TEDxToronto - Drew Dudley "Leading with Lollipops"

[@FinalCutPlay123]

'We've made leadership about changing the world. And there is no world - there's only six billion understandings of it. And if you change one person's understanding of it, one person's understanding of what they're capable of, one person's understanding of how much people care about them, one person's understanding of how powerful an agent for change they can be in this world, you change the whole thing.'

[@matthewedris545]

Had one of my juniors who is now a senior in HS come to me and handed me a lollipop and tell me that I was her lollipop person. She told me to watch the Tedx Video. WoW. Humbled and Blessed.

[@raghadtayyan1569]

This is a lollipop moment for me.

[@phiwatklomkaew8353]

Thank you! I was referred to watch this video by a stranger who said I've done a lollipop moment on her. It's just a small act of friendliness and fun, but she said it meant a lot to her.

[@MrNMertens]

He gave the same story when I was at TEDxIBYork, later that evening, I made a point of finding him afterwards and we actually talked about life and philosophies for about two and a half hours. Drew is an incredibly fascinating and inspirational man, and I feel very fortunate to have been inspired by him.

[@axelb15]

At the SHAD York summer program they played this video for us.

[@MeemeCatt]

Drew Dudley’s idea of leadership is super eye-opening! It made me realize that leadership isn’t just about big, important moments but also the little things we do that can have a huge impact on others. I’ve had moments where someone’s small act of kindness completely changed my day. I agree with him that we all have the ability to lead in everyday life, and sometimes, it’s the simplest gestures that matter most.

[@trademarkstm]

Ever meet someone who honestly restored your faith in humanity? This guy's perspective is mind changing.

[@sydneyashelton8597]

My teacher showed this video to me when I was in sixth grade. Now I'm about to graduate college, and its crazy how much this one video has shaped my entire worldview.

[@levihunter7179]

I just watched this because I had to for a management course, but damn, that was actually super cool, I'm really glad I watched it.

[@astramystic1479]

I’m on a call with him right now! He was talking about you when I said that I play Fortnite

[@johnshoemaker7895]

nice u like leviathan

[@JB-1996]

10 years later and I still watch this once a year for the last 6 years lol, very inspiring, humbling, and motivational

[@joannakoors8534]

Me too! My brother and I randomly send this to each other just to be refreshed on it. 🙂 great stuff!

[@lkbyfield]

My 10th grader's English teacher showed this video in class today. My son was so moved by the talk, he just kept hounding me to sit at the computer because there was something he really wanted me to see. When I finally made the time, I was so grateful. First, because of him, I didn't miss this talk; second, because neither did he - he "got it". Turns out the teacher went on to ask the class if there had been anyone who had that same impact on any of them, and had they told the person. My son then told me of such a moment that he had experienced last year. Sadly, he had not told the person, but very much still has the chance to do so. Let's see what happens next... Awesome you, awesome story, awesome TED TALKS, keep up the greatness.

[@virginiareeves2087]

Lollipop moments - I know exactly what you mean by not remembering but in later years people have told me how much a simple action meant to them. It is so heart-warming. I try to remember to say thanks in the moment as much as possible. I know of people who regularly send out out notes to people they appreciate - it doesn't have to be a big moment - little ones count just as much.

[@saraben847]

Drew Dudley’s take on leadership is absolutely delightful! 🌟 I love how he emphasizes that true leadership isn't just about big, flashy moments but also those little acts of kindness that brighten someone’s day. It reminds me of a time when a simple compliment from a colleague lifted my spirits during a challenging project. It’s incredible how we can all be leaders in our own unique ways through these small, meaningful interactions!

[@conniekahn684]

I woke up this morning, thinking, I need motivation to help me though the day, then I watched this and said Wow, incredible. Just what I needed to see. Thanks Sally.

[@darshilm]

A close colleague asked me to watch this, and now I see why he suggested it. What an inspirational video.

[@moadmoad9062]

I think he is right about leadership. Since understanding our impact on the world that surrounds us is in fact the first step to being a great leader. Assessing how powerful of a change we start among people is crucial to becoming the great leader we all want to be.

[@anam5901]

I just keep coming back to this TED Talk for over 10 years.

