"in 2000-I told graduates to not be afraid to fail, and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality." --Conan O'Brien
@@DaHatBat I think it also makes the more serious advice he gives stand out more. If you have a somber traditional commencement speech you may lose the message you want to impart. But this method keeps the audience engaged, and when he switches tone, what he says is much more impactful. I think you have to be intelligent to be a great comedian. You have to analyze the world around you and communicate the strangeness of it all to your audience.
"i once sat in your seat, Literally. last night i snuck out here and sat in every seat, i did it to prove a point, i'm not bright and i have a lot of free time" Godly comedic talent right here
@@adarshrajbhatt6557 The Secret Service protect former US Presidents, their spouses, and children for the rest of their lives. US presidents have the highest security clearances possible (which they maintain even after leaving office) and they are obviously privy to state and military secrets. It would not do to have them, or their families, subject to blackmail, extortion, kidnapping, or any other form of coercion. That would be too great a threat to the state and the body politic. Protecting them protects us all.
@@Tubeytime - Well, it is implied he was limiting "worst fears" to fears of having to decide on a new career or life path due to not getting what you want. Other fears, like getting cancer, are certainly not the point of his reference.
It's profound because now, seven years after seeing this clip, and four years after my graduation, I've recently had that very thing happen. That's why I'm blatently gonna rip O'Brien off anytime someone asks my for life advice. What he said is infinitely more valuable than all that 'work hard' or 'follow your dream' bs.
@@NilsMcCloud It's very logical because each year your perspective is from an additional year of experience. Much like driving down a road for the first time; at the start you don't know as much about the road and scenery as you know after you have traveled the road.
What the hell, I'm 80 and I liked this commencement the most. Yep, and I've heard half a dozen. I was also a member of Toastmasters, International for about 20 years and have heard, given, read, endured a lot of speeches. Conan did this well.
His ability to balance lighthearted jokes with profound insights is truly remarkable. Conan's speech not only entertains the audience but also imparts valuable life lessons that resonate with graduates and viewers alike. His message about embracing failure and learning from it is particularly inspiring. Conan's own experiences in the entertainment industry serve as a powerful reminder that setbacks and disappointments can lead to personal growth and unexpected opportunities.
"...I told graduates not to be afraid to fail. and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity and with clarity comes conviction and true originality. " I love this (and many othesr) quote.
Noe Eon Easy peasy: When you can clearly read the instructions on a box of brownie mix, you will know how they ought to be made. Yet, if you have no instructions, but are convinced the recipe should incorporate creamed corn, something wholly original will surely follow.
When you work through your disappointment, you are likely to gain clarity in your life goals. And when you gain that clarity, you are likely to gain renewed conviction to achieve your new goals. And through all of this, you will forge an original path, and a path that is uniquely yours.
@@noeeon9910 Conviction: goals and direction that have deep meaning to you, "I get the picture"! IE finding ways to get things done with or for people even if you find them obnoxious, because the results are what's important. The path YOU choose is yours and original.
To have heard his speech today, 7 years after graduating, I've never felt more alive and calmed by "it's okay if what you perceived 4 years ago, might not be what is to become". I have been telling that to myself, from the moment I came across the assurance last years. I feel a little safer than usual, than before, than ever. The only constant is change.
I always thought he was funny, but this was better than any standup performance. Hilarious and brilliant. Everyone behind him was dying. Ended with pearls of wisdom. Bravo!
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention." Wow. Smart words.
This is probably one of the best commencement speeches of all time. It entertains and inspires while also being pragmatic and realistic about what the future holds for the graduates.
There are an amazing number of curmudgeons in the world and most of them seem to watch RUclips. Their down votes are the equivalent of yelling, "Get off my lawn!!!"
"But the point is this: It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention." That's very profound.
Best moment: 9:27 "And Penn, Columbia, and Cornell, well, frankly, who gives a shit?" And then all these old people onstage just bust out laughing like there's no tomorrow, and you know, YOU KNOW, that at least some of them went to or taught at those schools....
