Jonathan Kalan

Founder // Fractional Marketing, Brand & Community Strategist for Startups // Working at the Intersection of Community, Technology & Social Innovation.

Jonathan Kalan is a multifaceted professional who has excelled in various roles including CEO, brand strategist, photojournalist, foreign correspondent, startup advisor, TED speaker, and more.

His career is characterized by a passion for storytelling, creating companies that inspire change, and navigating uncertainty with a creative and boundary-pushing mindset.

With a background spanning diverse industries, Jonathan has founded values-driven ventures in media, technology, and travel, and has been recognized for his work by prestigious institutions like TED, BBC, World Bank, and United Nations.

His editorial contributions have been featured in renowned publications such as The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and NPR, further solidifying his reputation as a respected voice in the media landscape.

Jonathan's academic pursuits include a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies with a Minor in Technology Management & Entrepreneurship from UC Santa Barbara, as well as studies in Political Science & Sustainable Development at Delhi University.

Throughout his journey, Jonathan has not only embraced the unknown by traveling to over 80 countries but has also dabbled in unique experiences like sailboat navigation and ice cream vending.

Outside of work, Jonathan is an avid explorer who enjoys pushing the boundaries of human endeavors through sailing, cycling, and surfing, while seeking to connect with individuals who share his values-driven approach to life.

His organizational affiliations have ranged from creative leadership roles at Neol to founding and leading companies such as Mogote Studios and Unsettled, showcasing his versatility and leadership skills across different sectors.