5 TED Talks by Women you Have to Watch

Looking for a little bit of inspiration to kick off the new year? In anticipation of the How to Own the Room Masterclass with Viv Groskop, I thought I’d share my 5 favourite TED Talks by women.

1. I got 99 problems... palsy is just one, Maysoon Zayid

This has long been a favourite. Zayid is so so funny. She grabs your attention in the first few seconds and holds it until the very end using her storytelling and comedy skills.

2. The Power of Vulnerability, Brené Brown

This is one of the most watched TED Talks of all time and it’s easy to see why. My favourite thing about it is the opening story, which makes Brown come across as likeable and approachable. I immediately want to listen to everything she has to say because of her vulnerability and honesty.

3. How to succeed? Get more sleep, Arianna Huffington

This TED Talk is short and sweet and has a very clear message: Get more sleep! I love it because some of the people I train are worried that speaking English with an accent will impede their connection with the audience. Arianna Huffington proves that doesn’t have to be the case. She knows her audience and builds an immediate connection with them using humour and storytelling.

4. Why friendship can be just as meaningful as romantic love, Rhaina Cohen

This was a sobering watch, given I’m about to celebrate my eleventh wedding anniversary! But friendship - especially female friendship - plays such an important role in my life. It’s wonderful to see platonic friendships celebrated on the TED stage.

5. His and hers ... health care, Paula Johnson

Women’s healthcare is an issue that’s near and dear to my heart. I love that Johnson’s talk addresses mental and physical health. She does a fabulous job of taking complex medical information and breaking it down using data and case studies, so that it’s digestible for the audience.