Founder of The Optimism Institute; Transformational Leadership & Teambuilding Expert; Former Media Executive; Co-Author of CNN Founder Ted Turner's New York Times Bestselling Autobiography "Call Me Ted"

New York, NY, USA
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000 Virtual Event: $5,000 - $10,000 More Fee Info

Bill Burke Biography

Bill Burke founded The Optimism Institute after a long career as an executive, writer, and producer in media and sports. A former Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow, Burke now speaks on leadership and the power of optimism to transform individuals, teams, and organizations.

Burke's career highlights include serving as CEO of The Weather Channel Companies and working at Time Warner, where he was the founding general manager of Turner Classic Movies.

At just 29, Burke became president of TBS Superstation. He also learned valuable lessons from CNN founder Ted Turner, who co-authored the top-10 New York Times bestselling autobiography, "Call Me Ted." Burke also co-owned and chaired the Portland Sea Dogs, the double-A Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Boston Red Sox for fifteen years. As a writer, he has co-written, produced, and directed "Live Another Day," an award-winning documentary on the U.S. auto industry bailout.

Burke has also worked in non-profits, serving on and chairing several boards. He chaired the boards of Maine Medical Center (Maine’s largest hospital) and MaineHealth (the largest private employer in Maine). He also chaired the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, helping steer the organization through the “Great Recession” of 2008 to 2009, and the U.S. Biathlon Association, the national governing body for this Winter Olympic sport.

A lifelong optimist, Burke launched The Optimism Institute and the Blue Sky podcast to combat the negative effects of news and social media on mental health. Through the podcast, Burke has interviewed inspiring leaders, authors, researchers, and big thinkers, including Amy Edmondson on the benefits of psychological safety and Daniel Pink on the surprising positive power of regret. He has also appeared on "TODAY with Hoda and Jenna" and Guy Kawasaki's Remarkable People podcast to share his optimistic vision of the world and its future.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 01/28/2026.

Bill Burke Speaking Topics

  • How to Be a Modern Optimist

    Bill Burke 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.

  • Optimism and Mental Health

    Bill Burke explores the vital link between optimism and mental health, highlighting how a positive mindset can alleviate anxiety and depression while enhancing overall life satisfaction. Attendees will gain valuable insights into practical strategies for fostering optimism, ultimately empowering them to improve their mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

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Bill Burke Videos

Bill Burke - "TODAY"

Bill Burke - "TODAY"

Being optimistic doesn't come naturally for everyone, but there are ways to incorporate more positivity into your life.

Bill Burke - Remarkable People Podcast

Bill Burke - Remarkable People Podcast

Crafting Optimism in a Complex World

  • How do I book Bill Burke to speak at my event?

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  • What are the speaker fees for Bill Burke

    Speaking fees for Bill Burke, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Bill Burke are $30,000 - $50,000 for live events and under $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Bill Burke, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Bill Burke speak about?

  • Where does Bill Burke travel from?

    Bill Burke generally travels from New York, NY, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Bill Burke is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as How to Be a Modern Optimist, Optimism and Mental Health, Optimism in Leadership, Cultivating a Positive Culture in Organizations, Optimism is a Force Multiplier and ROI: Return on Integrity. The estimated speaking fee range to book Bill Burke for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. Bill Burke generally travels from New York, NY, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Jason Dorland, Adam Markel, Adrian Gostick, Pandit Dasa and Shawn Achor. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Bill Burke for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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