Nikki Burdine speaking

Public Speaking

An inspirational
story.

Nikki speaks on overcoming adversity, drawing from a childhood Tourette's diagnosis, the pressure of live television, and building a life entirely on her own terms.

Nikki Burdine

Hire Nikki

A story rooted in
real adversity.

Nikki's father, Miles, a USMC Colonel, tells a story about Nikki from high school during his own public speaking tours. While most of her classmates dreaded speaking in front of the class, Nikki thrived. When Miles asked her favorite class, she said, without missing a beat, "public speaking," because she loved being the center of attention.

"I want people living with Tourette's to see me and know that a normal, healthy, and fulfilled life is possible."

At age 12, Nikki was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Her tics became debilitating at times, leading to a difficult stretch of medication, anxiety, and a breakdown. Doctors told her parents she would likely struggle to hold down a regular job. With the right support, the right doctor, and the right medication, Nikki proved them wrong in one of the few jobs where verbal tics are the hardest to manage of all: a television news anchor.

What Nikki Offers

Speaking engagements.

Public Speaking

Nikki is available to tell her inspirational story at conferences, galas, corporate events, nonprofits, and more.

Event Hosting & Panel Moderation

From hosting a gala to moderating a panel, Nikki brings 18 years of live television composure to any stage.

Classroom Readings

Nikki reads her children's book, Live Like Grunt, to classrooms across Nashville and Tennessee.

Nikki speaking

"I love being the
center of attention."

Also Available

Classroom readings of Live Like Grunt.

Nikki is also available to read her children's book to classrooms.