(Closed) Tips for Applying to TEDxAlabaster From an Alumni
Speaker Spotlight: Ashley Joy Sutton
One of the best parts of running this community is seeing speakers who have already been on the TEDx stage come back and help others navigate the process!
Recently, Ashley Joy Sutton, a speaker from TEDxAlabaster, commented on one of the application threads and generously offered to share advice for those currently applying to this stage (deadline is March 16!)
If you’re preparing a TEDx application right now, the insights below are worth reading carefully.
🎤 Watch Ashley Joy’s TEDx Talk
It’s always good to watch prior speakers from the stage you are applying to, in order to get a sense on the type of speakers, ideas, and production quality for that stage.
Here is Ashley Joy Sutton’s TEDxAlabaster talk:
👉 Please watch, like, and leave a comment on the video.
These small actions make a real difference for speakers after their talk goes live.
Advice From a TEDxAlabaster Speaker
Ashley shared several insights from her experience applying for and speaking at TEDxAlabaster.
Here are the biggest takeaways.
1. Align Your Idea With the Theme
Ashley emphasized that one of the biggest reasons her talk stood out was that it clearly aligned with the event’s theme.
She explained:
“I think what made my application stand out against the 600+ applicants is that I tailored my talk to the theme. Many TEDx organizations have themed talks. Mine was ‘Ripples of Revelation,’ meaning share an idea that sparks curiosity, impacts others, and gives them a revelation about their future.
My talk fit perfectly into that theme, but I made sure the language I used in the application was targeted.”
This is something many applicants miss.
A great idea alone is not always enough. Curators are building a program, and they are often looking for ideas that clearly connect to the event’s theme.
2. A Common Mistake Applicants Make
Ashley sees one mistake repeatedly when people pitch their TEDx ideas.
“People don’t tailor their talk to what the organizer is looking for. Understandably, they are excited about their idea but it has nothing to do with the theme.
Also, people don’t ask themselves: ‘Why would anyone be interested in this topic?’”
This question is powerful. Not just “Is this interesting to me?”
But: Why would a room full of strangers care about this idea?
3. Advice for the Application Video
Ashley did not need to submit a video for her application, but she shared advice based on friends who did.
Her tips:
Record in a well-lit space
Dress as if you’re already on stage
Speak clearly and confidently
As she put it:
“The organizer has to envision you on the stage.”
Your video isn’t just about your idea.
It helps curators imagine how you will show up on the stage itself.
4. Something She Wishes She Had Known
One thing Ashley didn’t realize before applying was how much preparation the process requires.
“I did not know the preparation is a three-to-four-month process. The stamina and commitment required for an 8-to-12-minute talk test your resilience, commitment and belief.”
TEDx talks are short, but the preparation behind them is extensive.
The process includes scripting, revisions, rehearsals, coaching, and alignment with TEDx editorial guidelines.
5. What Surprised Her Most
Ashley shared a perspective that many speakers realize only after the process begins.
“I think most speakers approach the TEDx stage with a mentality that you’ve done this before, but the truth is, you’ve never done a TEDx before. There’s a big difference.”
She also mentioned a resource many speakers find helpful:
Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo
She said she has recommended the book to many others preparing their talks.
A Call to the Community
If you have previously given a TEDx talk and would like to share insights from your experience, I would love to feature you as well.
I’m happy to create a similar spotlight post where we share your advice for applicants, your TEDx talk and any insights about the stage you spoke on.
If you’re interested, just reply to this email.
The more we share knowledge across this community, the easier it becomes for new speakers to step onto the stage!
Apply to TEDxAlabaster
If Ashley’s experience inspired you, TEDxAlabaster is currently accepting speaker applications.
📍 TEDxAlabaster 2026
📍 Shelby County Arts Council in Alabaster, Alabama
🗓 Event Date: August 1, 2026
Deadline: March 16
This year’s theme: What We Know Now: Experience. Breakthrough. Insight.
The event focuses on ideas that emerge from experience, discovery, and lessons that reshape how we live and work.
You can read the full application breakdown here:
Apply here: https://form.jotform.com/260348417114149
Need Help With Your Application?
Book a 1:1 Application Strategy Session and we will do a deep dive into your specific idea and optimize your application before submission.
Cheering you on, you got this!
Geleen Antonio