What if getting on a TEDx stage could skyrocket your speaking career—but only if you play by the secret rules and avoid the #1 mistake that dooms 80% of applicants before they even get noticed?

In this eye-opening episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes sits down with John Bates, founder of Executive Speaking Success and TEDx coach to astronauts, top executives, and bestselling authors. Together, they peel back the curtain on the real mechanics, myths, and must-dos to land, crush, and leverage your TEDx talk.

From the true differences between TED and TEDx (hint: it's not just brand—it's community, volunteerism, and purpose), to why TEDx is virtually never about selling your book—and what will instantly disqualify you—this episode gives emerging and seasoned speakers alike the blueprint for approaching these high-impact platforms. John reveals his personal story of bombing a TED stage, the painful lessons learned, and why following simple instructions is a make-or-break step. You'll hear how to find your own "idea worth spreading," why the most powerful talks go beyond selling and instead serve the audience, and the single best way to prepare for a TEDx appearance (spoiler: it takes six months or more!).

Whether you’re wondering how to get noticed among thousands of TEDx applications, what themes and locations matter, or how to turn your TEDx moment into a marketing win, this interview is packed with practical strategies, fresh insights, and honest advice. Plus, Li and John share real stories from inside the selection process, the secret "TED Commandments," and how to be yourself—without falling into the awkward valley of over-practiced delivery.

Episode highlights:

• Why TEDx talks are rarely about promoting yourself—and what to do instead
• The top reason 80% of applications are ignored
• How to craft a TED-worthy idea that moves people (not sells a product)
• The difference between TED and TEDx—and why both matter for speakers
• Inside tips to get noticed by organizers (and why humility matters)
• How to prepare for a TEDx talk—from timeline to rehearsal pitfalls
• Innovative ways to leverage your TEDx video and experience
• Cautionary tales about buying your way onto the stage—and what’s truly ethical

Timestamped Overview:

• [00:00:00] Li Hayes introduces John Bates and sets the stage for a discussion about TED and TEDx.
• [00:02:57] What is TED vs. TEDx? John breaks down the history, brand, and community aspects.
• [00:07:09] Why speakers should (and shouldn’t) pursue TEDx; John shares his story of "failing" at TED.
• [00:08:42] What TEDx organizers actually want: serving ideas, not selling from the stage.
• [00:12:19] How TEDx events work—video, themes, and technical requirements.
• [00:14:34] How to find events, choose themes, and the role of local vs. broader applications.
• [00:17:43] The surprising downside of being too professional—and why humility helps.
• [00:19:25] The application process: common mistakes and why ignoring directions is a dealbreaker.
• [00:22:07] How to get noticed: tips John learned from working with organizers and events.
• [00:24:10] What kind of speaker succeeds—unique expertise vs. generic motivational speaking.
• [00:28:14] Example case stories (Scott Hamilton, local mayor) and the "ooh factor."
• [00:31:17] How to avoid becoming another awkward, over-practiced TEDx talk.
• [00:33:06] Preparation secrets: timelines, the Valley of Awkwardness, and digging for gold.
• [00:38:02] Life after TEDx: promoting your talk, ethical coaching, and maximizing your video.
• [00:45:23] John’s ultimate advice: for his next TEDx, “make it about them.”
• [00:46:31] Episode wrap-up and closing thoughts.

Ready to learn the TEDx secrets most speakers miss—and how to actually make an impact on one of the world’s most recognized stages? Hit play!