For more than two decades, Chris Johns held one of the most enviable gigs in the world as a National Geographic magazine staff photographer, a role that evolved when he became Editor-in-Chief—the first photographer ever to serve in this prestigious position. At the helm of one of the world’s most treasured brands, Chris celebrated the wonders of the world and addressed the global challenges that threaten our existence, balancing these responsibilities with skill and care. Near the end of his nearly ten-year editorship, while finalizing an issue devoted entirely to Yellowstone National Park, Chris was diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer. In his candid talk, he reflects on his illustrious career in photography and journalism, the life experiences that equipped him and his family to confront his cancer battle, and how this journey reconnected him with what matters most in life.

In this enlightening talk, Vincent shares highlights from more than 30 years, traveling the world for National Geographic, documenting a changing planet—from close to home, along the iconic Route 66, to what it’s like to live at the base of a volcano, to ancient Sicilian mummies. One story that captured his heart took readers “Inside Animal Minds” (NGM cover story, March 2008) and included a deep study of birds, apes, dolphins, and dogs, revealing a wide range of emotions and communication skills. With his trademark dry humor, Vincent takes us into the world of animal cognition and on a tour of some of the world’s most unusual pets, including a hilarious romp through his The Year of the Dogs project. You may never look at man’s best friend the same way again!

Step into a world of wonder with biologist-turned-photographer Anand Varma as he unlocks the mysteries of nature through cutting-edge photography techniques. In his Berkeley-based Wonder Lab, Anand captures the invisible behaviors of the natural world, beyond our naked eye. His images and videos reveal the hidden worlds that exist just outside of our perception, from the mesmerizing life cycle of a honeybee to the lightning-fast wings of a hummingbird. With Anand’s expert guidance, we can slow down the fast, speed up the slow, and magnify the miniature, enabling us to see the true beauty and complexity of the natural world.

Discover the art of photography and nature through our exclusive Changemaker Speaker Series Package, which includes access to all four talks at a discounted rate. This special offer allows you to explore diverse perspectives and captivating stories from leading experts in the field, all for the price of three sessions. Secure your package today and experience these enlightening evenings at an exceptional value!