TEDxAlabaster

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Ben Nelson

  Speaker | Community Builder | Author | Consultant

  Ben Nelson is a speaker, community builder, author, and consultant who helps people and organizations turn division into durable unity. He is the founding pastor of Collectivus Church, a diverse faith community where he has helped pioneer a decentralized, neighborhood-based model with missional communities across the greater Birmingham area and beyond. Ben also serves as President of Pray Love Unite, a 501(c)(3), and is the cofounder and president of Mission Bulgaria, a long-term initiative focused on helping marginalized communities thrive while building bridges of faith, dignity, trust, and unity across deep cultural divides. He is the author of Proper Perspective, The Room with the Garden View and the upcoming A Field Guide to Unity. Across sixteen years of nonprofit work in Eastern Europe, local church leadership, and coaching leaders through conflict, Ben is known for turning big ideas into clear frameworks people can apply in families, workplaces, and communities.

• Brooke McKinney

  Instructional Designer

  A former AP Language teacher, instructional architect, and faculty developer, Brooke McKinney’s work bridges rhetoric, learning science, philosophy, and artificial intelligence to explore one question: How do we recognize human capability when polished work no longer proves human thinking? Across classrooms, workplaces, and university settings, Brooke noticed the same pattern: people consistently became more than the stories others had constructed about them. That realization led her to develop original frameworks that help educators and leaders recognize thinking, judgment, and human capability more wisely. Her work has reached thousands of educators through AI curriculum, faculty development, keynotes, publications, podcasts, and The Engaging Teacher. Brooke argues that AI has exposed one of our oldest human blind spots: we have always been better at evaluating what people produce than recognizing what people are capable of.

• Cheryl Mitchell

  Speaker | Consultant | Author

  Cheryl B. Mitchell believes most conflict isn’t caused by bad intentions. It’s caused by different perspectives. A speaker, author, and lifelong student of human behavior, Cheryl has spent more than thirty years helping people understand the gap between what is said, what is heard, and the assumptions that fill the space in between. From her roots on a dairy farm to her work in education, agriculture, leadership, and personal development, she has become fascinated by the lenses through which we each interpret reality. Through her work with audiences across the country, Cheryl has challenged people to reconsider long-held assumptions, navigate differences with greater curiosity, and see familiar situations through a new lens. Through stories, humor, and practical insight, she invites people to examine the beliefs they rarely question and consider one of the most powerful questions we can ask ourselves: "What if I’m wrong?"

• Clarissa Kenty

  International Speaker | Author | Community Strategist

  Clarissa Kenty is an international speaker, author, and community strategist dedicated to helping individuals and communities transform adversity into purpose, resilience, and lasting impact. With more than 30 years of experience in media, communications, leadership development, and public engagement, she is known for empowering others to navigate life’s transitions with clarity and confidence. Clarissa is the author of Miraculously Equipped and Unshaken, works that explore perseverance, growth, and personal transformation. Her TEDx talk, When Legacy Transfers, is inspired by her journey through grief following the loss of both parents and the realization that legacy does not end—it transfers to those willing to carry it forward. Through her speaking, writing, and leadership, Clarissa challenges audiences to embrace change, honor their inheritance, and create impact that transcends generations.

• Dr. Ben Birdsong

  Author | Entrepreneur | Global Non Profit Leader

  Dr. Ben Birdsong is a global nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, author, and professor. As Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries, he works with churches across Europe to develop next-generation leaders. He is also the founder of Birdsong Innovations, a publishing company that helps authors and leaders communicate their ideas with clarity and impact. Ben has written two books, coaches nonprofit and ministry leaders in strategy, and serves as a professor at Birmingham Theological Seminary. Prior to his current roles, he served in local churches as a youth and missions pastor. He holds degrees in Marketing and Human Resource Management from UAB, a Master of Divinity from Samford University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary. A Shelby County resident, Ben has invested in his community through board service and development initiatives. His passion is helping people discover ideas that inspire growth, leadership, and lasting change.

