"Every 7 seconds, a truckload of perfectly usable returned goods is buried in a landfill. In this eye-opening talk, former Nike strategist Anthony Martore unveils the hidden environmental disaster lurking behind your ""free returns"" button—a trillion-dollar crisis most consumers never see. Blending insider knowledge from the footwear industry with cutting-edge technology, he reveals how AI image recognition isn't just changing the game—it's rewriting the rules, transforming our throwaway returns culture into a circular economy where sustainability isn't just possible, it's inevitable.AI, Behavioral Economics, Climate Change, Shopping, Sustainability, E-commerce " Anthony Martore, a former UCLA track athlete, brings his competitive spirit to solving one of retail's biggest challenges—returned goods. His journey through the retail world began at Nike, where he honed his talent for seeing efficiency where others saw complexity. The COVID-19 surge in e-commerce returns opened his eyes to a broken system—one where perfectly good products were being destroyed rather than finding new homes. This realization sparked a passion that led him to Harvard Business School and ultimately to founding Skiply. Today, Anthony is transforming how retailers handle returns, using AI to create smarter pathways for products and building a more circular economy. His unique perspective at the intersection of athletics, retail operations, and sustainability makes him a compelling voice on how we can reimagine the future of online shopping. 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

NOTE FROM TED: Please do not look to this talk for mental health advice and seek professional help if you are struggling. This talk only represents the speaker’s personal approach to and understanding of mindset, behavior, and healing. Claims related to addiction recovery lack scientific support. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfWhat if everything holding you back...your fears, self-doubt, and struggles, isn’t actually in your mind, but in your body? In this powerful talk, Tyler Watson reveals the hidden force, he calls Magnetic Resistance—the invisible patterns that keep you stuck no matter how hard you push. Website: https://idoelite.com/   Grab the Alignment Effect Book: Alignmenteffect.com https://www.youtube.com/@thetylerwatson https://www.instagram.com/tylerjwatson_/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.watson.5245 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-j-watson/ Tyler J. Watson is a top Performance Coach for elite entrepreneurs and influencers. His clients include leaders in online marketing, network marketing, coaching and consulting, real estate, and a host of other industries. Because of his unique approach to achieving real results in record time, he has been called “A mix between Tony Robbins and Houdini.” Tyler is the creator of the Cellular Alignment Technique and the first to introduce the public to the science of being allergic to success and addicted to struggle. He helps people live a legendary life without limitations and achieve their goals in days instead of years. Most importantly, he is a passionate father and husband who loves to see people find true freedom while having fun. To experience your personal breakthrough, go to alignmenteffect.com and shift in minutes instead of years. https://idoelite.com/ 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

In his TED Talk, "Can AI Cure? Can AI Care?", Rayan shares a personal story about the life-saving potential—and challenges—of AI in healthcare, challenging us to rethink how we use technology to save lives. Dr. Rayan E. Harari is a scientist-technologist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of AI, medicine, and education. As a faculty member at Harvard Medical School, he focuses on AI-driven diagnostics, and smart glasses for doctors-AI collaboration in healthcare. His research has led to advancements in AI systems that detect diseases and smart glasses to help everyone save lives. He has collaborated with NASA, the Department of Defense, and leading hospitals to integrate AI into real-world patient care. Beyond medicine, Rayan is the founder of NexEds, an organization with the mission to prepare the next generation for the paradigm shift AI is bringing to our lives—equipping students with the new skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. 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

AUTHOR, COMMUNICATION AND LIFE TRANSFORMATION COACH Dr. Vanndana Vaadera is a dynamic personality who is celebrated for her unparalleled blend of intellect, creativity, and charisma. She is an empowerment advocate and transformation coach who blends decades of expertise with a strong commitment to gender equality, inspiring change through leadership, education, and impactful dialogue. 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 winning a fight meant losing the person you care about most? In this talk, Adam Nsereko reveals how asking “What would it hurt to try?” helped him trade defensiveness for vulnerability, redefine friendships, discover his purpose, and unlock real emotional growth. Learn how a simple question can break down walls and lead to deeper connections and a more authentic life. Your TED Talk, "What Would It Hurt?", explores vulnerability, friendship, and personal growth. Using a humorous story about a fight, you emphasize the power of changing mindsets. You redefine friendship beyond social media, showing that true connections come from shared values, not likes. You highlight the importance of learning and purpose, drawing inspiration from Viktor Frankl and environmental stewardship. Key takeaways include embracing vulnerability, redefining friendships, and seeking meaning. The core message? Trying costs little but offers immense personal and emotional rewards. What would it hurt to try? 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

