Speaker Profile

Chris Temple

Film Director & Founder of Optimist

Chris Temple is a director, producer, and founder of Optimist, a Los Angeles–based documentary studio. He has directed or produced more than 15 films, including Living on One Dollar (Netflix), Salam Neighbor (Netflix), Five Years North (PBS), and This Is Not Financial Advice (Fuse). Most recently, he executive produced Champions of the Golden Valley (Tribeca 2024) and State of Firsts (Tribeca 2025). Chris has been recognized by HBO as a “40 Under 40” filmmaker and by YPO’s Real Leaders magazine as one of the world’s top 100 visionary leaders. His films have raised over $114 million for global causes.