General Membership Questions
What’s included in a Big Think membership?
With a Big Think membership, you will have unlimited access to the Big Think+ expert class library, receive quarterly print issues, have an ad-free experience across the entire site, get early access to interviews, and receive exclusive perks for upcoming events.
How much does a Big Think membership cost?
The Print + Digital membership is $144/year or $15/month.
What’s included:
- Quarterly print magazines
- Unlimited access to all classes, plus a new class every two weeks
- Ad-free reading
- Early access to The Big Think Interview
- Exclusive event invites
- Special member discounts to the Big Think Store
The Digital Only membership is $96/year or $10/month.
What’s included:
- Unlimited access to all classes, plus a new class every two weeks
- Ad-free reading
- Early access to The Big Think Interview
- High-resolution downloadable PDFs of all print issues
- Exclusive event invites
- Special member discounts to the Big Think Store
Do you offer academic, senior, or veteran discounts?
Not at this time.
What do Big Think members get that non-members don’t when visiting the site?
Non-members have limited access to videos and other Big Think content. Members get the full experience: complete series, bonus videos and articles, member-only newsletters, and a growing library of expert-led classes.
What topics or experts will I get access to as a member?
Big Think brings together thinkers and practitioners from across the domains that are shaping our world: science, technology, psychology, leadership, creativity, culture, and more. Members can explore new ideas from the neuroscientists, entrepreneurs, artists, philosophers, and other innovators shaping the future.
How often is new content released?
New videos, interviews, and newsletters are added weekly. Members get first access to videos and series before the general public.
What are the print issues?
Big Think’s print issues are quarterly themed magazines that only paying members receive. Each is 72+ pages long and features an exceptional design printed on premium paper. Disconnect from notifications and ads as you savor thoughtful journalism and rediscover the joy of deep reading.
What kinds of events does Big Think produce?
Big Think hosts events that bring together a community of curious minds. They’re a space to expand your thinking and build meaningful connections with thought leaders, innovators, and fellow Big Think fans. As a member, you will be the first to know of upcoming events and get other VIP perks.
What’s the difference between a Big Think Interview and a Big Think Class?
Big Think Interviews are free editorial interviews. They feature candid conversations with the world’s sharpest minds, including thinkers, innovators, and visionaries who are shaping business, science, philosophy, and society. Each delivers thoughtful insights and actionable ideas that challenge your perspective and inspire new ways of thinking.
Big Think+ classes feature world-class experts teaching the topics that matter most, from leadership and innovation to personal growth and health and wellness. With hundreds of expert-led classes and thousands of micro-lessons, the Big Think+ library enables you to learn from the world’s biggest thinkers and keep growing at your own pace.
What kinds of classes are included in the Big Think Library?
Class topics range from personal growth to professional development, with lessons on self-motivation, creativity, health and wellness, leadership, sales, management, and more. We also offer specially curated lessons from multiple experts that delve into specific topic areas. Some of our favorite lessons include The Resilient Mind and How to Speak with Confidence and Charisma.
Can I share my membership with someone else?
Each membership is for individual use and tied to your personal account. If you’d like to share Big Think with friends or colleagues, you can invite them to sign up for their own membership.
Is there a mobile app for members?
Not at this time. However, BigThink.com is fully optimized for computer, tablet, and mobile viewing. You can log in through your browser of choice to watch videos, read articles, and access all your member content at any time.
Can I download videos or articles for offline viewing?
At this time, content can only be streamed or read online, but we are exploring options for providing offline viewing in the future.
Content and Features
What kind of exclusive content do members get?
With a Big Think membership, you will have unlimited access to the Big Think+ expert class library, receive quarterly print issues, have an ad-free experience across the entire site, get early access to interviews, and receive exclusive perks for upcoming events.
Will I still see ads if I'm a Big Think member?
Yes, all member videos are ad-free. Members also have access to an ad-free experience while reading all articles on Big Think.
Will I get early access to new interviews or series?
