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).

GCU Arena Grand Canyon University
3300 West Camelback Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona, 85017
United States

Brian Gubernick

Real Estate Entrepreneur, Speaker & Podcast Host

Brian Gubernick is a real estate entrepreneur, investor, and business strategist with over 20 years of experience building top-performing teams and advising high-level leaders. As the founder of several successful ventures, he is also a passionate speaker and coach who believes that time—not money—is our most valuable asset. Known for his direct and energizing delivery, Brian helps individuals rethink how they use their time, encouraging intentional living, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to purpose-driven action.

Dr. Colleen Kelley

Chemistry Educator and Creator of the Molecular Literacy Movement

Dr. Colleen Kelley is a retired chemistry professor turned storyteller and the creator of a comic book series designed to make chemistry fun, relatable, and unforgettable for kids and learners of all ages. With over 25 years of experience in chemical education, her mission is to build Molecular Literacy—a foundation of chemistry understanding for everyone, starting young. As the founder of a curriculum that blends science with imagination, Dr. Kelley believes chemistry should be as engaging as storytime. Whether through animated characters like Poppi and Ray or songs about Sweet Calcium, her approach bridges science and play to foster curiosity, confidence, and connection in the next generation of learners.

Lydia Walker

Singer/Songwriter and Worship Leader

Lydia Walker is a worship leader, speaker, and member of the music collective LO Worship, where she leads others in faith through powerful storytelling and music. Beyond the stage, Lydia is passionate about helping others discover healing through vulnerability and connection. Having worked closely with young adults in ministry and leadership, Lydia draws from personal experience to speak on identity, emotional freedom, and the power of being truly known.

Madison Paige

Small Business Growth Strategist and Entrepreneur

Madison Paige is a business growth strategist and host of a top 2% globally ranked podcast. With over eight years of experience, she has guided more than 500 entrepreneurs in transforming their product-based businesses into standout brands. Madison is the founder of Madison Paige & Co., where she champions the "Freepreneur" lifestyle—emphasizing sustainable growth, community-driven marketing, and personal freedom over relentless hustle. Her entrepreneurial journey began early, managing her family's adventure resort by age 17. After facing the unexpected loss of that business, Madison redefined success on her own terms. Today, she empowers founders to build scalable, freedom-filled businesses through strategic advisory, digital programs, and her widely acclaimed podcast. When she's not advising clients, Madison travels the country in a converted mini school bus, embodying the freedom-focused lifestyle she advocates.

Michael Vilardo

Co-Founder and CEO of Subject

Michael Vilardo is the co-founder and CEO of Subject, a digital education platform transforming the way students engage with learning. Recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for education, Michael leads a team that has built over 100 accredited, cinematic high school courses—impacting thousands of students nationwide. With an MBA from UCLA Anderson and a seat on its Board of Directors, Michael combines a deep love for storytelling, innovation, and technology. His mission is to make education as compelling and accessible as the digital platforms students already use and love. Through Subject, he’s redefining what modern classrooms can look like—and showing how we can fall in love with learning all over again.

Nicole Christie

Writer, Podcast Host & Communication Strategist

Nicole Christie is a writer, podcaster, and communication strategist passionate about the power of storytelling to heal and transform. As the founder of Tulla Productions, she helps brands connect with audiences through compelling audio, visual, and written content. With over a decade of experience—including 10 years at Microsoft—she’s crafted speeches, scripts, and editorial strategies that bring stories to life. A survivor of complex trauma, Nicole now empowers others to reclaim their narratives through her podcast Here For Me and through speaking engagements that champion emotional healing and purpose-driven living.

Peyton Christenson

Storyteller and Advocate for Human Connection

Peyton Christenson is a Finance and Economics senior at GCU, and more importantly, a passionate advocate for reviving letter writing as a powerful and personal form of communication. What began as childhood weekends spent crafting cards with her grandma has grown into a lifelong love for putting pen to paper and spreading joy through the mail. Drawing from personal experiences, global pen pal connections, and historical examples, Peyton’s mission is to inspire others—especially in her generation—to embrace thoughtful, handwritten expression. She believes letter writing can reconnect us in ways that digital communication never could.

Trevor Cowley

Entrepreneur and CEO of Real Business Owners

Trevor Cowley is a serial entrepreneur, podcast host, and personal transformation advocate. After overcoming years of drug addiction and destructive habits, he committed to rebuilding his life through intentional action and relentless self-discipline. Today, he runs multiple successful businesses and shares his journey to help others rewrite their own stories. Trevor is the co-host of the “Real Business Owners” podcast and has inspired thousands by sharing his journey of radical growth—whether it’s running 37 miles on his 37th birthday, or setting his sights on a world record. His mission is to prove that even the most broken threads can be rewoven into something extraordinary.