"You know, New Hampshire's such a special place: when I arrived, I took a deep breath of this New England air and thought 'Wow, I'm in the state that's next to the state where Ben & Jerry's ice cream is made.'" Lol, when I came to Dartmouth for my sister's Master's graduation, that is literally what I thought!!
I wonder how many graduates attending here, as they got older and went through life's ups and downs, came back to this speech at some point and watched it again - only this time being able to truly relate to what he was saying. (Oh, and watching the Secret Service cracking up in the background was hilarious.)
"It is our failure, to become our perceived ideal, that ultimately defines us, and makes us unique." "There is nothing more liberating than having your worst fear realized." "I told graduates to not be afraid to fail, and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality." - This just proves that Conan is really a smart , genius, kind person who chose, knows, and loves to act like a fool for a career and to make people happy.
I think anyone who has gone through a failure of any kind should hear this. His serious segment at the end was profound, touching, and spoke to my soul. I've been waiting for someone to say something like this, but none have come close to this eloquence. I shouldn't expect anything less from Conan anyways!
"Way back in the 1940s there was a very, very funny man named Jack Benny. He was a giant star, easily one of the greatest comedians of his generation. And a much younger man named Johnny Carson wanted very much to be Jack Benny. In some ways he was, but in many ways he wasn't. He emulated Jack Benny, but his own quirks and mannerisms, along with a changing medium, pulled him in a different direction. And yet his failure to completely become his hero made him the funniest person of his generation. David Letterman wanted to be Johnny Carson, and was not, and as a result my generation of comedians wanted to be David Letterman. And none of us are. My peers and I have all missed that mark in a thousand different ways. But the point is this: It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention."
@@guyfromoc9107 Yea. "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" is probably one of the most profound things that I have ever heard.
This made me think. It's true, this is the perfect balance in speeches. Speeches that harp on about ideals often lose their power as time goes on and the lack of a central thought eventually tells the brain and heart to forget it. Conan's speech is effective because the laughter eases the mind and makes it more receptive to the deep thought that comes at the last part, and the jokes lighten the heart and prepare it for the load of the final message. And so while the 2011 graduates may not remember all the jokes he said, that one last message about failure will stay with them.
This is the third time I’ve watched this in the past 8 years. And it is still so incredibly good. Conan is a wonderful speaker. Hilarious, and so moving. I love this speech. “Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get, but if you work hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen.” I watched him say that live on his last show when I was 18 and it will always be with me.
The "Conan O'brien" is one that is provided by the channel. If you notice the caption is generated in advance in contrast to the auto where it gets generated as he speaks
Great speech! Conan manages to be funny, sometimes hilarious, give good and encouraging yet original advice, and talk a fair amount about himself without making the speech essentially about himself. That's pretty impressive. I'd say this is someone who truly earned his honorary degree. Thanks, Conan!
This is my fave commencement speech. I come back to his message time and time again. "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention." Amen 🙏
17:33 "Disappointment stings and for driven successful people like yourselfs it is disorienting. 19:36 "There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized" 20:11 "One's dream is constantly evolving rising and falling changing course" 21:14 "It is our failure to become our percieved ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" ... "your percieved failure can become a catalyst for profound reinvention." 22:18 "Whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come, the beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality." 23:26 "Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."
Conan is a real class act! I was working as a grip on a tour he performed in Seattle. After the show he came down from his dressing room and thanked us all for a wonderful show.
He's not only hilarious, butt he's a really gifted speaker actually. His diction, pace and volume were superb. I just enjoyed listening to his address.
