Monday, February 13, 2012

TEDx Austin 2012 - Jason Roberts

There were many great speakers on the agenda at the TEDx Austin 2012 event.  In talking with other attendees  the cool observation is that different people had their souls touched by different parts of the program.  The whole experience was one that was designed to resonate no matter the learning style.

There were a few presentations that I will not soon forget.  As a professional speaker and corporate trainer I am equally interested in a speaker's ability to connect with an audience and how they captivate the mind.  I have long professed that just because someone is smart, or has done something cool -- it does not mean they belong on the stage.  At TEDx Austin everyone was smart, cool, authentic AND they belonged right there at this time and place!

Jason Roberts, Co-Founder of "The Better Block Project" was one of the ones that stood out.  His passion was something that could not be faked.  His level of enthusiasm about everything he does was infectious.  The joy that came out of this man as he told his stories.  I wrote in my notes "He is great!".

I love the way he has helped transform the community where he lives (the Oak Cliff neighborhood in Dallas), and is now spreading that message to communities around the world.

To make things happen he has simple advice:

  1. Show up
  2. Give it a name
  3. Set a date and publish it

Many might say "Wait, it is not that simple".  Then they do not know Jason Roberts.  If he wants to get something done, he just does it.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Jason was my favorite speaker of the day. His talk was energetic, witty & inspiring. I loved it!