Finding the maverick, icon, and genius in you | John Lechleiter | TEDxBrown County Schools
In his TED Talk, The MIG in the Mirror, Dr. John Lechleiter explores the inner journey of leadership through the lens of Mavericks, Icons, and Geniuses. Reflecting on lessons from his career in science and business, he challenges us to consider how we see ourselves and how embracing our unique strengths and imperfections can fuel purpose, innovation, and lasting impact. This talk is a powerful invitation to look inward and lead outward with intention. Dr. John Lechleiter retired as president and chief executive officer of Eli Lilly and Company on December 31, 2016, after more than 37 years of service. He chaired Lilly’s board of directors from January 2009 through May 2017. Dr. Lechleiter joined Lilly in 1979 as a senior organic chemist in the chemical process research and development division. He became head of his department in 1982. He subsequently held roles in product
development, project management, regulatory affairs, and pharmaceutical operations. In 2005, he was named President and Chief Operating Officer and joined Lilly’s board of directors. He became CEO on April 1, 2008. Dr. Lechleiter earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Xavier University (Ohio) in 1975 and masters and doctoral degrees in organic chemistry from Harvard University. 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
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- 13:15AI and Epidemic of Intellectual Obesity | MOHAMMED AJMAL C | TEDxPeacePublicSchoolKottakkalHow many clicks, swipes and AI prompts does it take before our brains stop doing the heavy lifting? In this TEDx talk, educator-entrepreneur Mohammed Ajmal reveals what he calls “Intellectual Obesity”—a hidden epidemic in which ever-smarter tools hand us flawless answers while quietly starving our critical-thinking muscles. The talk opens with a dramatic on-stage experiment: a JEE-Advanced problem that used to humble India’s brightest teens now collapses in four seconds under a generative-AI lens. Ajmal then weaves classroom interviews with fresh MIT brain-scan research to show how children’s neural “gym time” is being outsourced, shifting young minds from active problem-solving into passive copy-and-paste mode.But this is not a doom-and-gloom sermon. Ajmal argues that the real divide of the coming decade will be between Augmented Thinkers, who treat AI as a sparring partner that builds cognitive strength, and Dependent Users, who let the tool become a crutch. He outlines a simple three-step blueprint—tested in math, history and science classes—that forces students to probe, critique and improve AI-generated work, turning easy answers into deeper questions and stronger synapses. Finally, he calls on parents, teachers and policymakers to redesign homework, exams and curricula so the next generation can grow up mentally fit in an age of endless convenience.Ajmal is an IIT Madras-trained engineer turned educator, Ajmal is the founder & CEO of XandY Learning, which serves 4000+ students and leads AI-literacy drives. He hosts the 100 K-subscriber YouTube channel “Unlearn with Ajmal” and writes for The Hindu and other medias on education reform and the future of work. His mission is simple: help every child build the thinking skills—and ethical compass—needed to thrive alongside AI. Mohammed Ajmal C is the Co-Founder and CEO of XandY Learning while serving as Design Engineering Lead at Intel Corporation and Fellow/Trustee of PM Foundation. An IIT Madras dual degree graduate (B.Tech Honors in Electrical Engineering, top 1%), he was a topper in IIT JEE, AIEEE, Kerala Engineering Entrance, CUSAT, and BITSAT. As an educational vlogger ("Unlearn with Ajmal") with 77.6K YouTube subscribers, he conducts workshops on career guidance and learning science for students, teachers, and parents. A sought-after speaker, he has delivered sessions at PROFCON, PROFACE, Calicut University ("AI: Beyond Buzzwords"), and schools nationwide, while receiving recognition from Prof P Raveendran (VC, Calicut University). His initiatives include the 'Science of Learning' workshop (KNCC Qatar) and 'Ezhuthupura' program with Wisdom Board of Education. 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
- 14:20Beyond Mountains | Anum Uzair | TEDxKinnairdAnum Uzair Khan is a renowned forensic doctor, elite 8000‑meter mountaineer, endurance athlete, marathon runner, and motivational speaker, also a proud mother and mental-health advocate. She champions mental resilience, physical endurance, and breaking mental barriers using both medicine and mountains as metaphors for overcoming life’s toughest challenges. Anum breaks the mould: she’s not just a doctor or athlete, but someone who melds mind, matter, and meaning, showing us how each step forward, whether on a mountain or in our minds, can spark a transformative chain reaction in how we live and lead. Anum Uzair Khan is a forensic doctor and a renowned Pakistani mountaineer who has made history by conquering some of the world's highest and most challenging peaks, including Manaslu (8,163 meters) and Broad Peak (8,051 meters). She was the second Pakistani woman to summit Broad Peak and, along with her husband, Ahmed Uzair, became the first Pakistani husband-wife duo to conquer Manaslu. This unique combination of precision, resilience, and expertise exemplifies her determination and inspires individuals worldwide. As a role model for women in Pakistan and globally, Anum challenges societal norms and encourages others to embrace adventure and push their limits. 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
