Theme: Our Heroes' Journey

This year's theme, Our Heroes' Journey, celebrates the extraordinary in the every day and invites you to play a pivotal role in shaping the future, yours and others.

The hero's journey is a universal narrative that reflects the transformative path of growth, challenge, and discovery. For our TEDx speakers, it’s a way to share personal, professional, or societal stories that resonate deeply with others.

The Hero’s Journey is not just a framework; it is an invitation—a call for each of us to recognize the hero within, embrace the unknown, and discover the boundless possibilities that await on the other side of growth.

Let’s explore together. We invite you to be a part of this story with us.

Speaker applications are closed for 2025, but you can still submit to volunteer or suggest a performance. Head to the website to do that or email the team at events@tedxbelltownwomen.com

2025 Event Tickets are open for a limited amount: https://tedxbelltownwomen.com/pages/event-tickets-2025

Coming Soon
TBD
Seattle, Washington, 98121
United States

Catherine Grace O'Connell

Media Professional - Influencer - Speaker

Catherine Grace O'Connell is a media personality, TV host, journalist and writer, model, and the visionary behind the Ageless Revolution. As a digital media CEO, she blends 30+ years of radical transformation, meditation and natural wellness with a Master’s in Spiritual Psychology, redefining what it means to grow older. Her mission: Becoming Ageless in Mind, Body, & Spirit.

Cleo Escarez

Environmentalist - Founder - Speaker

2025 Earthshot Prize Award nominee,CleoEscarez, is a leader in sustainable fashion and accessories. As the founder of Redyoos, she is revolutionizing the jewelry manufacturing through circular economy principles, and bridging the jewelry industry with clean technology. With extensive experience in business strategy, including leadership roles at Starbucks, Williams Sonoma, and Gap Inc., Cleo previously served as COO of Boma Jewelry, overseeing its ethical, sustainable operations. Passionate about driving positive change, stakeholder value through integrating sustainable practices into decision-making and balancing environmental responsibility with long-term impact. She’s a wife and mother who believes we have a responsibility to care for the planet we’ll leave behind for our children.

Dr. Ndidi Musa

Physician - Activist - Speaker

Dr. Ndidi Musa is a Professor, Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist, and certified executive coach with 30+ years of leadership in academic medicine. She directs the UW Pediatrics Coaching Program and is recognized globally for advancing critical care in resource-limited settings and empowering healthcare leaders to thrive with clarity and purpose.

Jaci McCormack

CEO - Founder - Speaker

Jaci McCormack is a division I athlete turned nonprofit founder, Jaci uplifts youth from marginalized communities through mentorship and empowerment. Jaci channels her lived experience into creating opportunities for the next generation, breaking barriers and building bridges where they are needed most.

Jen Barnes

Activist - Founder - Speaker

Jen Barnes is a Seattleite and a trailblazing entrepreneur. She launched Rough & Tumble in 2022, built intentionally to elevate gender equity in sports fandom. After 20 years in law and business, Jen followed her passion for women’s sports and action. Named one of Seattle Magazine’s “Most Influential” and honored by OL Reign as a “Legend,” Jen’s leadership addresses critical gaps in women's sports. She co-founded Salmon Bay FC, Seattle’s first pre-professional women’s soccer team. Passionate about Title IX and equity, Jen’s TEDx talk explores how women’s sports are ready for change.

Lei Wang

Adventurer - Speaker

Lei Wang is a leadership development strategist and the first Asian woman to complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam—climbing the highest peak on each continent and skiing to both the North and South Poles. A Wharton MBA and former tech/finance professional, she now speaks globally on resilience, leadership, and purpose-driven growth.

Xenia Kachur

Founder - Neuro Science - Speaker

Xenia Kachur is a best-selling author, brain health innovator, and founder of Mindeo. Renowned for translating cutting-edge neuroscience into real-world breakthroughs, her work is changing how we think about mental clarity, aging, and resilience. Her mission: to build a world where staying sharp isn’t luck—it’s strategy.