How much should we trust AI? Prof. Dr. Markus Langer explores the fine line between blind faith and deep skepticism, revealing how we assess trustworthiness in AI-based systems—and why we often get it wrong.Through compelling research and real-world examples, he uncovers the risks of misplaced trust and highlights the role of developers, policymakers, and users in shaping responsible AI adoption. Could building the right kind of trust be the key to unlocking AI’s true potential? Prof. Dr. Markus Langer is a Professor of Work and Organizational Psychology at the University of Freiburg. His research focuses on AI trustworthiness, human-technology interactions, and AI-based decision support. He collaborates across disciplines to enhance human-AI collaboration and has been recognized with awards like the 2024 Young Investigator Award. He is also involved in projects exploring AI integration in legal systems. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What’s your name? How are you? Now, what’s your biggest regret? Some questions are easy to answer, while others make us uncomfortable. Why?In this deeply personal talk, Tristan Lim shares how avoiding tough questions kept him from facing his true self—and how embracing them led to self-acceptance. Through courage, curiosity, and compassion, he explores how the right questions can bring us closer to who we really are and help us uncover the true meaning of home. Tristan Lim is a Berlin-based coach, facilitator, and co-creator of Closer, a tool designed to foster self-discovery and meaningful connections through reflection and action. Specializing in helping startup founders and teams lead with clarity, Tristan encourages people to confront uncomfortable questions for personal growth. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What if happiness at work wasn’t a bonus, but the key to success? Tobias Hagenau reveals how work happiness fuels creativity, well-being, and innovation—not just for individuals, but for entire organizations.Exploring self-actualization, purpose, and community, he shares how aligning work with fulfillment can transform careers and workplaces alike. By moving closer to what truly matters, we unlock a more meaningful and impactful work life. Tobias Hagenau is the Co-founder and CEO of awork, a work management tool designed to enhance productivity and collaboration. With over a decade of experience in software development, he has been instrumental in creating a platform that simplifies team workflows. Prior to founding awork, he co-founded HQLabs, which was acquired in 2021. Holding a degree in mechanical engineering, Tobias is passionate about entrepreneurship, team culture, and improving work environments through initiatives like the annual Work Happiness Report. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

We spend about 10,000 days working in our lifetime—but are we using them to create real change? Henrike Schlottmann explores how the world’s biggest challenges, from climate change to labor shortages, require collective action, not individual solutions.Drawing from real-world examples—pandemic response, refugee integration, and food system transformation—she reveals how true progress happens when diverse groups unite. In a time when democracy is being tested, she challenges us to rethink how we collaborate and asks: How will you spend your 10,000 days? Henrike Schlottmann is the Managing Director of ProjectTogether, a social innovation platform driving collective action on global challenges like climate change and refugee integration. With a background in mathematics and experience in management consulting, she transitioned to ProjectTogether in 2019, leading efforts to unite diverse groups for systemic change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Can two circles and a line tell a story? Artist and cartoonist Chaz Hutton explores how drawing serves as a universal language, bridging gaps between people and cultures. Through humor and simplicity, he reveals how even the most basic sketches can foster creativity and connection.Introducing the character Jeff the Blop, Chaz demonstrates how minimal drawings can evoke emotion, spark imagination, and bring people closer together. By embracing our inner cartoonist, we unlock new ways to express ourselves and see the world differently. Chaz Hutton is an Australian artist, cartoonist, and writer based in Berlin. Originally trained as an architect, he gained recognition for his minimalist, observational cartoons that humorously depict everyday life. Through his work, Chaz explores how simple drawings can transcend language barriers, foster creativity, and connect people across cultures—proving that sometimes, all it takes is two circles and a line to bring a story to life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What secrets lie beneath our feet? Berliner Unterwelten co-founder Dietmar Arnold takes us on a journey through Berlin’s underground, revealing how forgotten bunkers and escape tunnels bring history to life. More than just relics, these hidden spaces offer a powerful lesson on resilience, remembrance, and why confronting the past is essential for shaping a better future.From a student exchange in 1988 to founding Berliner Unterwelten, Dietmar shares the untold stories of Berlin’s subterranean world and its role in preserving historical truth. By making the past tangible, he challenges us to reflect on how history connects us—and why we must ensure that no one is ever forced to seek refuge underground again. Dietmar Arnold is the CEO and co-founder of Berliner Unterwelten, an organization dedicated to uncovering and preserving Berlin’s underground history. What began as a fascination sparked by a student exchange in 1988 evolved into a thriving initiative that sheds light on wartime shelters, Cold War escape routes, and the city’s hidden past. Through guided tours and educational programs, Dietmar makes history tangible, ensuring that these forgotten spaces serve as powerful reminders of resilience and the importance of remembrance. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx