Julie Wignall is living proof of the power of unconventional choices, showing there are many paths that lead to happiness and success. At just 14, she left high school to attend an experimental alternative school in the 1970s, a daring decision that foreshadowed her trailblazing approach to life and work. While many doubted her path, Julie defied expectations, carving out an extraordinary career spanning national politics, international business, the arts, environmental conservation, and visionary leadership.
Julie began her professional journey in the halls of power, working on two U.S. presidential campaigns and serving on the legislative staff of a congressman. She then worked in international business, building relationships with over 42 embassies in Washington, D.C., as well as serving as a company representative in Greece. Her creative spirit led her to the theater, where she explored both on-stage and off-stage roles, as well as the use of improvisational theater as a tool for social change.
A career break teaching snorkeling in Mexico became a turning point in Julie’s journey. Immersed in the natural beauty of the ocean, she connected deeply with the rhythms of marine life and the interdependence of humans and nature. This passion inspired her to study marine biology in Australia, and eventually brought her back to the U.S., where she became Director of Programs at the National Aquarium in Washington, D.C. As she collaborated with leading institutions like the Smithsonian and the National Zoo, and conservation organizations, she became acutely aware of two common threads that seemed to bind everyone together. First, it was always fundraising time, and as soon as one fundraising campaign was over, it was time to work on the next. Second, everyone had a mutual disdain for greedy corporations that seemed to have all the money everyone else was lacking.
Julie’s innovative thinking and ability to ask bold questions—like whether corporations could become allies rather than enemies in conservation—paved the way for her groundbreaking work at The Mirage in Las Vegas. Invited by corporate magnate Steve Wynn, who was on a mission to transform the city, Julie became one of the first women in history to design and operate a world-class marine animal facility which later included the Secret Garden of Siegfried & Roy. As a corporate executive, Julie was able to guide The Mirage in the implementation of numerous environmental and community-based initiatives—setting new precedents for aquariums, zoos, and resorts worldwide. Her work extended beyond corporate boundaries, influencing animal protection legislation and coral reef conservation programs on a global scale. Julie’s ability to bridge the worlds of environmentalism and corporate leadership earned her international acclaim and solidified her reputation as a visionary changemaker.
After leaving The Mirage, Julie created and hosted two PBS television series that have been internationally distributed. As she traveled, interviewing fascinating individuals, Julie realized she’d encountered many remarkable people throughout her life and career who, like her, had forged unconventional paths to create meaningful change. Julie coined the term “Fireflies” to describe these visionaries: people who see beyond what is and take action to create a better reality.
A lifelong student of Jungian psychology, metaphysics, quantum physics, and esoteric philosophy, Julie sought to uncover the common threads that drive these individuals’ success. Her findings culminated in her multi-award-winning book, The Extraordinary Power of Fireflies: How to Shine Your Light Brighter and Transform the World. The book blends inspiring stories and highlights Fireflies around the world while providing practical tools to help readers reconnect with their purpose and amplify their impact.
Today, Julie Wignall is a sought-after consultant, workshop leader, coach, and speaker, empowering leaders, visionaries, and change-makers to embrace their unique abilities and drive transformational change. Whether speaking about leadership or the intersection of personal growth and global impact, Julie captivates audiences with her rich storytelling, thought-provoking insights, and unwavering optimism about what is possible when individuals harness their light to transform the world.
