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TEDxOMAHA 2024: CONNECTIONS

CONNECTIONS

Embark on a transformative journey with us as we delve into the heart of human experience and explore the power of CONNECTIONS!


Hear passionate throught-leaders, innovators and visionaries from diverse fields, share how connections shape our lives, and challenge us to be part of the connective conversation. Connection is organic, it requires action and intention, and the synergy that evolves can be dramatic or incrementally subtle. We all have a part to play.


Join us on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Creighton University's Heider College of Business, Mike and Jose Harper Center, Lied Auditorium.


Doors open at 5:15, event starts at 6 p.m.


Click here to purchase tickets

CONNECTIONS

2024 TEDxOMAHA SPEAKERS

Janelle Hill


Janelle Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Refuge Mental Health Services. She serves on the executive board of The Army of Survivors. An organization committed to bringing awareness, accountability, and transparency to sexual violence against athletes at all levels. Janelle is passionate about helping other survivors find their voice and live healthy, meaningful lives. She is committed to increasing awareness regarding the prevalence of sexual abuse and is passionate about shifting the culture of sports to one that is trauma-informed and athlete-centered. Janelle currently serves her local community by providing courses to survivors of sexual abuse and advocating through the form of spoken word poetry. Listeners have described her as an artist that says the words everyone is thinking, but too afraid to speak. Janelle is dedicated to daily inspire, empower, motivate, and lead others along their healing journey through compassion, authenticity, and positivity. 

Come see my TED talk!


Joshua Berry


“How Your Language Fuels AI and Our Future”

Do you want to be someone's prospect, target or capital? Our words shape the world we live in—and in the age of AI, they have ripple effects beyond our grasp. This talk explores the power of conscious language, how AI mirrors our communication, and why choosing our words wisely can create a more connected, human-centered world.


Joshua Berry is a world-class facilitator of change. As an author, speaker, entrepreneur, and director of Econic, Joshua has spent the last two decades evolving the what, who, and why of Fortune 500 companies and venture-backed startups.

Come see my TED talk!

Tyler White


Dr. Tyler R. White is a Professor of Practice and the Faculty Director of the University Honors Program at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL). He also serves as the faculty lead for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) Intelligence Community Center of Academic Excellence (IC CAE) at UNL.


Dr. White earned his PhD in political science from UNL in 2010, and his research focuses on national security topics, including intelligence studies, U.S. nuclear policy, U.S. foreign policy, and deterrence. He has played a significant role in curriculum development at UNL, creating the National Security Studies (NSST) minor, along with its core introductory and capstone courses.


In addition to his academic work, Dr. White has organized numerous conferences both on and off campus, collaborating closely with external partners in the Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense. He has received several prestigious teaching awards, including the 2018 International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) Instructor of the Year. His scholarly contributions include co-authoring the book *State Responses to Human Security: At Home and Abroad* with Courtney Hillebrecht and Patrice C. McMahon, and publishing articles on educational practices, deterrence, and the environmental impacts of nuclear release.


In his current role with the University Honors Program, Dr. White focuses on curriculum development, coordinating and mentoring Honors faculty, facilitating undergraduate programming, and engaging with stakeholders across departments and colleges.


Outside of work, Dr. White enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and SCUBA diving.

Come see my TED talk!

Darci Gamerl


Find Yourself & Embrace Your True Calling

Darci shares how, at the lowest point in her life, she overcame adversity to find herself & embrace her true calling...and how you can overcome adversity and find true happiness & fulfillment.


A musician of great sensitivity and dynamic stage presence” -Duluth News Tribune, oboist Darci Griffith Gamerl's groundbreaking, collaborative work has taken her to stages around the world. As a frequent guest artist & soloist, she premiered ‘Courageous Lights' for English horn & orchestra by Dr. James Lee III in Augusta, Georgia.


Darci founded Bel Canto Duo with cellist David Downing. Past commissions by The National Willa Cather Center & Gallery 1516 have bolstered their reputation as impactful, soul-moving, evolutionary artists. Their most recent project scoring the documentary, Willa Cather: Breaking the Mold received critical acclaim. The pair received Outstanding New Artist by the Omaha Entertainment Awards (2023) with a nomination for Album of the Year.


Ms. Gamerl has been recognized by The American Prize for her compositions & chamber music artistry. As a speaker/presenting artist, her talks center around ethical business & crafting a career in classical music. 


Come see my TED talk!

Arthur Fratelli-Silknitter


In Arthur Fratelli’s TEDx talk, learning a new skill becomes a modern-day hero’s journey. It’s not just about mastering a task—it’s about rewiring the brain, silencing the inner critic, and unlocking deeper levels of self-expression, confidence, and connection. Arthur reveals how "meditation in motion" turns skill-building into a powerful process of focus, failure, and flow, where momentum is born from the very act of moving forward.

Through engaging stories and practical examples, Arthur shows rather than tells how embracing any discipline pushes you beyond your limits and develops the ability to learn how to learn. From archery to yo-yos, embracing the struggle leads to breakthroughs that allow you to live fully in the only moment that truly matters—the now.


Arthur Fratelli is a professional hypnotist, magician, and mentalist. Blending skill-building with entertainment, he creates dynamic experiences that showcase the brain-body connection. Arthur has performed across the country, demonstrating how we can unlock our potential and bring AMAZINGNESS into our lives.

Come see my TED talk!

Anthony Gould


Friends and Associates

Anthony Gould, a published author has inspired countless people to break through their own barriers and live their best lives. He believes that by committing to personal growth, we can all unlock our potential and achieve our dreams.

