Who is Paul Hutchinson? Many might know him as a businessman, a philanthropist, or a keynote speaker. But Paul Hutchinson is much more than just a successful entrepreneur. He is a man who has used his success to make a real difference in the world. From building a multi-billion dollar business to rescuing children from trafficking, Paul’s story is one of determination, compassion, and the desire to help others.
Early Life and Business Ventures
Paul Hutchinson grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. From a young age, he showed a strong desire to help those around him. In high school, he led a group to support at-risk youth, showing his early commitment to making a positive impact. This passion for helping others carried into his adult life.
In his mid-20s, Paul started a business that helped adults recover from depression, anxiety, and past trauma. His work was not only about making money but also about making a difference. A mentor once advised him to dedicate a large part of his time and resources to charity. Despite financial challenges, Paul followed this advice, and his business flourished.
At the age of 29, Paul sold his first company and went on to start several other successful businesses. He became a founding partner of Bridge Investment Group Partners, LLC, which later became BRDG on the New York Stock Exchange. By the time Paul retired in 2017, the company managed over $10 billion in assets. He attributes much of his success to his commitment to giving back and helping others.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Efforts
Paul Hutchinson’s desire to help didn’t stop with his business success. He became deeply involved in humanitarian efforts, especially in fighting child trafficking. In 2014, Paul received a phone call from Sean Reyes, who later became the Attorney General of Utah. Sean asked Paul to help fund a child rescue mission in Colombia. This mission aimed to save over 50 children from traffickers.
But Paul didn’t just provide financial support. He played a key role in the operation, posing as a wealthy American businessman to lure traffickers into a trap. This experience had a profound impact on him. He saw the horrors of child trafficking firsthand and the joy of rescuing innocent children. This operation became the inspiration for the 2023 film “Sound of Freedom,” in which Paul served as the primary investor and executive producer.
Moved by his experiences, Paul founded the Child Liberation Foundation. He led or played a crucial role in over 70 undercover rescue missions in 15 countries, helping to free more than 5,000 children. His foundation and other organizations he supported have made a significant impact in the fight against child trafficking.
Paul Hutchinson's Role in Media and Education
Paul’s work in rescuing children and fighting trafficking has not gone unnoticed. He was the executive producer and primary investor in the film “Sound of Freedom,” which brought attention to the issue of child trafficking. The movie highlights one of the largest child rescue missions in history, where over 120 victims were freed. Paul’s firsthand experience in these missions adds a level of authenticity and urgency to the film’s message.
In addition to the film, Paul has been working on a book titled “The Sound of Freedom – True Stories That Inspired The Film.” The book provides a detailed account of his experiences and the challenges faced during these rescue missions. Through these and other media outlets, Paul aims to educate the public about the realities of child trafficking and inspire others to join the fight.
Transition to Liberating Humanity
While Paul has made a significant impact through rescue missions, he realized that more children were being trafficked than when he started. He understood that to truly end child trafficking, he needed to address the root causes. This led him to found Liberating Humanity in 2023.
Liberating Humanity focuses on preventing problems that can lead to trafficking. These include issues like broken homes, generational trauma, and addiction. The organization provides resources for parents to create stable and loving environments for their children. It also offers support for individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, or trauma. By addressing these root causes, Liberating Humanity aims to prevent children from falling into the hands of traffickers in the first place.
Paul Hutchinson as a Keynote Speaker
After retiring from business and rescue missions, Paul Hutchinson found a new calling as an inspirational keynote speaker. He is in high demand at business events and family office conferences worldwide. Through his speeches, Paul shares his experiences in building successful businesses, engaging in philanthropy, and creating a global movement.
Awards and Recognitions
Paul Hutchinson’s contributions to business and humanitarian efforts have earned him numerous awards and recognitions. He has received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the 2022 International Medal of Freedom. He has been knighted twice, once by Prince Lorenzo in the Order of San Martino and again as a Knights Templar. Paul has also been granted an honorary doctorate degree from 12 universities and received multiple Lifetime Achievement Awards.
He has served on various boards, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation, and the FBI Citizens Academy. Paul has been recognized as one of the “Enlightened 50” top innovators committed to the common good and as one of the “Forty under 40” most influential young business leaders.
Conclusion
Paul Hutchinson’s life is a testament to the power of combining business success with a commitment to helping others. From his early days of leading youth groups to his role in rescuing thousands of children, Paul has consistently used his resources and influence for the greater good. His work with the Child Liberation Foundation and Liberating Humanity demonstrates his dedication to making the world a better place.
As a keynote speaker, Paul continues to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. He encourages people to find their passion and use their success to create positive change. Paul’s story is a powerful reminder that anyone can make a difference, and that true success is measured not just by wealth, but by the impact one has on the world.
