Van Jones

Conventional wisdom holds that America is hopelessly divided. Endless partisan warfare has left people in frustration and despair across the political spectrum. But Van Jones sees a way out. He has found a way to bridge divides, solve tough problems and win big — even on issues as traditionally polarizing as criminal justice reform and climate solutions.

Van’s bridge-building track record is practically unmatched. He moved the Bush, Obama AND Trump administrations to take powerful action to aid the downtrodden. (That’s right: he is a rare Democrat who got the last two Republican presidents to sign legislation he championed.)

And he has used his CNN shows and Amazon Podcast to talk with people across every conceivable divide.

Van’s success at the grassroots level is just as inspiring. In blue states, Van brought people together to close prisons and reform police departments. In red states, he helped U.S. coal miners beat the coal industry and save their pensions and health care.

How does he do it? What can we learn from his track record?

In this talk, Van shares fascinating, behind-the-scenes tales of bridging impossible divides — from the streets to the suites. And he reveals his secrets and principles for getting Americans to come together — even those who would rather tear each other apart.

No matter where you stand on the political spectrum: Van’s stories will surprise, affirm and challenge you. And especially if your campus, company or conference is dealing with internal conflicts and divisions, Van’s speech will help heal divides and restore hope.