"Fail Forward Through Fear" is an empowering TEDx talk theme that redefines failure—not as a dead end, but as a necessary step on the path to growth, courage, and success. In a world that often glorifies perfection and punishes mistakes, this talk challenges the fear of failure and reframes it as fuel for transformation. This talk is not about avoiding fear, but walking through it—with purpose. It’s a call to action for anyone who’s ever held back, reminding us that progress is often messy, and that the most impactful journeys begin where comfort ends. To “fail forward” is to keep moving, learning, and becoming—despite the fear Jacob Brown is a former NFL athlete turned entrepreneur, transformational speaker, best-selling author, and business coach. Known for his #FailForward philosophy, Jacob helps individuals and organizations overcome challenges and embrace growth. As a three-time TEDx speaker, Jacob was named one of the '40 Under 40' in 2015. He's been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, and Good Morning America, among others. Jacob has also had the privilege of speaking for major brands and institutions such as Intel, Meta, LinkedIn, Dallas Cowboys, UPS, Carhartt, General Motors, the University of Notre Dame, and the University of Michigan. Jacob's mission goes beyond motivation. He promotes a transformative approach to life, advocating for a mental reset and a shift in perspective to discover one’s true calling. 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

"The Gift of Goodbye: Growing Through Grieving" is a heartfelt and introspective TEDx talk theme that explores how loss, though painful, can become a powerful catalyst for personal growth, transformation, and deeper self-understanding.In this talk, the speaker reflects on the emotional journey of saying goodbye—and how grief, when fully embraced, can teach us about love, resilience, and what truly matters. Rather than framing goodbye as only an end, this talk reveals it as a beginning—a sacred space where healing, rediscovery, and growth unfold. It’s a reminder that in the midst of pain, there is also beauty, and in the act of grieving, there is the potential to grow. Holly Caldwell is a student at Central Michigan University pursuing a degree in Environmental studies with a minor in German. She hails from Milford Connecticut and has a passion for Track and Field, Rugby, all things Star Wars, and protecting the wildlife of the Great Lakes. Holly is an active member of the executive board for the CMU women's rugby team and works seasonally as a park ranger for the department of natural resources. After graduating, she plans to pursue a career in environmental law or conservation and dedicate her life to promoting sustainability in the state of Michigan. 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

"Paralyzed by Motherhood: Navigating Life Through Postpartum Depression" is a powerful and deeply personal TEDx talk theme that sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional struggles many mothers face after childbirth. This talk explores the reality of postpartum depression (PPD) - a condition that can leave new mothers feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and disconnected from themselves and their babies. The speaker shared the internal battles of identity, shame, and silence that often accompany motherhood when it doesn't look or feel like the joyful experience society expects. Ultimately, it’s a story of survival, resilience, and hope - a call to normalize the conversation around PPD and to create a world where struggling mothers are not judged, but supported and heard. Annie Peters is an award-winning Graphic Designer and educator. She worked in the Memphis community and advertising agencies for several years until moving on to teaching. She most recently spent four years as Adjunct Professor at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, OH. She is currently happy to be a Lecturer of Graphic Design at Central Michigan University and be part of the Mt. Pleasant community. She is a well-rounded designer, having worked in apparel, promotional products, corporate branding, web design, illustration, consultation, marketing, and more. She is a jack of all trades and a master of branding. She is a seven-time recipient of gold American Advertising Federation (ADDY) awards for her branding, social media, and community work. Annie's research focuses on graphic design as an intervention for suicidal ideation, neurodivergence as an act of joy and resistance, and feminism in graphic design as it relates to motherhood and the aftermath of childbearing. All of this equates to the impact art and graphic design can have on mental health and the human experience. She has a wonderful family, an incredible husband, and a son she loves more than life itself. 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

"Navigating the Unknown of A.I," the talk emphasizes the urgency of approaching AI with curiosity, caution, and critical thinking—recognizing its potential to revolutionize the world while remaining mindful of the complex risks it introduces. It encourages listeners to be proactive participants in shaping the future of AI, not passive observers.Angle Bush, CEO - Black Women In Artificial Intelligence Visionary. Innovator. Advocate. Angle Bush embodies the transformative power of leadership in technology. In 2020, Angle founded Black Women In Artificial Intelligence, driven by a singular mission: to Educate, Engage, Embrace, and Empower Black Women in AI. Under her leadership, the organization has become a global force, uniting members across five continents and forging partnerships with industry leaders such as Amazon, Microsoft, Capital One, and NVIDIA. These alliances reflect her unwavering commitment to opening doors, creating opportunities, and shaping the future of AI through inclusivity. Angle’s influence extends beyond her organization. As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, she challenges the tech world to think bigger, innovate smarter, and build with purpose. Her dedication to creating spaces where Black Women thrive is not just a mission, it’s a movement. An alumna of Central Michigan University with studies at Harvard, Angle brings both academic rigor and a relentless drive to her work. Currently, she serves as a Visiting Fellow at the University of Miami and sits on the Central Michigan University College of Science and Engineering Advisory Board, championing the next generation of innovators. Notable Highlights- New York Stock Exchange Closing Bell, NPR, Bloomberg, M.Live, Inc.Magazine, PBS-North Carolina, Forbes, National Urban League Conference, National Black Women In Artificial Intelligence Day 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

Each person inherently has a dark side.The first step is accepting it. The second step is accepting that you have the potential to be a light, bright, good person. The third step is to act upon that understanding Dr. Tanu Jain traded a thriving medical career for IAS success, inspiring us all to aim higher, dream bigger, and take on the world.Growing up in the lively streets of Delhi, she was surrounded by the everyday struggles of ordinary people. After earning her medical degree, she could have settled into a successful career as a doctor. Yet, her vision was bigger — she wanted to bring change at the grassroots level. She chose not to settle into a typical doctor’s role. Instead, driven to create change at a broader level, she cleared the UPSC exam. Known for her hands-on approach, her work as a Civil Servant inspires young dreamers to believe in the power of perseverance and meaningful 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

What do you do when life unravels and worth feels lost?A psychologist explores how seeing yourself as your own best friend can transform the way you navigate life’s challenges and build lasting inner strength.” With a Master's in Clinical Psychology and expertise in 15+ therapeutic modalities, Ms. Ekta Khurana has transformed the lives of over 900 clients, championing mental health and well-being.She has worked in many hospitals and healthcare settings, gaining valuable experience in 10 different locations. Her goal is to provide support and guidance to those in need, using her expertise to understand and help people in the best way possible. 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