Katie has always used her voice as a means of self-expression, and now, more than ever, she has something important to say.

She first performed on stage at 10 years old and honed her acting skills and stage presence throughout high school and into college, where she minored in Theatre.

In law school, she thrived on the trial court team, winning over judges with her powerful voice and persuasive arguing. As a lawyer, she gave voice in the courtroom to the lives of disabled and marginalized people.

Now, as a public speaker who has survived the grief and trauma of a stillborn child and a stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis, she is using her voice to uplift, inspire, and motivate others.

Katie encourages us to make meaning of life’s challenges, heal the places that hurt, find our own authentic voice and share with the people who need to hear it.

Katie Joy Duke Public Speaking NWHH

“Katie Joy is a captivating and charismatic public speaker whose presence is nothing short of magnetic. Her natural ability to draw people in, create a safe space, and make everyone feel heard is her gift. Katie doesn’t just take the stage—she fills the room with warmth, positivity, and an infectious spirit that uplifts everyone around her. Katie is more than an emcee and speaker; she’s a beacon of hope, joy, and inspiration.

Tricia Johnson, Executive Director Northwest Hope and Healing

Katie Joy Duke Public Speaking Nordstrom

“Katie's message was authentic, relatable, and compelling. Our Nordstrom team was moved by her talk about navigating life during and after breast cancer treatment. She left us wanting more."

Christina Varoz Ward, ERG Leader|Women in Nordstrom Co-Chair & Interim Associate Buyer

“Simply inspiring! Katie has the ability to share her personal journey with an audience that is honest, authentic, and relatable. She weaves positivity through some of life’s most difficult challenges. As a speaker for our organization’s annual fundraiser, Katie engaged our supporters, leaving them feeling hopeful and motivated to make a significant impact.”

—Lesley Mondeaux, Executive Director, Northwest Mothers Milk Bank

Katie Joy Duke Public Speaking Pitchbook

Katie’s story is deeply moving and empowering. Her words resonate with hope and resilience, sparking a desire for our employees to make a difference, and understand how to support others navigating similar challenges.

Katie’s ability to find light in dark moments and share that light with others is a true gift. She speaks with unwavering honesty, fearlessly sharing what others might be afraid to say.

She exudes confidence and is unapologetically herself. Her talk left our team at PitchBook feeling uplifted, educated, motivated and committed to meaningful action not only during Breast Cancer Awareness month, but beyond.”

Sarah Anderegg, Senior Manager, Employee Engagement PitchBook

Katie Joy Duke Public Speaking Sno-Isle Library

During Breast Cancer and Pregnancy and Infant Loss Months, Katie addressed her audience on both of these devastating issues with equal parts grace, eloquence, honest vulnerability and --somehow-- humor and hope. Her speaking style is at once warm and engaging, interesting, funny and sad, but above all, inspirational. She gives solid, practical advice for those going through loss; and also exudes all care and compassion for her audience members who have also experienced such losses. Katie is an amazing speaker, and we hope to host her again for future events."

Gail Richardson, Event Coordinator, Sno-Isle Libraries