Meet Jeanne
Speaker.Consultant.Author.
Jeanne’s three decades of award-winning work in the media with a reach of more than 500 million people, combined with her wealth of experience as a respected speaker, trusted leadership and communication consultant, and graduate faculty member at Northwestern University have led her to empower others to move with greater intentionality, speak with more presence, and lead in ways that create real connection—and lasting results. She calls this The Power of Fearless Authenticity, and it has been the passion and focus of her speaking and consulting work the last eight years. Jeanne’s corporate speaking collaborations include Women in Insurance Leadership, AnitaB.org, AES, AT&T, Northwestern
She calls this the power of fearless authenticity, and it has been the passion and focus of her speaking and consulting work the last eight years. And now she’s sharing her system for success with the world in her book: Fearless Authenticity: Lead Better, Sell More, and Speak Sensationally.
Background In Broadcasting
Jeanne’s speaking and consulting career grew authentically out of her career in broadcasting in Chicago. She started in radio, first as a traffic reporter, then as a cohost of daily radio shows with comedic giants Steve Harvey, George Wallace, and Tom Joyner. Her TV work includes traffic and entertainment reporting for NBC before hosting her own daily morning TV talk show for nearly 10 years. She’s also an actor and voiceover artist, appearing in commercials, episodic television, and movies. Along the way, she’s interviewed hundreds of Hollywood heavyweights and won 7 regional Emmy awards.
She currently hosts her own weekly radio show for V103, the #1-ranked iHeartRadio station in Chicago, along with her podcast Fearless Authenticity with Jeanne Sparrow, and appears regularly on top-rated Chicago TV stations as a fill-in host and guest.
Ways to work with Jeanne
Keynote Speaking
Inspiring, yet practical, high-energy presentations that motivate audiences to find their authentic value and move with intention toward meaningful success.
Emcee & Moderator Services
As a highly-skilled host and interviewer, Jeanne brings her expertise, energy, and exuberance to every event, effortlessly creating a meaningful and always entertaining environment for your audience.
Workshops & Trainings
Customized programs for individuals and organizations to build on momentum from Jeanne’s keynote and get every level of your organization applying her innovative communication formula for success.
Media Recognition & Honors
- Toastmasters International Communication and Leadership Award (2024)
- 7 NATAS Emmy Awards including Outstanding Achievement for Entertainment, Magazine, & Public Affairs Programming
- African-American Television & Filmmakers’ 2003 Sapphire Reinvention Award
- Midwest Radio & Music Association’s 2002 Radio Personality of the Year & Griot Award
- Chicago Association of Black Journalists: Award for Excellence (2000)
- Chicago Association of Black Journalists: Award for Excellence in Features (1998)
