Theme: "Past, Present, and Future Appalachians"

Our event aims to highlight real stories and passions of individuals who have lived, currently reside, or plan on relocating to the Appalachian Highlands. These speakers will encourage residents to be loud and proud of who they are, where they come from, what they stand for, and why we all have called this region home at one point or another.

In a region boasting of humility and resiliency, hear from residents who tell their diverse and unique stories - not just about what it means to be “Appalachian", but what sets their souls on fire.

Be prepared for enlightening talks from individuals who have all been shaped by Appalachia about a variety of topics that inspire, encourage, and ignite them. Speakers will share what sparks their curiosity or interest, what gets them out of bed in the morning, and what keeps them up at night...

At TEDxJohnsonCity, it's about what drives us.

ETSU Martin Center for the Arts
1320 W State of Franklin Rd
Johnson City, Tennessee, 37614
United States

Amber Kinser

Communication Expert, Consultant, and Coach

I am a communication professor and ombudsperson at ETSU. I am a professional consultant in the areas of conflict resolution, interpersonal communication, and difficult dialogues. Drawing from 25 years of leadership experience and certified coaching credentials, I provide 1:1 executive and leadership coaching for higher ed and other professionals. In coaching people struggling with impostor syndrome, I help to rewire mindset and interrupt self-defeating thought patterns. I am passionate about helping individuals and organizations communicate effectively, resolve conflicts constructively, and achieve goals collaboratively.

Jonathan Fields

Advocate for creatives to do their most impactful work; Account Manager at Ripl Creative

I'm not your typical suit-and-tie marketer. What drives me goes far beyond strategies and tactics. It’s telling the story of the individual and the unbreakable spirit of community that I’ve found woven into the Appalachian fabric. I have witnessed firsthand the unique effect of relationships that rises above mere networking. It's the local shop owner who remembers your name, the friend that cares enough to tell you the hard truth because they want the best for you. It’s the power of the relationship. Relationships are a cultural cornerstone, not just a professional advantage. But in a world increasingly focused on individualism, this vital aspect of Appalachian life risks fading. I want to help you reimagine the power of "who you know," is not as a mere contact, but a connection that can build up you and your community.

Jordan Bailey

Photographer. Creative Conceptor. 40 Under 40 Awardee. Weirdough microbakery owner.

As a Senior Creative Producer at Cumberland Marketing, I help clients create stories and visuals that drive excitement and growth for their brands. I have over six years of experience in producing, directing, and editing various digital media projects, ranging from web series and podcasts to mini documentaries and social media campaigns. I am passionate about marrying messaging with art, and using my 15+ years of experience and skills in photography, digital photography, and image editing to craft compelling and impactful narratives. I am also an award-winning director of the mini documentary "Storytelling For A More Inclusive South", which explores the role of storytelling in fostering diversity and inclusion in the Southern region. Additionally, I am the owner of Weirdough, a microbakery and food side hustle that aims to create exciting food events and collaborations that bring chefs and communities together.

Kevin Mullins

Identity Builder | Creative Leader | Brand Guy

To the outside world, I'm known as Kevin. But in the circles that speak the language of positioning and personas, I also answer to the shout of, “Hey Brand Guy!” More than a nickname, it’s an identity—the fallout of a full-blown obsession with brand. Call it a passion. Call it a problem. Either way, my purpose is to help businesses and organizations own their story, know why it matters, and connect to those who actually give a damn. Because when you show up as your true self, people don't just notice—they find something to believe in.

Megan Gilley Rutherford

Graduate of University of Kentucky

TBA

Ryan White

High School Business Teacher | Barber | Entrepreneur | Hitting Instructor

Life unfolds not in a straight line, but through moments that intersect and redefine who we are. Ryan navigates these moments across multiple domains whether it's in a classroom, a dugout, a barbershop chair, or the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. Over the past decade, he's crafted his understanding of business not just through textbooks but through real world engagement of teaching the principles of business, mentoring baseball players, and running his own ventures in barbering and real estate. Baseball instilled in him the value of discipline, conversation sharpened his perspective, and travel revealed to him that no single path is enough. In Ryan's world, every role is an opportunity to grow, every skill is a tool to unlock new possibilities, and every connection is a chance to serve.

Samantha Lane

Productivity Speaker | Time Management Coach

As a reformed workaholic, I use my passion for efficiency to help others find work-life balance without compromising productivity. I was once living the deferred life plan, working inefficiently and postponing things that mattered. After a life-changing surgery, I realized that I had it all wrong and created a system to finally bring balance to my busy life. Through the framework and products I created during my recovery, I have helped countless people be present in their lives while still being productive in their days.

Stephen Hopkins

Leadership & Performance Coach | Organizational Consultant | Entrepreneur | Pastor

As a Leadership and Performance Coach, Stephen brings a unique perspective to his work. With leadership experience ranging from military, small business, non-profit, and church settings, he has developed proven principles and strategies for leading at a high level. Stephen is a graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point (B.S., Military History), the US Army Ranger School, and Asbury Theological Seminary (M.Div). His aim is to help leaders live an integrated and intentional life bringing hope and positive transformation wherever they go. Stephen is also a missioner with the Inspire Movement, an international network committed to developing missional discipleship in the leadership and life of the church. He and his wife have planted and lead the Houses of Healing, a church community committed to making disciples by multiplying House Churches. They live in Kingsport, Tennessee with their four children.