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TED Talks

By: Chris Anderson
Narrated by: Chris Anderson, Tom Rielly, Kelly Stoetzel
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Publisher's summary

New York Times Bestseller

“Catnip for all the TED fans out there.” —Publishers Weekly

“The most insightful book ever written on public speaking…a must-read.” —Adam Grant, Wharton professor and New York Times bestselling author of Give and Take and Originals

Since taking over TED in 2001, Chris Anderson has shown how carefully crafted talks can be the key to unlocking empathy, spreading knowledge, and promoting a shared dream. Done right, a talk can electrify a room and transform an audience’s worldview; it can be more powerful than anything in written form.

This “invaluable guide” (Publishers Weekly) explains how the miracle of powerful public speaking is achieved, and equips you to give it your best shot. There is no set formula, but there are tools that can empower any speaker.

Chris Anderson has worked with all the TED speakers who have inspired us the most, and here he shares insights from such favorites as Sir Ken Robinson, Salman Khan, Monica Lewinsky, and more—everything from how to craft your talk’s content to how you can be most effective on stage. This is a must-listen for anyone who is ready to create impact with their ideas.

©2016 Chris Anderson (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Featured Article: How to Get Over Your Fear of Public Speaking


Glossophobia—or the fear of public speaking—is one of the most commonly shared phobias, affecting a majority of the population. There's something about getting up in front of people—whether it’s a group of 10 or 10,000—that many of us dread. But this fear is not insurmountable; there are a wide range of useful tricks and tips to learn how to overcome your fear of public speaking and enhance your delivery style.

What listeners say about TED Talks

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  • Overall
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Excellent!

This was an excellent book that I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to pursue public speaking, whether it be a TEDtalk, conference presentation, or workshop. I feel much better prepared after listening to this audiobook and feel inspired to share my ideas with the world!

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20 people found this helpful

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a must read for TEDxers...

As TEDxer, while I had similar opinions about the TED speaking rules and requirements. This book helped me with many new tips.

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2 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    1 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great book but the narrator's voice is grating

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, but I would caution them against having to put up with a grating and unpleasant voice. The author is very enthusiastic and engaging, but his voice gets on your nerves.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Everything about this book is wonderful, including all the characters (TED presenters) mentioned by the author.

What didn’t you like about the narrators’s performance?

The narrator's extremely poor voice quality. I have listened to many (more than a hundred, perhaps) Audible books and, before Audible, to books on CD and to books on tape. I can instantly recognize a great narrator (Edward Herrmann) and a poor narrator (unfortunately, Chris Anderson).

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Everything is this book's content is truly wonderful.

Any additional comments?

I wish Audible would have some kind of "minimum viable narrator" criteria. It's sad that (with a few notable exceptions) authors tend to be the worst narrators for their own books. In general, authors should let professional narrators do the narration for them.

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2 people found this helpful

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Good stuff!

Very informative and inspiring. It almost makes me want to go out and give random speeches on absolutely everything that anyone could be inspired about. The narration is fantastic. This book really makes you feel good about and see the extreme value in human ability, development and interaction.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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The prologue is worth the price!

A re-introduction to the basics of public speaking for the new age. Highly recommended.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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A Deliberate Message and Guide

What did you love best about TED Talks?

I always find TED talks interesting and by only fear in speaking publicly is the fear of boring my audience. This book offers the basics of writing and delivering your message in the most effective way.

What did you like best about this story?

Specific examples and relevant scenarios, accompanied by ways to improve.

What does the narrators bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Emotion and emphasis. Very important when working to improve public speaking ability.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but too long for that!

Any additional comments?

I believe this book has given me the tools I need to present my message effectively and keep my audience's attention.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Informative

Great information. Ted talks are a great I really like their channel. Worth the listen.

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Great if you're planning to give a talk

Fantastic book, but since I didn't have a talk coming up, 80% didn't seem relevant to me at the moment. However, some great ideas to keep in mind for anyone who plans on giving a talk eventually and also some background on why Ted is successful.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Powerfully Illustrated

All public speakers and those considering it need to listen to the great insight contained in this audio book.

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great info, compelling stories, but. . .

Problem was I was utterly intrigued by the subject and fascinated by the stories of TED speakers, but I missed much due to Mr. Anderson's accent.

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