Yes, members get early access to interviews and other special videos and content that non-members do not have access to.
Do members get access to live events or Q&As?
Yes, members get early access to interviews and other special videos and content that non-members do not have access to.
How do I find members-only articles or videos on the site?
As long as you are logged into BigThink.com, the entire site will be ad-free. You can access our articles and editorial products on the Big Think homepage, our Big Think Interviews here, and our early access videos here. Exclusive, ad-free access to the Big Think+ class library can be found here.
Can I suggest topics or experts for Big Think to feature?
Yes! If you have a suggestion, please email us at pitches@bigthink.com.
When will I get my first print issue?
Print issues are released quarterly, so depending on when you join, you should receive your first print issue within 4-8 weeks. Members will receive email notifications on when print issues are being shipped.
Do you ship your print edition outside the United States?
As of December 17, 2025, we no longer ship to international members. We ship to the United States only.
How do I access the Big Think Class Library?
Choose "My Classes" from the drop-down menu in the top-right corner of the Big Think website.
How do I find early access videos?
You can find early access videos here. They will also be displayed on the Big Think homepage with a lock symbol.
Are Big Think+ classes posted on Big Think’s YouTube channel?
Some classes are released on the Big Think YouTube channel for YouTube members only. However, those videos and more are also available to Big Think members through BigThink.com. If you need more information regarding our different membership options click here.
Different Memberships on Different Platforms
Why are there different Big Think memberships on BigThink.com, YouTube, and Substack?
People engage with Big Think in different ways. Some prefer watching videos, others enjoy reading articles and newsletters, and some want all of the above. We offer memberships on multiple platforms so you can access Big Think wherever you already spend your time.
Are all memberships the same?
Each membership gives you access to Big Think in a slightly different way, depending on the platform. The table below provides a full breakdown of membership perks across platforms:
Which membership should I choose?
If you want the most access and the best value, choose BigThink.com. If you prefer to stay on YouTube or Substack, those memberships are designed to give you a great experience within those platforms.
Can I have memberships on more than one platform?
Yes. Our platforms are independent from one another.
Why do prices vary between platforms?
Each platform has its own pricing structure and fees. You’ll find the best value and the widest range of content on BigThink.com.
I bought a subscription on one platform and want to switch to another platform. Can I?
If you purchased a membership on one platform and wish to switch, please email memberships@bigthink.com, and we will work with you to transfer your subscription.
Are the videos the same on YouTube and BigThink.com?
All of the videos on YouTube are available on the BigThink.com website, too. Big Think members get early access to interviews and classes that are not available on YouTube.
Account and Access
How do I create a Big Think account?
- Navigate to the top of the Membership page.
- Select your plan:
- Print + Digital (annual or monthly)
- Digital Only (annual or monthly)
- Create an account login, or sign into an existing one.
- Complete the payment form and you are all set.
How do I log in or reset my password?
Click “Login” in the top-right corner of the Big Think website or click here.
I have a membership through YouTube or Substack. How do I access content on BigThink.com?
All of our memberships are independent of one another. Click here to learn more about our different membership options.
If you signed up on one platform and would like to transfer your membership to another, please email us at memberships@bigthink.com.
If I have a Big Think membership, do I have access to the Substack or YouTube memberships?
No. But with a Big Think membership, you get to enjoy all the perks of the YouTube and Substack memberships, just on the Big Think website.
How do I change the email associated with my account or update my profile information?
You can update any of your profile information on your Account Page.
Payments and Billing
How much does a Big Think membership cost?
We offer monthly and annual payment options for our two tiers:
Print + Digital:
- $15/month — cancel anytime
- $144/year — a savings of 20% annually
Digital Only:
- $10/month — cancel anytime
- $96/year — a savings of 20% annually
What payment methods do you accept?
We currently accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Cash App, Klarna and Link.
Do you issue refunds?
We do not issue refunds or prorated credits at this time.
When will I be charged?
