TEDxThirdWard Finalists! We’re thrilled to introduce the next class of changemakers, storytellers, and visionaries who will take the stage at TEDxThirdWard 2026 on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in Houston, Texas. This year’s event will be a full day of ideas worth spreading, featuring five dynamic sections filled with talks that challenge, inspire, and ignite new ways of thinking. From personal transformation to social innovation, each speaker brings a powerful story and a unique perspective to the red dot. 🎟️ Tickets are now available! Don’t miss your chance to be in the room for one of Houston’s most inspiring events. ➡️ https://matchouston.org/events/2026/tedx-third-ward And if you’re already counting down to what’s next — mark your calendar! The next TEDxThirdWard Salon will take place in April 2026, continuing our mission to build a year-round platform for big ideas and bold voices. Please join me in congratulating this incredible new group of speakers who are ready to Dream. Dare. Do. #TEDxThirdWard #DreamDareDo #IdeasWorthSpreading #Houston

No matter where you stand right now, the next step, even the smallest one, holds incredible power. Progress doesn’t come from knowing every answer; it comes from choosing to move. The courage to take that next step, especially when shared with others, transforms uncertainty into momentum. When you talk things through, when you lean on support, when you let others walk beside you, your next move stops being just yours and becomes part of something greater. Growth happens in motion, and transformation happens in connection. So take that next step. Speak your thoughts out loud. Trust that forward, however small or unsure, is always a powerful direction.

💬 A life without vision drifts aimlessly, but a life led by purpose transforms both the person and the world around them. 🎯 Don’t be a wandering generality, live with intention. 💡 I believe every one of us was created for a purpose, something bigger than ourselves. 🌱 Without purpose, life loses direction, and hopelessness can creep in. 🤝 One of the most powerful ways I found my own purpose was by surrounding myself with people who had one, people who were thriving, passionate, and on mission. ⚙️ The Bible says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) 🔥 When you’re around people with vision, their energy ignites yours. 💬 Purpose doesn’t just give you motivation, it gives you meaning. 🚀 And when you’re intentional about your vision, you start living life on purpose, not by accident. What about you?

Hey hey hope everyone is dreaming and doing! 🤗 So am I the only one who feels the need to change your title? I found that my title wasn’t allowing me to flow the way I naturally can and by changing my title it gave me a spark. My core message topic is the same but my title and my direction for delivery wants to shift. I woke up this morning with a spark and now the original title just doesn’t sit right. Of course my overthinking is getting the best of me! Anyone else change their title?

Some people make it on their first try. Others apply five, six, ten--- dozens of times before they finally land the red dot. For those who’ve made it further, refined your idea, or feel closer than ever — what’s one piece of advice you’d give your former self? And for the first-timers, what’s something that’s surprised you most about the process so far? It’s often a numbers game — every “not yet” is shaping your next “yes.”