Baratunde Thurston is an Emmy-nominated storyteller, producer, and thought leader weaving narratives across nature, humanity, and technology. He hosts PBS’s America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston and created the acclaimed How To Citizen podcast, redefining citizenship as an active practice of participation, responsibility, and community building. His latest project, the Life with Machines podcast, produced with Lenovo, explores the human side of artificial intelligence by asking: “How can these machines help us become more human?”
As a keynote speaker, Baratunde blends humor, intellect, and actionable insights that resonate across industries. He frames “citizenship as a verb,” urging audiences to contribute meaningfully to workplaces, communities, and society. With empathy and clarity, he unpacks issues such as the ethics of AI, environmental stewardship, racial equity, and inclusive leadership. His talks leave participants inspired to think critically, act responsibly, and lead with purpose, offering practical frameworks for building a future where technology amplifies humanity, diversity drives innovation, and citizenship is a collective pursuit.
A New York Times bestselling author of How To Be Black and a TED speaker praised by MSNBC’s Brian Williams as “one of the greatest of all time,” Baratunde connects culture, climate, politics, and technology in ways that both empower and enlighten. His Emmy-nominated work reflects a commitment to reshaping narratives around community and interdependence.
Beyond the stage and screen, Baratunde serves on the boards of BUILD.org and the Brooklyn Public Library, continuing to champion education, equity, and civic engagement. Through storytelling, advocacy, and humor, he challenges audiences to embrace their role in shaping a more connected and compassionate world.
Co-founded political blog Jack and Jill Politics, amplifying Black perspectives.
Blog’s 2008 Democratic Convention coverage archived in Library of Congress.
Served as Director of Digital Strategy at The Onion.
Host of PBS’s America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston since 2022.
Creator of How To Citizen podcast, redefining modern civic engagement.
Hosts Life with Machines podcast exploring AI’s impact on humanity.
TED speaker praised by Brian Williams as “one greatest ever.”
Frequent keynote speaker addressing AI, climate, racial equity, and citizenship.
Book How to Be Black became New York Times bestseller.
Emmy-nominated storyteller and producer with wide-ranging multimedia impact.
Earned critical acclaim for blending activism, comedy, and social innovation.
Board member of BUILD.org and Brooklyn Public Library leadership.
Recognized leader connecting culture, climate, politics, and technology with clarity.
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