How to Land a TEDx Talk: From Idea to Application

12 May 2025 • 18 min • EN
18 min
00:00
18:28
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Have you ever imagined standing on a TEDx stage, spotlight on you, sharing a bold, transformative idea that resonates deeply with your audience? TEDx talks are powerful platforms, not just for delivering information, but for sparking new perspectives, challenging assumptions, and inspiring change. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it takes to land a TEDx talk, based on my experience selecting speakers for TEDx events and coaching clients to develop their big ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting to find your voice, I’ll guide you through what you need to know, including: The 3 essential elements every impactful TEDx talk needs (hint: it’s more than just your expertise) How to craft your “idea worth spreading” that sparks curiosity and leads to transformation Why your personal story is the key to standing out – and how to weave it into your message The biggest mistake applicants make (and how to avoid it) How to get noticed by TEDx organizers (it’s not just about your application)   If a TEDx talk is on your list of goals, this episode will give you the inside track on how to make it happen. I’ll share practical tips and strategies to move you from dreaming to doing, so you can take your place on the stage and share your message with the world. (This episode originally aired as episode 361 on December 4, 2023.) Links: Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/361/  Search for TEDx events: https://www.ted.com/tedx/events Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/ Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/  Attend our 1-day in-person speaking workshop in Orlando: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/workshop-speaking/ Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox Listen to more episodes about TEDx talks. Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 354: Finding and Developing Your Big I.D.E.A. Episode 352: 7 Things the Best Speakers Do: My Takeaways from TEDWomen Episode 339: Using Public Speaking to Influence Social Change with Dr. Tanya Golash-Boza Episode 329: From Compelled to Take Action to TEDx Speaker with Dr. Nicole Rochester Episode 91: Visibility Works: From Local Speaking to TED.com to a Book with Tammy Lally  

From "Speaking Your Brand: Public Speaking Tips and Strategies"

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