Ideas worth spreading

The future of storytelling

1,365,403 views | Shonda Rhimes and Cyndi Stivers • TED2017

"We all feel a compelling need to watch stories, to tell stories ... to discuss the things that tell each one of us that we are not alone in the world," says TV titan Shonda Rhimes. A dominant force in television since "Grey's Anatomy" hit the airwaves, Rhimes discusses the future of media networks, how she's using her narrative-building skills as a force for good, an intriguing concept known as "Amish summers" and much more, in conversation with Cyndi Stivers, director of the TED Residency.

"We all feel a compelling need to watch stories, to tell stories ... to discuss the things that tell each one of us that we are not alone in the world," says TV titan Shonda Rhimes. A dominant force in television since "Grey's Anatomy" hit the airwaves, Rhimes discusses the future of media networks, how she's using her narrative-building skills as a force for good, an intriguing concept known as "Amish summers" and much more, in conversation with Cyndi Stivers, director of the TED Residency.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

About the speakers

Shonda Rhimes

Writer, producer

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With the runaway success of shows like Scandal and Grey’s Anatomy, Shonda Rhimes has become one of Hollywood’s most powerful icons.

Cyndi Stivers

Encourager-in-chief, TED Residency

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Cyndi Stivers curates special events for TED and often serves as a board member, adviser, business strategist and startup coach.

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This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.