In this moving and electrifying TEDx talk, Chisom Agoawuike explores the extraordinary power of self-belief and how it can break through the toughest barriers life places before us. Drawing from her personal journey as a young Nigerian woman navigating the competitive world of entertainment, Chisom shares how choosing to believe in herself—despite self-doubt, societal pressure, and countless rejections—transformed her dreams into reality.From humble beginnings in Owerri, Imo State, to gracing our screens in award-winning roles, Chisom’s path has been anything but ordinary. Best known for her powerful performances in M-Net’s Halita and the AMVCA-winning drama The Rishantes, she has captivated audiences with her versatility and authenticity. But behind the applause lies a deeper story of resilience—of a woman who, time and time again, chose to bet on herself even when the odds were against her.With heartfelt honesty and radiant confidence, Chisom challenges the limiting beliefs that often hold people back—especially women—and invites us to reimagine what’s possible when we dare to silence the inner critic and act with bold conviction. Her message is clear: ceilings—whether societal, professional, or internal—are meant to be shattered.Beyond the screen, Chisom is a passionate public health advocate, merging her academic background with her platform to champion health and wellness causes. Now embracing a new chapter in her career, she’s stepping into the role of a producer, determined to tell impactful stories and shape narratives from behind the scenes.Today, Chisom Agoawuike stands as a symbol of possibility—a fearless creative, role model, and emerging voice in Africa’s film industry. Her talk is a testament to the magic that unfolds when you believe in yourself, take the leap, and rise above every ceiling.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 Chisom Agoawuike is a versatile Nigerian actor, model, and former beauty queen born in Owerri, Imo state. She has gained widespread recognition for her captivating performances on stage and screen.Her breakout role in the hit M-Net series "Halita" and "The Rishantes" - which won Best Original Drama Series at the 2022 AMVCA's - showcased her impressive range and talent. Currently, she stars in several prominent projects on YouTube and Showmax.Chisom's unique ability to embody characters from diverse backgrounds and ages has made her a sought-after talent among directors.As a graduate of public health from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, she is a passionate advocate for promoting public health initiatives.With a growing foundation in the film industry, Chisom is eager to expand her portfolio as a producer in the years to come. 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

Bajrayogini Nritya is a sacred Buddhist dance from Nepal that portrays the wrathful red dakini, Vajrayogini. Rooted in the Charya Nritya tradition of Newar Buddhism, this ritual dance uses movement, visualization, and awareness to embody enlightened qualities. Performed to liberate the mind through the body, it’s a powerful expression of devotion, meditation, and spiritual transformation. Rofiya Shakya, a talented animator by profession with a deep passion for dancing and the arts! From an early age, Rofiya has embraced the beauty of Charya dance and showcased her skills by winning a talent show in 2015.Recently, she brought her passion to life in the stunning Pancha Buddha nritya in Lumbini, captivating audiences with her creativity and grace. 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

The Amazon Basin is crucial for global climate regulation, with its rivers and evapotranspiration systems influencing weather patterns across continents. It's been described as the beating heart of the earth's living system. However, the rainforest is at a tipping point of collapse due to deforestation and prolonged droughts, exacerbated by human activities. Urgent action is needed and indigenous peoples are in a strong position to protect this critical ecosystem. Indigenous-led initiatives in Ecuador and Peru are having success in biodiversity conservation and community well-being through a collective alliance towards a shared goal. The alliance between 30 indigenous groups are working to restore rainforest and advocate for rights, while training the next generation in both traditional knowledge and new technology. To truly meet the challenge will require this paradigm shift towards aligning human well-being with nature's flourishing, achieved through collective action. Atossa Soltani has been directing global campaigns for indigenous peoples rights and protection of tropical rainforests for over three decades. Atossa is the Founder and Board President of Amazon Watch, a nonprofit organization founded in 1996 to protect the rainforest and advance the rights of indigenous peoples of the Amazon Basin (www.amazonwatch.org). Atossa served as Amazon Watch's first Executive Director for 18 years and continues to support the organization's mission as Board President. Currently Atossa is the Director of Global Strategy for the Amazon Sacred Headwaters Alliance, supporting a coalition of 30 Indigenous nations in Ecuador and Peru that aims to protect 35 million hectares of tropical rainforests by establishing a protected region that is off-limits to industrial-scale resource extraction. Atossa is the Hillary Institute’s 2013 Global Laureate for Climate Leadership. 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

How might we find alignment and intersections between different ways of knowing? This novel consortium between a scientific research center, a non-profit, an eco-resort, and community action groups brings in different approaches to work together to establish a new model for conservation. One that is rooted in traditional indigenous knowledge to inform scientific research, which in turn tracks and measures impact of conservation efforts. This feedback loop creates an inspiring education model that is training up a new generation of conservation-minded scientists and the conditions for true innovation. Frank Murphy, based in French Polynesia, is currently a Director of Programs at Tetiaroa Society. Frank Murphy brings experience from previous roles at Tahiti Expeditions and University of California, Gump Research Station. Frank Murphy holds an M.A. in Geography from University of California, Berkeley. His focus is finding alignment and intersections between Western research and indigenous wisdom. 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

In this speech Rafal talks about his experience as a chess coach and how he emphasizes fundamental principles, strategic planning, and personalized guidance to help students develop a deeper understanding of chess. He believes in the power of puzzle-solving to enhance critical thinking and chess creativity. Rafal Malczyk is a Candidate Master and experienced chess coach with a passion for strategic thinking and chess education. Originally from Poland, he started playing chess at the age of 7 and has since competed in over 100 regional, national, and international rapid chess tournaments. With an ELO rating of 2128, he brings competitive experience and deep knowledge of the game to his coaching 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