Charles Duhigg's biography
- Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
- Best-selling author on communication, habits and productivity
- Contributor to The New Yorker and NPR
Charles Duhigg is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author whose work has shaped our understanding of habits, productivity, and communication. Through his extensive reporting and compelling storytelling, Charles has provided audiences with practical insights into human behaviour, organisational efficiency, and the science behind how we connect with others.
A Yale University and Harvard Business School graduate, Charles has earned recognition for his investigative prowess and ability to distil complex topics into engaging narratives. He led the team that won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting for a groundbreaking series examining Apple’s influence on the global economy. In addition to the Pulitzer, he has been awarded the George Polk Award, the Gerald Loeb Award, and the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, among others, cementing his reputation as one of the most accomplished journalists of his generation.
As the author of three New York Times bestselling books — The Power of Habit, Smarter Faster Better, and Supercommunicators — Charles combines rigorous research with captivating examples to explore how habits shape our lives, how productivity is redefined, and how effective communication can transform relationships and organisations. His books have spent years on bestseller lists, resonating with readers worldwide.
Charles has contributed to acclaimed programmes such as This American Life, NPR, and The Colbert Report, and his writing appears in publications including The New Yorker. His ability to connect academic research with real-world applications makes him a sought-after speaker for businesses, universities, and conferences.
With his deep expertise, diverse experiences, and engaging presentation style, Charles empowers audiences to think differently about how they work, interact, and make decisions, offering strategies that drive meaningful and lasting change.
Charles's showreel and videos
Topics, sessions and talks
Supercommunicators: The Science of Conversation and Connection
Charles Duhigg explores the dynamics of successful communication and its failures. He delves into the minds of CIA officers, marriage counsellors, NASA psychologists, and Netflix executives to uncover the science behind effective conversations. Attendees will discover how supercommunicators bridge divides and learn actionable strategies to enhance their own communication skills. Ultimately, they will understand the critical importance of clear speaking and attentive listening in fostering meaningful connections.
The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business
Charles Duhigg explores the true essence of productivity, which transcends merely completing tasks. He delves into eight critical concepts that distinguish the busy from the genuinely productive, drawing on case studies from the U.S. Marine Corps, Disney’s Frozen, and Google’s team-building efforts. Attendees will learn how to effectively identify goals, construct teams, focus their efforts, and make informed decisions, ultimately becoming smarter, faster, and more efficient in both life and business.
Agile Management & Commitment Cultures
Charles Duhigg explores two key management strategies: decentralising decision-making and fostering commitment cultures rooted in trust. He illustrates these concepts through a compelling case study of how the FBI applied the Toyota Production System to resolve a kidnapping. Duhigg reveals the remarkable outcomes that arise when decision-making authority is given to those closest to the issues at hand. Attendees will learn how to implement these strategies to enhance organisational effectiveness across various industries.
Idea Brokers and Creative Desperation — Boosting the Creative Process
In this engaging talk, Charles Duhigg explores the creative process through the lens of Disney's Frozen, a film that faced significant challenges before a pivotal shift led to its success. He emphasises the role of 'idea brokers' in fostering innovation by creating the right tensions and reframing old ideas. Attendees will learn how to enhance their own creative processes and navigate the complexities of innovation, ultimately driving successful outcomes in their projects.
Charles Duhigg delves into the science of habit formation, revealing the reasons behind our behaviours and how to transform them. He highlights the emotional cores of powerful habits and demonstrates how modifying a single habit can lead to significant changes. Drawing on various case studies, including Febreze's success and Starbucks' employee training, Duhigg tailors his insights to the audience. Attendees will learn practical strategies for understanding and changing their habits effectively.
Why we recommend booking Charles
Book Charles Duhigg as a speaker to gain invaluable insights into habit formation, productivity, and effective communication. His Pulitzer Prize-winning background and bestselling books provide a unique perspective that can inspire and transform your team's approach to work and collaboration.
