A World of Good: Inspiring Stories That Make a Difference

In a world often clouded by challenges and adversity, we look to inspirational acts of radical empathy and innovative change-makers as beacons of hope and promise. Here at Outspoken, we are home to some remarkable speakers who channel their passion and resilience to make a profound difference. Their dedication to social change is at the center of their stories—all stories that inspire others to believe in their potential to create positive change through choices, big and small. Looking for some feel-good inspo? Need some motivation for your team? We’ve got you covered.

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Samantha Nutt, an esteemed humanitarian, doctor, and founder of War Child, has dedicated over two decades to aiding children and families in crisis zones worldwide. Samantha’s acclaimed book, Damned Nations, and her TED Talks have inspired audiences worldwide to rethink policy, business practices, and branding from a human-centered, social justice perspective. Her talks have helped top leaders identify some of the most pressing issues in their organizations and implement strategies on how to create an effective strategy around social responsibility that results in real, lasting global improvement.

WATCH: The Real Harm of The Global Arms Trade

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Through his work across the full spectrum of sustainability and education, technology and innovation, startups and large enterprise, Adam Braun has combined his passion for impact and people to build multiple industry-defining organizations. Adam is a “for purpose” founder, serial entrepreneur and speaker leading the corporate charge to drive sustainability success and Net Zero outcomes across organizations with his company, Climate Club, which works with Fortune 500 companies to generate a competitive advantage through sustainability. A New York Times best-selling author, Adam has spent the last decade-plus building several successful organizations and movements—both inspiring and captivating audiences with his story of being an ordinary person, creating extraordinary change with everything he does. Well-known as the founder of Pencils of Promise, Adam started the award-winning organization with just $25, and has gone on to build nearly 600 schools worldwide.

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Shantell Martin is a renowned visual artist, philosopher, and educator whose work spans a variety of industries and organizations. Her one-of-a-kind visionary perspective explores intersections of art, philosophy, design, and technology, delving into themes like identity, play, and the value of creative problem-solving. With solo exhibitions in prestigious art institutions and collaborations with iconic brands like Tiffany and Co. and Boston Ballet, Shantell is committed to inspiring others through art. In her talks, she shares the candid story of her journey through these universal themes of finding and trusting yourself, unlearning and relearning, identity, regaining confidence and freedom. Shantell inspires a closer connection with one’s own identity, helping audiences discover the confidence necessary for self-acceptance.

WATCH: How Drawing Can Set You Free

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Award-winning filmmakers and activists, Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci, have immersed themselves in challenging experiences worldwide, from living on $1 a day in Guatemala to documenting the life of an undocumented boy in New York City. Co-founders of the nonprofit, Optimist, their films have raised $92 million for various causes and changed over 329,623 lives. They've garnered acclaim for their compassionate storytelling, earned accolades alongside influential leaders, and are known for documentaries like “Living On One Dollar" and "Salam Neighbor." And their latest film debuted recently at Tribeca Film festival to rave reviews. Their inspiring talks humanize complex global issues, leaving audiences empowered to make a difference.

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As the founder of One Red Paperclip, Kyle MacDonald embarked on a remarkable journey of online bartering, starting with that single red paperclip, and ultimately trading his way to a house within a year. This unconventional adventure, marked by trades for items like a doorknob, ski-doo, and even time with Alice Cooper, captured global attention. Kyle's story inspired countless interviews, media coverage, and even Guinness World Records, making him an inspirational figure known for his creative pursuits and unorthodox goals. Recently, Kyle’s story inspired a TikTok influencer to trade her way from a bobby pin to a house.

WATCH: What if you could trade a paperclip for a house?

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Outspoken Agency is a women-owned speaking agency representing leaders, founders, public intellectuals, authors and entertainers for paid keynotes, workshops and panels at in-person and virtual events. Learn more about our female founders here.