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TED Business

TED Audio Collective

Whatever your business conundrum, there’s a TED Talk for that—whether you want to learn how to land that promotion, set smart goals, undo injustice at work, or unlock the next big innovation. Every Monday, host Modupe Akinola of Columbia Business School presents the most powerful and surprising ideas that illuminate the business world. After the talk, you'll get a mini-lesson from Modupe on how to apply the ideas in your own life. Because business evolves every day, and our ideas about it should, too. Follow Modupe on Instagram @mnakinola and LinkedIn @mnakinola Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Location:

United States

Description:

Whatever your business conundrum, there’s a TED Talk for that—whether you want to learn how to land that promotion, set smart goals, undo injustice at work, or unlock the next big innovation. Every Monday, host Modupe Akinola of Columbia Business School presents the most powerful and surprising ideas that illuminate the business world. After the talk, you'll get a mini-lesson from Modupe on how to apply the ideas in your own life. Because business evolves every day, and our ideas about it should, too. Follow Modupe on Instagram @mnakinola and LinkedIn @mnakinola Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Language:

English


Episodes
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The future isn't just coded — it's built | Lauren Dunford

8/4/2025
Look around — almost everything you see was manufactured, from baby formula to AI data centers and beyond. Yet we rarely think about how it’s all made. Factory fixer Lauren Dunford pulls back the curtain on modern manufacturing, revealing just how thrilling and world-shaping this unsung engine of progress can be. Discover how reinventing this overlooked industry could be one of the most important opportunities of our time — and why we all have a role to play. After the talk, Modupe urges you to reevaluate your biases on manufacturing jobs and why it's an industry worth exploring by new generations. For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links: TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou TEDSports: ted.com/sports TEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-vienna TEDAI San Francisco: ted.com/ai-sf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:14:06

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How I make vegan food sexy | Pinky Cole

7/28/2025
At the plant-based burger chain Slutty Vegan, Pinky Cole is flipping the script on vegan food with bold style. In conversation with host of "TED Radio Hour" Manoush Zomorodi, she shares the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey, from her roots in Baltimore to the grease fire that took her first storefront in Harlem. Learn more about the authenticity, resilience and community that went into building a multimillion-dollar vegan food empire. After the talk, Modupe reflects on the power of a good experience and how it may guide you when you're feeling lost. For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links: TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou TEDSports: ted.com/sports TEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-vienna Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:21:39

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You are the bridge to the next generation | Ndinini Kimesera Sikar

7/21/2025
"Do you know what you want to preserve for the next generation?" asks community leader Ndinini Kimesera Sikar. Drawing on her experience growing up in a family of 38 in a traditional Maasai village in Tanzania — where every chore was shared, every story was sung and belonging meant survival — she explores how we can blend the old with the new to build the life we want, encouraging us all to ponder our list of "must-haves" for the future. After the talk, Modupe reflects on her experience in he workplace and what she wants to preserve for future generations--especially how AI shapes the future of classroom learning. For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links: TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou TEDSports: ted.com/sports TEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-vienna Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:12:38

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The economic opportunity hidden in the climate transition | Marielle Remillard

7/14/2025
The energy grid of the future demands a massive amount of materials: billions of solar panels, millions of wind turbines and more. Climate strategist Marielle Remillard reveals why there may be critical shortages ahead — and breaks down how this could also be the biggest business opportunity since the Industrial Revolution. After the talk, Modupe discusses why it's important for entrepreneurs to be part of the climate resolution. Want to help shape TED's shows going forward? Fill out our survey! For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links: TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:14:54

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How to change careers and reinvent yourself (w/ Dawn Burrell) | from How to Be a Better Human

