.163 Ladan Wise

Although we seldom worked together directly, Ladan was a crucial and supportive mentor to me during my time at TED. Always solution-focused and always efficient, Ladan is a powerhouse at leading and producing incredible events and experiences while bringing those around her into the fold. Whenever I went to her with a question (or 10), she listened, was supportive, and was crystal clear in her teaching.

Ladan’s directness is something I deeply appreciated, both when we worked together and still to this day. She was honest and open with me about where I could improve and what I was doing well. Further, she was a welcoming guide and role model to me during a time when I was certainly looking for one. Ladan showed me the value and importance of hard work and smart work, and she opened me up to the data side of events that I hadn’t really looked at or cared for at the time. I’m grateful to have experienced her drive, her intelligence, her wit, and her wonderful sense of humor.

Ladan, thank you so much for being such a great colleague and teacher. Thank you for pushing me and for encouraging me in ways that were goal-oriented and specific. Thank you for being so phenomenal at your role and for sharing the journey and the process. Thank you for taking the time to chat today. Thank you, Ladan, for being you.

-BD