Miles Cooley’s life was in chaos before he was born, and he was an expert in disorder before he was 5 years-old. After overcoming a traumatic childhood filled with violence and neglect, Miles became a successful lawyer, public speaker and foster care activist. In an inspiring and thought-provoking talk infused with his own experience, Miles shares the secret to transforming stress, trauma and suffering into the Super Powers of self-determination, empowerment and individual/organizational resilience. HINT: It’s easier than you might think. "A testament to the power of determination and hard work, Miles Cooley overcame a difficult childhood to become a prominent lawyer, public speaker and activist. He now uses that experience to inspire others on issues of empowerment and activism as it pertains to at-risk and under-served populations, as well as on issues relating to personal and organizational transformation. Born and raised in Sacramento, California, Miles spent several years in the foster care system in the 70s and 80s, including time as a resident of the Sacramento Children’s Home. Demonstrating characteristic resilience, he didn't let that stop him from pursuing his dreams and attended the University of California, Berkeley where he relieved a B.A. in Political Science. Following graduation, he served two years in the United States Peace Corps in Ecuador as a community development volunteer, before returning home to earn his law degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law.
Now a partner in the Los Angeles office of the global law firm DLA Piper LLP, Miles’s practice takes a holistic approach to the entertainment, music, media and sports areas. He serves as counsel to a variety of entertainment and media entities, major multinational corporations, sports franchises and high-profile individuals, in both dispute resolution and talent-related entertainment transactions. He has represented clients including Rihanna, Jay Z and the Los Angeles Clippers and Chargers, as well as a variety of film, television and social media clients." This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at
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