- 20:35Healing Begins When You Choose Yourself | Vandana Hiranandani | TEDxSGGSCCWhen love becomes a lifeline—and then a trap—how do you find your way back to yourself? In this deeply personal TEDx talk, Vandana Hiranandani shares the raw, untold story of living in the shadows of addiction, not as the one struggling, but as the one trying to save them. With gentle courage, she traces her path from silent suffering to self-discovery, illuminating the quiet pain of codependency. Her message is a call to reclaim your identity, not by fixing someone else, but by choosing to heal from within ? Her Work So Far: ? Podcast Guest on Little Fixes Podcast – discussing addiction myths, recovery, and the Anatta approach (coming soon) ? Led Drug Awareness Drives across institutions and public forums ? Facilitated podcasts as follows: “Dentistry & Addiction” with Dr. Neetika Modi “Unlock the Benefits of Meditation” with Mr. Anil Chandwani “Why Do People Develop Addictive/Depressive Patterns?” with Mr. Chintan Dalal and many more ? Conducted interactive awareness sessions on addiction and emotional health at: Terna Dental College Mithibai College Atlas SkillTech University? Legacy of Transformation:Having grown up in a family affected by addiction, Vandana turned her story into service. Her workshops, talks, and therapy sessions ignite healing not just for the individual—but for the entire emotional ecosystem around them. 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
- 17:12Overcoming Obstacles : Rising Above Challenges | Sonu Sharma | TEDxInvertisUniversityFounder of Dynamic India Group, Sonu Sharma is a renowned author, educator, business consultant, and entrepreneur. His impactful presence in the direct sales sector and motivational circles across India and online is widely recognized.His words empowered people to transform from ordinary to special. His mantra still resonates… ‘Be in a growth‐oriented environment, and you will grow more.’"Success is a matter of mindset and consistency." • A noted motivational speaker addressed the students with a powerful message on achieving success: He said that self-belief, discipline, and vision are the most important success factors. He urged the youth to: ▪ Dream big and start small, but stay consistent. ▪ Build strong daily habits and stay committed to personal growth. ▪ Surround themselves with people who inspire and uplift them. • He added that failures are part of the journey, and success doesn't come overnight—it is built through hard work, continuous learning, and resilience. Mr. Sonu Sharma is the founder of DYNAMIC INDIA GROUP (INDIA). An Author, Educator, Business Consultant, and successful Entrepreneur, he is a much sought-after speaker. Today he is one of the Youngest Inspirational Speakers in India He inspires and encourages individuals to realize their true potential. He has taken his dynamic personal messages to opposite sides of the globe. His 20 years of research & understanding in the Direct Sales Industry have put Many organizations on a path of growth and fulfillment.Tens of thousands of people have benefitted from his Dynamic workshops all over INDIA and 450+ Million have heard him on YouTube across 114 Countries in just 4 years, More Than 10 Lac People Attend his live Seminars in India in the past few years.He is a sensation on social media, on Youtube & FB his viewership reached 1 Billion+ with a following of 12 Million +. Today he is a Consultant for World’s Leading Corporate houses. 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
- 8:08Do you define your name, or does your name define you? | Michael Nash | TEDxWestbourne Grammar YouthWhat's in a name?... Michael, a Father of 2 and Mathematics teacher. Late to the teaching profession Michael emigrated 7 years ago from the UK having worked as an accountant, entrepreneur and Teacher whilst serving in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve Training Branch for 15 years. After a late ADHD and Autism diagnoses, He has become a passionate advocate for awareness of neurodiversity and understanding one's own brain. 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
- 15:06Overcoming Obstacles : Rising Above Challenges | Srikanth Bolla | TEDxInvertisUniversitySrikanth Bolla spoke at the Invertis University event held on January 23, 2025, in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the power of determination and vision, even beyond literal sight. Bolla shared: “…what you hold in your mind, nurture in your heart, and pursue with determination can shape your reality… I refused to let limitations define me—instead, I turned them into my greatest strengths.” He also mentioned his inspiring focus on “overcoming challenges, breaking barriers, and the power of resilience and determination.” "Turn your weaknesses into strengths." • He shared his inspiring life story: Despite being born visually impaired, he never let it define or limit him. He emphasized that inner strength and vision matter more than physical limitations. • He told students: Never see disability as a barrier, but as a unique force that can be converted into power. Believe in themselves and work with passion and purpose. • Srikanth said he faced discrimination and rejection at every stage, but: He converted those rejections into motivation. He pursued education at MIT (USA) and built a successful business that employs hundreds, many of whom are specially-abled. • He encouraged students to embrace their struggles and transform them into opportunities. Srikanth Bolla (born 7 July 1991) is an Indian industrialist and the founder Chairman of Bollant Industries. He was the first visually-impaired student in Management Science at the Sloan School of Management of Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Since he was visually impaired, educational opportunities were also a struggle, as not many accommodated it. Since then, he has been an important figure in creating opportunities for visually impaired people. He has been a youth leader since 2005 and went on to become a member of Lead India 2020: The Second National Youth Movement.[5] Started by former President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam,Lead India 2020[6] is helping India reach the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2020 by eradicating poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. 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
