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Top Thought Leaders in 2025

Staying updated with industry insights is essential for creators, especially when seeking guidance from thought leaders. However, navigating the abundance of voices can be overwhelming. To simplify this, a curated list of the top 20 thought leaders has been created, featuring pioneers and innovators across various fields.

January 13, 2025
Capucine Munuera

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Here's the list of the Top 20 Thought Leaders in 2025: 

20. Ryan Serhant

Ryan Serhant is a highly successful real estate broker, entrepreneur, and CEO of SERHANT. He has closed over $6 billion in sales, leading a team of 200 agents. Ryan is also a best-selling author, podcast host, and star of Bravo TV shows. He is known for his innovative approach to real estate, merging media, entertainment, and technology. Outside of work, Ryan is actively involved in charitable organizations. He resides in Brooklyn with his wife and daughter.

Followers on Social Media: 5.1 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 173 pts

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19. Natalie

Natalie, known as Corporate Natalie, is the CEO of Work-From-Home Jokes and a content creator. She co-hosts the @demotedpodcast and has been recognized as a 2023 LinkedIn Top Voice. Natalie's posts on social media showcase her humor and creativity, often focusing on corporate life, comedy, and relatable situations. She engages with her audience through witty captions and entertaining content, appealing to a wide range of followers. Her presence on various platforms reflects her dedication to creating engaging and humorous content for her audience.

Followers on Social Media: 2 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 194 pts

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18. Richard Branson

Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, is a tie-loathing adventurer and philanthropist known for turning ideas into reality. He has established Virgin Unite, a non-profit foundation, and works with various organizations focused on positive change and ocean conservation. With a passion for building businesses that make a difference, Richard is a renowned figure in the business world and a strong advocate for entrepreneurship and education.

Followers on Social Media: 5.1 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 212 pts

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17. Ray Dalio

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, the world's largest hedge fund, and the author of the bestseller 'Principles: Life and Work.' With over 50 years of experience, he offers unique insights into economics and investing. His social media presence focuses on sharing valuable knowledge on geopolitics, economics, and success principles. Known for his practical wisdom and professional expertise, Dalio engages with his audience through informative content and discussions. A leading figure in the finance industry, he continues to mentor and inspire through his work.

Followers on Social Media: 10.5 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 212 pts

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16. Laura Whaley

Laura Whaley is a business owner, content creator, and public speaker who has built a large online community focusing on work-life balance and corporate humor. With over 5 million followers, she shares relatable content about navigating the corporate world, setting boundaries, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Laura's comedic videos and skits resonate with her audience, offering a light-hearted take on professional life. Welcome to the Work Besties community!

Followers on Social Media: 7.079 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 219 pts

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15. Vinh Giang

Vinh Giang is a communication skills teacher, entrepreneur, and magician based in Australia. He is known for his keynote speeches in which he shares his expertise on communication and storytelling. He also offers virtual masterclasses and in-person events on communication skills. Vinh's experience in magic and entrepreneurship provides a unique perspective to his teaching style. He believes in practicing an abundance mindset and often shares tips on how to develop self-confidence and overcome fear. His journal entries and social media accounts provide personal insights and reflections on his journey.

Followers on Social Media: 11 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 235 pts

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14. Grant Cardone

Grant Cardone is a prominent figure in the business world, known for his role as a private equity fund manager and real estate investor. With a significant portfolio and a global presence, he manages Cardone Capital and consults with various companies on business expansion. He is the author of multiple business books and programs, and his influence extends to social media, where he is recognized as a top business influencer. Grant resides in Miami with his family and is actively involved in hosting entrepreneurial events and providing business advice.

Followers on Social Media: 11 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 246 pts

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13. Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins is a renowned international business strategist and #1 New York Times bestselling author. With over four and a half decades of experience, he has empowered millions through his corporate and personal development events. As a top life and business strategist, Mr. Robbins consults and coaches elite individuals, including Fortune 500 CEOs and world leaders. He has authored seven international bestsellers and is actively involved in philanthropy, aiming to provide 1 billion meals by 2025 through his partnership with Feeding America. Mr. Robbins is a respected entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist.

Followers on Social Media: 19.9 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 308 pts

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12. Alex Hormozi

Alex Hormozi is an entrepreneur and author known for investing in and scaling companies. He founded Gym Launch and Prestige Labs, helping numerous facilities transform their businesses. Through his software company ALAN and platform Acquisition.com, he assists brick-and-mortar businesses in growth. Hormozi's social media presence includes sharing entrepreneurial insights and offering free courses and books to aspiring business owners.

Followers on Social Media: 7.9 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 376 pts

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11. Raj Shamani

Raj Shamani is a bestselling author, Forbes 30 Under 30, and founder of @ifeelblanko. He is known for his podcast @FiguringOut.Co and his work in leadership. Raj is a keynote speaker, content marketing consultant, and growth investor, actively involved in the startup ecosystem. With a focus on brand advocacy and reducing customer acquisition costs, he delivers speeches globally on business, branding, growth, and mental health. Raj's content revolves around news, conversations, and people, aiming to create relatable and engaging experiences.

Followers on Social Media: 8.3 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 389 pts

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10. Lex Fridman

Lex Fridman is a Russian-American AI researcher and professor at MIT. He is also a popular science communicator, and has built a large following on social media, where he shares insights and research on topics related to artificial intelligence and robotics.

