TED Business
TED
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 13min
Forget hustle culture. Behold the Artist Corporation | Yancey Strickler
Yancey Strickler, cofounder of Kickstarter, shares his innovative vision for the Artist Corporation (A-Corp), a new economic model for creatives. He discusses how artists can collectively own their work and share profits, moving away from hustle culture and financial instability. Strickler challenges traditional corporate structures and explores how artist-owned collectives could reshape the entertainment landscape. He also addresses the impact of AI on creative work, advocating for a future where artists are empowered entrepreneurs rather than mere cogs in a corporate machine.
6 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 19min
Quick Fixes: How to level up, job craft, and manage colleagues you can’t stand | Fixable
This discussion tackles various workplace dilemmas, offering quick solutions for growth and interpersonal issues. Listeners learn effective strategies for scaling small businesses and navigating role changes. Insights on job crafting help employees communicate their needs better, while tips on managing difficult colleagues aim to improve team dynamics. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding customer feedback and fostering a positive work culture.
Aug 25, 2025 • 9min
The trillion dollar paradox | George Zaidan
George Zaidan, who previously gave a TED-Ed lesson on the trillion dollar paradox, dives into the pressing costs of global warming. He discusses how ignoring the climate crisis can be tempting but emphasizes the financial burdens of inaction. Zaidan also examines the economics of investing in clean energy, arguing that initial costs are minor compared to the long-term savings from transitioning to renewables. He makes a compelling case for immediate action and the importance of reshaping public narratives to spur climate change awareness.
10 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 10min
Let your ambition light you up, not burn you out | Tarveen Forrester
Tarveen Forrester, who oversees workplace culture at Kickstarter, shares her insights on preventing burnout while pursuing success. She emphasizes the need for setting healthy boundaries to cultivate sustainable ambition. Listeners learn practical strategies for balancing productivity with personal well-being. Forrester discusses the importance of recognizing non-negotiables and effectively communicating limits to achieve goals without compromising on peace. Tune in for inspiration on how to thrive in your professional life without sacrificing your health.
8 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 18min
The delicious potential of rescuing wasted food | Jasmine Crowe-Houston
Social entrepreneur Jasmine Crowe-Houston, founder of Goodr, joins journalist Manoush Zomorodi to discuss innovative strategies for tackling food waste. Jasmine shares how her platform reroutes surplus food to those in need, transforming the way we view hunger as a distribution problem. They explore alarming food waste statistics and highlight initiatives like pop-up restaurants that support underserved communities. Their conversation inspires listeners to engage in collective action, emphasizing the dignity of those receiving aid and the environmental benefits of reducing waste.
15 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 14min
The future isn't just coded — it's built | Lauren Dunford
Lauren Dunford, a passionate factory fixer, sheds light on the often-overlooked world of manufacturing. She argues that reinventing the industry is key to building a sustainable future. Dunford shares how manufacturing shapes our lives, especially highlighted during crises like the COVID pandemic. She inspires a new generation to embrace manufacturing as a transformative career path, emphasizing its artistic value and potential for innovation. The discussion challenges biases, calling for a reevaluation of the industry's role in our economy and environment.
Jul 28, 2025 • 22min
How I make vegan food sexy | Pinky Cole
Pinky Cole, the savvy restaurateur behind Slutty Vegan, shares her bold vision for vegan cuisine, turning the stereotype of plant-based food on its head. In a lively conversation with Manoush Zomorodi, she discusses her entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming a devastating fire to building a multimillion-dollar brand. Cole emphasizes the importance of community, creativity, and making vegan dining fun and accessible. Her unique approach challenges perceptions and invites everyone to enjoy delicious, sustainable meals.
24 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 13min
You are the bridge to the next generation | Ndinini Kimesera Sikar
Ndinini Kimesera Sikar, a community leader raised in a traditional Maasai village in Tanzania, shares her insights on bridging old and new. She encourages reflection on what traditions to preserve for future generations. Ndinini discusses the balance between communal values and modern challenges, emphasizing women's roles in education and healthcare. She recounts her journey from tradition to autonomy, exploring the impact of cultural wisdom on current and future generations. The conversation highlights the importance of intentionality in blending traditions with modernity.
6 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 15min
The economic opportunity hidden in the climate transition | Marielle Remillard
Marielle Remillard, a climate strategist, discusses the looming material shortages for the future energy grid. She identifies that the demand for billions of solar panels and millions of wind turbines presents both critical challenges and massive business opportunities. Remillard emphasizes the transition to net-zero emissions and the importance of innovation in materials. She urges entrepreneurs to get involved in climate solutions, highlighting successful strategies from companies paving the way for sustainable growth.
17 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 40min
How to change careers and reinvent yourself (w/ Dawn Burrell) | from How to Be a Better Human
Dawn Burrell, an Olympic athlete turned celebrated chef and James Beard Award semifinalist, shares her inspiring journey of career transformation. She discusses redefining success, finding joy in cooking, and the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone to growth. Dawn reflects on the emotional connections food fosters, the challenges of transitioning from athletics to culinary arts, and the vital role of self-belief in pursuing new passions. Her journey highlights resilience and the power of personal reinvention.
