What we’re about
In today's fast-paced world, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information and ideas, struggling to engage in meaningful discussions that stimulate our intellect and broaden our perspectives. This challenge of finding a space for deep, thoughtful conversations is something many of us face, leaving a gap in our personal and professional growth.
To address this, we are excited to introduce Bethesda TED Talk Discussion Club. This club aims to create a vibrant community where individuals can come together to explore and discuss the fascinating ideas presented in TED Talks. By focusing on a wide range of topics, from science and technology to personal development and societal issues, we provide a platform for members to delve into thought-provoking content and share diverse viewpoints.
Our mission is to foster an environment of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity. Through engaging discussions, we seek to inspire and challenge each other, encouraging members to think critically and expand their horizons. The TED Talk Discussion Club is not just about watching videos; it's about creating a dynamic space where ideas come to life through conversation, collaboration, and connection. Join us in this journey of discovery and let's explore the world of ideas together.
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To ensure a positive experience for all participants, we have three ground rules for TED talk discussion events:
- Step up and step back: If you've been talking a lot, step back and listen; if you've been quiet, step up and share your perspective or ask questions.
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Show respect for others and embrace diverse viewpoints.
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If you have a ted-talk video in mind that you’d like to discuss or host, feel free to message me. Here is a great Ted Talk list to choose from:
https://www.youtube.com/@TED/videos
Notes: This discussion club will always be free and will never accept any fundraising, sponsorship, or advertising.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- How do we learn to work with Artificial Intelligence? (The Skill Code)Corella, Bethesda , MD
The path to skill around the globe has been the same for thousands of years: train under an expert and take on small, easy tasks before progressing to riskier, harder ones. But right now, we're handling AI in a way that blocks that path -- and sacrificing learning in our quest for productivity, says organizational ethnographer Matt Beane. What can be done? Beane shares a vision that flips the current story into one of distributed, machine-enhanced mentorship that takes full advantage of AI's amazing capabilities while enhancing our skills at the same time.
Please watch this 10-min video before joining the discussion:
https://youtu.be/Xj-ncWb4N-I?si=t9H4sJJgYgqQsFtgIf more than 12 people join the discussion, we will break out into two separate groups.
------------------------------------- Balancing Speed and Skill Development – The speaker highlights how AI prioritizes efficiency, sometimes at the expense of learning. How do we balance the need to be productive with the need to develop new skills?
- Leveraging AI for Learning – Instead of seeing AI as a barrier to skill development, how can we use AI tools to accelerate our own learning in meaningful ways?
- Future-Proofing Our Careers – If AI continues to automate tasks in our fields, what specific skills or capabilities should we focus on developing to remain indispensable?
- Maximizing Mentorship in an AI-Driven World – The speaker discusses how mentorship and hands-on learning are being reduced due to AI-driven efficiency. How can we take the initiative to seek out and learn from experts in our fields?
- Creating Our Own Learning Opportunities – Some professionals in the speaker’s research engaged in “shadow learning” by taking extra steps to gain experience. What unconventional or creative approaches can we take to develop our skills outside of formal training?
- Ethical Implications of AI in Skill Development – If AI prevents professionals from gaining critical experience (e.g., surgeons getting less hands-on training), what ethical responsibilities do companies and policymakers have in addressing this issue?
- The Role of Struggle in Growth – The speaker highlights that real learning happens when individuals struggle near the edge of their capacity, with expert guidance. How can leaders and educators create an environment where productive struggle is encouraged without compromising performance?
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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:
- Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Be open-minded and value differences.
- How to set boundaries and find peaceCorella, Bethesda , MD
Telling other people what you want – or need – can be a really difficult thing to do! Nedra Glover Tawwab is a therapist and New York Times bestselling author who helps people create healthy boundaries with themselves and others, both at work and in personal relationships. In this episode, she talks about why identifying your needs is so important, clarifies what healthy boundaries can look like and shares empowering tools so you can advocate for yourself – and get the treatment you deserve.
Please watch this 30-min video before joining the discussion:
https://youtu.be/mWr2KmHrt-0?si=I2CI66WDrsl3ts6lIf more than 12 people join the discussion, we will break out into two separate groups.
------------------------------------- The Ethics of Boundaries: In many cultures, selflessness is considered a virtue, while boundary-setting can be seen as selfish. How do we reconcile the need for personal boundaries with the value of being generous and accommodating toward others?
- Boundaries vs. Control: Nedra suggests that setting a boundary is not about controlling others but about managing your own actions. Where is the line between setting a firm boundary and attempting to control someone’s behavior?
- The Social Consequences of Boundaries: What are some reasons people might resist or reject boundaries set by others? How can social norms or power dynamics impact how boundaries are received in different relationships (e.g., workplace, family, friendships)?
- The Role of Silence in Boundaries: The book highlights that people often let boundary violations persist for years before speaking up. What are some societal or psychological reasons people delay setting boundaries, and how does delayed boundary-setting impact relationships?
- When Boundaries Conflict: Sometimes, one person's boundary might clash with another person's expectations (e.g., a family member expects frequent visits, while another person needs more personal space). How should people navigate conflicting boundaries without escalating tension?
- The Reciprocity of Boundaries: People often focus on setting their own boundaries, but respecting others' boundaries is just as important. What are some common reasons people struggle to respect boundaries set by others, and how can we become more mindful of them?
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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:
- Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Be open-minded and value differences.