• Dr. Keaira Turner

  Strategic Communications Leader | Speaker

  Dr. Keaira Turner is a strategic communication leader, educator, and speaker with more than a decade of experience helping organizations navigate complex communication challenges. Throughout her career, she has led public affairs and strategic communications for high-profile government agencies, advising executive leaders, serving as a trusted spokesperson, and managing communication during moments of national attention and public scrutiny. Her expertise spans strategic communication, public relations, crisis communication, executive messaging, and community engagement, with a passion for building trust through transparency. In addition to her professional leadership, Dr. Turner teaches communication at the collegiate level and speaks nationally on leadership, trust, and strategic communication. She is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Verity Impact Agency, where she helps organizations strengthen relationships and drive meaningful impact through authentic communication.

• Eryn Cade

  Dance Artist | Choreographer

  Eryn is an interdisciplinary dance artist and research-based choreographer whose work speaks where words cannot. An Assistant Professor of Dance at Alabama State University, she holds a BFA and MFA in Dance from the University of Alabama, where her research on the Black female body and the colonial gaze earned an Artistic Achievement Award. She is a finalist for the Young Choreographers Festival, with work presented at the Joyce Theater in New York City. Her performance career spans concert and commercial stages, including international work in Toulouse, France, and appearances at the 2022 World Games alongside artists such as Tony! Toni! Toné!, Bootsy Collins, and Sheila E.

• Jessica S. Smith

  Speaker | Podcast Host | Creative Coach

  Jessica S. Smith is a communicator, podcast host, and speaker who believes meaningful conversations have the power to transform lives. As the creator and host of Jess Ask, she has spent nearly four years helping people navigate faith, purpose, relationships, and personal growth through honest dialogue. Her passion for creating safe spaces has led to conversations with influential leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday people whose stories remind us that healing often begins with being heard. Through speaking, coaching, and community building, Jessica challenges people to embrace curiosity, ask better questions, and create environments where others feel seen, valued, and understood. Her guiding philosophy is simple: life could be more simple if you just ask.

• Joshua N. Bennett

  Saxophone Player

  Joshua Nathaniel Bennett is a Birmingham, Alabama native. After taking piano lessons at Birmingham Southern, he developed a deep love for the art that continued to grow as he mastered the saxophone in middle and high school. Joshua earned top ratings in solo and ensemble competitions and performed with distinguished honor bands including All County, the UAB Honor Band, the UAB Jazz Summit, and the Samford Honor Band. Joshua played with the UAB Big Band under the direction of Dr. Steven Roberts during the induction of jazz legend Harry Belafonte into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. He later founded the band Soul Collaboration, opening for internationally acclaimed smooth jazz artist Eric Essix and performing at major community events such as Jazz in the Park and the Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival. He has also shared the stage with the renowned a cappella group Take 6 while studying under legendary musicians including Dr. Frank Adams, Dr. Sue Samuel, Dr. Steven Roberts, and Ray Reach.

• Judi Pritchard

  Cognitive Resilence Expert | Speech Language Pathologist

  Judi Pritchard, M.S., CCC-SLP, CDP, is a speech-language pathologist, brain health educator, and founder of Cogni-Thrive®. For more than 30 years, she has worked with individuals experiencing mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and other neurological conditions while helping families better understand cognitive change. Drawing from decades of clinical experience and emerging neuroscience, Judi translates complex brain science into practical, evidence-informed strategies that empower people to intentionally build brain strength and live with greater confidence and purpose. Her mission is to change the conversation from fearing cognitive decline to empowering people to build stronger brains, earlier and throughout life.

• KaLyn Williams

  Marketing Strategist

  KaLyn Williams helps business leaders increase revenue. In 2016, she founded All Eyes On You Branding (AEOY), a marketing agency in Birmingham, AL. In 2020, she graduated from the University of Memphis’ Journalism & Strategic Media Department with honors. She entered the workforce during the pandemic, when digital media became one of the only ways organizations could communicate with their audiences. That era sharpened her ability to plan and implement successful campaigns, a skill she continued developing as a Campaign Manager at Red Deluxe Brand Development and Archer Malmo, where she managed campaigns for St. Jude, the Memphis Grizzlies, Medtronic, and more. In addition to owning an advertising agency, she’s a philanthropy professional that serves as the Institutional Giving Manager at Red Mountain Theatre. She helps secure a multi-million-dollar fundraising budget each year while pursuing her MBA at the UAB. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and creating art.

