In this talk, Eli explores what it means to be a "tempered radical"—someone who works within institutions they don’t always fully agree with, but who pushes for change from the inside. Drawing on his own journey from co-founding a solar startup in West Africa to leading sustainability initiatives at global corporations, Eli offers candid insights into navigating the tension between personal values and institutional norms.

He shares practical strategies for influencing systems—through coalition-building, reframing conversations, and thoughtful resistance—and encourages students to:

• Define their own non-negotiables
• Identify leverage points
• Build careers that balance integrity with influence

This talk is a call to action for students to pursue careers of purpose, capable of driving meaningful change.

Recommended Resources

• The Tempered Radical: A Framework by Deb Meyerson (PDF)
  Why read this? Meyerson offers a framework for how to stay true to your values while working within institutions that may not fully reflect them—something every changemaker is likely to encounter.
• Speech on Empathy & Leadership (YouTube)
  Why listen? As entrepreneurs and leaders, you’ll often work with people who don’t share your values. This talk is a reminder to approach work with empathy, attention, and intentionality—skills as essential as technical expertise.
• Talk on Purpose & Career Paths (YouTube) (Optional)
  Why watch? A broader conversation on how purpose emerges over time—through curiosity and experience—rather than linear planning. A refreshing counterpoint to traditional career thinking.

Speaker Bio: Eli Forrester

Eli Forrester is a sustainability consultant and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience leading climate and decarbonization initiatives across corporate, academic, and global development sectors. He co-founded Volta, a solar company in West Africa that delivered more than 400 renewable energy installations for hospitals, farms, and schools.

Eli has advised startups, Fortune 500 companies, and international aid organizations on sustainability strategy, circular economy, and business model innovation. He holds a dual MBA/MS in Sustainable Enterprise from the University of Michigan and a BA in Environmental Science from The Evergreen State College.