[@MichaelLuchiesTrepRep]

I love this talk, but I don't think it's about leadership at all, I think this is more about the importance of small gestures and things we take for granted. Great talk Drew!

[@elizacarrie7433]

I disagree. I'm a leadership teacher, and this talk is a required media material for my curriculum. Yes, there is something to be said that the importance of small gestures is a large part of this talk, but leadership is the ability to inflict lollipop moments in people to direct them to a meaningful and fulfilling goal. Furthermore, his point was not just that we neglect the little gestures, but that we need to acknowledge the significance that we as people have on the lives of others. He mentions that quote, that people are eternally terrified that we are infinitely powerful, and it is that fear that relates this topic to leadership. Once we accept our infinite power, we can begin to become better leaders.

[@glinhthieu]

I agree with you this is a great talk and I understand your point of views about small gestures that are taken for granted. But I disagree your view about this talk isn't about leadership. He pressed that there were important small moments that actually changed the perception of someone about the world and these moments made they accept who they are and made their life become significantly better. I believe leadership is all about kindness and inspiration, and he definitely mentioned that in this talk.

[@mannyhood6024]

It has everything to do with leadership. Leadership has everything to do with giving yourself away. True leadership wont be found in titles and formal roles. Every human being has the responsibility to lead right wjere they are today. Leadership is an attitude.

[@sherriyork-fine2645]

Ah, but he is! Leadership is about changing lives and getting other people to do great things!

[@ninathecrab]

A friend suggested I watch this video. I saw it for the first time 5 years ago at my first ever job-job, and couldn’t locate it since. I’m so glad this is back in my life

[@LunagirlASMR]

Best leadership talk I have ever watched. Thank you for renewing my motivation and reminding me why I do the things I do. :D

[@rainbow_ninja7566]

i actually cried when he said “and then she turned around and told me that she was still dating this guy” TELL ME WHY OMG

[@fgvbgsx]

Watched this in my ELA class now we are going to write a letter to someone who gave us a lollipop moment. This is a inspiring speech. Thank you

[@FriarFan38]

I come back to this video all the time. This is one of my favorite videos ever.

[@kateheath_ata7599]

I have no idea how anyone can give this a thumbs down! Leadership is every where, every day in every thing you do.

[@MireyaRivera]

I've watched this talk close to a dozen times now. It's a short video, but not an insignificant one. Every time I watch it I try to think of those who have had a positive impact or influence in my life and remember if I've told them yet or not. Thank you so much for this talk. As another commenter said, this video is a lollipop moment for me. So, again, thank you.

[@DePereMischief]

I always love listening to this--especially after a long day at school. It was wonderful to show/share this with my eighth grade agriscience students and hear their thoughts about leadership

[@ItzPizzaTime]

I saw Drew speak at a small leadership conference for students. After his speech I approached him and got his undivided attention. What an amazing man. I plan (as a student council member) to have him come speak at my school, and watching this video gets me giddy with excitement. Drew Dudley is a hero.

[@johncorz6971]

1) I once made someone’s day better by checking in on them and really making sure they were good.2) it was an anniversary for a loved one’s passing and someone once made by day better by writing me a sincere heartfelt letter.

[@jaloliddin_makhmudov]

Our greatest fear is not that we're inadequate. Our greatest fear is we're powerful beyond measure. It's our light and not our darkness that frightens us.

[@hilaryannxx]

I remember when he told this story at my school. The man's view on life is amazing. Certainly has changed my view and the way I live my life!

[@nuanceleadership1]

We're happy to announce this talk is now up on the main TED site!

[@muhammadahsan9336]

you're awesome

[@parag2804]

This was so great. Thanks for sharing it

[@stoltzfoster1588]

you are awesome!!!! You really changed my mind

[@jimmydeansausage6952]

bruh... thank you for everything

[@mirandaferran9401]

thank you so much for this. im crying in bed from it and ive seen it so many times. when i feel hopeless in my impact on the world i watch this. i have seen it so many times and its still one of the most impactful videos i have ever seen, thank you so much. it truly does help me see the light in finding myself and my voice. i want to have more lollipop moments.

[@rickdebowes]

Leadership is about influence, and each of us has the ability to influence the people around us...for better or worse.

