Congratulations to each of the TEDxThirdWard finalists! What an amazing milestone. Though I didn’t advance, I’m beyond grateful for the experience, every ‘no’ (and l have experienced many) still sharpens my ‘next.’ The process stretched me, refined me, and reminded me of my purpose. KUDOS to everyone! 🎉🎉🎉

Yesterday at the Big Idea Mixer, Dr. @Emily Jamea gifted me a copy of her book Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Create Connection and Cultivate Passion. It got me thinking… how many of our TEDxThirdWard volunteers, semifinalists, alumni, and supporters are authors too? If you’ve written a book, I’d love for you to drop your link below so we can celebrate your work and share it with the community. Let’s keep lifting each other up and showing just how many big ideas are coming out of this circle.

TEDxThirdWard Speaker Selection Update Hey! I wanted to take a minute to share where we are in the selection process and what I’m seeing so far... And, I wanted to try out the "Live" feature here on the Skool platform. We’ve had an incredible mix of ideas this year. People from everywhere with stories that genuinely make you pause and think. I’m proud of every single person who took the step to apply. As I’ve gone through the talks, I keep seeing three main groups emerge: Group 1: You’re ready for the stage. Your idea is clear, unique, and well-communicated. There’s nothing else quite like it. Group 2: You’re almost there — your idea is strong, but maybe others are touching similar topics, or you’re one “aha” away from full clarity. With a bit more refining and practice, you’re going to shine. Group 3: You’re still in the early part of the journey. That’s not a bad thing — it just means there’s more space to grow. Some folks here need more structure, clarity, or help bringing the message to life. You’ve already done the hardest part: starting. There will be 25 speakers total, divided into five groups throughout the day — 9 AM, 10:30, 1, 2:30, and 4. Once we finalize the list, we’ll start sending confirmations and callbacks. We’re also planning Media Day on 11/15 in Houston so finalists can capture rollouts and promo content for their announcements the following week. And as for this Skool community — it’s here to stay. Feel free to invite others. We’re building out this free community in a more intentional way. If you check the calendar, you’ll see we’re hosting a virtual Speaker Lounge every Thursday at 7 PM CT — a relaxed space to connect, share ideas, and talk about what it really takes to get stage-ready. Some weeks we’ll break down great TEDx talks, other weeks we’ll do live feedback sessions or invite past speakers to share how they shaped their big idea. We’re also developing a paid coaching circle for those who want weekly accountability and deeper skill-building. And even if you don’t make it to the January stage, there’s another opportunity — TEDxThirdWard Salon is coming in April 2026 — so stay engaged, keep refining, and use this community to get sharper every week.

You don't need a seat at THEIR table, or entry to THEIR club. Build your own! Take what's rightfully yours or you might end up waiting forever. CHOOSE YOURSELF!🫶🏾💜✨️ https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7380128880608673792-UCRM?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAABbEtk8Bki3Q1T2Trf22uszpgNWzjjB6auE

that's @Mariya Graestone 's LinkedIn Headline. Wow. I needed to hear this today!