10/03/2024
People are starting to come up to me in public and say they're looking forward to my talk, which is a reality check that, yes, that's right, I am indeed giving a TED talk in two weeks.
After applying to be a part of this year's TEDx event in Oneonta and being accepted, I got cold feet. Who am I to talk about the arts and economic development? I'm not an economist. I couldn't even give you an off-the-cuff description of what the economy is.
Imposter syndrome hit me big-time, especially alongside this year's line-up with hella impressive speakers.
But a friend reminded me: I've dedicated my life to the arts and community, building a career in the business of arts and culture promotion and administration. I've seen first-hand how the arts have contributed to civic pride, tourism, and strong social bonds. I’ve seen the hard numbers and not just the warm fuzzy feelings that come with art.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I believe in Oneonta’s vibrant arts scene and its potential to be leveraged even further.
I’m finally at the point where I’m excited to be a part of this year’s TEDx event on October 18. I don’t know how public speaking is going to go, but as long as I keep my focus on having the opportunity to share with even more people the financial and community value of the arts I think it will go OK.
Thank you for coming to my TED talk pitch.
