TED Talks have become one of the most recognisable formats for sharing ideas globally, with millions of viewers turning to them for insight, inspiration and expert perspectives. By looking at some of the 10 of the most watched TED Talks of all time, we can begin to understand why this format remains so influential and why audiences continue to engage with thought-provoking talks across science, leadership, psychology and culture.
What is a TED Talk?
A TED Talk is a short, powerful presentation designed to share “ideas worth spreading”, delivered by experts, researchers, creatives and thought leaders. TED began as a conference in 1984, originally focused on Technology, Entertainment and Design, before expanding into a global platform covering science, education, health, business and social issues. Talks are published online for free, helping audiences worldwide access expert knowledge and new perspectives. Over time, the TED stage has introduced influential ideas that shape conversations across education, leadership, innovation and personal development.
Why are TED Talks Beneficial to Watch?
TED Talks are widely watched because they combine expert insight with engaging storytelling and concise delivery. Educational research suggests that narrative-driven communication can improve engagement and help people absorb and remember complex ideas more effectively. A further reason is accessibility: viewers can explore credible, thought-provoking ideas in a short format that fits modern attention spans. The appeal of TED Talks lies within the blend of inspiration and practical takeaways, making them useful for learning, reflection and personal development rather than passive entertainment alone.
10 of the Most Watched TED Talks of All Time
The following talks are consistently ranked among TED’s most viewed on the official TED platform and YouTube, with view counts continuing to grow. They span leadership, communication, psychology, wellbeing and innovation.
- Julian Treasure – ‘How to speak so that people want to listen’
- Robert Waldinger – ‘What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness’
- Amy Cuddy – ‘Your body language may shape who you are’
- Brené Brown – ‘The power of vulnerability’
- Simon Sinek – ‘How great leaders inspire action’
- Matt Walker – ‘Sleep is your superpower’
- Celeste Headlee – ’10 ways to have a better conversation’
- Monica Lewinsky – ‘The price of shame’
- Jia Jiang – ‘What I Learned From 100 Days of Rejection’
- Cassie Kozyrkov – ‘Decision Intelligence, TNW Conference’
1. Julian Treasure
Julian Treasure‘s TED Talk “How to Speak So That People Want to Listen” (50M+ views), demonstrates him as a leading authority on sound and communication. His work focuses on helping leaders communicate with clarity and intention, making him ideal for leadership summits, internal conferences and communication-focused training days. Audiences leave with practical vocal and listening techniques that improve collaboration immediately. Event planners often book him for audiences needing communication transformation rather than theory alone.
2. Robert Waldinger
Robert Waldinger’s TED Talk “What Makes a Good Life?” draws on the Harvard Study of Adult Development and has reached over 29 million viewers. His expertise in wellbeing and long-term human performance makes him well-suited to HR-led wellbeing initiatives, leadership retreats and culture-focused conferences. Audiences gain evidence-based insights into relationships, resilience and employee wellbeing.
3. Amy Cuddy
In “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are” (27M+ views), Amy Cuddy explores presence, confidence and non-verbal communication. Her behavioural science background helps leaders understand how perception affects influence and decision-making. Ideal for leadership development and women in leadership events, she offers practical strategies to enhance confidence under pressure.
4. Brené Brown
Brené Brown’s influential TED Talk “The Power of Vulnerability”, which has over 24 million views, helped bring conversations about psychological safety into mainstream leadership thinking. Her research-driven approach makes her highly relevant for culture change and inclusive leadership events. Businesses book her to support authentic leadership and team trust.
5. Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek’s TED Talk “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” introduced the widely adopted “Start With Why” concept and remains one of the most-watched TED Talks ever, with over 21 million views to this day. His keynote sessions suit leadership summits, corporate conferences and strategic planning events, offering actionable advice on finding a clear purpose, improved alignment and motivation.
5. Dr Matt Walker
Sleep scientist Dr Matt Walker is known for translating neuroscience into practical performance advice. Listed amongst the most viewed TED talks with over 16 million views on ‘Sleep Is Your Superpower’, his work aligns with TED’s evidence-led approach and resonates strongly with wellbeing-focused audiences. He is popular for HR conferences and leadership wellbeing sessions.
6. Celeste Headlee
Celeste Headlee’s TED Talk, ’10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation’, has over 15 million views and explores listening and dialogue in polarised environments. Her journalism background makes her particularly effective for communication-focused events and leadership conferences seeking practical audience interaction strategies.
7. Monica Lewinsky
Monica Lewinsky’s 14 million-times-viewed TED Talk, ‘The Price of Shame’, addresses public shaming and digital culture, offering powerful insights into reputation, empathy and online responsibility. She is frequently booked for diversity, ethics and culture conversations where emotional intelligence is central.
Jia Jiang
Jia Jiang’s TED Talk, “What I Learned from 100 Days of Rejection,” has attracted over 6 million views, becoming one of the most shared talks on resilience and personal growth. In it, Jia documents his self-imposed challenge to seek rejection every day for 100 days, from asking strangers unusual requests to pitching bold ideas. Rather than avoiding discomfort, he deliberately leaned into it.
10. Cassie Kozyrkov
Although not a TED Talk, Cassie Kozyrkov’s widely viewed discussion on decision intelligence has become influential among AI and leadership audiences. Her talk highlights how data-informed decision-making improves organisational outcomes and innovation confidence. She is ideal for technology events and AI leadership forums.
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