7/7/2025
Dawn Burrell is a celebrated long jumper, an Olympic athlete, and a chef’s whose cooking made her a semifinalist for a James Beard Award — and these are just a sampling of her many accolades. In this episode, Dawn talks about how she navigated the career shift from athlete to chef, redefining success for herself, and finding joy and fulfillment in the kitchen cooking for others. She and Chris also discuss ways to grow from failure, build confidence, and the creative process of starting something new – whether it’s a career or a recipe. Follow Host: Chris Duffy (Instagram: @chrisiduffy | chrisduffycomedy.com) Guest: Dawn Burrell (Instagram: @chefdawnburrell | Facebook: @chefdawnburrell | LinkedIn: @dawnburrell) Links chefdawnburrell.com/ Subscribe to TED Instagram: @ted YouTube: @TED TikTok: @tedtoks LinkedIn: @ted-conferences Website: ted.com Podcasts: ted.com/podcasts Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou For the Idea Search application, go to ted.com/ideasearch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:40:10

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A new vision of healthy masculinity | Davonte Green

6/30/2025
What does it actually mean to be a "real man" these days? In a personal talk packed with actionable advice, youth advocate Davonte Green challenges age-old stereotypes about masculinity, showing that emotional intelligence and self-control — not aggression — are the keys to moving through the world with confidence and strength. After the talk, Modupe reflects on the power of a pause and sitting with your feelings -- even the unpleasant ones like anger -- and how it may reveal more about your deeper emotions. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:15:11

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The climate movement needs new stories — here's mine | Fenton Lutunatabua

6/23/2025
"We are not drowning. We are fighting," says storyteller Fenton Lutunatabua, echoing the mantra of the climate activists he works with across the Pacific. He shares stories of the people and communities at the front lines of the climate crisis, proving they're not waiting to be saved — they're demanding action and putting up a fierce fight for the future. After the talk, Modupe reflects on Fenton’s concept of narrative leadership and how you can co-create a new future for your community Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:11:13

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How to speak up — even when you don’t want to | Sarah Crawford-Bohl

6/16/2025
What stops you from speaking up when it matters most? Healthcare leader Sarah Crawford-Bohl offers a practical, compassionate framework to have difficult conversations with clarity and heart — and shows how it can lead to stronger teams and real impact. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:14:54

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How industrial fishing sinks communities | Lamin Jassey

6/9/2025
What happens when the fish that sustain a community start disappearing? Environmental activist Lamin Jassey shares how industrial fish meal factories are devastating local waters, livelihoods and health in The Gambia — and how communities are organizing to defend their coasts and reclaim their future, one catch at a time. After the talk, Modupe voices the benefits of exercising healthy skepticism surrounding major corporation's best practices. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:10:32

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Why joy and flexibility are good for business | Rosie Sargeant

6/2/2025
“In the future, companies will succeed or fail based on how much their people enjoy their work,” says management consultant Rosie Sargeant. She offers three tips to make work more joyful, increase employee retention and boost customer satisfaction, suggesting how fun (like kangaroo-themed employee check-ins) can be both professional and profitable. After the talk, Modupe reflects on the insights you can gain from reevaluating your work-related likes and dislikes. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Become a TED Member today at ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:09:38

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How business leaders can renew democracy | Daniella Ballou-Aares

5/26/2025
How much should business leaders speak out about threats to democracy? It's a question many corporations are wrestling with these days. Business and democracy leader Daniella Ballou-Aares shows why companies have both the ability and the responsibility to engage in protecting elections and the rule of law — and why their bottom lines may depend on doing so. After the talk, Daniella joins Modupe for a conversation on business, politics and the year ahead. This episode originally aired April 15, 2024. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:23:12

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The key to navigating change with confidence | Kristy Ellmer

5/19/2025
What if the change you fear most is actually the best thing for you? Change leader Kristy Ellmer shares a powerful lesson on how even the most difficult transitions, including layoffs and company-wide transformations, can open unexpected doors. She offers tools from behavioral science to help you shift your mindset and navigate uncertainty with confidence — even when every instinct tells you to resist. After the talk, Modupe reflects on the value of discussing motivation with your team at work. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:15:48

