In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee
8350 North Tamiami Trail
Selby Auditorium
Sarasota, Florida, 34243
United States

Alexa Matos

University Student

With a dynamic blend of Puerto Rican heritage and a deep-rooted Cuban affinity from Miami, Alexa has made remarkable strides at the University of South Florida as a sophomore majoring in political science and international studies. She serves her peers through roles with Student Government, Planned Parenthood Generation Action, Model United Nations, and a mentor for the Hispanic Executive Council. As the youngest board member on a Florida election committee, Alexa actively advocates for education and political engagement.

Caranton Swank

University Student

Caranton Swank is a 4th year undergraduate student at the University of South Florida majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology. As he prepares to graduate in May, he plans on continuing his education and focusing on his passion for medicine before ultimately applying to medical school. In addition to representing his home USF campus, Caranton is thrilled to share his story and hopes his journey of unplanning his over-planned life can help others become comfortable with uncertainty.

Hallie Peilet Young

Founder, No Blues News

Hallie Peilet Young, an Emmy-nominated and Telly Award-winning journalist, made a lasting impact during her four-year tenure as a reporter and the evening anchor at SNN-TV in Sarasota. Hallie's commitment to uplifting narratives led her to establish "No Blues News," her own 501(c)(3) newscast dedicated exclusively to spreading good news. Hallie's journey exemplifies a seamless blend of media excellence and a heartfelt dedication to making a positive impact in communities.

Jaime Marco

Speaker, Facilitator, & Coach

Jaime Marco is an exceptional international leadership coach and seasoned speaker with over two decades of experience. Whether guiding teams on retreats, facilitating workshops, or delivering interactive keynotes, Jaime's infectious enthusiasm and positivity make a lasting impact. With expertise honed over years of leadership roles, she has consistently propelled individuals and teams to new heights of excellence. By tapping into the true 'why' of individuals, she facilitates deeper connections, fostering team cohesion, and unlocking unparalleled success.

Michael Gillespie

Associate Professor of Psychology

Mike applies basic principles of psychology to improve workplace decision-making and effectiveness. An associate professor of psychology, he has served as director of the critical thinking program and president of the faculty senate of his home campus at USF Sarasota-Manatee. Mike believes simple cognitive tools can make a huge difference in people’s work, life, and ability to solve problems.

Michael J. Kline

Senior Trainer at the RIM Institute, Senior Canfield Methodology Trainer, Costa Rica Retreat Host

Mike finally feels like he is enough. Born into poverty as the 11th of 12 children living in their abusive alcoholic father’s junkyard, he spent the next 60 years chasing his self-worth, which he calls enoughness. He first thought he found it by earning a prestigious scholarship, then as a successful executive, then a six-time successful entrepreneur. Always needing more, he believed that he’d be enough as a Master RIM Facilitator, a Jack Canfield Trainer, a Barrett Values Consultant. He earned a dozen certificates, and even bought into a retreat center in Costa Rica. Mike’s journey from junk to joy involved everything from money to religion to meditation to psychedelics. He discovered that we go through life building the case that we are enough, but you don’t build enoughness, you uncover it. Now he’s on a mission to help others do the same, through private sessions & transformational retreats. He says you can’t get good enough to feel good enough, until you remember you always were.

Nicole Andersen

University student

Nicole is a second-year undergraduate student at the University of South Florida majoring in Environmental Science and Policy and minoring in Political Science. Upon graduating she hopes to pursue a career that allows her to integrate sustainability into policy and make long term differences. Her lifelong goal is to complete work that makes the Earth a better place for humans and the life forms we share it with.