Meet our Speakers

TEDxLake Mary is proud to present a dynamic lineup of speakers ready to spark ideas, challenge perspectives, and inspire change.

From bold thinkers and creative trailblazers to community leaders and rising voices, each speaker brings a unique perspective to the stage. Their stories are powerful, their ideas are fresh, and their passion is undeniable.

This year’s theme is about turning “What if?” into “What’s next.”— and these speakers are leading the way.

Get ready to be moved, inspired, and transformed.

Stella Brown

Artist, Entrepreneur, and Student

Stella Brown is a 13-year-old artist, entrepreneur, and world traveler who uses her creativity and cultural curiosity to inspire self-acceptance, authenticity, and positive change.

Kendra Cooke

Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and Best Selling Author

Real estate expert, speaker, and best-selling author Kendra rose from receptionist to brokerage owner and now empowers others through E3 Women’s Retreats.

Advik Dhand

Author, Speaker, and Student

Advik Dhand is a driven middle schooler, published author, and finance enthusiast whose passion for learning, writing, and innovation is already making waves in literacy, leadership, and youth entrepreneurship.

Daniel Glazier

Owner and Founder – Glazier Appraisals

Daniel Glazier is a seasoned appraiser who uncovers the hidden stories and true value behind art, antiques, and heirlooms with expertise and integrity.

Cathy Heighter

Gold Star Mother, Speaker, Author, and Veteran Advocate

Cathy Heighter is a Gold Star Mother, speaker, and veteran advocate who transformed personal loss into national impact through service, legislation, and storytelling.

Latisha Howard

Captain Latisha Howard, Founder of She Was Me Inc.

Latisha Howard is a veteran law enforcement leader, author, and nonprofit founder whose journey from teenage mother to criminal justice changemaker inspires resilience and empowerment.

Melissa Nanavati

Author, Speaker, and Relationship Architect

Melissa Nanavati is a Relationship Architect, author, and speaker who helps high performers build powerful, peaceful relationships that fuel success in both love and business.

Akshay Nanavati

USMC Veteran, Explorer and Author of Fearvana

Marine veteran Akshay Nanavati overcame PTSD and addiction to become an ultramarathoner, polar explorer, and author of Fearvana, helping others reach peak performance and inner peace.

Sam Sorbo

Filmmaker, Speaker, Homeschooling Advocate

Sam Sorbo is a filmmaker, author, and education freedom advocate who empowers parents to reclaim their role as primary educators and protect their children's future through bold action and faith-driven leadership.

Oliver Starr

Wolf Conservationist, Author,

and Founder of Tahoe Wolf Center

Oliver Starr is a wolf conservationist, bestselling author, and former tech executive who teaches leadership rooted in empathy and cooperation, inspired by decades of hands-on experience with wolves.

Pardeep K. Vedi

Joint Founder of Feed Hunger Now

Pardeep K. Vedi is a nonprofit founder and community advocate most dedicated to fighting hunger in Sanford, FL through his leadership with Feed Hunger Now.

Marissa Zwetow

Author, Licensed Therapist, Owner of Postpartum Happiness

Marissa Zwetow is a licensed therapist, author, and coach redefining maternal mental health by shedding light on the unspoken emotions of early motherhood and helping parents feel seen, supported, and less alone.