How can you not feel inspired after a speech as hard-hitting as that? Filled with so much compassion, yet resolute too, cutting the strings from past failures and filled with the unlimited potential of a blossoming future. It almost brings a tear to my glass eye! I have so much more Respect for Conan now. [He hit the ball out of the park with:- "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" ]
Whoever says that its unprofessional, who cares ; hes a comedian and he hit his point of failure and success. Just because he had fun and delivered an entertaining speech doesnt mean its unprofessional
Because, real life is the same...sometimes you are hilarious, sometimes you are liked, sometimes you are not, and sometimes you hit and sometimes you fail...welcome to life, and welcome to a wonderful journey!!!!!
nobody said that this is unprofessional, but if anyone does I'll make sure to personally beat the hell out of them (not actually don't wanna get arrested)
Better than other speeches that can be interchanged with the million of other carbon copies you can find recorded on the web. It wasn't boring, kept your interest, and with the comedy more likely to be remembered for the true facts he stated.
As much as I love Conan, like we all do, this might be the most impressive thing I've ever seen him do. He's always been a brilliant writer, but after this address, this puts him in a whole new level.
I'm just glad to be alive at the same time as one of the greatest comedians of all time. Conan is severely underrated because of how he acts but those of us who understand his genius know how funny he is and the fact he graduated from Harvard makes him stand alone from the rest looking up at him. Soo many good quotes from this commencement speech and you could tell when he got serious his demeanor changed and made me really listen to his wisdom.
Conan's humility overshadows his self. One day when he's gone people will Revere him as the greatest talk show host ever. He is the greatest but comic I've seen in my entire life
this was recommended so i clicked it to watch it while i eat.. i thought i’ll just laugh at the jokes but i ended up crying a little at the end. im graduating next year, and i’ve been so anxious about my career path and what he said touched my soul. the kids who knew exactly what they wanted to be scared the shit out of me, didn’t expect to have a profound realisation while i eat, i love this guy
Having had the fortune to work with Conan a few months back, this speech really sums up what every person out there should realise. Things happen out in life, completely of left field, that you would NEVER had dreamed of happening. Conan is an inspiration.
I don't remember how many times I have watched this and whether commented already... just to mark here it's October 10th, 2019, and I'll come back for this for ever....
I didn't know he was a Harvard graduate. I enjoyed the whole speech. At age 46 I am settled where I will probably finish my career as a lab tech. I had bigger ambiguous dreams when I was in college. But when you don't have the conviction or the willingness to sacrifice a few years of your life, the reality will hit you hard when you graduate from the college. Being in school and studying your butt off is the easiest thing one can do in life. It will pay off when you graduate. Immediate gratification is the worst enemy...
My grandfather is a Dartmouth graduate and was a proud fan of the Dartmouth Indians, now the Mean Green He would have loved this speech as did I! Conan is a true treasure and I hope to see him in Hanover at the next Harvard v. Dartmouth football game.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention." - so true. Never be so afraid of change and/or failure that you're frozen and unable to find opportunity.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention."
This and Steve Jobs' commencement speech at Stanford in 2005 are the two best commencement speeches ever. The inspiration these speeches deliver is just astounding.
I had pretty much become fed up of watching Conan...saturated to the core...is what it is...but I just saw this speech and gained enormous respect and admiration for this man in an instant...a trully remarkable speech that will stick for good..
As a valedictorian, a graduate with a Ivy League degree ( that too magna cum laude ) and as a successful personality in showbiz, he sure does undersells himself as not brilliant. Love Conan's humour
It’s 1 am, I have a trial in the morning, and I’m watching this? Great job Conan and Dartmouth. I visited this summer with my daughter. What a privilege it will be to one day hear a commencement like this in person.
"in 2000-I told graduates to not be afraid to fail, and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality."
--Conan O'Brien
Muhammad Muzammil Shaikh what a great fucking speech
*22:11* Time stamp for this part
Such wisdom
High iqqssssss.. his parents were great intellectuals i wish i had too. I would be successful
chinmay kansara yeah that still depends on how you define "success"
Guy gets on stage, roasts the college for 20 minutes, ends with sincerity, then walks off with a diploma. What a legened
Wonderful speech by not only a comedy legend, but a man of great intelligence and humility.
this is how a speech is supposed to be done. sending a powerful message but also be comedic with it. smart people have good humour
@@DaHatBat I think it also makes the more serious advice he gives stand out more. If you have a somber traditional commencement speech you may lose the message you want to impart. But this method keeps the audience engaged, and when he switches tone, what he says is much more impactful.
