Adam William

As producer and host of the internationally-acclaimed and award-nominated podcast Water Cooler Talk, I am deeply committed to create and produce meaningful, respectful and more impactful conversations. I believe dialogue has the power to break down barriers, promote understanding, and effect positive change - that’s why young global leaders like myself have a responsibility to foster togetherness in today's increasingly polarized world. As we navigate the challenges of social media and the 24-hour news cycle, it's more important than ever to engage in non-traditional conversations that challenge us to be better.

But my passion for dialogue extends far beyond the podcast realm.

As the first US Ambassador to one of the largest ecotourism companies in South Africa, I worked closely with community leaders in Africa to bridge the gap between Western culture and the realities of animal conservation. Through my organization, Roar For Change, we tackled tough issues like habitat loss, animal extinction, and the cruel practice of canned hunting. And I didn't just talk the talk - my voice, leadership, and commitment to animals created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which landed me in the African bush surrounded by some of the world's most magnificent and dangerous creatures, to gain firsthand knowledge of conservation efforts.

A year later, in the lead-up to the divisive 2016 US election, I embarked on a cross-country conversation tour to show that despite our differences, we all share a guiding force that bonds us together. In my beat-up 99’ Monte Carlo and surviving on free hotel pancakes and lukewarm gym showers, I hosted thought-provoking conversations with everyone from small-town residents holding onto flooded towns to tech upstarts revolutionizing the future. America Rediscovered was a pivotal moment - it showed me that alone, my voice could create change, but to create real, meaningful global change, I needed to create platforms for others to share their voices.

As co-founder of New West Media, a creative agency that champions diverse and groundbreaking generational artists, I had the privilege of supporting projects that spread messages of hope, inclusivity, and acceptance. One such project is The Real Is Back Music, a conscious black local Twin Cities hip-hop duo. Together we produced impactful films that shed light on the relevant racial tensions in our home state of Minnesota and across the United States related to the deaths of Philando Castile, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and many others.

I am driven by a deep passion for meaningful conversation because I have witnessed firsthand the power of constructive dialogue to create immediate and positive change. Through open, honest, and respectful communication we can build bridges and make progress towards a more inclusive, just, and equitable society.

So let's engage in thoughtful conversation, share our perspectives, and listen with empathy.

Together, we can make a difference.