Being on a TEDx stage is a wonderful experience, and if you have a message you want to deliver, TEDx is a great platform. You might have seen some earlier emails where I said I would be speaking at Wiley College in Marshall, Texas. It was new for me, it was fun, and it was a great experience. I was afraid I could not do this, but I did it.

If you’re not familiar with TED talks, you can use the link at the end of this email and check out some great talks.

Here is what I learned in my journey:

  • First, TED stands for Technology, Education, and Design, which were the initial ideas that were being shared. Now you could see someone like Bill Gates or Steve Jobs share ideas on philanthropy or living before you die.
  • TED has licensed other entities, like colleges, to do presentations following their formula and following their requirements and guidelines. These are the TEDx stages.
  • Each venue has a selection process for speakers and often has a theme. They usually select eight speakers from 80 to hundreds of applications. I was lucky to be picked.
  • You have to memorize your talk, word for word, for whatever the length. The maximum is 18 minutes, but I’ve seen people create a memorable presentation in 5 minutes.
  • You can use slides that support what you are saying. Some venues limit the number, and where I was at Wiley College in Texas, they did not have a limit.
  • Expect two or more cameras to record you, from different angles. I was very lucky that one of the presenters brought his own videographer as insurance. This was one of the best things I learned as I will probably use that recording.
  • The TEDx venue then edits their recording to present to the main TED organization and they pick, or pass, on thousands of videos.
  • If you have many views, like thousands, it is likely the main TED organization will post your video on their website. Regardless, it will be available on the website of the sponsor of the TEDx venue, like where I presented at Wiley College. In a few weeks I should have a link and will forward it to everyone.

Many people feel they cannot draw, maybe even you. Graham Shaw challenges that belief. Click on this link and see for yourself: https://www.ted.com/talks/graham_shaw_why_people_believe_they_can_t_draw

You can see some other great TED talks here: https://www.ted.com

What beliefs are holding you back that you can challenge?

To Your Prosperity,

Rennie