• Kimberly Davis

  National Speaker | Educator | Writer

  Kimberly N. Davis is a national presenter, educator, and writer with over two decades of experience equipping teachers, school leaders, and organizations with practical, research-based strategies that drive meaningful impact. Known for her engaging and relatable approach, she helps others bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Beyond her work in education, Kimberly founded the Wonderfully Marvelous brand, creating spaces that encourage reflection, growth, and authentic connection. Her work is rooted in a deep belief that transformation happens not in isolation, but in community. Kimberly holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from Miles College and two Master of Arts degrees from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Alabama. She earned National Board Certification in 2009. She lives in Alabama with her husband, Clarence, and their son. Together, they continue to build a life rooted in family, connection, and purpose.

• LeAnn Foster

  Trainer | Radio Show Host | Author

  LeAnn Foster, affectionately known as Loving LeAnn, is a media personality and entrepreneur. Over a decade, she’s hosted The Loving LeAnn Show and can be heard on AEG Radio station. She’s a red carpet host, and she interviews celebrities and the brightest stars walking out their purpose through serving others. LeAnn has appeared with some big names like Louis Gossett, Jr., Vivica A. Fox and members of SWV, Silk and Xscape. LeAnn’s favorite assignments are ones that positively change the lives of others. LeAnn founded EUTHENICS Foster Professional Development in 2014. EUTHENICS is a training firm where they “teach people how to treat people.” Training is centered around leadership and communication development, customer service, and relationship building. LeAnn is a transformational speaker. She’s been privileged to speak to audiences of varying backgrounds- prisoners, educators, youth and more. Her newest title is wife and partner to a man of God and a community leader.

• Rae'Mah Henderson

  Speaker | Investor

  Rae'Mah J. Henderson is an investor, storyteller, and evangelist for good who believes world-changing ideas grow everywhere. Not just in the obvious places. She works at the intersection of innovation, culture, and place, bringing executive-level operational experience and a deep belief in the power of possibility to everything she does. With a background spanning venture capital, accelerator programming, and ecosystem development, Rae'Mah has supported over 50 startups, contributed to more than $7M in capital, and helped shape emerging innovation landscapes across the Deep South and beyond. She is a sought-after voice on the future of innovation, community, and what it means to build and become.

• Traci Ann Moore

  Podcast Show Host | Mindfulness Coach

  Traci Ann Moore is a wellness advocate, creative entrepreneur, and senior leader with over 20 years of management experience. Bringing a seasoned perspective to conversations on leadership, wellness, and sustainable performance, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and completed her interior design studies at the Southern Institute of Interior Design. She founded TAM Interiors, which evolved into a full-service event and floral design firm, and in 2013 launched iCreate IT—a platform providing creative outlets, team-building experiences, and workshops for youth and adults. Certified in Therapeutic Art and Mindfulness, Traci uses creative expression to foster healing and self-discovery. She is the author of six mindfulness adult coloring books and curates the YouTube series Mind Your Wednesday and Time Out with Traci Ann.

• Tracie Threadford

  Public Servant | Mayor | Compliance Analyst

  Tracie B. Threadford is a distinguished leader and dedicated public servant with over 30 years of experience in insurance, claims, mortgage, and finance. Born and raised in Birmingham’s East Thomas neighborhood, her passion for civic engagement was inspired by her mother’s active community involvement a foundation that shaped her lifelong commitment to service. Tracie holds an Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degree in Business Management and Administration from the University of Phoenix, where she is currently pursuing her Doctorate. She is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and a graduate of the Momentum Upward Class 6 leadership program for women. She currently serves as Mayor of Tarrant, Alabama, and as a Compliance Analyst at local bank where she ensures regulatory compliance and promotes operational efficiency. Married for 32 years to William Threadford, Tracie is a proud mother of eight and a devoted grandmother.