Bill Burke Profile Photo

Bill Burke

Keynote Speaker

Founder, The Optimism Institute; Co-Author, Call Me Ted; Chairman, Portland Sea Dogs (2008-2023); President and CEO, The Weather Channel Companies (2002-2004); CEO, Resort Sports Network (2000-2001); President, TBS (1995-1999); General Manager, Turner Classic Movies (1993-1995)

Bill Burke provides an inspiring talk about understanding and curing what he calls “the paradox of modern optimism”: that there has never been a better time to be alive than today, and yet there’s never been a harder time to be optimistic.

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Bill Burke Profile Photo

Bill Burke is an energetic and engaging speaker. In his most popular talk, he highlights a paradox of modern life: despite living in arguably the best era in human history, we face unprecedented challenges to our optimism. He points out that today’s culture inundates us with negativity through constant feeds and sensational news, distracting us from the remarkable progress humanity continues to achieve. Attendees will learn how to navigate this landscape and cultivate a more positive outlook amidst the chaos. Having successfully led large organizations himself, Bill can also speak with authority about the power of optimism in organizations and why it’s vital for leaders to maintain and convey a positive and hopeful vision for the future of their organization and its people. And as an experienced media executive, Bill understands well how today’s news and information platforms prey on and profit from our worst fears and anxieties.

Featured Videos

Bill Burke Profile Photo
Bill Burke

Bill Burke on Living Optimistically

Bill Burke Profile Photo
Bill Burke

Bill Burke on Crafting Optimism in a Complex World

Bill Burke’s Speech Topics

  • The Paradox of Modern Optimism

    Bill Burke first lays out all the reasons why it can be argued that today is the greatest time to be alive in human history. He then poses the question, “Why don’t we feel this way?” From there, Bill explains the forces stacked up against us, from evolutionary biases to focus on danger and negativity, to media platforms that prey on and profit from our worst fears and anxieties.

  • Optimism is a Force Multiplier

    Borrowing from the late Gen. Colin Powell, who said that “perpetual optimism is a force multiplier,” Bill Burke explains how this can be manifest in organizations large and small, as well as in our own personal lives.  He explains how having an optimistic outlook is not only good for those around us but even enhances our personal “healthspans” while lengthening our lifespans.

  • ROI: Return on Integrity

    In his talk, “ROI: Return On Integrity,” Bill Burke examines the crucial role of integrity in business. He highlights how prioritising ethical practices not only fosters a positive organisational culture but also drives sustainable success and profitability. Attendees will learn how embracing integrity can transform their business strategies and enhance overall performance.

What other organizations say about Bill Burke

Bill brought tremendous optimism and inspiring ideas to our global Marketing organization. His dynamic energy, sharp insights, and humor created a strong connection with the team. He offered insightful perspectives, balancing motivational strategies with practical advice on how focus on the positive. We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from team members at all levels.

Marketing

What other organizations say about Bill Burke

I hired Bill to speak at an offsite and his messages around optimism and how we can manage our social media diets to improve our outlook was particularly effective. He clearly articulated how to practice optimism as a means to an end and his talk made a big contribution toward a successful session for my team.

Advertising

What other organizations say about Bill Burke

I’ve known Bill for years and knew he’d be the perfect guest speaker for my offsite last summer. The talk he gave was amazing and super inspirational for the team. In these times of dramatic, scary change we can really benefit from reassurance and optimism that things can (and are) all right. No one can tell that story, with accessible, real life stories, like Bill Burke can.

Media

What other organizations say about Bill Burke

Bill Burke’s session was far more than a speaking engagement—it was a powerful and timely experience for our team. As we focused on building a culture that embraces change, Bill’s message on the power of optimism resonated deeply and personally, offering a sense of agency and hope that people didn’t even realize they needed. What made it so impactful was that he spoke to something bigger than just the workplace—he addressed the challenges of the world around us with honesty and inspiration. Multiple team members shared that his words helped them reframe not just their week or month, but their outlook on the years ahead. He reminded us that we are not powerless—and yes, there were tears: the kind that come from being seen, inspired, and emotionally moved. Bill set the emotional tone for our offsite and helped spark the mindset shift we came together to create.

Business Conferences / Audiences

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