Your first payment will be processed as soon as you subscribe. Depending on which membership option you’ve chosen, you will be charged again one month or one year later. If you signed up using a discount code, your payment will be delayed based on the promotion offer. Please refer to your invoice on your Account Page where you can see when the next payment will be processed.
Can I switch from a monthly to an annual plan?
Yes. If you choose to switch from a monthly to annual plan, your annual payment will be processed at the end of your current month’s billing period.
Can I switch from an annual plan to a monthly plan?
If you want to switch from an annual plan to a monthly plan, the change will take effect after your annual plan expires. We do not offer refunds or prorated credits for memberships. You can read our membership policy in its entirety in our Terms of Service.
What is your refund or cancellation policy?
We do not offer refunds or prorated credits for memberships, but you may cancel your subscription at any time to prevent future charges associated with your subscription. You can read our cancellation policy in its entirety in our Terms of Service.
Will my membership renew automatically?
Yes. Your membership is set to renew automatically, whether it be monthly or annually. To prevent renewal, cancel your membership through your Account Page.
How do I update my payment information?
You can update your payment and billing information on your Account Page.
Will I be notified before renewal?
Annual members will be notified 60 days before their annual renewal payments. Monthly members will be notified when their payment is processed.
Managing and Canceling Memberships
How do I cancel my membership?
You can cancel your membership through your Account Page. Click “Cancel” under “Your Plan” and just follow the prompts. You will receive an email notification when the cancellation has been processed.
What happens to my access after I cancel?
You will continue to have access to your membership benefits until the end of your current billing cycle. After that, you will be locked out of exclusive Big Think content. If you wish to renew your subscription, you can do so here.
Can I pause my membership instead of canceling?
We do not offer membership pausing at this time. If you have a monthly plan, you can cancel at any time and renew when you are ready. If you cancel, you will retain membership access until the end of your billing period.
How do I reactivate my account after canceling?
To reactivate your account, log in and access membership options through your Account Page.
Technical Support
I’m having trouble playing a video. What should I do?
If you are having trouble playing a video or experiencing any other technical difficulties, please contact us at memberships@bigthink.com. Please provide as many details as possible about the problem — the more information you provide, the better equipped we’ll be to help you navigate the issue.
Why can’t I access members-only content after signing in?
If you are unable to access member-only content after signing in, please check your Account Page to make sure your membership is active. If you continue to have issues, please contact us at memberships@bigthink.com.
Which browsers or devices work best with BigThink.com?
The Big Think website has been optimized to work with all major browsers and devices.
Who do I contact for technical issues or billing support?
If you are experiencing any kind of issue related to your membership, please email us at memberships@bigthink.com, and we will be happy to assist you.
Communication and Updates
How will I be notified about new content?
All Big Think members are automatically signed up to receive our weekly newsletter. This email contains details on the week’s new releases and other exciting news.
Can I opt-out of marketing emails but still receive membership updates?
Yes. You can use the link at the bottom of membership newsletters to unsubscribe. You will still receive emails regarding your Big Think membership.
Do members get an exclusive newsletter or personalized recommendations?
Yes! Members receive an exclusive newsletter once a week that highlights the week’s new releases and exciting news about upcoming releases and events.
Transferred Memberships
How do I log into a new membership that has been transferred over from another platform?
You will receive an email with your login information for the Big Think platform. From there, we highly encourage you to reset your password for future use.
What if I paid for an annual subscription?
Your membership will be set up automatically on the new BigThink.com platform. It will be set to expire when your subscription ends (one year from your last transaction).
I used a coupon when I transferred my membership. When will I be charged?
You will be charged one month from the time you set up your account. You can see all of your transaction and membership information on your Account Page.
What happens when my transferred membership expires?
When your membership expires, you will be locked out of content available only to Big Think members. If you would like to continue your membership, you will need to sign up for a new membership term here.
Contact Us
I have a question that’s not listed above. Who can I contact?
Please email us at memberships@bigthink.com, and we would be happy to assist you.