I think you have to be intelligent to be a great comedian. You have to analyze the world around you and communicate the strangeness of it all to your audience.
Legend? Dude what are you smoking?
The guy who steals jokes without any form of recognition or sense of shame? Probably his meds suppressing his sense of morality.
I dont know about Comedy Legend, smart likable guy.
"i once sat in your seat, Literally. last night i snuck out here and sat in every seat, i did it to prove a point, i'm not bright and i have a lot of free time"
Godly comedic talent right here
I love that the Secret Service are cracking up in the background.
Hold on
Why was there Secret Service at the event? For George Bush?
@@adarshrajbhatt6557 probably
@@adarshrajbhatt6557 The Secret Service protect former US Presidents, their spouses, and children for the rest of their lives. US presidents have the highest security clearances possible (which they maintain even after leaving office) and they are obviously privy to state and military secrets. It would not do to have them, or their families, subject to blackmail, extortion, kidnapping, or any other form of coercion. That would be too great a threat to the state and the body politic. Protecting them protects us all.
You know someone is good when the stone faced Secret Service can't help laughing :-)
@@APTKC2025 It's optional though, and now they have to pay for it, allegedly.
"There is nothing more liberating than having your worst fear realized." Now that is profound.
unless you fear going to jail of course
@@Tubeytime - Well, it is implied he was limiting "worst fears" to fears of having to decide on a new career or life path due to not getting what you want. Other fears, like getting cancer, are certainly not the point of his reference.
21:14 "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique"
- Great fucking quote.
Jack0
Jack qqqqqq
It's profound because now, seven years after seeing this clip, and four years after my graduation, I've recently had that very thing happen.
That's why I'm blatently gonna rip O'Brien off anytime someone asks my for life advice. What he said is infinitely more valuable than all that 'work hard' or 'follow your dream' bs.
Not just a quote . A fucking quote
@@NilsMcCloud It's very logical because each year your perspective is from an additional year of experience. Much like driving down a road for the first time; at the start you don't know as much about the road and scenery as you know after you have traveled the road.
“So late last night, I began.” Truer words have never been spoken.
I am 70 years old, and this is the ONLY commencement address I have EVER enjoyed...
Lol, yes but how many have you visited Sir?
So would that make you one of the "old people who just come to these things"?
What the hell, I'm 80 and I liked this commencement the most. Yep, and I've heard half a dozen. I was also a member of Toastmasters, International for about 20 years and have heard, given, read, endured a lot of speeches. Conan did this well.
Steve Mettler Mr. Rogers had a good one
pics or it didn't happen
His ability to balance lighthearted jokes with profound insights is truly remarkable. Conan's speech not only entertains the audience but also imparts valuable life lessons that resonate with graduates and viewers alike. His message about embracing failure and learning from it is particularly inspiring. Conan's own experiences in the entertainment industry serve as a powerful reminder that setbacks and disappointments can lead to personal growth and unexpected opportunities.
Wow, Conan never fails to amaze me. What a speech. Barely looking at notes. Fantastic!
I officially like this comment, but I'm not gonna be the guy to mess up 69 ; )
I think there are two TelePrompter
@@WisamSafi1978 they re light reflectors for the camera.
Nah those two are teleprompters : ruclips.net/video/VTD5Jv125so/видео.html
He wrote it last night so it's probably still fresh in his memory. lol
"Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."
President Kim is having the time of his life
3 Years ago
1K likes and no reply?
*This was the reason why i was born, it was for this moment*
to be the first and second reply
@@BlueEyes-WhiteDrag0n I am the third
The fourth has arrived.
I don't know who that is, but Stinky Pete is pretty rad.
"There are few things in life more liberating than having your worst fear realized"
damn, I need to remember that forever...
