What happened to TED?

TED talks were all the rage a decade ago.

TEDx events started sprouting everywhere. Everyone wanted to be a speaker, or a volunteer. The TED-speaker badge of honor was flaunted on LinkedIn profiles.

Then, it feels like they just disappeared.

The essence of TED still serves a need. TED talks are optimistic, constructive, and to the point. They are a joy to listen to. Curated storytelling, with a clear and concise message. Never complaining. Always providing a vision for a better future.

The TED brand still holds value. But TEDx diluted it.

Lower quality talks. Events driven by the interests of sponsors or speakers eager to showcase themselves. Less curation. We got tired of it.

The real TED, the one held annually, still draws attention and admiration. The essence of TED — optimistic, aspirational talks on solving problems, grounded in science — still has immense value. There is an audience for it.

Can we bring it back? Can we create a model that ensures high-quality talks, excellent storytelling, and the optimistic vision that made TED great?