Richard Branson talks to TED's Chris Anderson about the ups and the downs of his career, from his multibillionaire success to his multiple near-death experiences -- and reveals some of his (very surprising) motivations.

Richard Branson: Life at 30,000 feet

Life at 30,000 feet

Facing a 'dirty tricks' campaign by British Airways, selling Virgin Records was a strategic move to save Virgin Atlantic.

Turning a near-fatal airline experience into an innovative airline business shows harnessing adversity can lead to success.

Selling a successful record company to save an airline illustrates tough, strategic decision-making in the face of adversity.