Germaine Greer

Germaine Greer is a pioneering Australian writer and one of the most influential figures of second-wave feminism. Known globally for her bold critiques of gender roles and patriarchal structures, she rose to international prominence with the publication of “The Female Eunuch” in 1970. This ground-breaking book challenged traditional ideas of femininity and argued that women had been culturally castrated by male-dominated societies. It became a bestseller and a touchstone text of the feminist movement, cementing her role as a radical and provocative voice in public discourse. Greer continues to be hired as a motivational speaker for her uncompromising intellect, outspoken style, and ability to inspire bold conversations around gender, power, and identity.

Her early career was shaped by a rigorous academic path and a passion for performance and literature. After studying at the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney, where she began acting and later taught, she moved to the UK to study at Cambridge. There, she earned her PhD on Shakespeare and became one of the first women to be fully admitted to the university’s famed Footlights theatrical group. These experiences deeply influenced her views on gender and power, which later fed into her writing. Between 1968 and 1972, she worked as a lecturer at the University of Warwick, further developing her voice as both an academic and a public intellectual.

Over the years, Greer has published more than 20 books on a wide range of subjects, from sexuality to ageing. Titles such as “Sex and Destiny, The Whole Woman” and “The Change: Women, Ageing and the Menopause” reflect her commitment to challenging social norms and championing women’s autonomy at all stages of life. She has also worked as a journalist, contributing columns to Oz magazine and co-founding the Amsterdam-based publication “Suck”, which explored themes of sexuality and freedom of expression. Alongside her writing, Greer has made numerous television appearances and was named Woman of the Year in 1971.

Greer is sought after as a motivational speaker because of her fearless approach to difficult topics and her lasting influence on feminist thought. Audiences turn to her for her intellect, wit, and unwavering commitment to encouraging women to question societal expectations. Whether addressing gender politics, ageing, or cultural identity, she continues to push boundaries and provoke meaningful change through dialogue.