Scott Shigeoka Keynote Speaker

  • Curiosity Expert
  • Author
  • TED Speaker

Scott Shigeoka's Biography

Scott Shigeoka‘s work focuses on how we can strengthen our well-being and relationships, including as a Fellow at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center and through teaching his groundbreaking courses at the University of Texas at Austin.

Scott is the author of Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World, an Amazon Best Book of the Year, Porchlight Best Business Book winner, and a Must-Read Book by the Next Big Idea Club, selected by Malcolm Gladwell, Susan Cain, Daniel Pink, and Adam Grant. Scott has appeared on The Today Show, PBS, New York Times, NPR, BBC, Psyche, Harvard Business Review, The Guardian, and other global outlets to spread what he calls the “gospel of curiosity.”

His speaking clients include Google, Microsoft, SC Johnson, and Pixar Animation Studios, as well as universities and schools around the world. He also received a standing ovation for his TED Talk in 2024.

He’s led creative projects on curiosity and connection with David Byrne, was the host of the wildly popular series Made in America, and serves as the Head of Curiosity Cultivation for the Eames Institute. He has also launched immersive theater experiences and music festivals in the United States and Europe. Scott’s had a winding career, including a stint as a music writer for The Washington Post, as a Fulbright scholar in Iceland, working in Hollywood, and running community initiatives at the design firm IDEO.

He is also a playwright and artist, originally from Hawaii but now living in California with his partner Justin and his beloved community.

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Scott Shigeoka's Speaking Topics

Curiosity Is a Bridge for Connection

Curiosity is critical to strengthening our connections to one another and building a culture of belonging. But why—and more importantly—how do we practice curiosity in an era marked by judgment and division?

In this signature keynote, Scott Shigeoka reveals why curiosity is a powerful force for connection and self-transformation, and how we can intentionally cultivate it in our day-to-day lives, relationships, schools, and workplaces.

Creating a Workplace Culture of Curiosity

Curiosity increases engagement, innovation, and well-being outcomes in workplaces. Curious leaders are also better collaborators, more creative, and more liked within and across teams.

But how do you cultivate a culture of curiosity to actually gain these benefits? In this signature keynote, Scott Shigeoka guides participants through research, stories, and practices that bring transformative curiosity into leadership and the workplace.

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Videos of Scott Shigeoka

How being deeply curious can strengthen connections
Can Curiosity Heal Division? | Scott Shigeoka | TED

Articles, Media & Podcasts

Books by Scott Shigeoka

Comments & Testimonials

"Most people recognize the value of curiosity, but few know how to embrace and unleash it. Scott Shigeoka will help you close the gap between awareness and action. His thirst for understanding and connection is contagious."
Adam Grant #1 New York Times bestselling author of Hidden Potential and Think Again
Scott lights up every room, delivering equal parts heart and strategy. Our teams walked away inspired by the example of what it looks like to lead in today’s world.
Shoshana Berger Head of Communications and Content

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