How to set up speaking engagements?

Firstly, I apologize for always being on here asking for advice but rarely giving any - I just feel like you guys are head & shoulders more knowledgeable about this stuff than I'll ever be and am so grateful for all the help you've given me these past few years. If you ever need advice about how to ride a bike around the world - I'm your (wo)man!!

Anyway, I would like to give some presentations about our journey once we get back home around 6 months from now, but have no idea how to go about setting them up. I know people present at various clubs, schools, libraries and such, but how?? Where do I even start?

I keep hearing more and more about having a publicist. I have no idea what it might cost, but I'll check into it. Thanks!

I do think a publicist could help a lot, but we're still working on a rock-bottom budget. Wish this publicity would do something to bring in an income!

I think I might check into hiring a publicist once I get back home. If he/she could just arrange enough paid speaking gigs to pay for services, that would be worth it.