Blue Sky

UN Foundation CEO Elizabeth Cousens on the UNF’s Remarkable Work Around the Globe, and Why She’s Optimistic About Our Collective Future

<p>Elizabeth Cousens grew up with an insatiable curiosity about world events.  This early interest has led to a remarkable career of service, including significant roles with the United Nations, both in the New York headquarters and areas of armed conflict like Bosnia and Haiti.  At the United Nations Foundation, she oversees the organization that was formed thanks to Ted Turner’s $1 billion contribution and that today works alongside the United Nations “to collaborate for lasting change and innovate to address humanity's greatest challenges.”  In this episode, Elizabeth describes specific projects the UNF has taken on, from eradicating malaria to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and shares her view that while the next few years will be “decisive” in our fight against climate change, we have the answers and know what is required to be successful. </p>

Hosted by Bill Burke, founder of The Optimism Institute, this weekly podcast will feature inspiring leaders, authors, researchers, and big thinkers who are taking on some of our world’s toughest challenges with an infectious sense of optimism. Blue Sky takes its name from the meditation reminder that there’s always blue sky above, sometimes you just have to get your head above the clouds to see it.