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).

LoyolaUniversity
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United States

Mary Fran Bontempo

Mary Fran Bontempo is a speaker, author, and humorist who teaches audiences to control their most powerful influence: Self-Talk. Author of The Woman’s Book of Dirty Words, and Not Ready for Granny Panties—The 11 Commandments for Avoiding Granny Panties, Mary Fran proves small changes in self-talk yield big life changes, allowing individuals to be positive, productive and successful in a rapidly changing world. A Huffington Post and Thrive Global contributor, and syndicated columnist for multiple online platforms, Mary Fran inspires and motivates readers and listeners to tame the self-talk beast. After thirty years’ experience as owner of a full-service recruiting firm and finding herself in the middle of a perfect life storm—turning 50, a crashing economy, and most devastating, a son battling heroin addiction—Mary Fran created the blog, Not Ready for Granny Panties, evolving as a motivational speaker and program leader. She is also a founder of the business/life podcast, 4 Chicks Chatting. A frequent media guest and speaker, audiences delight in her empowering and entertaining message. Find her at maryfranbontempo.com.