Followers on Social Media: 11.4 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 391 pts

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9. Adam Grant

Adam Grant is an organizational psychologist at Wharton School and a #1 New York Times bestselling author. He hosts TED podcasts, Re:Thinking and WorkLife. Known for books like 'Think Again' and 'Hidden Potential', his work focuses on challenging norms and fostering success. Grant engages in discussions on career possibilities, the importance of failure, and the power of constructive criticism. He shares insights on open-mindedness, emotional control, and promoting ideas. With a focus on growth and development, he encourages listeners to embrace change and challenge their perspectives.

Followers on Social Media: 9 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 393 pts

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8. Mel Robbins

Mel Robbins is a renowned author, podcaster, and researcher known for her work in personal development. She is the host of The Mel Robbins Podcast and has been featured in Forbes' 50 Over 50 list. With multiple best-selling books, Mel aims to inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Her content focuses on achieving ambitious goals, building confidence, and overcoming obstacles. Through her podcast and writings, Mel encourages listeners to take actionable steps towards personal growth and success.

Followers on Social Media: 13.9 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 441 pts

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7. Simon Squibb

Simon Squibb is an entrepreneur, investor, and staircase owner. He is the founder of HelpBnk and is passionate about making dreams come true. Simon provides insights into entrepreneurship, business, and life through his social media platforms. He encourages taking risks and stepping out of one's comfort zone to achieve success. Simon engages with his audience by funding dreams and promoting a culture of giving without expecting anything in return.

Followers on Social Media: 9.7 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 477 pts

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6. Bill Gates

Bill Gates is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and investor, known for co-founding Microsoft Corporation and for his work in global health and education through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. He is one of the richest people in the world and has been a prominent figure in the tech industry for decades.

Followers on Social Media: 117.5 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 478 pts

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5. Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek is an unshakable optimist who believes in a bright future and our ability to build it together. He is a bestselling author and TED speaker who has devoted his professional life to advancing a vision of the world where the majority of people wake up every single morning inspired, feel safe wherever they are and end the day fulfilled by the work that they do. Simon's books include Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, Together Is Better, Find Your Why, and The Infinite Game.

Followers on Social Media: 16 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 535 pts

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4. Ankur Warikoo

Ankur Warikoo is an internet entrepreneur, bestselling author, and online educator. With over 8 million followers on various platforms, he is known for his courses on entrepreneurship, career management, and personal growth. Holding an MBA from the Indian School of Business, he has been recognized on lists such as Fortune Magazine’s 40 under 40 and Forbes Top 100 Digital Creators. Founder of WebVeda, Warikoo is dedicated to helping young professionals through his online school. His mission centers on guiding individuals to make informed life decisions.

Followers on Social Media: 12.4 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 552 pts

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3.  Steven Bartlett

Steven Bartlett is the Founder of Flight Group, Co-Founder of Thirdweb, and an Investor in companies like SpaceX, Whoop, Zoe, and Huel. He hosts The Diary Of A CEO Podcast and is known for his involvement in various business ventures. With a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn, Steven shares insights on entrepreneurship, investments, and business growth. Follow him for valuable advice and updates on his projects.

Followers on Social Media: 18.2 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 581 pts

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2. Gary Vaynerchuk

Gary Vaynerchuk, known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur and Chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia, and Creator & CEO of VeeFriends. With a keen eye for market trends and consumer behavior, he helps Fortune 1000 brands thrive through his advertising agency. A prolific angel investor, Gary has early stakes in Facebook, Twitter, and Uber. With over 44 million social media followers, Gary shares his business insights and daily life, making him a top influencer and sought-after speaker.

Followers on Social Media: 35.6 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 653 pts

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1.  Elon Musk

Elon Musk, a South-African born entrepreneur, is best known for being the CEO and founder of Tesla, Inc, and SpaceX, both companies aimed at revolutionizing different industries including electric cars and space travel. He also founded and co-founded several other companies, such as Neuralink, focused on developing implantable brain–machine interfaces and The Boring Company, which aims to construct underground transportation tunnels. Musk's innovative and forward-thinking approach has made him a popular figure in the tech industry and beyond. In 2022, his acquisition of Twitter for $44 billion was completed, and he's been the Twitter CEO ever since.

Followers on Social Media: 209.8 M

Favikon Authority Score : 9 940 pts

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How does Favikon rank influencers?

Favikon offers a reliable, data-driven approach to rank social media creators across various industries. This ranking is based on the Favikon score obtained by each creator according to their performance on social media. The Favikon authority score is not only linked to the number of subscribers, but is calculated according to several other important criteria. These criteria include maintaining an active presence on multiple social media, engagement rate, growth rate, as well as other factors that demonstrate the breadth and depth of their connection with their audience. We believe it's important to consider the holistic aspects of a creator's presence in order to get a complete assessment.

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Capucine Munuera

Capucine Munuera is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Media Strategy at Sup de Pub in Paris while working as a marketing manager at Favikon. Her professional journey includes significant roles such as marketing responsibilities at Favikon and prior experiences at organizations like CLIC&MOI and Carré Cointreau. Capucine's expertise lies in developing and executing marketing strategies, leveraging her hands-on experience in social media management and brand communication.