From Tomato Fields to Center Stage—Meet Jane Jenkins Herlong

If you’re looking for a speaker who can make your audience laugh, lean in, and leave energized, Jane Jenkins Herlong delivers every time. She is living proof that a sense of humor—paired with heart, faith, and authenticity—can take you places. In her case, that journey has stretched from a South Carolina tomato farm to the Miss America stage, from Radio City Music Hall to being featured on SiriusXM Comedy to speaking on platforms across the United States, New Zealand, and Germany.

Jane is an international award-winning author, speaker, and humorist whose sharp, relatable wit keeps audiences engaged while delivering meaningful takeaways they actually remember. Her storytelling blends Southern charm, real-life lessons, and laugh-out-loud moments that connect instantly with audiences of all ages.

When it comes to credentials, Jane stands shoulder-to-shoulder with legends. She is a Speaker Hall of Fame™ inductee, a Certified Speaking Professional, and a member of the Legends of Speaking, an honor shared with icons such as Ronald Reagan and the late General Colin L. Powell. What event planners appreciate most, however, is her ability to captivate a room—combining wisdom, humor, and authenticity in a way that feels effortless and genuine.

With five award-winning books, Jane’s stories of Southern life, resilience, and laughter have resonated nationwide. Her bestselling Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep-Fried South is proudly featured in Cracker Barrel stores across the country—proof that her message connects far beyond the stage.

At the heart of Jane’s work is a simple but powerful mission: reminding people to never give up on their dreams or let anyone else define who they are. When humor is paired with a foundation of faith and the courage to take action, audiences discover that meaningful change can be a joyful and fulfilling journey.

Jane’s storytelling continues to reach new audiences through film and fiction. Her debut novel has been optioned for film, and in Spring 2025 she appeared as a principle actor in a Christian film set to debut in April 2026—extending her impact well beyond the podium.

Jane’s journey hasn’t followed a straight line. Labeled dyslexic early on, she faced countless “you can’t” moments. Today, with faith and a sense of humor, she helps audiences turn every “NO” into a confident “NEXT,” one well-earned laugh at a time.

From tomato fields to the Miss America runway to the grand stage of Radio City Music Hall, Jane Jenkins Herlong brings grit, grace, and good humor—making her the kind of speaker audiences talk about long after the event ends.