Bert Jacobs Speaker Biography
Co-Founder & Chief Executive of Life is Good
Bert Jacobs is a celebrated “Life is Good speaker” and the co-founder and CEO, holding the unique title of Chief Executive Optimist, at Life is Good. This impactful company effectively spreads the power of optimism through its inspiring artwork, a deeply engaged community, and significant nonprofit endeavors. As a prominent speaker on optimism, Bert shares his journey of building a successful brand rooted in positivity. Moreover, his presentations inspire audiences to embrace a more optimistic outlook on life and business. Consequently, those seeking to cultivate a positive mindset and foster a culture of optimism find his message profoundly resonating. Bert’s insights as an inspirational speaker highlight the transformative power of choosing joy and resilience.
The Life is Good Journey
Bert and his brother John embarked on their entrepreneurial journey with a mere $78. Initially, they sold T-shirts on the bustling streets of Boston and at college dormitories along the East Coast. Today, Life is Good has evolved into a $100 million positive lifestyle brand. Furthermore, their products are sold by over 2,000 retailers throughout the US and Canada. This remarkable growth underscores the power of their positive message and effective business model. As a “Life is Good speaker,” Bert often shares the early struggles and pivotal moments that shaped their brand’s optimistic foundation. His story serves as an inspiring example of how passion and a positive vision can lead to significant success.
The Power of Optimism and Giving Back
Early in their business, Bert and John were deeply moved by the stories of individuals, particularly children, facing immense adversity. These powerful narratives illustrated that optimism shines brightest during the most challenging times. Consequently, this insight inspired the creation of a fully integrated business model with a dedicated philanthropic mission. Notably, Life is Good commits at least 10% of its annual net profits to the Life is Good Kids Foundation. This significant contribution positively impacts over 1 million children annually who are grappling with poverty, violence, and illness. As a “Life is Good speaker,” Bert passionately conveys the importance of using business as a force for good and the profound impact of optimistic action.
Author and Visionary
Bert channels his energy into guiding the overarching vision of Life is Good. Additionally, he spearheads the creation of the brand’s distinctive art and messaging across all product categories. Beyond his professional endeavors, he enjoys live music, travel, and surfing. Interestingly, his footwear choices are not always conventional. To further inspire others to embrace optimism and cultivate goodness in their lives, Bert and John co-authored Life is Good: The Book/ How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride. This insightful book was published by National Geographic in September 2015. As a “Life is Good speaker” and author, Bert provides practical wisdom for navigating life with purpose and joy.
Recognition and Influence
Bert’s impactful work has garnered significant recognition. For instance, he has been awarded honorary doctorates from several universities for his achievements in entrepreneurship, business innovation, and philanthropy. Moreover, Bert and Life is Good have been featured in prominent media outlets. These include CNNMoney, CNBC’s Business Nation, ABC News’ Nightline, NBC’s The Today Show, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Inc. Magazine, and Men’s Health Magazine. This extensive media coverage highlights his influence as a positive thinking speaker and the widespread appeal of the Life is Good message. As a respected “Life is Good speaker,” Bert continues to inspire countless individuals and organizations to embrace the power of optimism.
Bert Jacobs Speaking Topics
Life is Not Easy, Life is Not Perfect, Life is Good
Bert & John Jacobs founded Life is Good to inspire people to celebrate the good around them. Over time, a vibrant community grew that taught them that optimism is the most powerful strategy to living a happy and fulfilling life, especially in the hardest of times. In times of uncertainty, fear, loss, and tragedy, we still have the choice to focus our energy on what’s right in our lives and the world around us and find the opportunity instead of obstacles. We have the ability to use these times of darkness to come together, to see each other as humans (not just co-workers or clients), build unbreakable bonds, and innovate like never before. Through this virtual keynote experience, Bert or John Jacobs will share the inspiring business story of Life is Good, from the humble beginnings selling T-shirts out of a van, to finding opportunity in the face of hardships like the Great Recession & unthinkable tragedies like the Boston Marathon Bombing, which took place steps from the Life is Good Headquarters. Audience members will leave this keynote with a renewed sense of optimism and with the tools and inspiration needed to find and grow the good around them – in business and in life.
Optimism Can Take You Anywhere
John Jacobs and his brother Bert launched the Life is Good Company with $78 in their pockets selling t-shirts on the streets of Boston. Today, Life is Good is a $100-million, positive lifestyle brand sold by more than 2,000 retailers across the U.S. and Canada. Their inspiring business story and lessons on optimism and corporate social responsibility will demonstrate how focusing on the good can transform your mindset, business, and take you anywhere.
Bert Jacobs Books
