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).

Mane Room
310 N Pine St.
Florence, Alabama, 35630
United States

Abraham Rowe

Abraham Rowe is a photographer based in Florence, Alabama. He is passionate about documenting culture in real time and collecting stories of the South through the experiences of everyday people. Some of his projects include Hidden Spaces, Folks of Florence, and The Highway 72 Project, as well as documenting the local music and art scene. Abraham works alongside his wife, Susan Rowe, in commercial, portrait, and editorial photography. Together, they offer expertise in photo styling, product, and lifestyle photography for manufacturing companies, artisans, musicians, e-commerce businesses, and food brands. His editorial work has been featured in Elle Decor, Local Palate, Bitter Southerner, Rolling Stone, The National, Garden & Gun, Southern Living, Relix, No-Ala Magazine, and Business Alabama, as well as online in Kinfolk, Paste, and The New York Times T Magazine. Current projects include photographing Jackson’s Military Road for the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area and working on a grant from the Alabama Folklife Association documenting tornado shelters as folk architecture in Northwest Alabama. Website: www.abrahamrowephotography.com Hidden Spaces: www.hiddenspaces.org Facebook: Folks of Florence

Arinola Dada, MD

Dr. Arinola Dada is a highly accomplished rheumatologist with a deep commitment to patient care and research. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, she earned her undergraduate and MD degrees from the University of Lagos. She completed her Internal Medicine residency at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh and subspecialist training in rheumatology at the University of Washington, Seattle. Board-certified in Rheumatology and Clinical Densitometry, Dr. Dada brings over two decades of experience since 2001. She excels in her role while also being a dedicated mother, passionate teacher, mentor, and sought-after speaker. Her career began as a science researcher and later as a clinical instructor in Rheumatology at the University of Washington. Her clinical interests include Rheumatoid arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, Gout, Psoriatic arthritis, Uveitis, Myositis, Antiphospholipid Antibodies, Systemic Lupus, and Osteoporosis. Her expertise makes her a valuable resource for patients seeking specialized care. Dr. Dada is a fellow of the American College of Rheumatology and actively participates in the Washington Rheumatology Alliance and the Arthritis Foundation. She chairs a committee for the Association of Women in Rheumatology (AWIR), showcasing her commitment to advancing women in the field. As a paid speaker, Dr. Dada engages at local and national events, including the American College of Physicians' annual meeting and the American College of Rheumatology. Her expertise and engaging style make her a sought-after presenter at prestigious medical conferences. At Overlake Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center (OAOC), Dr. Dada believes patients are the true heroes of their health journey. OAOC's mission is to empower patients with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to overcome and prevent life-threatening or debilitating medical conditions. Under her leadership, OAOC brings cutting-edge clinical research opportunities to Seattle, ensuring patients access the latest advancements in medical treatment and care. Together with her team and patients, they strive to enhance the quality of life and advance medical knowledge for a healthier future. Dr. Dada's contributions to rheumatology have earned her numerous accolades, including being recognized as a Top Doc in Arthritis Today, participating in the National Arthritis Foundation's 'My Doc Rocks' program, and receiving accolades in Seattle Met magazine. Dr. Arinola Dada's dedication to patient care, education, research, and impactful speaking engagements make her a respected and invaluable figure in rheumatology.

Dawn Smith

Sabrina Starling, Ph.D., PCC, BCC, The Business Psychologist, is the international bestselling author of How to Hire the Best and The 4 Week Vacation®. A third-generation member of her family impacted by entrepreneurial hustle culture, Dr. Sabrina coaches entrepreneurs to take their lives back from their businesses. She has been on a quest to answer this question: How do you grow a profitable business AND enjoy a good quality of life? Entrepreneurship is in crisis. Nine out of ten entrepreneurs are burning out. Grinding it out is grinding us up! Yet, one out of ten entrepreneurs is thriving, achieving three times the revenue of those burning out. What are they doing differently? This is what Dr. Sabrina reveals through her speaking and teaching. After coaching thousands of entrepreneurs and conducting research with over 700, Dr. Sabrina developed the Tap the Potential Solution. This solution is specifically designed for entrepreneurs with successful, growing businesses to take their lives back from their businesses while the business continues to grow profitably without their daily involvement. Dr. Sabrina is changing the story of entrepreneurship from one of long hours and grinding it out to that of sustainably profitable businesses that support and enhance life. After all, work should support life—not the other way around! Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur.com, and Thrive Global. She is the founder of www.tapthepotential.com and host of the Profit by Design Podcast, globally ranked in the top 5% of most popular shows by Listen Notes. Listed in The Daily Hustle’s Top 50 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2022, Dr. Sabrina is on a mission to send 10,000 entrepreneurs on a 4 Week Vacation® in the next 10 years.

