Paul O'Brien

We advise on legislation, narrative, and institutional strategy at the intersection of law, family, innovation, and civic infrastructure — helping clients influence outcomes that extend beyond election cycles or economic returns. Our work centers on one belief: the most enduring change happens upstream — in the structures that shape identity, resilience, agency, and belief. From family courts to founder ecosystems, from statehouses to venture funds, we work where public policy meets human development. We serve legislators, venture leaders, educators, coalitions, and civic organizations seeking to build long-term impact through smarter policy, clearer communication, and stronger public trust.

American YouthWorks helps young people realize their full potential and effect positive change within their community. Through our two primary education and career training programs, YouthBuild Austin and our Conservation Corps, we provide the building blocks for learning and engagement that young people can build upon as they grow into adulthood. Conservation Corps crew members conserve natural landscapes and recreation areas across the Central Southern United States. Our Disaster Response Teams are deployed to assist communities impacted by natural disasters such as Hurricanes Harvey, Maria, and Irma. In our YouthBuild Austin program, young people have the opportunity to complete their high school education while simultaneously serving the Greater Austin community being engaged in valuable vocational training in the growing Healthcare, IT and Construction industries. American YouthWorks connects young people with the tools and resources that we all need to reach career goals and achieve academic success. Our students and crew members have access to wrap-around support services and a network of resources, as well as receive post-graduation college and career guidance. Our instructors, counselors, and crew leaders are dedicated to every student and participant who comes to American YouthWorks. We believe in our community of young people and their commitment to accomplish their goals, make a positive impact in the lives of others, and become agents of change in their own lives.

We seek to radically improve the investor/entrepreneur matching process through data, partners, and technology. Our process is differentiated by our superconnector co-founders and our Growth Viability Assessment™, which helps investors see where their money will have the biggest impact.