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Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it | Amanda Schneider

5/12/2025
Would you rather stay in your current job until you retire, or change jobs every year? Researcher Amanda Schneider says Gen Z's answer to this question says a lot about the evolving workplace. Sharing data-driven insights on the young workforce, she debunks common misconceptions about Gen Z employees and explains why their preferences are key to unlocking a more flexible, effective workplace for everyone. After the talk, Modupe shares how answering the question, "what's the point?" can open you to more new opportunities. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Learn more about TED Membership here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:15:02

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Is generosity the most underrated leadership skill? | Joe Davis

5/5/2025
Leadership isn’t about a title or position — it’s about generosity, says organizational expert Joe Davis. Drawing on his extensive experience as a people manager, he shares three essential tips for leaders to unlock the potential of their teams by listening generously, embracing vulnerability and leading with humanity — and shows how it's possible to both earn trust and drive results. After the talk, Modupe asks you to reflect on the leadership tips Joe offered and how you can make an impact. If you enjoy TED Business, become a member today! Learn more about TED Membership here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:10:17

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An NBA champion's advice on being a top teammate | Shane Battier

4/28/2025
What if the secret to success isn’t being in the spotlight, but making everyone else around you shine? Former NBA player Shane Battier shares how his most impactful moments didn’t come from scoring points but rather from small, underrated actions that helped his team win — and why prioritizing "we" over "me" can create a lasting legacy, both on and off the court. After the talk, Modupe reflects on the power of play and team building. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:13:37

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The 7 pillars of unlocking potential | Anirudh Krishna

4/21/2025
Why do some countries have a seemingly endless supply of talent in certain fields? From Jamaica's sprinters to South Korea's golfers, public policy professor Anirudh Krishna explains why "talent ladders" — structured pathways to identify and nurture people's potential — are the best way to make sure everyone has the opportunity to thrive. After the talk, Modupe reiterates the importance of removing systemic barriers to level the playing field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:15:34

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Is perfectionism just procrastination in disguise? | Jon Youshaei

4/14/2025
What separates struggling artists from successful ones? Looking to creative geniuses like Mozart, Edison and Monet, video creator Jon Youshaei explains why aiming to be prolific — despite flops and failures along the way — is the key to unlocking your creative success. After the talk, Modupe reflects on herself as a perfectionist and how inviting others to collaborate is an opportunity to get robust insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:09:09

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3 reasons to take risks like a teenager | Adriana Galván

4/7/2025
Is embracing your inner teenager the key to thriving in adulthood? Neuroscientist Adriana Galván shares three powerful lessons from decades of research into adolescent brain development, exploring what teens can teach us about embracing uncertainty, challenging the status quo and taking strategic risks — all tools for a bold, brave life. After the talk, Modupe reflects on what makes teenagers special... and what you can learn from them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:10:56

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6 ways to make better connections online | Margaux Miller

3/31/2025
Networking expert Margaux Miller offers a fresh playbook for making meaningful connections online, presenting six tips for building online relationships that emphasize quality over quantity and the importance of genuine, personalized interactions. Learn how to be more thoughtful in your approach to making new connections with practical suggestions that can fuel both personal and professional growth. After the talk, Modupe clarifies having an online presence doesn't mean you have to be an influencer with thousands of followers, it's about quality, not quantity. So send out that email sitting in your draft folder -- it could lead to a meaningful connection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:14:12

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Can salad dressing transform capitalism? | Alex Amouyel

3/24/2025
What if businesses were designed to maximize impact — not just profits? Alex Amouyel, president and CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, details the organization’s commitment to donate all of the profits from the food company it owns — and shows what the “100% for purpose” movement can teach us about doing business, philanthropy and capitalism differently. After the talk, Modupe urges you to be wary of "greenwashing" marketing tactics and to look to "impact washing" initiatives by doing research on a company's mission and values. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:14:29