play bigger
Inspiring keynotes that hit the beat—mixing resilience and creativity for teams ready to play bigger.
play bigger
Inspiring keynotes that hit the beat—mixing resilience and creativity for teams ready to play bigger.
What people say
Leah Belsky – Open AI, VP Education
Shikha Kapoor – AI Product Leader at Meta | Ex-Google
Shikha Kapoor – AI Product Leader at Meta | Ex-Google
"Listening to Austen's story and witnessing his personal growth inspired me to reimagine the possibilities in my own life, leading to a better-than-imagined professional journey for both myself and my teams. I love seeing him have a similar transformative impact on others!"
Shikha Kapoor – AI Product Leader at Meta | Ex-Google
Shikha Kapoor – AI Product Leader at Meta | Ex-Google
Shikha Kapoor – AI Product Leader at Meta | Ex-Google
"Austen has a gift for finding the silver lining in any situation and turning around it's energy as well as inspiring people around him to do the same. I'm excited for him to teach his tools to create more possibilities and uplift everyone else around him."
Mark O Donnell – Westminster Under School, Headmaster
Mark O Donnell – Westminster Under School, Headmaster
Mark O Donnell – Westminster Under School, Headmaster
"Austen offers something unique and new for schools, combining musical creativity with passion and insight. His articulate and resourceful approach inspired students, sparking creativity and innovation, and showcasing the future simply through his powerful delivery and connection with young minds."
Kesang Ball – Trippin, CXO
Mark O Donnell – Westminster Under School, Headmaster
Mark O Donnell – Westminster Under School, Headmaster
"I’m a big fan of what Austen is doing. I feel like he has really nailed his Ikigai - something I rarely see. More than anything he is resilient and has a character and values which I resonate with & which inevitably transcends anything you touch. That’s the type of person I keep around. Really smart and sharp. "
Who is austen smart?
What to expect from Austen
Vision, adaptability, collaboration, and discipline aren’t just buzzwords—they’re actions. Through a five step process Austen will show you how to:
1) Clarify your vision (play bigger)
2) Adapt when the path changes.
3) Find collaborators.
4) Build discipline.
5) Keep moving forward (remix the rules)
Pioneering the Future of Music Education
From performing at world-renowned nightclubs to revolutionising music education, Austen Smart is shaping the future of how we learn. As an artist, entrepreneur, and ultra-marathoner, Austen combines creativity, heart-led leadership and resilience to build groundbreaking initiatives, including the world’s first graded DJ exams and a landmark education partnership with Spotify. The mission is clear: making world-class music education accessible to all.
About the company he cofounded: PLAYvirtuoso
Founded by brothers Austen and Scott Smart, both professional DJs and entrepreneurs, PLAYvirtuoso is redefining music education. The company, backed by investors from Airbnb, Disney Plus, and Live Nation, they built the world's first ever education partnership with Spotify and are at the forefront of a rapidly growing industry. As the industry reaches a pivotal moment, the Brothers are shaping the next big online economy.
cue the Conversation
Ready to break barriers, develop leadership skills and set new rhythms in your team?
Meet Austen Smart
Author
Ultra marathoner
DJ and Producer
Austen Smart has spent the last eight years driving innovation in music education. As a thought [heart] leader in the field, he has authored Guide to Dj-Ing and Electronic Music published by Faber Music and contributed to Music for Inclusion and Healing in Schools and Beyond (Oxford University Press).
DJ and Producer
Ultra marathoner
DJ and Producer
As a DJ and producer with his brother Scott Smart, he’s performed at iconic venues like Fabric, collaborated with Grammy-nominated artists such as Groove Armada, and released over 50 records. His work has bridged underground and mainstream music, creating a lasting influence in the industry.
Ultra marathoner
Ultra marathoner
Ultra marathoner
Ultra-marathons mirror the resilience needed as an entrepreneur. From never running more than 5km to completing a 50km ultra marathon as his first-ever race, Austen was not a natural runner. Today, he averages 50km weeks. In 2025, he will take on his creation - the 260km Ultra Del Mar, circling Ibiza.
Inspiring Leadership Talks
Get in Touch to Set the Stage
From DJ decks to the keynote stage, Austen fuses creativity, resilience, and the bold spirit of a performer to ignite teams to develop leadership skills.
Trusted by major brands and top institutions, his talks mix stories of innovation, inspirational speaking, purpose, and the hustle of ultra-running—all with the energy of a live set.
Looking to bring fresh energy and bold insights to your team or event? Book Austen for keynote speaking that hits the beat and inspires action.
