In this talk, researcher and writer, Dr Alice Ashcroft, explores how the subtle language pattern of "hedging" (those small words like "I think," "maybe," and "sort of") shapes our professional and personal lives in ways we rarely notice. Drawing from her research in gendered language and technology, she reveals how hedging isn't linguistic filler but a tool that reflects power dynamics, gender expectations, and the double bind many women face: speak directly and face social penalties, or hedge and undermine your own authority. Through examples from software design meetings to childhood memories, she demonstrates how understanding hedging can transform it from an unconscious habit into a strategic choice.Rather than advocating for the elimination of hedging language, Dr Alice Ashcroft, reframes it as a skill to be refined and deployed intentionally. She introduces practical tools like "The Button Example" and "The Power of Why" to help audiences recognise when hedging serves them and when it doesn't. The talk challenges conventional wisdom about confident communication, arguing that mastering intentional hedging isn't about speaking more like men or removing uncertainty from our language, it's about making conscious choices about how we use language to navigate systems that weren't designed with everyone's voices in mind. The result is a fresh perspective on communication that empowers people to maintain their authentic voices while claiming the space and authority they deserve.Dr Alice Ashcroft is a researcher and consultant who analyses the impact of identity and gendered language in software design and technology use. Alice has been published in peer-reviewed academic publications, and her PhD, titled “Design, Innovation and Software: The Impact of Gender and Language”, focused on how gender affects communication and teamwork in software design and innovation workshops. Their work highlights the need for more inclusive practices that give everyone a voice, helping to improve creativity and collaboration in the design process.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

Growing up in North Dakota, nearly every mentor I had encouraged me to leave ND. Many of my friends did. But I chose to stay, not because it was easier, but because I believe in the potential of this place and its people. ND has so much worth celebrating, yet we often overlook the importance of investing in our own communities. What is the true cost of not investing? I will share how projects like Grand Forks Children's Museum represent not just an idea, but a big vision—one that starts with our youngest generations. It is a blink of an eye and a kid turns 18, what they are exposed to during those formative years shapes their futures. Sally Miskavige is Vice President of Opp Construction, a Grand Forks and Fargo-based contractor specializing in concrete and asphalt paving, landscaping, and erosion control. The company was founded by her father, Greg Opp, in 1978.Sally is a co-founder of TAG – The Art of Giving and a founding board member of the Grand Forks Children’s Museum. She has served on the Grand Forks Public Arts Commission since 2016 and previously held board positions with the North Dakota Museum of Art, NOSHA, and the Associated General Contractors of North Dakota, where she was President in 2020 and 2021.Sally and her husband Jeremy enjoy spending time enjoying the outdoors, the arts & sports activities with their two children and their extended family and friends. 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

Self-described "recovering perfectionist" Robert Heath Sr. once stepped off stage rather than risk singing the wrong harmony—but after 30 years studying human performance as a Marine officer, lawyer, and business consultant, he's discovered that our obsession with "safe spaces" has left us more anxious, isolated, and lonely than ever. Drawing on Maslow, Milton Erickson, and the epidemic of loneliness declared by the U.S. Surgeon General, he demonstrates how shifting from a helpless identity to one of bravery—starting with something as simple as a head nod—creates "brave spaces" where courage and compassion turn conflict into connection. Robert Heath, Sr. is a nationally recognized Empowering Leadership strategist, executive coach, and keynote speaker.A former U.S. Marine Corps Officer who commanded one of the largest companies in the Corps, Robert now helps high-capacity leaders align with their purpose, master self-leadership, and lead with impact. With a background in law, education, and entrepreneurship, he’s coached thousands—from startups to Fortune 500s. His mission: help leaders get the best out of themselves and those they lead. 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

In this powerful TEDx talk, Andy McAleese shares how journalling became his lifeline after a series of life-altering events. His talk asks, how do you cope when your whole world is turned upside down? Andy faced the sudden loss of his 18-year career in senior management in the insurance industry and underwent unexpected open-heart surgery, both within the span of a few weeks. He explores how to cope when life ambushes you with seismic shifts, sharing a surprisingly simple yet profound tool: journalling. Drawing on ancient practices and his own journey of recovery, Andy shows how writing can help process trauma, gain clarity, and build resilience. This talk offers practical insights for anyone facing major life transitions, unexpected challenges, or personal setbacks, demonstrating that even small, consistent practices can empower us to survive and ultimately thrive through the storms of life Andy is an actuary and executive coach with over 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry, including senior leadership roles. He combines his professional background with lived experience of mental health challenges, to champion more open conversations about wellbeing at work. He was named "Most Inspiring Senior Leader" by This Can Happen, recognising his commitment to building healthier, more sustainable ways of working. 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

Want to feel comfortable and confident in your own body? Then this TEDx talk is for you. In it, Tigz Rice challenges society’s narrow and unattainable definitions of beauty and encourages us to embrace our authentic selves. She explores how the fashion industry and media create impossible standards, leaving many feeling uncomfortable, inadequate, or pressured to constantly conform. Tigz argues that as a beautifully diverse species, it is genetically impossible for most of us to achieve the trending body type of the day, so why are we obsessed with trying? Through her talk, Tigz inspires viewers to celebrate self-acceptance, challenge unrealistic beauty standards, and embrace the masterpiece they already are, showing that empowerment comes from valuing and loving your own body rather than chasing fleeting ideals. Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer, videographer and content creator. She has an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography. She helps others reconnect with their bodies and feel empowered, confident and unapologetically present. Tigz was listed in the Top 40 Digital Women To Watch in 2021, shortlisted for Digital Creator of the Year in 2022, and was listed in Entrepreneur’s top 100 female entrepreneurs of 2023 and a finalist for Digital Woman Of The Year 2025. Her book STRIP/TEASE won bronze in the 2020 Independent Publishing Awards 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