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).

Treemont Mansion
4125 Saundersville Road
Old Hickory, Tennessee, 37138
United States

Ali Hemyari

High-Octane Entrepreneur, Author, Pilot, SWAT Sniper, Canine Expert & Philanthropist

Ali Hemyari is a dynamic and accomplished entrepreneur, having founded multiple successful companies within and outside of the pet industry. As a recognized dog training expert, Ali has transformed the lives of countless dogs and owners with innovative training and a deep understanding of canine behavior. A devoted husband and father, he is committed to living a life guided by faith and leading by example. Ali is the author of two inspiring books, with a diverse set of skills that includes flying helicopters and airplanes, in addition to being a highly trained SWAT operator and sniper. Beyond business, Ali gives back to his community by commanding two divisions for different police departments and volunteering hundreds of hours each year. He also hosts fundraisers benefiting impactful organizations like Make-A-Wish. In his spare time, Ali enjoys competing in triathlons, his love for martial arts and continually pushing his limits.

Beth Raebeck Hall

Grammy-Nominated Songwriter, Creative Sparkplug, Visionary Business Coach, Storyteller

Beth is a Grammy-nominated songwriter, award-winning writer, and visionary business coach with over three decades at the intersection of music, media, and entrepreneurship. She’s the founder of The Quantum Creator, MusicRow411, and Crazy Rae Music, and has advised over 110 music tech startups, countless creatives, and mission-driven founders. Beth co-created and branded Tin Pan South, now the world’s largest songwriting festival. A sought-after strategist and mentor, she fuses creativity with business insight to spark clarity, empowerment, and transformation. Whether coaching mid-career professionals or consulting for cutting-edge ventures, Beth helps others reignite their purpose, build with integrity, and lead with vision. Her work is rooted in real-world experience—and a deep belief in what’s possible when you align with your true creative self.

Brittany Hölljes

Voice of Delta Rae, Feminist Folklorist, Director, Doula, Witch

Brittany Hölljes is a founding member and lead vocalist of the genre-blending band Delta Rae, known for its epic harmonies, Southern Gothic style, and electrifying live shows. Offstage, she serves as Director of Outreach Education at A New Leaf, Nashville’s longest-running nature school. After graduating from UC Berkeley at 19 with a B.A. in Ancient Religion, she carried her academic explorations of alchemy, astrology, and myth into her role as The Witch in Delta Rae. With fifteen years of full-time touring behind them, she and her brothers — fellow bandmates and writing partners — are developing multiple musicals, including The Ninth Woman, an immersive folk-horror thriller inspired by their cult classic song “Bottom of the River,” exploring power, fear, and the divine feminine. Now a new mother, she is training as a doula to support and advocate for birthing people as they labor to bring babies earthside.

Charlie Apigian, PhD.

AI Strategist, Engaging Educator, Storyteller with a Data Problem, Passionate Mentor, Accidental Ultra Marathoner, and Data for Good Evangelist

Dr. Charlie Apigian is on a mission to make data and AI simple, actionable, and human-centered. As Lead Data & AI Strategist at LBMC and Professor at Belmont University, he blends strategy, tech, and purpose to create real-world impact. With 25+ years of experience, he’s led initiatives in data strategy, AI apps, and storytelling—with a focus on making data meaningful. He’s passionate about using data for good, tackling issues like health inequities, human trafficking, and mental health. Charlie is a dynamic speaker known for his relatable AI approach and engaging talks. He’s published 30+ papers, taught thousands, and earned honors including NTC Data Scientist of the Year (2020) and IT Community Leader (2018 & 2023). Beyond data, he’s a trail runner, dog lover, and dad of four. Ask him about his accidental 35-mile run—he’ll say it was “before GPS on our wrist.” When he’s not running, you’ll find him outdoors with his dog, Frank, thinking about how to make data a little more human.

