By Audrey Roden
Introducing TEDxReno Voices on Communication, Confidence, and Human Connection
At the heart of every thriving relationship, whether personal or professional, is the ability to communicate clearly, authentically, and with purpose. In a time when messages move faster than ever and distractions are endless, the power of real human connection has never been more vital.
This week, we’re honored to introduce three more TEDxReno speakers who are helping people across the world communicate more intentionally, connect more deeply, and influence with clarity and heart. From the newsroom to the classroom to the search for love, their work reminds us that meaningful communication is a skill we can all learn to cultivate.
Lynn Smith
Lynn Smith is a nationally recognized media and communication expert who knows what it takes to thrive under pressure. As a former NBC anchor and TODAY Show producer, she’s spent decades mastering the art of presence in high-stakes environments. Now, she coaches Fortune 500 executives and entrepreneurs to become magnetic communicators through her signature Magnetic CODE framework. With a focus on authenticity, confidence, and clarity, Lynn empowers people to speak with impact, building trust, credibility, and influence from the inside out. Connect with Lynn and explore her work here on her website or instagram.
Francesca Hogi
Francesca Hogi is an award-winning love coach, TED speaker, writer, and host of the podcast Dear Franny. With a grounded, no-nonsense approach to modern dating, she helps people build meaningful romantic relationships by starting with the most important one: the relationship with themselves. Her recently released book, How to Find True Love, offers practical tools to navigate connection in a world where swipes, filters, and disconnection often get in the way. Francesca’s work invites us to love with more clarity, intention, and courage. Learn more about Francesca here.
Molly Worthen
Molly Worthen is a historian, journalist, and storyteller whose work reveals how ideas, language, and belief shape the world around us. A professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she holds a BA and PhD from Yale and writes on religion, higher education, and political culture for publications like The New York Times. Her upcoming book, Spellbound (2025), explores charisma as a powerful force throughout American history from Puritan preachers to modern political leaders. Through her writing, teaching, and multimedia courses, Molly challenges us to understand not just what we say but why it resonates. Learn more about Molly and her work through her bio.
Clifford Porter
Clifford Porter is a musician, performer, and storyteller who has been using rhythm to communicate since he could hold a drumstick. With roots in gospel and soul, Clifford began drumming at the age of four and singing at seventeen, following in the footsteps of his father, a gospel singer. He’s toured nationally, opened for major acts, and served as musical director for Showstoppers Live. For the last 15 years, he’s been the drummer and lead vocalist of Reno’s beloved touring band Jelly Bread. His TEDxReno talk explores how music transcends language and culture to connect us, heal us, and move us in ways words often can’t. Connect with Clifford on his LinkedIn.
These speakers each offer a fresh, powerful perspective on how we express ourselves and connect with others. Whether you’re trying to lead with more confidence, deepen your personal relationships, or better understand the narratives that shape our culture, their talks will leave you reflecting and ready to act.
This isn’t just about better conversations. It’s about building trust, navigating complexity, and showing up in our lives with greater purpose.
Mark Your Calendar
Join us on September 20 at the Lawlor Events Center for TEDxReno 2025. With a lineup of remarkable speakers, powerful ideas, and a community of curious, courageous minds. This is more than an event, it’s a movement. Be apart of it today and get your tickets here today.
We’re deeply grateful to PBS Reno and Star Sound Audio for their continued partnership. Their support helps bring our events to life—on stage, behind the scenes, and across our community. TEDxReno wouldn’t be possible without their commitment to elevating local voices and meaningful conversations. Reserve your seat today. Be part of the conversation that matters.
