Submitting a Pitch

SUbmit pitch here

Do you have have a compelling idea to propose for our TEDxMarshallU “Inspired Independence” event on March 6, 2026?

  • Our Theme: This year’s theme explores the power of independence, what it means to think freely, act boldly, and rise above the status quo with a vision for something greater. Inspired Independence is rooted in strength, leadership, ingenuity, and bravery, celebrating the many paths people take to claim their freedom, whether through triumph, struggle, or a single transformative moment. TEDxMarshallU invites speakers to the red circle to share stories that spark new ideas and empower others to pursue their own journey. From financial freedom to personal growth, from the lessons of failure, defeat, and loss to the courage of quiet voices, we aim to ignite conversations that move us all toward a future shaped by more voices, more ideas and possibilities, and more Inspired Independence.  
  • What We’re Looking For: We’re looking for individuals with unique and compelling ideas and outlooks related to our theme. As you consider pitching a talk idea, think of Inspired Independence. How do you see independence shaping ideas, actions, or change in the world around us? When you think about this theme, what stories, experiences, or perspectives come to mind? We are looking for speakers who can bring their own interpretation of independence to the stage and inspire others through it.​
  • Please watch this TED talk by Chris Anderson to help you conceptualize your idea and make it worth sharing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FOCpMAww28 
  • Please also consider watching videos from the following lists:
  • Recording and Submitting your Pitch: 
  • Please record yourself giving a pitch for your idea related to our “Inspired Independence” theme. Your pitch (maximum 3 minutes) should include:
    • 30 seconds introducing yourself
    • 1 minute describing your idea and how it relates to our theme
    • 1 minute sharing a story or experience that illustrates your idea
    • 30 seconds explaining how you think the world would look if everyone implemented your idea.
  • Upload your pitch as an unlisted video on YouTube and share it along with your contact information in the form below by  Friday October 31, 2025. All entries must be original work and include no copyrighted material or content that can be found elsewhere online.

IMPORTANT: If your primary motivation in giving a TEDx talk is to promote yourself or your business or brand, we ask you to reconsider submitting your idea, as we virtually never select speakers who approach us with that focus. Thank you for your understanding.
Ideas That Have Little (or no) Chance of Being Accepted:

  • Focused on self-promotion and/or advancing the speaker’s business success
  • Stories that are primarily the description of a personal journey
  • Motivational speeches
  • Predominantly present the work of someone else, and not the presenter
  • Pseudo-science

If you have any questions please email Brian Kinghorn at Kinghorn@marshall.edu

SUbmit pitch here