The Power of Storytelling, Spaces, and Spark with Graham Veysey of Aspen Ideas Festival

Graham Veysey, Executive Director and Producer of Aspen Ideas Festival, joins us to explore the value of building community and designing meaningful experiences. As a serial entrepreneur, Graham brings a multidisciplinary mindset to leadership and neighborhood development. He reflects on life lessons from public service, creative partnerships with his wife, and cultivating spaces where connection thrives. 

Key Takeaways:

• (01:49) Graham chases the energy, and now leads the Aspen Ideas Festival.
• (05:14) Chasing energy means turning meaningful ideas into tangible outcomes.
• (09:50) Shared stories spark connections and build grassroots communities.
• (12:22) Working with his wife adds balance, precision, and design thinking.
• (13:56) A casual suggestion led to a standout bamboo art installation at the festival.
• (16:06) A bold congressional run hinged on splitting the vote and outsider appeal.
• (18:00) Graham returned to Cleveland seeking deeper roots.
• (21:54) Fulfillment is raising happy, healthy kids and deepening family connection.

“When you can truly listen to someone and hear where they’re coming from, it makes the world a bigger and more exciting place.”
- Graham Veysey

Resources Mentioned:

• Graham + Fisk's Wine-In-A-Can website
• Aspen Ideas Festival
• Partners In Health
• IDEO.org
• Rising Star Coffee Roasters

Connect with Graham Veysey, Executive Director and Producer, Aspen Ideas Festival 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/grahamveysey/ 

Connect with Nathan Mersereau:

Phone: 248-645-1520 
Email: nathan.mersereau@planningalt.com
Twitter: @NathanMersereau
LinkedIn: Nathan Mersereau
Address: 255 S Old Woodward, Suite 310
Birmingham, MI 48009