Theme: Adventures into the Unknown

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).

The City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College
Leek Road
Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 2RU
United Kingdom

Ben Cardall

Deductionist

With more than 20 years of experience in human behaviour, including a decade consulting for elite security professionals, Ben brings a unique understanding of what truly works. A former bouncer and mentalism performer, he combines real-world insight with a deep knowledge of human nature.

Carol Shanahan OBE

Entrepreneur and Port Vale FC Chair

Carol began her career as the first female computer operator in a major IT company, later co-founding a successful IT business employing 360 staff and turning over £25 million. Now Chair of Port Vale Football Club and a dedicated community champion, she is a trustee of both Port Vale Foundation and EFL in the Community, and was awarded an OBE in 2021 for her services to Stoke-on-Trent.

Commander Nathan Gray

Pilot, author, aviation consultant

Commander Nathan Gray was the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm’s Top Gun, with over 30 years’ experience as a fighter pilot and instructor, flying more than 140 combat missions. Raised in Stoke-on-Trent, he became a test pilot for the cutting-edge F35 fighter and earned the coveted Royal Marines green beret during his military career.

Daniel Haynes

Technical Specialist, University of Staffordshire

Daniel is a Technical Specialist for the Virtual Production Studio at University of Staffordshire, where he brings the future of filmmaking to life. Blending the artistry of traditional production with the power of real-time visual effects and immersive virtual environments, he introduces staff and students to one of the most transformative technologies in film and TV.

Dr Emma Fallows

Games Art Lecturer, University of Staffordshire

Dr Emma Fallows is a Games Art Lecturer at University of Staffordshire, a Women in Games Ambassador, and a recent PhD graduate in Games and Visual Effects. Her research focused on Virtual Reality and Haptics, creating an innovative interactive museum experience to enhance ceramic displays.

Emily Johnson

Co-founder, 1882 Ltd

Emily is the fifth generation of the Johnson Brothers pottery family and now leads 1882 Ltd., a contemporary ceramics company blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. After a career in advertising and a return to design through a master’s in Architectural Interior Design, she now works with a team of skilled potters to create everything from everyday ceramics to bold works of art.

Levison Wood

Explorer, writer, photographer

An author of 12 books and presenter of nine internationally broadcast documentaries, Levison is also Chancellor of University of Staffordshire. A former British Army officer who served in Afghanistan, he has walked the length of the Nile, the Himalayas, and Central America, and is a Fellow of both the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society.

Mark 'Jonah' Jones

Entrepreneur and former professional footballer

A former Stoke City footballer and now owner of a performance improvement management consultancy, Mark draws on his own experiences to explore the psychological challenges athletes face when their careers end. His talk delves into the pressures of transition, identity loss, and the support needed to navigate life beyond professional sport.