Why Isn't America’s Greatest Story Being Told? | Congressman Brian Baird | TEDxPacific Avenue
The spirit of service is fundamental to our national character and essential to our democratic republic, but there are no museums or memorials anywhere dedicated to honoring ALL those who give of themselves to help others through their work, charitable contributions or as volunteers.With our nation deeply divided, a loss of trust in institutions, and an epidemic of loneliness and isolation - honoring and inspiring everyone to serve may be the key to uplifting and unifying our nation and saving democracy itself. Brian Baird Ph.D. is the only clinical neuropsychologist ever to serve in Congress and is the founder of the National Museum and Center for Service. He explains why service is vitally important to the health of individuals and society, then describes how every school, service organization and community in America can publicly and prominently honor ALL forms of service, connecting people from all ages and walks of life with how they can serve and make a difference.Former 6 term Member of Congress Brian Baird is the Founder and Executive Director of the National Museum and Center for Service. The organization is dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms through uplifting exhibitions in every community and school in the nation and a signature space near the National Mall in Washington, DC.A clinical neuropsychologist, author, professor and university president, Baird was known in Congress for his focus on congressional ethics and reform, science policy, fiscal responsibility, bipartisan cooperation, and constituent service. 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
- 11:13The crisis facing American mothers and what we can do about it | Kayla Elderkin | TEDxPacific AvenueNewborns need their mothers — but in America, most women are forced back to work just weeks after giving birth. With no federally mandated paid leave, rising childcare costs, and mounting mental health crises, the system is failing moms and children alike. Kayla Elderkin delivers a raw, personal account of how she escaped the impossible trap so many mothers face — and challenges us to question the cultural norms that call this "normal." Kayla Elderkin is a single mother who refused to choose between raising her children and providing for them. While on maternity leave, she started building a business from scratch—determined to create a life that allowed her to be both present and financially secure. Today, she’s grown a community of over 600,000 across her platforms and is on a mission to help other women do the same: stay home with their babies and still provide boldly. 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
- 11:12Why do we drift from our true path? | Gottfried Prinz | TEDxKlagenfurtIn this powerful talk, Gottfried Prinz reveals three escalating signals life sends when we drift from our true path — signposts, silence phases, and crisis. Through personal story and with sharp insight, he invites us to reconnect with ourselves and rediscover purpose, before life has to shout!Gottfried Prinz is a serial entrepreneur, transformation coach, and helps people and businesses reinvent themselves. Since 2007, he has led over 80 successful corporate restructurings, built a thriving superfoods brand with Dattelbär, and coached more than 800 executives and entrepreneurs toward purposeful change. Gottfried blends sharp business acumen with deep human insight. He’s also an author, speaker, self-healer, farmer, and actor and above all, a proud father of three. His mission is to leave a meaningful mark on the world through courage, clarity, and gratitude. Whether in the boardroom or on the farm, Gottfried lives what he teaches: transformation is not just possible—it’s a practice. 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