In this first episode, we’re kicking things off with an introduction to our curator, Durrell Douglas, followed by conversations with Terry Williams, Kenneth Morris, and Sherhara Burrell who were all part of our last cohort on 01.10.26.

In 3 sentences or less, tell us the big idea you want to share on stage. Keep it short, clear, and powerful. After you post, read a few others and drop a quick comment: - What works well? - What could be sharper? This is your space to practice and support each other.

What’s ahead: - Final Submission Deadline: Your revised three-minute video is due October 15. We'll reach out with the link you'll use to upload and the submission criteria. - Optional Virtual Q&A Sessions 9/30 and 10/2 both at 6P CST RSVP HERE: https://www.mobilize.us/hia/event/852304/ - Optional Bootcamp: The Virtual Speaker Bootcamp (Oct 2–9) is $197 and gives you daily lessons, evening talks from past TEDx speakers, and three live coaching options (Oct 4, 7, and 9). Seats are limited. Whether TEDxThirdWard or another event, you'll be better prepared to submit. https://www.skool.com/from-dream-to-speaker-stage-4093/classroom Important Note: Participation in the Bootcamp or Q&A sessions is optional and does not influence the speaker selection process. Finalists will be chosen by the selection team based solely on submitted videos. Stay connected: This digital community includes semifinalists, alumni, and volunteers. Use it to ask questions, swap ideas, and support each other as you work on your submissions beyond TEDxThirdWard!

This episode brings the TEDxThirdWard family together for a candid, wisdom-filled group conversation. Hosted by Durrel Douglas, the roundtable features: - Emem Washington – Speaker Coach - Chris Wright – TEDxThirdWard Speaker - Tiffany Yvonne – TEDxThirdWard Speaker - Dr. Amber Gunner – TEDxThirdWard Speaker Together, we dig into what it really takes to step onto the TEDx stage: - The highs and lows of the preparation process - Why a TEDx talk is its own art form (not a sermon or speech) - The transformation that happens behind the scenes - How this journey became both a challenge and a reunion If you’re a semi-finalist, an aspiring speaker, or just curious about the process, this episode is packed with stories and lessons to inspire your own path.

Connection compounds opportunity. In a season of downsizing, professional support matters more than ever. Let’s connect and amplify each other’s work, because relationship will always be the best ROI. https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbgeraghty How can we best serve each other through our professional networks right now?