Theme: Exponential Thinking

Join us at TEDxParadeplatz to ignite your imagination and engage in transformative conversations that will empower you to harness the power of Exponential Thinking for a brighter, more innovative future!

Explore the transformative power of Exponential Thinking in technology, society, and human potential. This concept emphasizes that advancements are not merely linear but can accelerate dramatically, leading to unprecedented changes and opportunities.

Exponential Thinking encourages us to recognize that we live in an era where innovations in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy can compound and interact, reshaping industries and enhancing our lives. This theme challenges attendees to think beyond traditional boundaries, considering how these rapid advancements can be harnessed for positive societal impact.

Moreover, the theme also addresses the ethical and practical challenges that accompany such growth, prompting discussions on responsible innovation, equity, and the potential risks of unchecked technological development. By fostering a dialogue around these topics, TEDxParadeplatz aims to inspire a community of thinkers and doers who are prepared to navigate and contribute to a rapidly evolving world.

Bürgerhaus Bahnstadt
Gadamerplatz 1
Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, 69115
Germany

Al Green

Leadership & Communication Trainer

Al Green is a Leadership & Communication Trainer in Wiesbaden, Germany, and an Associate Member & Co-Trainer at Management Communication Development (MCD) in Darmstadt. Al designs and leads workshops on leadership, communication, and professional growth. As a Certified Department of Defense Mediator, Al brings strong conflict resolution and business communication skills to workplace challenges. Al is also active in charitable organizations across Europe and the US. With a focus on exponential thinking, Al recognizes how small improvements can lead to significant results, especially with advancing technology and global connectivity. Al believes this mindset is key for navigating a dynamic, connected world

Annabelle "Bee" Baumann

Comedian, Author & Communication Strategist

Annabelle "Bee" Baumann is a comedian, author, and communication strategist who uses exponential thinking to change how we approach humor, free speech, and cultural conversations. With over six years in stand-up comedy and almost 20 years in communication coaching, Bee sees how language and humor evolve quickly and helps others adapt. As founder of BEECOMMUNICATION, she teaches professionals to use humor for adaptability and influence. Bee has coached leaders and entrepreneurs for greater impact. Her book, *Gurrl, You Ain’t Crazy* (2020), explores resilience through humor. Her next book, *100 Days in Strudelbach*, looks at cultural adaptation. As co-author of Diversophy games, she creates tools that use humor to build cultural intelligence. Bee’s TED Talk shows how humor helps us navigate fast-paced changes in communication and culture.

Douglas McCloskey

Researcher & Principal Investigator

Douglas McCloskey earned his PhD in bioengineering from UC San Diego in 2017, receiving the Siebel Scholars Foundation grant for his work on metabolism and evolution. From 2018 to 2021, he was a principal investigator at the Technical University of Denmark, leading a team to automate the design-build-test-analyze cycle for developing cell factories and therapies. As Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder at AliveX Biotech (2021–2022), he led the creation of an AI and Omics systems immunology platform for drug discovery and patient stratification. Currently, he is a PI at BioMed X, partnering with Sanofi to develop a virtual patient model to predict drug efficacy.

Jan Kristof Arndt

Innovation Consultant, Strategist & Author

I am an innovation consultant, strategist, and author passionate about challenging conventional thinking to ignite exponential growth. I work at the intersection of technology, strategy, and human behavior to create transformative solutions across industries like automotive, hospitality, and financial services. I write and speak about how breaking rules can drive growth and innovation. Exponential growth fascinates me for its dual nature: vast opportunities and inherent complexity. Technologies like AI can revolutionize industries, but success requires more than technology—it demands meaningful experiences, inclusivity, and human connection. In my TEDx talk, I share real-world case studies and lessons to inspire sustainable and equitable innovation.

Pavlo Stroblja

Founder, Author, Diversity Advocate

Pavlo Stroblja’s journey reflects The Diversity Upgrade. Born in Ukraine, he grew up hiding his identity due to a lack of LGBTQ+ role models. Moving to Germany in 2004 allowed him to come out and embrace his true self, sparking his commitment to diversity and inclusion. Pavlo shifted from a luxury retail career to become a social entrepreneur and mentor. He founded Queermentor gGmbH, the first digital mentoring platform for LGBTQIA+ youth and allies, connecting hundreds with mentors for career and confidence growth. His work earned the Impact of Diversity Award 2022 and a StartSocial Award from the German Chancellor. Pavlo is also the author of “Diversity Upgrade,” a guide to unlearning bias and building inclusion.