[@davetuscany]

Drew- Wow, such a powerful talk, thank you. I do have so many Lollipop moments I have created in others lives, I believe. I just never took the time to recognize this, or honor it in myself. This helps me to embrace this even more... Thank you!

[@nuanceleadership1]

Bang on my friend. Being a CEO or President is a form of leadership, but not the only form. Associating leadership with only those types of positions leads many people to feel that leadership isn't a part of their lives. My belief is that it is. I believe expanding the definition of leadership does not diminish the value of the leadership we have traditionally lauded.

[@FoggyyTimes]

"Who are we, if not measured by our impact on others? That’s who we are! We’re not who we say we are, we’re not who we want to be - we are the sum of the influence and impact that we have, in our lives, on others." Neil deGrasse Tyson

[@RemaSaoub]

It's an amazing words lined up .. thanking people and to get the thank you back is an awesome feeling .. to be able to give and to deserve what you receive . once you believe in all that . It becomes more clear , just who you are , and that's a part of leadership

[@janettes.radiant.styles]

Great talk! "Lollipop moments" - great definition!

[@leonardoazevedo126]

this video literally saved my life when I was at my worst, thank you so much for sharing it!

[@rheytalks]

I have never heard this story live, but if you ever get the chance to meet Drew at either one of his talks or workshops, he has a whole bunch that are both humorous and inspirational just like this one! Absolutely awesome guy you should meet!

[@phiwatklomkaew8353]

He just created a lollipop moment for me.

[@mvvvhdiboi5523]

I absolutely loved Drew Dudley’s take on leadership! His idea of celebrating ‘lollipop moments’ really resonated with me because it shows how small actions can have a big impact on others. I once had a teacher who gave me a simple compliment during a tough time, and it completely changed my outlook and confidence. Leadership isn’t always about grand gestures-it’s about those small, meaningful moments. I completely agree that we need to recognize and celebrate these moments more often!" If you have a personal anecdote or specific opinion, feel free to add that to make it more unique. Let me know if you'd like help tailoring it

[@swetamisra777]

watched this 2 years ago only because I was told to.didnt understand it back then.right now spent 30 mins finding it with key words that stuck with me.honestly one the most inspiring talks ever

[@Jotto999]

That was surprisingly inspirational. I am not aware of any lollipop moments in my life yet, but now that I have been so vividly explained their effects I will do what I can to stay generous, stay helpful.

[@AyoubByaz]

i can not agree more with what u said. it's all facts and that changed my idea about what is a leader. THANKS FOR ALL THIS INFORMATIONS!!!

[@jadhayat-n1f]

This is an amazing video. Drew durdley is very inspirational. I agree with him about the fact that those little moments with a stranger could change everything and lead to something bigger if every one of us did the same. Without forgetting to thank all the people that had a positive impact on our life and valuing them as true leaders.

[@GlennKleier]

Thank you for the lollipop moment, Drew.

[@fgvbgsx]

All you had to do is not die for 365 days. IM DYING

[@KatemtaysMom]

That made me laugh!

[@KatemtaysMom]

I love birthdays and when people complain that it's their birthday, I sometimes say, "It beats the alternative." HA HA. Not everyone finds humor in that. I do.

[@Megan4434]

Well, then I suppose you've managed to fail a birthday. How do you even do that?

[@lukemidd99]

Very good example of a widely overlooked aspect of leadership.

[@AliciaCouri]

Great impactful story, we don't know the lives we change with a simple act of kindness.

[@kaia5731]

The girl he is talking about is my teacher

[@azcardsfitz1]

Stfu

[@kaia5731]

azcardsfitz1 um why

[@gamergirlandgames7456]

really??

[@mentordeepak]

Gamer Girl And games

[@sydneysheets3454]

Kaia no it’s my teacher

[@xecrets5063]

even if this was 10 years ago, he still motivates me

[@Mooriah38]

Incredible speaker. Great confidence. A life changing message. Thank you

[@aryan8271]

I watch this every time I feel insufficient

[@dederobinson5492]

A wonderful and loving friend sent me this ,I love her she is my inspiration muah Stephanie

[@monday2471]

awww. this made me cry. it is true. so many of us are afraid to call ourselves leaders.