"...Your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound reinvention.."
Damb
Fuck me this almost moved me to tears. I graduate in 3 months and man those last 6 minutes hit me hard as hell. Definitely taking this one home.
This whole speech...Conan is just an absolutely brilliant guy.
@@derspacer2259, same, haha, what are the odds?
Jivan Pal 1 in 24 minutes and 33 seconds
I've ran out of Conan remotes and I got here.
First minute and I'm already hooked.
Awesome speech.
Same🔥🔥🔥
"...I told graduates not to be afraid to fail. and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity and with clarity comes conviction and true originality. " I love this (and many othesr) quote.
how does conviction come from clarity? and how does that lead to originality? makes no sense.
Noe Eon Easy peasy:
When you can clearly read the instructions on a box of brownie mix, you will know how they ought to be made.
Yet, if you have no instructions, but are convinced the recipe should incorporate creamed corn, something wholly original will surely follow.
When you work through your disappointment, you are likely to gain clarity in your life goals. And when you gain that clarity, you are likely to gain renewed conviction to achieve your new goals. And through all of this, you will forge an original path, and a path that is uniquely yours.
@@noeeon9910 Conviction: goals and direction that have deep meaning to you, "I get the picture"! IE finding ways to get things done with or for people even if you find them obnoxious, because the results are what's important. The path YOU choose is yours and original.
He moment I read this is the moment he actually says it in the video. That’s crazy. Maybe life is telling me something
To have heard his speech today, 7 years after graduating, I've never felt more alive and calmed by "it's okay if what you perceived 4 years ago, might not be what is to become". I have been telling that to myself, from the moment I came across the assurance last years. I feel a little safer than usual, than before, than ever. The only constant is change.
I think my favourite part of the speech is how hard the president laughed at Conan's jokes.
Or the president's bodyguards!
Le I’m mn
@@leora_in_london Yes! I was constantly drawn towards them laughing so hard.
Some genuinely inspiring quotes that were a huge relief to hear:
19:37
21:14
21:27
22:18
Did he even look at any notes? Wow...articulate doesn't even begin to describe what I just heard.
Barry Ryan there are two teleprompters on either side of the podium, in addition to his notes
hes a stand up dude. hes had decades of practice being articulate and smooth in comedy clubs on stage.
UofRspiders makes sense if this is true, if there isn’t a Teleprompter he’s some kind of genius
@@josh3112 cmone dude. Something like this is always prepared. Preparation can bring you far
Emil Brandwyne true
Conan is better than Carson, Letterman, Leno, Fallon, and Kimmel combined.
maybe not Letterman
and your brainded jed...omg...idiotic moron..
you're funny
Carson is a legend and Conan himself would probably laugh at being compared to him
I would take out Letterman, Carson and Leno.
Probably the most beautiful speech I've ever witnessed. Conan, I salute you.
themightychickens barbarian conan
I always thought he was funny, but this was better than any standup performance. Hilarious and brilliant. Everyone behind him was dying. Ended with pearls of wisdom. Bravo!
They lived
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention." Wow. Smart words.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique."
Powerful and true!
Absolutely incredible speech. Funny but also serious at times. Conan is brilliant at what he does.
Edward hg
Thank you
Ah yes, the two languages of the world:
English
English - Conan O'Brien
XD
Haha!
3:59 women smoking in background at the bottom left your welcome
Just saw the subtitles.. Lol
Oh, I thought the second language was humour🤣
Stinky Pete is cheesin' so hard
I was kinda annoyed that I didn't get to hear Stinky Pete talk. He seemed like a cool dude!
@@willvr4 why do Mary cans wear scarves backwards?
This is probably one of the best commencement speeches of all time. It entertains and inspires while also being pragmatic and realistic about what the future holds for the graduates.
I can’t believe this speech got ANY downvotes. This was an amazing commencement speech. Funny, and also as real as it gets.
Some people just want the world to burn.
Some people probably don't like it because they think he was making *too many* jokes.
