5 TED talks every woman should watch

August 12 2015

I’m a sucker for a good TED talk: amazingly great speakers on powerful topics with quality filming! (The filming bit is seriously not to be underestimated!) If you’re new to TED or don’t know it’s history, TED stands for Technology, Education and Design and in 1984 they started bringing together people who were seeking to better understand the world to share their ideas and inspire others.

These days, the speakers at their conferences sprout incredible ideas and stories that inspire squillions of people! They’re always digestible in size, most around 10 mins, give or take. They cover every topic under the sun! But I’ve come across 5 in particular that I think include such powerful lessons for women, I had to share. Sublime Finds of the TED talk variety; you won’t regret taking some me-time to digest these five great TED talks for women!

Sheryl Sandberg – Why We Have to Few Women Leaders

This is the speech that inspired the book, Lean In. Sheryl Sandberg (Facebook COO) gave this talk back in 2010 which touches on several of the key themes to follow soon after. It’s the TED talk I’ve gone back to over and over again (and delighted to learn recently I’m not the only one) for a professional kick up the bum!

Brene Brown – The Power of Vulnerability

Brené Brown describes herself as a researcher/story teller. In this talk she explains the predicament she found herself when her research, which she always believed to be about controlling and predicting outcomes, led her to face that in fact vulnerability may be the answer to human connection. Equal parts incredibly witty and super wise, this is one of my faves. (Who am I kidding, these are ALL my faves!)

Amy Cuddy – Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are

I read the research behind this one before I saw the talk – though I must be about the only person because it’s been viewed upward of 27 million times. Amy takes the focus away from the messages you send to others with body language, and focuses on the power your body language has directly on yourself. Some really insightful messages (including from her own story she shares toward the end) and really practical easy-to-implement-now ideas.

Susan Colantuono – The Career Advice You Probably Didn’t Get

Susan’s research goes to the heart of why talented women who are doing all the right things in the workplace aren’t making it to the most senior ranks in organisations. She zeros in on the exact factor that’s holding many women back. A very worthy watch.

Candy Chang – Before I Die I Want To…


Last but maybe most of all, a very moving talk from Candy Chang (with a few lols for good measure) on the way thinking about death inspired her life, and can inspire yours. Think big picture, sublime seekers!

I so hope (and am so sure) you will find some inspiration from these amazing women and in turn make your lovely self more amazing too.

Do you dig TED talks? What are your faves? Any ah-ha moments from these ones? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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