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).

Albrecht Auditorium - Stauffer Hall of Learning (Claremont Graduate University)
925 N. Dartmouth Avenue
Claremont, California, 91711
United States

Ashley Watterson

Executive Coach

Ashley Watterson is a Ph.D. student in Organizational Behavior at Claremont Graduate University. Dedicated to advancing global leadership development, her research focuses on alternative pathways for cultivating global leadership mindsets and behaviors through the experiences of multiracial leaders. As a multiracial individual and former military dependent, Ashley draws from her lived experience to help leaders navigate cross-cultural complexities, foster collaboration, and adapt to the demands of an increasingly diverse workforce. Ashley’s commitment to leader development is exemplified through her research and leadership in LeAD Labs, CGU’s leader development research and consultancy lab. Formerly the Research Lab Manager, she now applies evidence-based research as a Senior LeAD Coach and Coaching Consultant, using coaching to develop more effective leaders.

Bergsveinn Ólafsson

Coaching Psychology Expert

Bergsveinn Ólafsson is completing his PhD in Psychology at Claremont Graduate University, where he focuses on the intersection of well-being, coaching psychology, and AI. A former professional athlete, coach, speaker, and author of multiple books on living a meaningful life, his work blends science with lived experience. Through his social media, Bergsveinn has inspired millions with practical insights on personal growth. He helps people navigate change with responsibility, courage, and clarity. His mission is to help others unlock who they are meant to be—professionally, personally, and socially.

Betsy Blackard

Parenting & Relationship Coach

Dr. Betsy Blackard is an expert in how kids work. She has worked closely with children for more than 20 years and has a PhD in Positive Developmental Psychology. Her research focused on the parent-child relationship, including including how parents’ beliefs and behavior impact their children. Her company, Language of Listening®, provides simple, practical tools that really work to help parents get new results for everyday challenges.

Hanan Abed

PhD Student in Politics & Governments

Hanan Abed is a powerful leader, social activist, and refugee from Al-Baqaa Camp in Jordan, with over a decade of experience in humanitarian work. She has led large-scale youth programs, gender-based violence prevention, and protection strategies in refugee settings across Jordan. As Questscope’s Youth Program Coordinator, she managed cross-sector teams and represented the organization at national levels. Now pursuing a Ph.D. in Political Science and Economics at Claremont Graduate University, she continues her advocacy as the founder of the ‘For Palestine’ club. Her leadership is rooted in lived experience, resilience, and community-driven action.

Heather Sundell Reed

Digital Strategist

Heather is a Los Angeles-based writer, storyteller, communications expert, and Ph.D. student in Positive Organizational Psychology at Claremont Graduate University. With over 15 years of experience telling internal and external stories for brands and executive leaders, she is a sharp communicator and facilitator who uses her extensive background in narrative storytelling to meet creative business objectives, build positive cultures, and develop emerging and established leaders.

Jon Becker

CEO/President AARDVARK

Jon Becker is the founder and CEO of Aardvark Tactical and PROJECT7 Armor, leading providers of specialized equipment for military and law enforcement units worldwide. With over four decades of experience in the tactical industry, Becker has worked closely with elite operational teams. His professional journey began at seventeen when he founded his company, which evolved from climbing gear into tactical equipment as he recognized the specialized needs of law enforcement and military personnel. Jon is an attorney admitted to practice in the State of California and also hosts The Debrief with Jon Becker podcast, where he examines critical incidents and leadership principles and their application to broader organizational contexts. Jon has written for numerous publications ranging from business publications to legal journals and is a sought-after keynote speaker.

Nicholas Nicholas

Police Captain

Nick Nicholas is a police captain and public sector executive with nearly two decades of experience navigating the inner workings of local government. He has served both on the front lines of law enforcement and behind the scenes in management and leadership—balancing operational demands with the bureaucratic realities of public systems. Nick is a doctoral student at the Drucker School of Management, where his research focuses on understanding the factors that influence city pride and how local governments can foster stronger civic identity through strategic leadership and organizational practices. He is passionate about empowering professional staff, rethinking outdated processes, and unlocking the potential of public institutions. Nick has spoken nationally on policing, leadership, and civic innovation.

Nohelia Argote

Human Resources Professional

Nohelia Argote is a PhD scholar in Organizational Behavior whose research centers on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). She explores how race, gender, and other intersecting identities shape workplace experiences and influence leadership dynamics. Her work emphasizes the power of inclusive leadership to drive meaningful change in organizations. With a deep commitment to social justice, Nohelia uses research to inform practices that promote equity and belonging. She believes allyship is essential to building more equitable and effective leadership.

Rod Wilson

Strategic Advisor

Rod Wilson has over 30 years of experience advising tribal nations on leadership, sovereignty, and strategic growth. He holds a Ph.D. and serves on the Advisory Board for the Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University. He is also the author of The Native American Dream—a groundbreaking case study that documents the past three decades of tribal government transformation and the legalization of Indian gaming.

Tina Shah Paikeday

General Manager

Tina Shah Paikeday is General Manager of the Innovation Accelerator at Findem.ai. She began her career at McKinsey and was a partner and global practice leader at Russell Reynolds. Tina earned a B.S. Commerce with concentrations in MIS and Finance from UVA, an MBA from Stanford, and is in the Executive PhD program at the Drucker School of Management.