Apr 1, 2019
What kind of person gains high praise from luminaries like Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Bill Drayton, Founder of Ashoka? Well, Wilford Welch for one.
Wilford has been examining world affairs for more than five decades. Aside from his diplomatic work in Asia, he worked internationally in economic development. He was also the publisher of a world affairs magazine that appeared in 26 countries in six different languages, as well as noted book author.
Wilford developed future planning scenarios for Citibank, Toyota, the U.S. Navy, the Korean government, and The New York Times. Furthermore, he was the leader of a research team that developed the Wealth of Nations Index using 63 variables to measure each nation’s economic, information technology, and social well-being.
Unsurprisingly, Wilford’s academic pedigree is impressive: a BA from Yale University, a law degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a PMD degree from the Harvard Business School. And he is an avid climber and mountaineer. So, he’s as cool as he is smart.
Bill Drayton, Founder of Ashoka said that Wilford’s first book, "The Tactics of Hope is a practical avenue through which people can connect with people, institutions, and resources, as well as ideas. Wilford's book is a wonderful contribution to the field! It is clear that he knows in a deep way what social entrepreneurship is." And Desmond Tutu, described the book as "Innovative and inspiring... Tactics of Hope is for any individual looking to make a difference in the world."
Today, much of his work–books, presentations, blog–is about climate change. In this episode we explore his thoughts as to climate change and sustainability, as well as what each individual can do to help.
Wilford has lived his life in full, and continues to make a significant humanitarian impact at a global scale. I know you’ll enjoy this episode, and be inspired by our conversation.