(Closed) TEDx Speaker Application for Northern California Stage (TEDxSouthLakeTahoe)
Deadline March 26, 2026
TEDxSouthLakeTahoe is now accepting speaker applications for its 2026 event! We are early in this application period so this is the perfect time to get your application together.
TEDxSouthLakeTahoe 2026
📍 South Lake Tahoe, California
🗓 Event dates: October 2–3, 2026
⏰ Applications close March 26, 2026
🎥 90-second speaking video required
This is a stage for people who know there’s more going on than what we see at first glance. Scroll down to find out more about how to apply strategically and the application link.
The 2026 theme
Beneath the Surface
This year, TEDxSouthLakeTahoe is inviting speakers to look deeper.
Beneath the Surface is about the space between what we think we know and what’s actually driving change. It’s where untold stories live. Where hidden systems shape outcomes. Where overlooked voices and quiet acts of courage create real transformation.
This theme welcomes ideas that explore:
Breakthroughs buried in data
Invisible forces shaping behavior or culture
Stories we don’t hear often enough
Truths that only reveal themselves when we slow down and look closer
If your idea reveals something meaningful that most people miss at first glance, this theme has room for it.
Event details
⚠️ This is an in-person event, and applicants must be able to commit to both days.
Dress rehearsal
Friday, October 2, 2026
12:00 PM – 7:00 PMMain event
Saturday, October 3, 2026
12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
What they’re looking for
Like all strong TEDx stages, this one is idea-first.
They want:
One clear big idea worth spreading
Ideas that shift perception, create curiosity, or spark insight
Speakers who can articulate why this idea matters now
This is not about motivational speaking or personal branding. Personal stories can support the idea, but the idea itself must lead.
What the application requires
You’ll need to submit:
Your big idea
Why you want to speak at TEDxSouthLakeTahoe
A proposed title and 3–4 sentence description
A 90-second video of you speaking on the proposed topic
Upload to YouTube
Share the link in the application
Your bio and social media tags
You’ll also confirm that you:
Understand talks cannot exceed 18 minutes
Agree that TEDx speakers are not paid and cover their own travel
Will follow all TEDx speaker and content guidelines
How to Apply
If you’re considering applying, ask yourself:
What’s something people think they understand, but don’t fully?
What truth only became visible once you looked past the obvious?
What insight lives beneath the surface of your work, research, or lived experience?
Application Form: https://tedxsouthlaketahoe.com/call-for-speakers
Questions for the team: 📧 tedxsouthlaketahoe@gmail.com
Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tedxsouthlaketahoe/
Need help with your application?
If this theme feels aligned but you’re stuck on the idea, the title, or how to make your 90-second video actually land, you have two ways to work with me:
Option 1
Speaker Accelerator (Weekend Intensive): January 24-25
Best if you want structure, momentum, and feedback.
Clarify a TEDx-ready idea
Shape a strong one-sentence claim
Build a pitch that works on paper and on video
Get feedback before you submit
Designed to help you move from “I think I have something” to “This is ready to send.”
Option 2
Best if you want focused, personalized help.
Pressure-test your idea for theme fit
Tighten your application answers
Get direct feedback on your video outline or draft
Ideal if you’re short on time or want eyes directly on your work.
If you apply to this stage, tell me! I love cheering you on and celebrating every step forward!
See you in the next drop!
Geleen Antonio
P.S. The Speaker Accelerator Live Virtual Weekend bootcamp is in 1 week! Don’t miss your chance to learn everything you need to craft a strong application and create a strategic TEDx roadmap. I only host this 1x a quarter.
oh wow!! That you take the time to compile all of this is amazing!
I’m definitely applying!