I was probably Jay Leno. Pissed he didn't get invited to speak.
There are an amazing number of curmudgeons in the world and most of them seem to watch RUclips. Their down votes are the equivalent of yelling, "Get off my lawn!!!"
Now it has none
"But the point is this: It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention."
That's very profound.
I rewatched this so many times
After 12 years, watched this again. Still golden.
One of the very best commencement speeches I have ever heard.
You know a guy is funny when even The Secret Service is laughing in the background
Yeah I loved watching them
Best moment: 9:27
"And Penn, Columbia, and Cornell, well, frankly, who gives a shit?"
And then all these old people onstage just bust out laughing like there's no tomorrow, and you know, YOU KNOW, that at least some of them went to or taught at those schools....
TheOrangeneck 9:27
It’s called appreciating jokes even if they are directed towards you
I went to Columbia and it was still funny as hell😂
@@haotianxie6684 likewise from Cornell
"You know, New Hampshire's such a special place: when I arrived, I took a deep breath of this New England air and thought 'Wow, I'm in the state that's next to the state where Ben & Jerry's ice cream is made.'"
Lol, when I came to Dartmouth for my sister's Master's graduation, that is literally what I thought!!
I wonder how many graduates attending here, as they got older and went through life's ups and downs, came back to this speech at some point and watched it again - only this time being able to truly relate to what he was saying. (Oh, and watching the Secret Service cracking up in the background was hilarious.)
"It is our failure, to become our perceived ideal, that ultimately defines us, and makes us unique."
"There is nothing more liberating than having your worst fear realized."
"I told graduates to not be afraid to fail, and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality."
-
This just proves that Conan is really a smart , genius, kind person who chose, knows, and loves to act like a fool for a career and to make people happy.
I think anyone who has gone through a failure of any kind should hear this. His serious segment at the end was profound, touching, and spoke to my soul. I've been waiting for someone to say something like this, but none have come close to this eloquence. I shouldn't expect anything less from Conan anyways!
He is a truly special and important man.
"Way back in the 1940s there was a very, very funny man named Jack Benny. He was a giant star, easily one of the greatest comedians of his generation. And a much younger man named Johnny Carson wanted very much to be Jack Benny. In some ways he was, but in many ways he wasn't. He emulated Jack Benny, but his own quirks and mannerisms, along with a changing medium, pulled him in a different direction. And yet his failure to completely become his hero made him the funniest person of his generation. David Letterman wanted to be Johnny Carson, and was not, and as a result my generation of comedians wanted to be David Letterman. And none of us are. My peers and I have all missed that mark in a thousand different ways.
But the point is this: It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention."
Yes well done... that's what he said you clever clever person 👍👍
Thanks for quoting it. Good quotes from mr O’Brien.
This is an amazing quote, and nearly brought me to tears when I first heard it. His speech was funny, beautiful, and honest.
@@guyfromoc9107 Yea. "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" is probably one of the most profound things that I have ever heard.
20 min of jokes and 1 min of rly rly deep intense introspective seriousness
The perfect balance
This made me think. It's true, this is the perfect balance in speeches.
Speeches that harp on about ideals often lose their power as time goes on and the lack of a central thought eventually tells the brain and heart to forget it. Conan's speech is effective because the laughter eases the mind and makes it more receptive to the deep thought that comes at the last part, and the jokes lighten the heart and prepare it for the load of the final message. And so while the 2011 graduates may not remember all the jokes he said, that one last message about failure will stay with them.
There are seriousness in those jokes,,, "Deal with it"
If you only saw them as jokes, then you missed the point of them. Read between the lines and you'll find the seriousness.
Conan is a comedic genius! Every line is carefully crafted to mix humor, sincerity and lightheartedness !
❤
This is the third time I’ve watched this in the past 8 years. And it is still so incredibly good. Conan is a wonderful speaker. Hilarious, and so moving. I love this speech.
“Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get, but if you work hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen.”
I watched him say that live on his last show when I was 18 and it will always be with me.
