The TED conference “brings together the world’s most fascinating thinkers and doers, who are challenged to give the talk of their lives (in 18 minutes or less).” TED Talks are extraordinarily diverse, from personal challenges like lessons learned when your flight lands in the Hudson River, to scientific, medical, and artistic achievements. The TED musical performances are superlative.
The springtime TED Conference, held annually in Long Beach and simulcast in Palm Springs, is at the heart of TED. More than a thousand people now attend — indeed, the event sells out a year in advance — and the content has expanded to include science, business, the arts and the global issues facing our world. Over four days, 50 speakers each take an 18-minute slot, and there are many shorter presentations, including music, performance and comedy. There are no breakout groups. Everyone shares the same experience.
TED Talks delve into worlds I’ve never seen. And they delve deeply. We are escorted on each trip by an experienced, articulate genius who is passionate about the topic. We hear first-hand from a great teacher / storyteller / artist in detail about a subject they are intimately familiar with. The voyage is always worth the trip. I find my heart drawn into every TED Talk I hear. I hope yours is too.
–Steve
