About Bridgett McGowen- Hawkins
Have you ever felt so moved by a speaker that you sat on the edge of your seat or stood to your feet in pure excitement? That’s the experience Bridgett McGowen delivers—dynamic energy, unforgettable inspiration, and comical charisma that stays with audiences long after the applause. Bridgett is an award-winning international professional speaker, award-winning publisher, and best-selling author, known for helping professionals show up, speak up, and stand out...
…With over two decades of speaking experience, Bridgett has graced stages alongside global icons such as Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Shonda Rhimes, Deepak Chopra, A-Rod, Sir Richard Branson, Stacey Abrams, Dr. Mae Jemison, and Mel Robbins. She is proudly represented by All American Speakers Bureau.
Speaker, Educator & Award-Winning Communicator
Bridgett began her speaking journey at her local church and honed her love for words through early academic competitions. Her passion for public speaking and communication excellence evolved into a remarkable career, earning her accolades such as:
- 2023 Communicator Award of Distinction
- 2023 Stevie® Award Winner, Best Female Entrepreneur
- 2023 BookFest Business Communication & Women in Business Awards
- 2020 Best Indie Book Award – Business & Communication
- 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Award Finalist
- 2024 LinkedIn Top Presentation Skills Voice
Corporate Speaker & Thought Leader
Organizations and institutions such as CDC, Vanguard Investments, Fifth Third Bank, KFC, McGraw-Hill, NYU, Symantec, SHRM, LinkedIn Local, ATD, and Prairie View A&M University have trusted Bridgett to deliver impactful keynote speeches, training sessions, and workshops to thousands of professionals worldwide.
She’s been featured in VoyagePhoenix Magazine, The Startup Growth, Catalyst, and her alma mater, Prairie View A&M University.
Best-Selling Author & Publisher
Bridgett is the founder and owner of Press 49, an award-winning hybrid publishing company, and the author of several acclaimed books including:
- Show Up and Show Out – Award of Distinction Winner
- REAL TALK – 2023 BookFest Silver Winner, 2020 BIBA Winner
- Own the Microphone – A collaboration with 50 professional speakers
- Rise and Sizzle – Daily communication strategies for professionals
She’s also a Forbes Coaches Council alum, Entrepreneur Leadership Network Writer, and host of the 5-star rated podcast, Own the Microphone, which offers expert presentation strategies for professionals and speakers alike.
Credentials & Community Involvement
Bridgett holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and a Master’s degree, and she has taught for Prairie View A&M, University of Phoenix, and Lone Star College. She’s a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the International Society of Female Professionals.
She’s a proud graduate of the:
- 2023 Nasdaq Milestone Circles
- 2023 Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program
Bridgett’s mission is to empower professionals to stop playing small, embrace their voice, and become the most unforgettable person in the room, no matter the setting.
Based in Phoenix, Arizona
When she’s not lighting up stages or launching best-sellers, Bridgett enjoys life with her family and soaking in Arizona’s beautiful sunsets.