TEDxNashville: The Future of Joy

A Day of Insight, Intention, and the Science of Reclaiming Joy
October 19, 2025 | 1–5pm | Category 10, Nashville

Together, we’ll reclaim joy in a chaotic world.

WHAT YOU’LL
EXPERIENCE

The Future of Joy is TEDxNashville’s flagship event — a full day of visionary talks, powerful performances, and unexpected connections. 

  • Be Inspired – Hear world-class speakers and performers share bold, transformative ideas that spark laughter, goosebumps, and aha-moments.
  • Find Your People – Meet 600+ curious, purpose-driven thinkers, doers, and dreamers who are shaping the future of Nashville and beyond.
  • Engage in Mentorship – Connect with mentors and peers through our built-in MentorUp experience, where real conversations spark real growth.
  • Step Into Discovery – Try out practices you can take home—from mindfulness to digital wellness—that leave you energized long after the event ends.
  • Make the Unexpected Connection – Sit next to someone who might become your next collaborator, ally, or lifelong friend.

SPEAKERS

Ashleigh Maxcey PhD

Professor of Positive Psychology, Vanderbilt University - What happened when I gave my students a grade to try being happy

Stephanie Styll

Founder of Killjoy - Why you’re more fun than you think you are (without alcohol)

John Whyte MD

CEO of the American Medical Association - How to Google your symptoms without freaking out

Randall Wallace

Director and Screenwriter of Braveheart - Why “if it’s too good to be true, it is” is the biggest lie we’ve told ourselves

Anne-Laure Le Cunff

Neuroscientist and Author - How tiny experiments can free us.

Larissa May

CEO of Ginko and Founder of #HalfTheStory - How to find joy in a digital age

Jerome Moore

Producer, PBS Nashville - Why community joy is a dirty job you need to take

Jillian Turecki

NYT Bestselling author and relationship expert - "Why a relationship can't make you happy."

Powered by Ideas. Designed for Joy.

Join The TEDxNashville
Community

Step into a community of curious, creative people where conversations spark ideas, ideas lead to action, and action helps shape a better Nashville — together.

  • TEDx On Tap – Interactive networking nights with guided prompts, fresh connections, and drinks on us.

  • TEDx Rewind – Re-watch a past TEDx talk, then dive into a live discussion with the speaker.

  • Spotlight Series – One-night collaborations with local voices, nonprofits, and artists.

  • Brain Date Dinners – Intimate meals curated for meaningful conversation.

  • Early Access + 25% Off Tickets – to flagship TEDxNashville conferences (including The Future of Joy)

 

Membership:
$20/Month

Your all-access pass to the largest idea-driven community in Tennessee — where curiosity connects us all.

Where is the event?

The event takes place at Category 10 – 401 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201.

There are several parking garages just a short walk from the venue, including the Nashville Public Library, One Nashville Place, and Commerce Street Garage. Rideshare drop-off is convenient on 2nd Ave.

The event runs from 1pm–5pm. Doors open at 12pm. Arrive early for check-in and connection time before the talks begin.

TEDxNashville events are available through season memberships only. This includes Wired, The Future of Joy, and access to Spotlight events throughout the year.

Yes, you can transfer your membership to a friend for a $10 fee. Email community@tedxnashville.com with their name and email.

Please fill out our volunteer form. We’ll follow up with opportunities.

Submit your idea or recommendation using our nomination form.

A special thank you to our 2025 event sponsors: