By: Audrey Roden
Where Ideas Ignite
Since its founding in 2013, TEDxReno has grown from a modest gathering into one of Northern Nevada’s most anticipated events—where ideas ignite, stories move us, and a community comes together to listen and grow.
What started on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno has evolved into a region-wide movement, bringing people from every background into the same room to share in something real, thoughtful, and forward-looking.
As part of the global TEDx network, TEDxReno is grounded in the TED mission: to discover and share ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility and catalyze impact because ideas change everything.
While TED’s main stage is known for hosting world-renowned scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs, TEDx events are independently organized and locally rooted—spotlighting voices that reflect the fabric of each community.
Our TEDxReno speaker curation team looks for the best speakers, not only locally but all over the country. They look for people who will step into the spotlight to offer something bold, insightful and true.
And now, we’re turning the page to 2025.
On September 20, we return to the Lawlor Events Center for what promises to be one of our most ambitious events yet. The TEDxReno team has been hard at work curating a lineup that reflects both the diversity of thought and the depth of spirit that defines this city. From groundbreaking scientists to creative thinkers, from advocates for justice to those who’ve turned personal trials into public inspiration—this year’s speakers will invite us to stretch our thinking and engage more deeply with the world around us.
Our Speakers
Among this year’s speakers, we connected through the themes of their talks. These first four speakers all represent resilience, courage and transformation. This grouping highlights individuals who are exploring what it means to overcome adversity, grow through challenge, and unlock human potential. Their stories reflect the strength, vulnerability, and personal evolution that continue to resonate deeply with TEDxReno audiences. Before you see them live, take a closer look at who they are and what they stand for by following the provided links to the speakers’ websites and socials.
Jill Schulman
Former U.S. Marine, Jill helps people do hard stuff. She is the founder of Breakthrough Leadership Group, where she blends evidence-based strategies with real-world grit. Her book, The Science of Bravery, reveals how to strengthen bravery like a muscle through mindset shifts, bold action, and powerful relationships. Here’s her website and you can find links to all her social channels there.
Clayton Smith
Clayton is a former US Army Infantry Captain and Ranger qualified Paratrooper. He was awarded a Purple Heart due to injuries received during a complex urban ambush in Gardez, Paktia. He has pioneered a groundbreaking veterans’ program at Beond, leveraging ibogaine to heal trauma and addiction. His website tells about the program and his social channels are there.
Candace Payne
Candace Payne turned a simple, joyful laugh into a platform for authenticity, resilience, and purpose. Whether through viral video, media appearances, her books, or live talks, she invites us all to live with more openness, more laughter, and more defiant joy in everyday life. You can follow Candace on instagram.
Kyle Karrasch
Kyle is an inspirational artist. He is the Galleries Curator at Truckee Meadows Community College and teaches at both the University of Nevada, Reno, and Truckee Meadows Community College. You can follow him on Instagram.
Our speakers are artists and engineers, activists and entrepreneurs, visionaries and everyday voices with extraordinary insight. They’ll step into the spotlight to share ideas that provoke, inspire, challenge, and connect. Whether you’re passionate about innovation, human connection, or pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—this is a lineup you won’t want to miss.
A Shared Experience
Of course, TEDxReno has always been more than a single day event, it’s a shared experience. A celebration of human potential. A space to ask better questions and imagine better futures. When you take a seat in that audience, you’re not just watching—you’re participating. You’re lending your curiosity, your attention, and your energy to something that can ripple far beyond that room.
Whether you’ve joined us before or this is your first time, know that you’re stepping into something special. Something thoughtful. Something alive. We can’t wait to welcome you.
A Partner We Love
We couldn’t put on TEDxReno without DreamPilot Films. We are delighted to partner with them for the second year. You can follow them and show them some love on Instagram.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets for TEDxReno 2025 are officially on sale, and we’d love for you to be part of it. You can grab yours here.
