Ben Timberlake Keynote Speaker

Ben Timberlake, an esteemed author, journalist, and archaeologist, is renowned for his insightful talks on the science and history of fear, making decisions in high-risk environments, beyond resilience: post-traumatic growth, and archaeology in war zones. His bestselling autobiography masterfully blends confessional narrative, classic reportage, and humour with deep dives into the neuroscience of risk, fanaticism, extreme sex, and addiction. Timberlake’s dynamic storytelling and profound understanding of these subjects have made him a sought-after speaker worldwide.

Having spent a significant part of his life in war-torn countries, Ben’s career is marked by a series of daring undercover missions that addressed nuclear terrorism, the Far Right, and the trafficking of people, wildlife, and looted antiquities. His talks, though not for the faint-hearted, are relentlessly positive and draw from his lifetime study of decision-making in high-risk environments. He advocates that failure is our greatest teacher and emphasizes the concept of post-traumatic growth, a step beyond mere resilience.

Ben is the author of “High Risk: A True Story of the SAS, Drugs and other Bad Behaviour” which was published in 2021. This book is an autobiography of Ben’s many lives starting with his first near-death experience, his time in the SAS, combat in Iraq, drugs and extreme sex. The book was described as “Funny, chaotic but unexpectedly profound..” by Times Magazine and has received similar descriptions from the Sunday Times and Vice.

Currently, Ben works in Iraq and Syria as an archaeologist, focusing on countering the trade in looted antiquities. His role in these regions highlights his commitment to preserving cultural heritage amidst conflict. This work is a continuation of his diverse career, which includes writing for prestigious publications like the Financial Times, The Guardian, and The Economist. Additionally, he has produced compelling documentaries for Channel 4 and the BBC, covering topics from Japanese mummies to prehistoric rock art.

Ben Timberlake’s extensive experience in high-risk environments and his profound insights into human psychology and resilience make him an exceptional speaker. His contributions to journalism, archaeology, and literature underscore his diverse talents and unwavering dedication to his fields of expertise.