Talk

How Living For What Matters Most Changes Everything: Insights from Vic Strecher's TEDx Talk

June 20, 2019

What if the most powerful health intervention wasn’t a pill—but a sense of purpose?

In his TEDx talk, Kumanu founder Dr. Vic Strecher delivers a personal, science-backed message that’s hard to forget: Purpose isn’t just feel-good fluff—it’s a vital force that can transform your life, your health, and your work.

Whether you're an HR leader, a clinician, or just trying to navigate your own path, this 17-minute talk offers insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to thrive.

Why Purpose Matters More Than Ever

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, reconnecting with what truly matters can be grounding—even lifesaving. Vic Strecher weaves together his personal journey with compelling research to show how purpose is linked to:

  • Lower risk of disease and depression
  • Stronger immune function
  • Greater resilience and vitality
  • Longer life expectancy

It’s not just about living longer—it's about living better, with direction and meaning.

The Science Behind Purpose

Backed by more than 1,000 peer-reviewed studies, Vic explains how purpose positively impacts both our brains and our behaviors. He shares how people with a strong sense of purpose:

  • Sleep better
  • Manage stress more effectively
  • Engage more fully in life and work
  • Bounce back from adversity more quickly

These are powerful outcomes for individuals—and incredibly relevant for organizations seeking to build healthier, more engaged teams.

A Moment of Clarity

One of the most moving parts of the talk is when Vic shares how the loss of his daughter became a turning point—not just in his personal life, but in his professional purpose. It's a moment that reminds us: we can’t always control what happens to us, but we can choose how we respond—and who we become.

The Takeaway for Organizations

If you lead people, this message is for you. Helping employees reconnect to purpose isn’t just good for them—it’s good for business. Purpose-driven employees are more engaged, resilient, and loyal. And platforms like Purposeful make it easier to weave that sense of meaning into the daily rhythm of work and life.

Watch the Talk and Be Inspired

Watch Vic Strecher’s TEDx Talk →

Whether you're leading a team or leading yourself, it's 17 minutes that just might change the way you think about wellbeing.

About the Speaker

Vic Strecher, PhD, MPH

Founder and CEO, Kumanu

Vic Strecher, Ph.D., MPH, is a pioneer in digital health and purpose science. A professor at the University of Michigan and founder of Kumanu, he’s known for advancing the science of behavior change and helping individuals and organizations lead more purposeful, thriving lives.

Full Bio

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