Right now we’re in the semifinal round for Cohort 3, and the journey is just getting started. But if you make it to the finalist stage, one of the first big moments is Media Day. It’s one of the first time finalists get to meet each other in person. This is a behind-the-scenes look at what that looks like. At TEDxThirdWard, we don’t just announce speakers and hope people show up. We help our speakers market their ideas and build momentum for the event. Once finalists are selected, we host a dedicated Media Day where we bring in a studio setup, photographer, and videographer so each speaker can create polished content around their talk. This time will be even better than last time. I had to give my TEDx talk on the day media day was already scheduled, but we still made it happen. That content becomes the fuel for: • promoting their talk • building excitement for the event • encouraging their network to attend • helping us collectively drive ticket sales Think of it as the moment where your idea becomes real and shareable. Speakers record short promotional videos, take professional photos, and capture content they can post across LinkedIn, Instagram, and other platforms to invite their community into the journey. Because when speakers are excited and sharing their ideas with the world, it doesn’t just elevate them. It elevates the entire event. This clip is a small glimpse into that process. If you’re currently a Cohort 3 semifinalist, keep going. The road to the red circle is just beginning.

Virtual • Feb 9–13 • $197 I’ve read hundreds of TEDx applications. Most don’t fail because the speaker isn’t smart or interesting. They fail because the idea isn’t sharp yet. So I’m opening a small, virtual working room called the Big Idea Speaker Bootcamp. Over five live sessions (Feb 9–13), we’ll pressure-test one idea, refine it to a TEDx-level standard, and break down how strong talks are actually shaped and selected. You’ll also hear directly from three TEDx organizers who currently have open applications. 🎟️ Virtual Bootcamp | $197 If you’re serious about your idea, the link is in the comments.

Did a local radio interview with Core 94

One of the things that makes TEDxThirdWard different is that we actually build community. This will be the first opportunity for semi-finalists and volunteers to meet each other in person, and honestly, that’s where a lot of the magic begins. The relationships and conversations that start here are part of what makes the big event so special. What we create together on June 14, 2026 doesn’t just happen on stage. It starts with moments like this. So we’re hosting two casual Meet + Hang opportunities. No formal program. Just conversation, community, wings or drinks, and a chance to get to know the people who may end up sharing the TEDxThirdWard stage together. If you’re feeling brave, we might even hear a few talk ideas in the wild. PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. Option 1 Sunday, March 22, 2026 3:00–5:00 PM STUFF’d Wings (RSVP HERE) Owned by Semifinalist Jarrod De’Von Rector Option 2 Sunday, March 29, 2026 3:00–5:00 PM The Mood Room (RSVP Here) Owned by Semifinalist @Carlos Hernandez Come to whichever works best for you. If you plan to attend, please RSVP at the link below so we have a rough headcount. Looking forward to seeing some of you there. Also, there are still a few slots left for the $397 Virtual Speaker Lab

One month ago my TEDx talk dropped. 52,000 views later, I’m still in awe. If you haven’t watched it yet, go check it out (link below). But more than the views, I want to hear from YOU. Head to the YouTube video and drop a comment. What stood out? What hit different? What are you still thinking about? And since we’re all here because TEDx is on our radar, I want you to know this is exactly what I help people do. Not just get on the stage. But get SEEN after the stage. Building the strategy, the relationships, and the relational organizing approach that turns a talk into real exposure. Watch it. Comment on YouTube. And if you’re ready to talk strategy, you know where to find me. 👇 After watching my TEDx talk, “Why You Should Break Up With Your Friends,” what resonated most?