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).

Rowling Hall: Crum Auditorium
300 West Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard
Austin, Texas, 78705
United States

Dr. Kevin Neal

Leadership Coach & Author

Dr. Kevin D. Neal, an Amazon best-selling author, speaker, and Maxwell-certified leadership coach, is not just another voice in the crowd. Kevin has served in leadership positions for over 30 years in the military, public safety, fortune 500 companies, and the faith-based community. His unique perspective on leadership and self-growth, coupled with his powerful speaking, training, and coaching engagements, creates thriving individuals and winning teams. With his dynamic and impactful delivery, Kevin inspires his audiences to connect with their imagination and purpose to utilize their unique strengths and grow as leaders, communicators, and individuals. Kevin is the founder and CEO of Building Bridges 2 Better, a leadership coaching, training, and development company. "We are building bridges to better leadership, better teams, and a better you." As a highly regarded thought leader, he is well-loved for his authenticity and unique approach.

Dr. LaKesa Bradford-Mitchell

College Academic Dean & Author

Dr. LaKesa Bradford-Mitchell has dedicated over 30 years in educational systems, including 17 transformative years as a school principal in both public and parochial schools. Throughout her career, LaKesa has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to enriching the lives of the students on her campus and the broader community. Dr. LaKesa has inspired countless youth to see education as a pathway out of poverty, instilling in them the confidence and skills needed to achieve their dreams. Her impact extends beyond the classroom, as she also empowers adults through educational initiatives, such as homeownership workshops, helping them build a stable and prosperous future.

Dr. Michelle Machado

Educational Leader

Dr. Michelle Machado is a global leader in education, mindset development, and innovative learning. With over 15 years of experience across Australia, Hong Kong, the UK, and Canada, she is passionate about addressing the growing disconnection in society and equipping students with essential human skills for an AI-driven world. A certified NeuroChangeSolutions (NCS) Consultant with a PhD and MBA, Michelle blends neuroscience, resilience, and leadership to inspire transformative conversations about AI, mental health, and the evolving needs of education.

Jason Carroll

Leadership Strategist

JASON P. CARROLL is a leadership strategist and trusted advisor to businesses navigating growth and change. He’s the founder and CEO of Aptive Index, a company revolutionizing hiring and leadership practices with advanced psychometric assessments and strategic advisory services. Jason has guided leaders and organizations to achieve transformative results, including scaling Champion National Security from $24 million to $80 million. A Certified Executive Coach and Dare to Lead™ Facilitator trained by Dr. Brené Brown, Jason is deeply committed to personal development and building inclusive, high-performing organizations. His work reflects a people-first approach, integrating innovative tools and compassionate leadership to align talent with organizational goals. Guided by core values of courage and generosity, Jason’s vision is to empower leaders to create workplaces where collaboration and resilience thrive.

Marcela Andrés

President and CEO

Marcela Andrés is the President and CEO of designEDengagement, PBC, a Latina-owned education consulting firm, and author of Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students. With over a decade of experience in education, Marcela specializes in fostering partnerships among families, educators, and communities to support student success. She has led transformative initiatives nationwide, designing culturally responsive programs and advancing family engagement practices that improve student outcomes. Before founding designEDengagement, Marcela spearheaded a statewide family engagement principal fellowship in Texas and supported the opening of four schools, serving over 1,800 students. A proud daughter of Cuban and Mexican immigrants, Marcela holds a BBA in Finance from Saint Edward’s University and a Master’s in Education from Harvard.

Nick Marmolejo

Head of Strategy

Nick is a leading education transformation expert, paving the road for purpose-driven learning. His mission is to create the largest collective of purpose-driven educators in the world so we can bridge the gaps between school and work. He is an award-winning educator who is called upon by superintendents and workforce development directors to speak on mental health, career readiness, and school turnaround. His upcoming children's book, 'Where’s My Compass' is a must-have for educators and parents. You’re unlikely to find anyone more passionate about setting others up for success in life and career. As Head of Strategy for a media company, he helps connect subject matter experts with local and national journalists.