Dan Buettner, Jr., JD

Danny Buettner Jr., JD, is a wellness executive, keynote speaker, and community health advocate who serves as executive vice president and chief development officer at Blue Zones, a company recognized for producing evidence-based insights about the culture, people, and lifestyles of regions where longevity and happiness are prevalent. As the son of Dan Buettner, author and founder of Blue Zones, Buettner has been involved in the science of longevity and wellness from an early age. Building on his father's work, Buettner has become a national spokesperson for Blue Zones Projects and Blue Zones Brands Real Estate, promoting the nine common diet and lifestyle habits associated with longevity and vitality.

Before his leadership role at Blue Zones, Buettner developed a diverse professional background. He began his career with a decade as a firefighter and EMT, gaining experience in both urban and wilderness environments. He later transitioned to consulting, spending 10 years leading a team of commercial real estate experts and advising companies on enterprise solutions. His expertise in sustainable operating models and strategic planning has provided him with an understanding of the intersection between organizational success and community health.

As a Blue Zones Project expert, Buettner works directly with communities interested in implementing Blue Zones programs. He also focuses on advancing return-on-wellness solutions for Blue Zones Projects and Blue Zones Brands Real Estate. Blue Zones has been featured in the Netflix Emmy Award-winning docuseries, "Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones." The original research and findings have been published in bestselling books, including "The Blue Zones Solution," "The Blue Zones of Happiness," "The Blue Zones," "Thrive," and "Blue Zones Kitchen," all published by National Geographic Books.

Buettner has participated in forums such as Varsity's weekly Roundtable, discussing lessons from the world's longest-living communities on building healthier, more resilient environments. His approach emphasizes the return on investment of sustainable operating models, local awareness, and the impact of service. Communities that have implemented Blue Zones programs have reported significant reductions in obesity and tobacco use, as well as substantial healthcare cost savings. Buettner continues to be a prominent voice in the fields of wellness, longevity, and community health.