The American Dream: The Remarkable Story of Allen-Bradley and Its Legacy Today - Rick Graber, President and CEO of The Bradley Foundation

The TechEd Podcast

Join us on a journey through history, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream!

The Allen-Bradley brand is a household name in manufacturing, but the origin story of the brand, along with its lasting legacy, is a true story of the American Dream. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in automation, this episode dives into the innovative minds of Lynde and Harry Bradley over 100 years ago and the impact their work has today.

Join us as we sit down with Rick Graber, President and CEO of the Bradley Foundation, and former U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic. Rick shares his incredible career journey, his experiences in international diplomacy, and the values that continue to drive his work in philanthropy.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The inspirational rise of Allen-Bradley from a small startup to a global leader
• The pivotal moments and challenges that shaped the company's success
• The philanthropic efforts of the Bradley Foundation that support education and American values
• Personal stories and reflections from Rick Graber’s tenure as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic
• The enduring values and principles that define the American Dream

Quotable Moments:

"The American dream is not a guarantee of success, but the opportunity to succeed beyond your wildest dreams."

"We don't realize in this country how much people look to the United States for leadership, how they look to the United States for what to do."

"We need a strong civil society with volunteer organizations solving problems."​

3 Big Takeaways from this episode:

1. The story of Allen-Bradley is a great example of the American Dream: Lynde and Harry faced significant challenges, yet their commitment to pushing boundaries led to revolutionary advancements in the automation industry. Their journey from near-failure to global success highlights the importance of resilience and innovation.
2. Strategic philanthropy plays a vital role in supporting education and empowering communities: Through targeted funding and support, the Bradley Foundation has created lasting opportunities for individuals to access quality education and improve their lives. Rick Graber discusses how the foundation's initiatives, like support for St. Marcus School and Running Rebels, have made a tangible impact in Milwaukee and beyond.
3. Americans have access to unique opportunities thanks to the nation's core values: Rick draws on his vast experience in international diplomacy and government to discuss how America's foundational values create vast opportunities for its citizens.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, visit: www.bradleyfdn.org

Connect with The Bradley Foundation:

LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Episode page: https://techedpodcast.com/graber/

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