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
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.
Jun 30, 2025 • 15min
A new vision of healthy masculinity | Davonte Green
Davonte Green, a youth advocate and leadership coach, redefines masculinity by challenging traditional stereotypes. He emphasizes that emotional intelligence and self-control are crucial for modern men. During the discussion, he highlights the importance of vulnerability and articulating feelings to foster personal growth. Davonte shares insights from his work in a men's prison, where participants confront their past actions, showcasing the significant consequences of manhood driven by aggression. Listeners are encouraged to embrace emotional awareness and community for deeper connections.
4 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 11min
The climate movement needs new stories — here's mine | Fenton Lutunatabua
Fenton Lutunatabua, a passionate storyteller working with climate activists across the Pacific, emphasizes the urgent need for new narratives in the climate movement. He shares powerful stories of communities on the front lines, fighting against climate change rather than remaining passive victims. Lutunatabua discusses how personal experiences shape these narratives and the role of youth groups like the Pacific Climate Warriors in empowering resilience. He advocates for narrative leadership to amplify the voices of those affected, inspiring collective action toward a sustainable future.
Jun 16, 2025 • 15min
How to speak up — even when you don’t want to | Sarah Crawford-Bohl
In this enlightening discussion, healthcare leader Sarah Crawford-Bohl shares her insights on overcoming the fear of speaking up. She offers a compassionate framework for engaging in difficult conversations, emphasizing empathy and accountability. Listeners learn about the transformative power of advocacy, especially in healthcare settings. Through personal anecdotes, Sarah illustrates how leaders can foster open dialogue and navigate tough topics with clarity and heart, ultimately driving stronger teams and genuine connections.
Jun 9, 2025 • 11min
How industrial fishing sinks communities | Lamin Jassey
Lamin Jassey, an environmental activist and community leader from The Gambia, reveals the catastrophic effects of industrial fish meal factories on local waters and livelihoods. He illustrates how these factories have led to the depletion of fish resources, devastating community health and economic stability. Lamin shares powerful stories of community activism in the fight against overfishing and corporate practices, stressing the importance of governmental engagement and sustainable fishing to reclaim their futures.
Jun 2, 2025 • 10min
Why joy and flexibility are good for business | Rosie Sargeant
In this engaging discussion, management consultant Rosie Sargeant shares her insights on creating joyful workplace cultures. She emphasizes that companies will thrive when employees enjoy their work, offering innovative tips like playful check-ins to boost morale. Rosie also highlights how embracing both joy and frustration fosters meaningful coworker connections, ultimately enhancing job satisfaction. With examples from successful companies, she reveals how fun at work isn't just a perk—it's a path to higher retention and better customer experiences.