Dr. Sabrina Starling

Sabrina Starling, Ph.D., PCC, BCC, The Business Psychologist, is the international bestselling author of How to Hire the Best and The 4 Week Vacation®. A third-generation member of her family impacted by entrepreneurial hustle culture, Dr. Sabrina coaches entrepreneurs to take their lives back from their businesses. She has been on a quest to answer this question: How do you grow a profitable business AND enjoy a good quality of life? Entrepreneurship is in crisis. Nine out of ten entrepreneurs are burning out. Grinding it out is grinding us up! Yet, one out of ten entrepreneurs is thriving, achieving three times the revenue of those burning out. What are they doing differently? This is what Dr. Sabrina reveals through her speaking and teaching. After coaching thousands of entrepreneurs and conducting research with over 700, Dr. Sabrina developed the Tap the Potential Solution. This solution is specifically designed for entrepreneurs with successful, growing businesses to take their lives back from their businesses while the business continues to grow profitably without their daily involvement. Dr. Sabrina is changing the story of entrepreneurship from one of long hours and grinding it out to that of sustainably profitable businesses that support and enhance life. After all, work should support life—not the other way around! Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur.com, and Thrive Global. She is the founder of www.tapthepotential.com and host of the Profit by Design Podcast, globally ranked in the top 5% of most popular shows by Listen Notes. Listed in The Daily Hustle’s Top 50 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2022, Dr. Sabrina is on a mission to send 10,000 entrepreneurs on a 4 Week Vacation® in the next 10 years.

Heath Butler

Heath Butler is a creative communicator with a passion for improving people and process. His combined experience in Marketing, People Operations, Process Improvement and Change Management has led to impactful contributions to Listerhill Credit Union’s culture of excellence. Heath helps employees adopt key objectives through memorable communication methods, collaboration, and integration. A Prosci Certified Change Practitioner and now 2 time TEDx speaker, Heath has spent the past 9 years at Listerhill Credit Union, currently serving as Director of Change Management. A UNA alumni with a degree in Communications, Heath previously worked in radio, music, and public speaking. His time in music and speaking allowed him to travel the United States and into other parts of the world. He resides in Muscle Shoals with his wonderful family and two dogs.

Justin W. Carter, Ph.D.

Dr. Justin W. Carter is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Alabama, specializing in business strategy, management, and organization development. With a PhD, MBA, and extensive consulting experience, Dr. Carter integrates real-world insights into his teaching and research. He is a published author and frequent conference presenter, known for his practical and engaging approach to education and consulting. https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincarterphd/

Kevin R. Scott

Kevin R. Scott is an ordained pastor, author, and LGBTQ ally with a master’s degree in exegetical theology. For many years, he served as an executive, writer, and speaker for a well-known nonprofit ministry that trains laypeople to provide ongoing care and support for individuals experiencing emotional and spiritual challenges in a safe and confidential way. As the father of an adult transgender person, Kevin now focuses on creating safe spaces for LGBTQ people and their allies to receive emotional and spiritual care. His most recent book, Awakening Faith: A Guide for Loving Those Who Leave the Church, provides guidance to concerned loved ones on how to create safe spaces for those deconstructing their faith. You can connect with Kevin on TikTok: @kevin.r.scott

Natalie Janine Gates

With over a decade of experience, Natalie Janine Gates has become a dynamic and passionate advocate for women’s rights. She has dedicated her career to helping corporate women who feel stuck in the grind land better-paying jobs. As a seasoned speaker, Natalie Janine has addressed numerous events, inspiring thousands of individuals. She believes in creating work environments that foster authenticity, support, and both personal and professional growth. Through her work, Natalie Janine empowers women to take charge of their financial futures and career aspirations. #MoneyIsAGirl’sBestFriend Natalie Janine’s expertise lies in closing the gender pay gap by encouraging women to step out of their comfort zones to pursue their dream jobs. She inspires women to live confidently and freely while fostering a supportive tribe of women helping women. As every woman’s cheerleader, she guides them as they navigate their professional journeys and claim their rightful place at the table. With a strong commitment to gender equality and personal and professional growth, Natalie Janine is a driving force behind countless women’s success stories. Her passion for helping women flourish in the corporate world is both inspiring and transformative.

Steve Arnold

Steve Arnold has been a professional meteorite hunter for over 30 years. As host of Discovery Networks television series Meteorite Men for 3 seasons, Steve has not only found meteorites on 6 continents he has also helped hundreds of other people find meteorites themselves. Steve’s physically resides in Eureka Springs, Arkansas and virtually via his social media links at his website www.FireballSteve.com

Zay Bell

After the loss of her son Xander, Xaviera "Zay" Bell became a passionate advocate for maternal health. She is the creator and founder of two impactful nonprofits, Zeal of Xander, Inc and The Black Birth Institute. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, she is dedicated to addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by black women and families in her Community. Zay holds a Master of Science degree and has also completed specialized training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). In addition to her full spectrum and community-based doula certifications, Zay is also a certified life coach with a focus on Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This combination of skills enables her to provide holistic support, addressing not only the physical aspects of maternal health but also the emotional and mental well-being of her Clients. Zay’s commitment to improving maternal health extends beyond her individual practice. Through Zeal of Xander, Inc, she works tirelessly to empower and uplift women and families, providing resources, education, and support to those in need. Her nonprofit aims to bridge the gaps in access to quality healthcare, advocating for equitable and inclusive maternal health services. As the founder of The Black Birth Institute, Zay is dedicated to addressing the disparities faced by Black women in maternal health outcomes. Through this nonprofit, she strives to provide culturally competent care, education, and advocacy to empower Black women and families throughout their reproductive journey. With her PMADs training, Zay is well-equipped to support individuals and families who may be experiencing perinatal mood disorders. She offers a safe and non-judgmental space for healing, providing guidance and resources to navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise during this vulnerable time. Xaviera "Zay" Bell is honored to serve her community and make a positive impact on the lives of women and families. Through her dedication, expertise, and the nonprofits she has founded, she strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all xindividuals during their maternal health journey.