Ideas Worth Spreading

When I reflect back on September 28, 2023, it will start with the words, Best. Day. Ever. Because on this very day, I was part of the 15th TEDxDetroit experience and stepped on to the big red dot to share my ideas worth spreading to challenge our Metro Detroit community to be a part of the solution.

This isn't my first TEDx experience, but the first one in the Motor City. This - is my community. These are my people, and those that help make this event happen are those individuals who are inspiring and leading the right kind of needed change. It has been a bucket list item, to take this humbled stage which I have sat in the audience and experienced before. It is now a family affair as my youngest son interns with the best photographers and creatives as part of the photography team. But this year was different. I was selected to be an igniter of change in the community and my mentor, Lee Meadows, who helped me find my "voice" was too! To share this moment with the person who helped get me to this moment. #Priceless.

Someone once told me there are two types of TEDx speakers - those who want to use this moment for their own professional brag (e.g. get the video with the sole purpose of selling themselves or promoting themselves) and those who speak for the sole purpose of inspiring or sharing ideas to make a difference. I am of the latter. If we can connect and ignite one person that is inspired to take your call to action or use that message to better themselves (or someone else) - we are all better because of it. It's not about the number of views, followers or likes - it is about the message. And my 7 minutes and 55 seconds spent on that red dot rank up there as being pretty freaking awesome and ones I will never take for granted and will forever appreciate. I describe them as being perfectly imperfect!

I believe in Detroit. I believe this city, the area surrounding it is rising because of the people within it. The fact that this event celebrates and provides a platform for local business, technology, entertainers and ideas is why this event is so special.

Charlie Wollborg, the curator and one of many individuals that volunteer to make this event happen, do so because like me - they believe in our community and that the more we spread ideas, the better Detroit is for all of us. So for me, taking the stage wasn't about me, it was my moment to be that spark that reminds all of us of the amazing opportunity we have to make a difference and be part of the solution.

Events like this, a non-profit cannot happen without the support of the entire community. I challenge everyone to help support/sponsor a local TEDx event in your area - and if you are in Metro Detroit specifically this one. Visit the local entrepreneurs and inventors in the marketplace and tech expo. T. DAY. EVER for me and everyone else in the room. YOU are the reason #IdeasWorthSpreading happens!

Thank you go everyone who cheered, supported me and celebrated my moment - I see you and celebrate you all being part of this amazing journey.