Come see my TED talk!

David Joel Thomas


The Art and Science of Connections

David Joel Thomas is an Assistant Professor and Program Director of Creative Arts at Bellevue University. His dual training as a philosopher (MA, DePaul University) and artist (MFA, School of the Art Institute of Chicago) reflects his commitment to bridging the gap between critical research and creative synthesis.

Come see my TED talk!

Kelli Thompson


Want to fulfill your leadership potential? Stop putting others on a pedestal

Have you ever been silenced by the opinions of others? I have. I’d come to meetings with ideas only to quiet them and default to the highest paid person in the room. This experience taught me about the "pedestal problem" - the tendency to put others on a pedestal, thinking they must know best, and thus, underestimate our own abilities. In my career, I've seen this problem hinder countless leaders, preventing them from sharing their unique ideas and making a real impact. To break free from this cycle, we must stop overestimating others and underestimating ourselves. By reconnecting with our own values, recognizing our unique talents, and envisioning our desired future, we can become more confident, impactful leaders.


Kelli Thompson is an award-winning executive coach, speaker, and author of Closing The Confidence Gap. She has coached thousands of women to lead confidently and is the founder of Clarity & Confidence® Women's Leadership Programs. Her insights are featured in many media outlets including the Harvard Business Review, Business Insider, and Fast Company.

Come see my TED talk!

Roger Firestien


Come see my TED talk!

Joe Runge


Joe Runge is a patent lawyer, scientist, professor, and innovation expert. A co-founder of UNMC’s UNeTech Institute, his team supports entrepreneurs, cultivates community, and fosters university innovation. A graduate of Creighton and Iowa, Joe’s career uniquely embodies both law and science. Joe enjoys running, cooking, and parenting 1.85 teenagers.

Come see my TED talk!

Will Morales


"Finding the gifts in the suffering"

This powerful TED talk speaks to everyone who has faced hardship (which, let's be honest, is all of us). Join Will Morales on a journey that reveals our immense strength when we embrace the interconnectedness of our human experiences. Through vulnerability and shared stories, we discover that we’re not alone in our struggles.

Don’t miss this chance to explore how to transform suffering into a source of strength and connection!EDTalk


Will Morales is a Certified Personal Trainer and Physical Therapist Assistant. Will is also a Mobility Specialist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, Certified Body Tempering Specialist, Certified Kinstretch Instructor, Stanford- Certified Lymphedema Specialist, and Pre natal and post partum training certified instructor. His appetite for knowledge is voracious. He loves his family, kettlebells, BJJ and deep conversations.

Come see my TED talk!

NOV 2024 SALON: How to have the right words, and what to do when you don't

NOV 2024 SALON: How to have the right words, and what to do when you don't

NOVEMBER 2024 SALON:

How to have the right words, and what to do when you don't

Our next SALON EVENT is Thursday, Nov. 7th at 6:00 p.m.

  • Join us at KANEKO as Dr. Jill Bruckner invites us to discover the magic of the pause in conversation and find the courage to embrace words that work. Whether you are feeling awkward, uncertain or just plain spooked, this experience will empower you to communicate with confidence and grace.

TEDxOMAHA Salons return to KANEKO for a regular Monthly Salon, starting at 6:00 PM.


Discover the magic of the pause in conversation, the enchantment well-chosen words and the courage to embrace words that work. Whether you are feeling awkward, uncertain or just plain spooked, this experience will empower you to communicate with confidence and grace.


Join us at 
KANEKO on Thursday, Nov. 7th at 6:00 p.m. as 2023 main event TEDx Omaha speaker Dr. Jill Bruckner invites us to discover the magic of the pause in conversation.


KANEKO is located at 1111 Jones Street in Downtown Omaha. 


PARKING: There are a few metered spots alongside the building on Jones Street. It is recommended that you park at the garage on 10th & Jackson Street.


Click here to purchase tickets

UPCOMING SALON EVENTS


UPCOMING SALON EVENTS

2024 TEDX OMAHA MAIN EVENT


OUR 2024 THEME:

Unveiling the Power of Connections

  • Embark on a transformative journey with us as we delve into the heart of human experience through our theme: "Connections."
  • We invite passionate thought-leaders, innovators, and visionaries from diverse fields to illuminate the stage at TEDxOMAHA 2024.

Whether you're a technologist unraveling the intricacies of digital networks, a scientist exploring the delicate ecosystems shaping our world, an artist pushing the boundaries of creative expression, a psychologist delving into the complexities of human relationships, or a business leader driving innovation through meaningful connections – your perspective matters.


This is your opportunity to share insights that transcend disciplines, to inspire and provoke thought on the profound impact connections have on our lives. If you have a compelling story, groundbreaking idea, or a unique perspective on the theme of connections, we want to hear from you.


Shaping the narrative of connections and contributing to an deep exploration of the threads that bind us all. Let your voice be the catalyst for change and connection. The stage is set – will you be part of the conversation?


Speakers have been selected for 2024

SOCIAL MEDIA FEEDS

Our Mission: Spread ideas

TED is a global community, welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and, ultimately, the world. On TED.com, we're building a clearinghouse of free knowledge from the world's most inspired thinkers — and a community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other, both online and at TED and TEDx events around the world, all year long.


TEDxOmaha is an independently organized TED event. As a part of the global TED community, we connect locally to explore the ideas and situations that affect our cultures, environments, and minds.

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