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Economist, FT columnist & BBC host

Tim Harford

Transform data-driven decision making with Tim Harford, speaker, behavioural economist and statistics expert. Tim works with organisations to simplify complex economic concepts, manage uncertainty and learn from failure, delivering award-winning insights as an FT columnist and BBC broadcaster.

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Tim Harford, Speaker | Economist, Author, Broadcaster
Tim Harford

Tim Harford

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£11k–25k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Tim Harford's biography

At a glance

  • The economics of everyday life
  • Award-winning economic journalist
  • Host of BBC Radio 4 show and podcast More or Less
Tim Harford is a behavioural economist, columnist for the Financial Times, bestselling author, and BBC broadcaster. Often compared to Malcolm Gladwell, he is recognised for his ability to tell stories that clarify complex topics. Tim's work focuses on risk, economics, and statistics. His Radio 4 show and podcast, "More or Less", investigates misleading statistics in the news, addressing figures used by politicians, businesses, and social media. Other projects include "How To Vaccinate The World", "Fifty Things That Made The Modern Economy", and "Cautionary Tales", which explores human error through various narratives. Tim has a strong background in economics, with experience at Oxford, Shell, and the World Bank. His FT columns provide insights into everyday economic issues, often with humorous solutions. His first book, "The Undercover Economist", sold nearly two million copies and drew comparisons to "Freakonomics" for its exploration of topics like coffee shops and organised crime. He has since established himself as a leading writer on economics. Other notable titles include "The Logic of Life", which examines human decision-making; "Adapt: Why Success Always Starts With Failure", which highlights learning from failure; "Messy: How to Be Creative and Resilient in a Tidy-Minded World", which challenges conventional views on tidiness; and "How to Make the World Add Up: Ten Rules for Thinking Differently About Numbers", a guide to understanding numerical data. Tim's work covers a range of subjects, including learning from mistakes, uncertainty, forecasting, and innovation. He draws examples from diverse fields, such as the military and ballet, questioning established wisdom and statistical norms. He is a member of Nuffield College, Oxford, and the only journalist to be an honorary fellow of the Royal Statistical Society. Tim has received multiple awards for his contributions to economic journalism.

Tim's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

How To Work With AI, Not Against It
In this session, Tim Harford discusses the parallels between and lessons from new and old technologies. He delves into how to work with, not against, artificial intelligence, AI and the truth behind the scare stories.
Lessons From The Pandemic
In this talk, Tim Harford discusses how we prepare for and react to crises. He shares what resilience in organisations and individuals means and lessons from how the public and private sectors dealt with vaccination from the logistics to the misinformation.
How To Use Your Data Better
In this session, Tim Harford explores how data can both mislead and illuminate so we can all use the data we have more effectively. He shares what algorithms really do to data and how to understand it. He’ll also explore why we can all be better at understanding statistics, and why we need to be.
How To Embrace Failure And Confusion
In this talk, Tim Harford teaches how to embrace failure and confusion, how to learn from mistakes, and how to manage intentional or inevitable failure.
Embracing Creativity And Collaboration
In this session, Tim Harford discusses where creative solutions and ideas come from. He explores whether AI helps or hinders creativity and collaboration and why some ideas are dropped and some embraced. Tim will also delve into how we shape new ideas, how they shape us and how to create an innovative environment.

Why we recommend booking Tim

Book Tim Harford to inspire your team with his engaging storytelling and sharp insights into economics and decision-making. His unique blend of humour and intelligence will challenge conventional thinking, helping you navigate uncertainty and embrace innovation. Elevate your understanding of data and risk with a truly compelling speaker.

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Testimonials

Everybody loved your talk

He is charming, likeable, speaks very engagingly and clearly and offered some brilliant insight

MGI Worldwide

Featured Projects

Tim Harford - How To Make The World Add Up book cover
Tim Harford - Fifty Things That Made The Modern Economy book cover
Tim Harford - Adapt: Why Success Always Starts With Failure book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Tim Harford for my next event?
Email tim.harford@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Tim's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Tim Harford's speaking style like?
Tim delivers clear, engaging presentations that simplify complex topics. His storytelling approach makes economics and statistics accessible, using real-world examples and humour to challenge assumptions and encourage critical thinking.

What topics does Tim Harford specialise in?
Tim Harford specialises in discussing economics, statistics, risk and more.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.