Why is there an English caption named
"English (auto generated)" and
"English - Conan O'Brien" 😂😂
Deyone Jackson I was just about to say that lol
🤣🤣🤣🤣
The "Conan O'brien" is one that is provided by the channel. If you notice the caption is generated in advance in contrast to the auto where it gets generated as he speaks
conan has his own version of the english language 😂😂😂
I got chills at 21:25, what a beautifully articulate man, a comedic genius
Great speech! Conan manages to be funny, sometimes hilarious, give good and encouraging yet original advice, and talk a fair amount about himself without making the speech essentially about himself. That's pretty impressive. I'd say this is someone who truly earned his honorary degree. Thanks, Conan!
This is my fave commencement speech. I come back to his message time and time again.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention." Amen 🙏
being unemployed and having no idea which path to go this speech is what I need right now
Panera Bread is still hiring
How did it end up? :)
Wow.. It was so hilarious and so awesome speech.
17:33 "Disappointment stings and for driven successful people like yourselfs it is disorienting.
19:36 "There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized"
20:11 "One's dream is constantly evolving rising and falling changing course"
21:14 "It is our failure to become our percieved ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" ... "your percieved failure can become a catalyst for profound reinvention."
22:18 "Whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come, the beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality."
23:26 "Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."
What an absolutely spectacular speech.
Thank you RUclips algorithm. Awesome recommend. Would never have searched this great speech.
Seriously. Wondering what caused it to pop up...
Conan is a real class act! I was working as a grip on a tour he performed in Seattle. After the show he came down from his dressing room and thanked us all for a wonderful show.
What is a "grip"?
He's not only hilarious, butt he's a really gifted speaker actually. His diction, pace and volume were superb. I just enjoyed listening to his address.
Pretty sure Dartmouth knew what it was getting when they invited Conan. XD
How can you not feel inspired after a speech as hard-hitting as that?
Filled with so much compassion, yet resolute too, cutting the strings from past failures and filled with the unlimited potential of a blossoming future.
It almost brings a tear to my glass eye!
I have so much more Respect for Conan now.
[He hit the ball out of the park with:- "It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique" ]
Whoever says that its unprofessional, who cares ; hes a comedian and he hit his point of failure and success. Just because he had fun and delivered an entertaining speech doesnt mean its unprofessional
Because, real life is the same...sometimes you are hilarious, sometimes you are liked, sometimes you are not, and sometimes you hit and sometimes you fail...welcome to life, and welcome to a wonderful journey!!!!!
nobody said that this is unprofessional, but if anyone does I'll make sure to personally beat the hell out of them (not actually don't wanna get arrested)
Better than other speeches that can be interchanged with the million of other carbon copies you can find recorded on the web. It wasn't boring, kept your interest, and with the comedy more likely to be remembered for the true facts he stated.
Yeah, well no one said that... and if someone did, there’s like only 2 of them. Stop making shit up to gain attention.
@@mensrea1251 Yeah Conan is really unprofessional in this speech. Where did my last comment go with the 200 likes on it? Must have gotten deleted 😐😑😶😲
People who hate attending these events will definitely come just to see conan.
"Work hard, be kind and amazing things will happen"
Should be mandatory viewing for parents and children alike. Powerful advice, sage from experience, and absolutely brilliant comedy.
My English teacher during my senior year of high school (2012) showed us this speech. This is truly my high school and college commencement speech.
As much as I love Conan, like we all do, this might be the most impressive thing I've ever seen him do. He's always been a brilliant writer, but after this address, this puts him in a whole new level.
I'm just glad to be alive at the same time as one of the greatest comedians of all time. Conan is severely underrated because of how he acts but those of us who understand his genius know how funny he is and the fact he graduated from Harvard makes him stand alone from the rest looking up at him. Soo many good quotes from this commencement speech and you could tell when he got serious his demeanor changed and made me really listen to his wisdom.
