My First TEDx Talk: Why Education Needs Entrepreneurs

This post was originally published on Medium.

A little over three months ago, I traveled to Los Angeles to present my very first TEDx Talk. The theme for this particular TEDx series was called “360 Degrees: Learning From Every Angle.” Given my background as a public and charter school teacher, education researcher, edtech founder, and education innovation advisor, I had seen this industry we call “education” from a variety of angles. And at this point, I felt I had an idea worth spreading. 

The first few minutes of the video were cut out, but as you'll see below, I’ve inserted the words I shared that day with the audience. I hope you enjoy it…

I’ve dreamed about giving a TED Talk for a long time now. I’ve been watching TED talks for years and can reference them as clear examples in my life when my curiosity was sparked, my thirst for knowledge was quenched, and my entire being was enlightened. I imagined that when I got my chance to get up on this stage, that I’d be ready. What I’ve been wanting to say?—?actually what I’ve been needing to say?—?it would just be there; eager to be heard.

But that didn’t happen. When I sat down to think about what I could share with you all today, what I could say to you that you didn’t already know? What would leave you feeling inspired and enlightened and ready to take action? That?—?that didn’t just come to me. It’s like that moment when you actually get what you’ve been asking for?—?sometimes you just freeze; not sure you can live up to the vision you had for yourself.

But fortunately for you, and fortunately for me, I finally got my stuff together. I am ready to step into this light and share with you some things I want to say?—?some things I want to share from my heart.

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