Elis James

Elis James is a renowned Welsh broadcaster, comedian, actor, and presenter recognised for his engaging, humorous, and insightful speaking style. Elis is highly regarded for his work co-hosting the award-winning BBC Radio 5 Live show alongside John Robins. Elis’s unique combination of humour, warmth and authenticity makes him a highly sought-after keynote speaker, offering audiences an entertaining yet thought-provoking experience. One of his most significant achievements includes winning the 2024 Radio Times Moment of the Year Award at the ARIAS, cementing his status as a respected voice in British broadcasting.

Elis began his journey in comedy in 2005, but his passion for performance and storytelling was evident even earlier. After graduating with a degree in Modern History and Politics from Cardiff University, Elis balanced various jobs, including temp work, charity roles and part-time work in a café, while pursuing his comedic aspirations. His early success was marked by winning the Maes B Comedy Award at the 1999 National Eisteddfod. Elis was also the guitarist in the Cardiff-based indie-punk band Heck, demonstrating his diverse creative talents before dedicating himself fully to comedy and broadcasting.

Throughout his career, Elis has earned numerous accolades that highlight his versatility and skill. Alongside John Robins, he co-hosted the Elis James and John Robins Show on Radio X from 2014 to 2019, earning Chortle's Best Radio Show Award in 2017. Their move to BBC Radio 5 Live brought further success, with their show winning the Gold Award for Funniest Show at the Audio and Radio Industry Awards in 2020. Additionally, their podcast ‘How Do You Cope?’ won the Broadcasting Press Guild Award for Best Podcast. Elis was also crowned Champion of Champions on BBC Radio 5 Live's Fighting Talk. Beyond radio, Elis has made his mark on television as co-host of Sky Max's Fantasy Football League, as well as starring in popular sitcoms such as Crims and Josh.

Organisations seeking an engaging, relatable and insightful speaker will find Elis an excellent choice. His keynote topics include Mental Health and Wellbeing, Comedy and Entertainment, Broadcasting and Media, Football and Sports Culture, and Welsh Culture and Heritage. Elis James’s personal experience, from discussing mental health on his award-winning podcast to sharing his love for football on the BBC’s Feast of Football Podcast, offers audiences a unique and impactful perspective. His approachable style and ability to connect with a wide range of audiences make him an ideal speaker for corporate events, conferences, and cultural discussions alike.