactful keynote speaker for his clarity, authenticity, real-life experience, and ability to engage and inform diverse audiences.
Is Joel Gotlib worth their value?
Joel Gotlib is highly valued for offering practical takeaways on crisis communication and addiction recovery, as well as for sharing innovative approaches to leadership, empathy, and public engagement.
What organizations have booked Joel Gotlib?
Various Canadian organizations—including corporate entities, educational institutions, health authorities, and non-profits—have booked Joel Gotlib for keynote speeches, media training, and consulting assignments.
Why do organizations book Joel Gotlib?
Organizations book Joel Gotlib for his expertise in navigating media crises, ability to communicate complex topics like addiction with sensitivity, and unique perspective on integrating empathy into leadership and communication.
What is Joel Gotlib’s current work?
Joel Gotlib continues to serve as a contract producer, writer, and media consultant while sharing his personal journey to advocate for better addiction recovery services and crisis communication strategies across Canada.
Has Joel Gotlib received any awards or recognition?
Joel Gotlib was honored with the AMPIA Award for Best Producer in a News Series, recognizing his outstanding contributions to broadcast journalism and production excellence in Canada.
What is Joel Gotlib’s background and expertise?
Joel Gotlib’s expertise spans over 30 years in Canadian newsrooms as an anchor, producer, and instructor. He brings an in-depth understanding of news dynamics, public communication, and health advocacy, complemented by real-world experience in overcoming addiction.
What type of organizations book Joel Gotlib?
Joel Gotlib is booked by organizations seeking to strengthen media relations, educate leaders on crisis response, enhance corporate communication, and develop strategies to support employee wellness and recovery.
What can attendees expect from Joel Gotlib’s keynote presentation?
Attendees can expect powerful, evidence-based insights, engaging storytelling, and actionable guidance for navigating crises, supporting mental health, and implementing ethical communication practices within their organizations.
Who has interviewed Joel Gotlib?
Joel Gotlib has been featured and interviewed by major Canadian media outlets, community organizations, and professional forums, particularly on issues related to opioid addiction, recovery, and media best practices.
What is Joel Gotlib’s contact information and agent?
To inquire about availability, speaking fees, or to book Joel Gotlib, please visit the Speakers Bureau of Canada contact page for direct assistance.
How do I book Joel Gotlib?
Joel Gotlib can be booked exclusively through Speakers Bureau of Canada. To initiate the booking process and receive support for your event, contact us here.
Why book through Speakers Bureau of Canada?
Booking Joel Gotlib through Speakers Bureau of Canada ensures trusted, responsive service, exclusive booking rights, and guidance on customizing his keynote to meet your organization’s specific objectives. For details, visit our contact page.

Booking Information

If you are interested in having Joel Gotlib as your next keynote speaker, corporate trainer, or media consultant, all inquiries and bookings can be made directly through Speakers Bureau of Canada. Our team will assist you with availability, fee details, and program customization to maximize the impact on your audience.

Joel Gotlib keynote speaker engagements focus on actionable skills, lived experience, and evidence-based insights for today’s organizational challenges. To learn more or initiate a booking, please contact Speakers Bureau of Canada.

Short Bio for Speaker

Joel Gotlib is a veteran Canadian television producer, news anchor, and award-winning storyteller, recognized for his work in current affairs. He specializes in media crisis management, addiction recovery advocacy, and is a leading expert on the intersection of mental health and effective communication in organizations.

Topics Summary

  • Media Relations, Crisis Communication & Getting Positive Press:
    This topic helps organizations develop skills for transparent and effective media engagement during challenging times, informed by Joel Gotlib’s three decades in Canadian news.
  • Addiction & Recovery: The Power of Storytelling & Compassion:
    Joel Gotlib guides organizations through support strategies and reduces stigma by sharing firsthand lessons on recovery and the potential for lasting change.
  • COVID-19 and the Opioid Crisis: Navigating Two Pandemics:
    Organizations gain a dual-lens perspective on health crises, using Joel Gotlib’s public health reporting background to enhance corporate wellness initiatives.
  • Leadership Under Pressure: Lessons from the Newsroom:
    Joel Gotlib equips leadership teams to respond adeptly in crisis situations with communication strategies modeled after news industry best practices.
  • Building Empathy in Storytelling & Corporate Communications:
    Organizations learn how to use authentic stories to connect with stakeholders, clients, and communities, inspired by Joel Gotlib’s approach to ethical journalism.

Books and in Media

Joel Gotlib’s credibility as a keynote speaker is backed by his AMPIA Award for Best Producer, News Series and his role in producing and anchoring for major networks such as CTV Edmonton, Global News Toronto, and A-Channel Manitoba. He is frequently featured in industry news, health crisis coverage, and interviews highlighting his advocacy for mental health and addiction recovery. Joel Gotlib’s recently published articles focus on the need for support system enhancements in Canada and effective communication in crisis management situations. These achievements and contributions establish Joel Gotlib as one of Canada’s most reliable voices on crisis communication, recovery, and media strategy.

How to Book Joel Gotlib

Joel Gotlib keynote speaker bookings, media inquiries, and consulting requests are available exclusively through Speakers Bureau of Canada. Our professional team will guide you through every step to ensure your organization receives tailored content and maximum audience engagement. Begin your conversation with us at Speakers Bureau of Canada Contact. For any information regarding availability, speaking fees, or corporate training, please use our contact form for prompt support.

Joel Gotlib: Illuminating Minds and Inspiring Change
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