Ellen Spooner is a strategic communications leader with over eight years of experience crafting compelling narratives that inspire action and drive meaningful change. From leading communications for Fiji’s largest coral reef expedition to translating complex science for NOAA and engaging millions at the Smithsonian, she specializes in turning big ideas into impactful stories.
 
As the Media and Strategic Communications Manager at the Waitt Institute, she develops thought leadership content, manages media relations, and builds partnerships to support sustainable development. Passionate about AI and emerging technologies, she explores how innovation can solve the world’s most pressing challenges.
Now, she is bringing that vision to The Optimist Circuit—a platform that connects AI, tech, nature, and people to share stories of how technology is shaping a better future. Her mission is to push the boundaries of what’s possible, sparking conversations that inspire real change.