[@jessicazajac9886]

Now that girl telling him... definitely changed his life. I mean, he's doing a TED Talk on it.

[@NorQuestCollegeVideos]

Great inspiring video! Love the energy in this as well the great stories of how positive things can happen in changing someone's life.

[@valeriesutton5648]

This guy l think will be a inspiration on me and my daughter. Thank you so much for sharing. We just watched it. I think my daughter saw it but forgot to show it but now its important!

[@kawkeytrish]

Wow. Brilliantly, eloquently, funnily and most important, memorably told

[@josiesfunkitchen7345]

WOW - really enjoyed listening to this talk! Thank you!

[@haileyh915]

GOOSEBUMPS

[@memyselfandi1619]

A video that every AIESEC member should watch.

[@hopelaplope]

Thank you!

[@Gamuh1337]

Drew was at my school today to give a great speech, he is.. awesome!

[@adtstraining]

Great principles of leadership

[@meganleacock2161]

This was profound the 1st time and equally as good the 2nd time around!

[@connorcmedia]

Thank you.

[@Danielle-ih2yl]

i saw this at school, went home, found a way to track down the person of my lolipop moment, and later did. i feel very satisfied!!

[@ViolaBallieu]

I honestly think that if we can get over our fears, we could conquered the world. Also also we could be way more powerful with our knowledge.

[@shawndellaroberts3427]

I was really touched by this perspective!

[@mystical_maverick_morgan2375]

❤️💕❤️💕❤️ This is an incredibly inspirational speech and I absolutely love it!!!!

[@kerryleese]

Well Happy Monday! It doesn't matter how many times I watch it, it still blows me away. Lets go dish out some lollipops!

[@michaeleinbinder-schatz715]

Simple idea, beautifully presented. Highly recommend!

[@hangboxes]

watched this at a leadership camp two days ago and I love the message

[@saramarnihubbard]

Love Drew. Love this talk.

[@JuhCaldeira213]

BEST TED TALKING EVER

[@brendenmartin1987]

so awesome son !!! love you Dad ...

[@tiddlewink101]

Part 2) "Seducing with Lollipops"

[@Henry-hd3iu]

Steve Burt tru

[@celiareed8780]

I love this talk

[@kelvinandrea7672]

So excited to announce, nice video

[@emilybreeding168]

This is the best Leadership video out there

[@tylerwingvlergs2551]

this is such a great message for people

[@Jon-ms8ir]

"Hey, we'd like you to be a guest on our Ted talk show. You only get 5 mins up there, though"

[@cesarzaitoun1129]

I really like his adaptation it has more depth and simplicity to be great yet effective leader

[@emmaoakes4473]

Wow! Heard this in school. It blew me away! :) Thanks!!!

[@SunsetZinka]

I love that story so much!

[@Simmy56]

I totally agree. My issue is that when a concept becomes so bandied about, such as leadership, it loses meaning as a rigorous domain of investigation. When terms become so variegated as to encompass everything, they lose =meaning. People will work better with you, but that is called "teamwork," "cooperation," or merely a social exchange. It is not leadership. Leadership requires a social influence process whereby individuals are willing to subordinate their own interests to those of the leader.

[@dederobinson5492]

Very deep ,yet so true

[@andreacraytonmin]

Wow! Incredibly inspiring

[@girllygirl600]

first day away from home and already she taking candy from a stranger! lol makes me smile everytime

[@L_T34]

just got to watch it for language arts, and this is such a good story. thank you very much :-)!

[@赵沅]

awesome speech!

[@ferbarrenechea6418]

I saw this in my english class and liked it so much

[@AndrewMcDonald_McScience]

I went to MTA with Drew and he is a great guy and I tried to be like him!

[@justalover0123456789]

really inspirational talk..I really like it

[@camaromelt]

I think what he is saying is we can all be "leaders" by acknowledging others accomplishments. Doesn't mean everyone can lead in an organization as that requires specific skills and talents. But people work better with and for you when you give them lollipop moments.

[@kishamathurin4489]

One of my favorite Ted talks thanks to my previous Site Chief 💕 🍭

[@helsayed78]

Amazing speach.

[@jonathanangelilli]

Awesome talk & call to action at the end. Love it.

Amazing Talk!