An architect by training, John Cary has devoted his career to expanding the practice of design for the public good.

Why you should listen

When architect-turned-writer John Cary co-authored an oped, with partner Courtney E. Martin, on the design failures of the breast pump, it sparked an MIT Media Lab hackathon and the launch of multiple companies. It's a perfect example of his knack for linking good design and public good. He is the author of two books, most recently Design for Good: A New Era of Architecture for Everyone, and his writing on design, philanthropy and fatherhood is widely published.

Cary works as a philanthropic advisor to an array of foundations and nonprofits around the world, and he frequently curates and hosts events for the Aspen Institute, TED and other entities. Deeply committed to diversifying the public stage, Cary is also a founding partner in FRESH Speakers, a next-generation speakers bureau that represents young women and people of color.

John Cary’s TED talk

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