Cleo Wade is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, poet, and artist whose work centers on hope, resilience, and the immense power of love.

Her transformative books, including Heart Talk, Where to Begin, What the Road Said, Remember Love, and May You Love and Be Loved, have been translated into over 15 languages. Beyond her writing—she illustrates her children’s books and has created large-scale public art installations in Los Angeles, Boston, Toronto, and New Orleans. 

A dedicated advocate for women’s health, civil rights, and the power of community, Cleo has been invited to speak at the White House, the United Nations, Harvard University, The National Museum of African American History and Culture, and SXSW, among other leading institutions. Cleo has worked on two Democratic presidential campaigns, creating art and messaging for official merchandise. 

Cleo’s widely acclaimed TED Talk on how small acts can create big change, is taught in various classrooms nationwide encouraging future generations to take action through care and compassion. 

Cleo has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Sunday Today, ABC News, The Drew Barrymore Show, and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Vogue, The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harper’s Bazaar, The Washington Post, and Time Magazine. Fast Company has recognized her as one of the 100 most creative people in business. 

Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Cleo now resides in California with her partner, Simon, and their two daughters, Memphis and Bayou.