TEDx always seemed like something “other people” did. You know native English speakers, perfectly polished professionals, people with huge platforms and bestselling books. Not someone like me, preparing a talk in my third language.
But something about Taylor Conroy’s Leadr.co program made me curious. Could I really get on a TEDx stage? Would anyone care about my idea?
I wasn’t sure, but I decided to find out. Here’s what happened.
One Coach Made the Difference
From the beginning, I realized I needed a structure that worked for me. Group sessions were good, but for me, working one-on-one with a coach helped the most. It allowed me to build confidence at my own pace.
What surprised me was how helpful the practice sessions were, even just observing. Listening to other people share their ideas, hearing their delivery styles, and seeing how the coaches guided them gave me so many insights. It wasn’t just about the feedback—they inspired me to believe, maybe I can do this too.
Know Why You’re Doing This
This is important: if you don’t have a clear reason for why you’re pursuing a TEDx talk, it’s easy to quit.
I saw that firsthand. After 10, maybe 15 applications with no responses, I started to feel discouraged. But I reminded myself: this is about impact. I wasn’t doing this to check a box. I wanted to share something that could move people, that could matter.
If you hold onto that why, it helps you push through the setbacks.
Doubting My Idea—Until I Didn’t
There was a moment when I finally sent my idea to a TEDx organizer. I wasn’t confident. I thought, Maybe it’s not good enough. Maybe no one will care.
But she responded quickly: “This is perfect. I love it.”
Even then, part of me still doubted. But that response gave me something I hadn’t felt in a long time: belief.
If I Can Do This, So Can You
I don’t come from a speaking background. English isn’t even my second language. It’s my third. And yet, I got the yes. I landed the TEDx talk.
This experience didn’t just help me develop a talk. It helped me develop trust in my voice, in my story, and in my ability to stand up and speak.
If you’re on the fence, I’d say this: believe in your message even before it’s perfect. You don’t need to be the loudest or the most polished. You just need to be committed.
That’s what will carry you through.
The journey to TEDx taught me that it’s not about being the most polished or popular person in the room. It’s about being real, being ready, and being relentless with your message. I didn’t start out with perfect English or a huge platform—but I had a story worth telling and the courage to keep going. That was enough. TEDx became more than a stage. It became proof that ideas, when rooted in purpose, can find their way to the spotlight. If this speaks to you, then maybe it’s your turn. Someone out there is waiting to hear your idea.
Thought-Leader LLC is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by TED Conferences, LLC or any of its affiliates.