Julian Treasure

Founder of The Sound Agency, #6 TED Speaker Of All Time & Bestselling Author of ‘How to Be Heard’ & ‘Sound Business’

Julian Treasure’s Biography:

Julian Treasure is a global communication expert, author and founder of The Sound Agency, widely recognised for transforming how individuals and organisations listen, speak and engage. Known for his science-based approach to communication and workplace acoustics, Julian has spent more than two decades helping businesses improve performance through conscious listening and intentional sound design. His work bridges psychology, acoustics and leadership communication, making him one of the world’s leading voices on effective speaking and listening.

Before entering the world of consultancy and training, Julian was a musician and marketing entrepreneur, experiences that shaped his deep understanding of how sound influences emotion, behaviour and decision-making. In 2003, he founded The Sound Agency, an organisation dedicated to helping brands and spaces harness the power of sound. Through this work, he also helped launch Moodsonic, applying sonic branding principles to commercial environments and customer experience.

Julian’s international profile rose significantly through his TED Talks, which explore the impact of sound and communication in modern life. His talks, including ‘The 4 Ways Sound Affects Us‘, ‘Why Architects Need to Use Their Ears‘ and ‘How to Speak So That People Want to Listen‘, have collectively been viewed more than 150 million times. His ability to combine research with practical insights has made him one of TED’s most-watched speakers and a trusted adviser to global organisations.

Alongside his speaking career, Julian is the bestselling author of ‘Sound Business’ and ‘How to Be Heard’, both of which offer practical tools for improving communication and influence. His online courses have reached over 150,000 students worldwide, and his contributions have been recognised through honours including Toastmasters International’s Golden Gavel Award and the International Listening Association’s Special Recognition Award. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Marketors.

Why Hire Julian Treasure?

Julian is hired as a speaker for his unique ability to combine science, storytelling and practical techniques to improve communication at every level. His incredible TED talks have become the #6 TED talk of all time, distilling complex communication principles into immediately actionable strategies. He helps audiences understand why modern workplaces struggle with listening and how intentional communication can transform performance, leadership and culture.

Drawing on research into sound, attention and behaviour, Julian delivers highly engaging keynotes that equip audiences with tools they can use immediately. His sessions are especially valued by leadership teams and organisations seeking clearer communication, stronger collaboration and greater engagement.

Julian Treasure’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Julian Treasure’s remarkable career:

• 2025 – Released his new book Sound Affects, expanding his work on communication, listening and the impact of sound.
• 2020 – Established himself globally as a keynote speaker and consultant specialising in communication, listening and workplace acoustics.
• 2017 – Published How to Be Heard, a bestselling guide to speaking effectively and being understood.
• 2015 – Delivered the TED Talk How to Speak So That People Want to Listen, which became one of the most watched TED Talks globally.
• 2013 – Published Sound Business: How to Use Sound to Grow Profits and Brand Value, applying acoustic science to business performance.
• 2012 – Delivered the TED Talk Why Architects Need to Use Their Ears, highlighting the role of sound in design and wellbeing.
• 2011 – Delivered the TED Talk 5 Ways to Listen Better, exploring practical strategies for conscious listening.
• 2009 – Delivered the TED Talk The 4 Ways Sound Affects Us, examining how sound shapes behaviour and decision-making.
• 2008 – Delivered the TED Talk Shh! Sound Health in 8 Steps, introducing healthier approaches to sound environments.
• 2003 – Founded The Sound Agency, helping organisations harness sound and communication as strategic tools.