Christi Dortch

Creative, Leadership Guide, Performer, Producer, Innovative Business Developer, Caregiver, Baker

Christi has a rich 30-year history in the arts, encompassing onstage and backstage work, creative development, leadership roles, community outreach, and business management. She is a professionally trained performer with a passion for musical theatre, immersive storytelling, and jazz. Her career also includes directing, producing , choreographing & writing for live events. One of Christi's most recent roles casts her as an independent consultant working with clients ranging from artists, a national team focused on combating attrition in the performing arts community, small venues (re)build audiences, & to new organizations developing teams. And, in her spare time, she is working to create, produce, and launch a new live experience nationwide. Christi loves to combine creative thinking with financial expertise to drive organizational growth and new work development. She is passionate about merging business and the arts for the benefit of communities.

Dr. Kevin Dyson

Former NFL Athlete, High School Principal, Educator, Author, Media Host

Kevin Dyson, the 16th pick of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Oilers, now Titans, also played for the Carolina Panthers, is currently the principal at Centennial High School in Franklin, Tennessee. Dr. Dyson is most famously known for the "Music City Miracle"; and "One Yard Short", two of the most famous plays in NFL history. Primarily raised by a single mother, he credits his upbringing for shaping him, as he promised his mother he'd play in the NBA and buy her a house, but she emphasized education. Dr. Dyson holds two master's degrees and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. He is a published author, hosts a podcast, serves as a radio analyst for the Tennessee Titans, and is a keynote speaker. Dr. Dyson believes true success lies in inspiring growth and navigating challenges, and the foundation for his leadership philosophy is based on the ability to LEAD with GRIT.

Howard Morgan

Executive Coach, Organizational Change Expert, Global Philanthropist, Author

Howard Morgan is a visionary entrepreneur, author, and executive committed to optimizing human behavior for greater success and fulfillment. Throughout his career, he has helped individuals, organizations, and nonprofits enhance performance and satisfaction through strategic guidance. Among his most rewarding endeavors is his work with international groups, where he has supported entrepreneurs in building sustainable businesses. A recent highlight includes his collaboration with women entrepreneurs in Africa, helping them structure, produce, and distribute their products beyond their home country. Howard's impact spans industries and borders, empowering individuals and organizations to achieve meaningful growth. His dedication to fostering innovation, personal performance, leadership, and global transformation continues.

Johnathan Cyprien

Pro Athlete Real Estate Advisor, Realtor, Retired NFL Safety, Consultant

Johnathan Cyprien is a retired NFL safety turned real estate entrepreneur, investor, and advisor to professional athletes. As CEO of Cyprien Capital, he helps athletes build lasting wealth through real estate. He’s also the founder of the CypSquad Foundation, which empowers underserved youth across the country. Featured in Forbes and recognized for his leadership and community impact, Cyprien is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and generational change

Rachael Lewis

Hair Artist, Salon Owner, Educator

Rachael Lewis is a hair artist and owner of Honey+Sage Salon in Hermitage, TN. A former middle school teacher, literacy specialist, adoptive parent, retail manager, and once-aspiring attorney, she reinvented her life in 2021 by pursuing cosmetology. Originally from western Kentucky, she holds degrees from the University of Kentucky and Murray State University. Now living in Mount Juliet with her husband, mom, four kids, bonus kid, and 14 animals, Rachael thrives on Diet Coke, family time, reading, being near water, and watching her kids, pets, and plants grow. A recovering perfectionist and people pleaser, she’s now boldly chasing her own dreams—no apologies. She hopes to be remembered for her laughter, gumption, wit, and love for others. Before she kicks the bucket, she wants to travel the world, get scuba certified, become a beekeeper, and maybe hold hands with an otter.

Tessa Tubbs

Leadership Strategist, Executive Coach, Challenger

Tessa Tubbs is a leadership strategist and executive coach who helps bold leaders cut through complexity and lead with clarity. With two decades of global experience—including work across the U.S., U.K., Europe, Asia, and Australia—she’s partnered with organizations like Disney, Liberty Mutual, Fidelity, and PepsiCo to elevate leadership, accelerate strategy, and drive meaningful impact. Known for fusing strategic insight with grounded wisdom, Tessa challenges leaders to move with purpose, lead with courage, and build what matters. She doesn’t hand out formulas—she equips leaders to think, move, and lead with intention. Based in Dallas-Fort Worth, she draws on lived experience and a global perspective while raising a teenage son, doing life with her husband of 18 years, and managing two energetic dogs. Her message? Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about intentional influence.