In his TED Talk, “Get Your Maverick On,” Jay Gross challenges listeners to break free from conventional expectations and embrace their authentic, trailblazing selves. With passion and humor, he shares personal stories and hard-won insights about the power of showing up boldly, taking risks, and leading with heart. It’s a call to action to live unapologetically, think differently, and create impact by being the maverick you were meant to be. “After a motorcycle accident in 1986 crushed the 7th thoracic vertebrae in my back and left me less than a ¼ of an inch from being paralyzed from my chest down, I take each day as a gift. While I was recuperating for six months, my Mom mentioned how I would be a good teacher and how the neighborhood kids flocked to me when I was outside to learn football plays and hear me tell stories. It stuck. I recently retired after 30 years of teaching at Shepherd High School, and 34 days later accepted a position teaching Speech/Debate at Morley Stanwood High School. I am still being told countless times my stories make learning relate, and make it easier to understand. My name is Jay Gross, and I am an English, Speech, & Debate teacher. I also teach as an adjunct professor of English and Speech at Montcalm Community College and am currently teaching at St. Louis High School for dual enrollment. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 8:03المغامرة | Brahim Zarouali | TEDxColominaSalonالإيمان بالنفس والمغامرة في المجهول قد يقودان إلى أماكن لم نحلم بها يومًا Voice-over artist, documentary filmmaker This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 7:41Redefining the New champions in Capitalistic Era | Mohamed El Moutaouakil | TEDxColominaSalonRedefining the New champions in Capitalistic Era Business Consultant I Digital transformation specialist I Solutions Engineer I Serial Entrepreneur I Founding Curator & Alumni I CEO I WEF Global Shaper This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 19:09Human Trafficking: You are not alone in your pain | Sharon Kamukama | TEDxMabletonVulnerability. That’s the open door. We all want to belong, to feel seen, valued, and loved—and human traffickers know it. They don’t just exploit people. They study them. They know how to turn a human being into a commodity. They know how to create trauma bonds so strong, victims can’t tell the difference between manipulation and affection.In her TEDx talk, Sharon Kamukama reveals the brutal simplicity of it all: supply and demand. That’s the engine of this modern-day slavery. Whether it’s a lonely teenage girl starved of affection or a mother desperate to feed her child, traffickers zero in on their vulnerability like sharks to blood. And that’s what keeps the cycle going. Sharon Kamukama is a highly sought after Speaker, Thought Leader and Transformational Coach In just 2 years, she built a million-dollar business and continues to share her knowledge and expertise with everyone she encounters.With her determination, unwavering Faith, she has helped over hundreds of people to become more aware of who they are, experience quantum growth, heal, live in Abundance and success. With Transformational Coaching Sharon is most known for helping others step into their true potential and to become the best version of themselves with their desires met. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:05Trust the Timing: What’s Meant for You Will Find You | Gaurav Bidhuri | TEDxGGSIPU EDCA journey of setbacks, resilience, and belief—this is the story of how trusting the process and staying true to the goal can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Drawing from his experiences as an Indian boxer and World Championship medalist, the talk reflects on the power of perseverance, patience, and faith in the timing of life. Because sometimes, what’s meant for you may take time, but it will never miss you. Gaurav Bidhuri is an accomplished Indian boxer who secured a bronze medal at the World Boxing Championships. His achievement has brought recognition to Indian boxing on the global stage. Gaurav's dedication and skill exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship and perseverance. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:34Vivir con valentía | Lorena Arraiz | TEDxUC3MTras una vida dedicada a conseguir el éxito profesional, un quiebre personal le hizo entender que el verdadero logro está en ser auténtica y para eso se requiere mucha valentía. Periodista, coach, mentora y formadora de Comunicación Consciente, con 15 años de experiencia en comunicación política y empresarial en Iberoamérica. Tras una vida dedicada a conseguir el éxito profesional, un quiebre personal le hizo entender que el verdadero logro está en ser auténtica y para eso se requiere mucha valentía. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:14The transformative power of solo travel | Sandra Parker | TEDxMabletonSandra Parker, self-love coach and solo travel enthusiast, shares her passion for travel ignited by childhood movies. After facing challenges with group travel, she embraces solo adventures, finding empowerment and deeper connections. Addressing common concerns about safety, loneliness, and cost, she emphasizes the benefits of solo travel, including personal re-discovery and growth. Through her experiences, Sandra reconnects with her passions and overcomes past limitations, encouraging others to explore solo travel to understand themselves better and embrace new possibilities. Sandra, affectionately known as Queen, is a passionate solo travel enthusiast who found her calling as a self-love coach for women. Frustrated by the limitations of waiting for travel companions, she bravely set out on solo adventures that not only allowed her to explore captivating destinations but also led her to a profound journey of self-discovery and self-compassion. Drawing from her personal experiences, Sandra now focuses on empowering women to embrace solo exploration while helping them overcome fear and self-doubt. Through her engaging storytelling, she inspires others to break free from traditional travel norms and realize their potential. By guiding women on a path of self-love and personal growth, Sandra demonstrates that solo travel can be a powerful tool for building confidence and embracing new experiences that enrich their lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
