Are you a TED Talk fan? Me too! This course is for those of us who love Ted Talks (but newbies are also welcome).

How this course works:

1) Each week we will discuss a TED talk selected from the list of "The Most Popular TED Talks of all time"

2) Ted Talks can be viewed at: https://tinyurl.com/3jnpcb89. Viewing options: closed captions (turn on/off) in multiple languages, playback speed (slow down to 0.75x), and a transcript are available.

3) You will watch the TED talk BEFORE class and come to class with questions and comments about the TED Talk


Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are by Amy Cuddy

Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are by Amy Cuddy (https://tinyurl.com/594kcdhj) - 21 minutes

Body language affects how others see us, but it may also change how we see ourselves. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy argues that "power posing" -- standing in a posture of confidence, even when we don't feel confident -- can boost feelings of confidence, and might have an impact on our chances for success.

(NOTE: Some of the findings presented in this talk have been referenced in an ongoing debate among social scientists about robustness and reproducibility. Read "Criticisms & updates" at the above link as well as Amy Cuddy's response.) 

Amy Cuddy's TED Talk has been expanded in her book "Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to your Biggest Challenges" (https://www.amycuddy.com/books). A Group Course book discussion for this book may be offered in the future. 


The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown

The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown (https://tinyurl.com/bdzdhd3h) - 20 minutes

Dr. Brené Brown studies human connection -- our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity. A talk to share.

Brené Brown's talk went viral, launching her to fame and making her a household name. Her work has been published in multiple books, including "Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent, and Lead" (https://brenebrown.com/books-audio/). A Group Course book discussion for this book may be offered in the future. 

How Great Leaders Inspire Action by Simon Sinek

How Great Leaders Inspire Action by Simon Sinek (https://tinyurl.com/mrx36c98) - 18 minutes

Simon Sinek has a simple but powerful model for inspirational leadership -- starting with a golden circle and the question: "Why?" His examples include Apple, Martin Luther King Jr. and the Wright brothers.

Simon Sinek's TED Talk has since been expanded into a best-selling book - "Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action" (https://simonsinek.com/books/). A Group Course book discussion for this book may be offered in the future. 

The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain

The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain (https://tinyurl.com/5eyy23a8) - 19 minutes

In a culture where being social and outgoing are prized above all else, it can be difficult, even shameful, to be an introvert. But, as Susan Cain argues in this passionate talk, introverts bring extraordinary talents and abilities to the world, and should be encouraged and celebrated.

Susan Cain's TED Talk has been expanded into the book - "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" (https://susancain.net/book/quiet/). A Group Course book discussion for this book may be offered in the future. 