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.

Before we move to the next phase, here’s something I want everyone in the TEDxThirdWard community to know, especially those who have been part of our first-ever Speaker Bootcamp. I’m proud of what’s being built here. This community has shown up with curiosity, courage, and commitment to big ideas. The Bootcamp was just one part of that journey, and it’s already producing results that make me excited about what’s ahead. For perspective, more than 600 people applied to speak at TEDxThirdWard, and 150 made it to the semifinal round. That means these Bootcamp members are already part of the top 25% of applicants. Out of that group, a select few will take the stage for the main event on January 10, 2026. Since becoming a TEDx curator, I can’t tell you how many people I meet who say they have always wanted to give a TED or TEDx talk. They pull me aside and tell me about the idea they have been sitting on. But most of them have never actually applied, let alone made it this far. This milestone is huge. It shows what is possible when you take your big idea seriously, no matter where you are in the process. And here’s the bigger picture. TEDx is not a one-time opportunity. There will be three additional TEDxThirdWard events in 2026, our Salons in April, July, and October, each smaller in size but equally polished, produced, and shared with the world. Also remember that TEDx is a global community. There are independently organized events in cities and countries all over the world. If your goal is to stand on that red dot, think beyond your city. Apply broadly, stay persistent, and keep refining your idea. Sometimes the opportunity that is meant for you is waiting in a place you have not looked yet. A great TED talk is not just a big idea. It is a clear, well-crafted message that connects with people and stays with them long after they have heard it. One of the best ways to sharpen your message is to talk about it. Share your idea with people around you. Not necessarily to take their critique, but because there is something powerful about explaining what you care about to someone you know. It helps you hear it differently and clarify it for yourself.

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.

I’m Durrel K. Douglas, Curator of TEDxThirdWard, and I’m thrilled you’re here. This community is for dreamers, doers, and everyday storytellers who believe ideas can spark change. Let’s kick things off — introduce yourself in the comments: - Your name - Where you’re from - What bold idea or passion keeps you up at night I'll go first in the comments.

You’ve made it to the semi-finalist round — congratulations again. This is a big step, and I know you may have questions about what comes next. Join me for a live Semi-Finalist Q&A Session where we’ll cover: - What to expect in the weeks ahead - How to make the most of our Skool community - Tips for polishing your submission - Open time for your questions This is your chance to get clarity, connect with fellow semi-finalists, and walk away feeling confident about the path forward. 📅 Date: Tuesday 9/30 or Thursday 10/2 ⏰ Time: 6-7:30 PM Come ready to ask, listen, and connect. We’re building something special here, and your journey is at the heart of it. RSVP in the Calendar tab so we know you’ll be there. https://www.skool.com/from-dream-to-speaker-stage-4093/calendar?eid=3dc2712c3025487d95cb7d7dea985c20