Conan's humility overshadows his self. One day when he's gone people will Revere him as the greatest talk show host ever. He is the greatest but comic I've seen in my entire life
What a brilliant commencement speech. I’ve watched it several times and never fail to marvel at his talent.
this was recommended so i clicked it to watch it while i eat.. i thought i’ll just laugh at the jokes but i ended up crying a little at the end. im graduating next year, and i’ve been so anxious about my career path and what he said touched my soul. the kids who knew exactly what they wanted to be scared the shit out of me, didn’t expect to have a profound realisation while i eat, i love this guy
Having had the fortune to work with Conan a few months back, this speech really sums up what every person out there should realise. Things happen out in life, completely of left field, that you would NEVER had dreamed of happening. Conan is an inspiration.
"I did it to make a point: I'm not bright, and I have a lot of free time" had me dying
"your path at 22 is not necessarily the same path when you are 32" spot on
I don't remember how many times I have watched this and whether commented already... just to mark here it's October 10th, 2019, and I'll come back for this for ever....
I've watched Conan for 20 years and he's the real deal..very funny and original..
What a great speaker. Funny, intelligent, self-deprecating, humble person. I wish he spoke at my doctoral commencement.
This really has got to be one of the best speeches i have heard in a long long time
❤❤❤❤❤
Conan you rock
16:06 I absolutely love that he put Jay Leno on blast here.
Thank you
Conan's sincere shared advice to us: "Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."
I've watched this about 10 times now, love Conan he is such an inspiration man.
So genuine and heartfelt. Good advice. I wished i knew more about the projects he talked about.
I didn't know he was a Harvard graduate. I enjoyed the whole speech. At age 46 I am settled where I will probably finish my career as a lab tech. I had bigger ambiguous dreams when I was in college. But when you don't have the conviction or the willingness to sacrifice a few years of your life, the reality will hit you hard when you graduate from the college. Being in school and studying your butt off is the easiest thing one can do in life. It will pay off when you graduate. Immediate gratification is the worst enemy...
Graduated in 2021 after a harrowing college experience. I hope he knows what an inspiration this speech was. Thanks Conan.
My grandfather is a Dartmouth graduate and was a proud fan of the Dartmouth Indians, now the Mean Green He would have loved this speech as did I! Conan is a true treasure and I hope to see him in Hanover at the next Harvard v. Dartmouth football game.
Wow who knew Conan can be such a great speaker! He’s a smart guy and definitely have more talent than any talk show hosts ever.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention." - so true. Never be so afraid of change and/or failure that you're frozen and unable to find opportunity.
"There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized" 19:35
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It's not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound re-invention."
Conan O'Brien for president 2020. like what. a. legend.
This and Steve Jobs' commencement speech at Stanford in 2005 are the two best commencement speeches ever. The inspiration these speeches deliver is just astounding.
Conan is my generations Carson. Such unique talent and intellect 🫡🇺🇸
As a Dartmouth grad of (gasp) 41 years ago, I can say there is more truth in this than most anything I heard as an undergrad or since.
What a legend he is. First time I hear him open up and it made me cry!!!
Been listening to his podcast and today I came across this. This guy really is a great one, and just joyful and fun and so intelligent.
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique." That's deep.
I had pretty much become fed up of watching Conan...saturated to the core...is what it is...but I just saw this speech and gained enormous respect and admiration for this man in an instant...a trully remarkable speech that will stick for good..
@mother66 yes and bugger you
B
Extremely intelligent.
I have watched this video at least 30 times, and I love it every time.
Ahaha Professor Kim is adorable!
As a valedictorian, a graduate with a Ivy League degree ( that too magna cum laude ) and as a successful personality in showbiz, he sure does undersells himself as not brilliant. Love Conan's humour
It’s 1 am, I have a trial in the morning, and I’m watching this? Great job Conan and Dartmouth. I visited this summer with my daughter. What a privilege it will be to one day hear a commencement like this in person.
A Commencement Address both funny and serious as relevant then as it is now...and will be for the future.