After nearly a decade, TEDxTampa returned this past Friday, May 2, 2025 and TMG Global had the honor to be a Visionary Partner. This year’s theme, “Lift as You Climb”, highlighted some of the most innovative voices of today. Over 1,000 attendees gathered for the event at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa. TEDxTampa 2025 was a showcase of the power that comes from shared growth and community, celebrating visionary ideas and transformative leadership.
The evening began with a cocktail & networking event at the Tampa Museum of Art.
With a lineup of various distinguished speakers in the community, all provided a look into their journeys, both personal and professional, that showcased the theme of the event. To provide a small glimpse into the event, speakers included John D. Couris of Tampa General Hospital, Michael Stephens of Tampa International Airport, and Rick Mullins of TMG Global.
John D. Couris – Leading with Authenticity
John D. Couris, President and CEO of Tampa General Hospital (TGH), relayed his personal journey of overcoming early learning challenges to now helping implement the AKTiVe leadership model throughout TGH. Couris provided an authentic take on leading with intention and prioritizing inclusion. He stressed the importance of lifting others as a pathway to collective success.
Michael Stephens – From Humble Beginnings to Aviation Leadership
Michael Stephens, CEO of Tampa International Airport (TPA), spoke with intention and heart with the retelling of his story of modest origins to now leading one of America’s favorite airports. Throughout his narrative, Stephens underscored how success is not measured in monetary earnings, but rather the impact one has on others. He highlighted the significance of mentorship and engaging with one’s community, tying it back to his own leadership journey.
Rick Mullins – Visionary Leadership in Action
TMG Global’s very own Rick Mullins, our Director of the Project Management Office, shared his insights on visionary leadership. Taking the stage, his narrative retold his extensive experience and how it propels him to make meaningful change within various organizations and communities. He emphasized how strategic foresight and collaborative efforts can set in motion success.
Rick Mullins, Director of PMO, reflects on his time at TEDxTampa 2025: “Events like this remind us of the power we unlock when we come together with a shared vision for the future. It was an honor to speak and connect with fellow innovators.”
This was all but a few highlights of the event! We at TMG Global also want to recognize the powerful contributions of several other speakers whose stories resonated throughout the night, including Lorna Taylor of Premier Eye Care, Jamie Klingman of The Tampa Foundation, and other changemakers who reminded us that leadership shows up in many forms. Thank you for sharing your stories.
An Evening of Connection and Inspiration
Beyond the brilliant speakers featured at the event, TEDxTampa 2025 fostered a perfect environment for networking and idea exchange. With opportunities for discussion, attendees had the chance to form connections that will last past the event’s end.
Looking Ahead
The success of TEDxTampa 2025 reaffirms the power of shared stories and collective ambition.
TMG Global is deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this event and know that the lessons learned will help support us in our future endeavors. As we reflect on the insights and connections gained, we’re inspired to continue embodying the “Lift as You Climb” message in our work and community engagements.
After nearly a decade, TEDxTampa returned this past Friday, May 2, 2025 and TMG Global had the honor to be a Visionary Partner. This year’s theme, “Lift as You Climb”, highlighted some of the most innovative voices of today. Over 1,000 attendees gathered for the event at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa. TEDxTampa 2025 was a showcase of the power that comes from shared growth and community upliftment, celebrating visionary ideas and transformative leadership.
The evening began with a cocktail & networking event at the Tampa Museum of Art.
With a lineup of various distinguished speakers in the community, all provided a look into their journeys, both personal and professional, that showcased the theme of the event. To provide a small glimpse into the event, speakers included John D. Couris of Tampa General Hospital, Michael Stephens of Tampa International Airport, and Rick Mullins of TMG Global.
John D. Couris – Leading with Authenticity
John D. Couris, President and CEO of Tampa General Hospital (TGH), relayed his personal journey of overcoming early learning challenges to now helping implement the AKTiVe leadership model throughout TGH. Couris provided an authentic take on leading with intention and prioritizing inclusion. He stressed the importance of lifting others as a pathway to collective success.
Michael Stephens – From Humble Beginnings to Aviation Leadership
Michael Stephens, CEO of Tampa International Airport (TPA), spoke with intention and heart with the retelling of his story of modest origins to now leading one of America’s favorite airports. Throughout his narrative, Stephens underscored how success is not measured in monetary earnings, but rather the impact one has on others. He highlighted the significance of mentorship and engaging with one’s community, tying it back to his own leadership journey.
Rick Mullins – Visionary Leadership in Action
TMG Global’s very own Rick Mullins, our Director of the Project Management Office, shared his insights on visionary leadership. Taking the stage, his narrative retold his extensive experience and how it propels him to make meaningful change within various organizations and communities. He emphasized how strategic foresight and collaborative efforts can set in motion success.
Rick Mullins, Director of PMO, reflects on his time at TEDxTampa 2025: “Events like this remind us of the power we unlock when we come together with a shared vision for the future. It was an honor to speak and connect with fellow innovators.”
This was all but a few highlights of the event! We at TMG Global also want to recognize the powerful contributions of several other speakers whose stories resonated throughout the night, including Lorna Taylor of Premier Eye Care, Jamie Klingman of The Tampa Foundation, and other changemakers who reminded us that leadership shows up in many forms. Thank you for sharing your stories.
An Evening of Connection and Inspiration
Beyond the brilliant speakers featured at the event, TEDxTampa 2025 fostered a perfect environment for networking and idea exchange. With opportunities for discussion, attendees had the chance to form connections that will last past the event’s end.
Looking Ahead
The success of TEDxTampa 2025 reaffirms the power of shared stories and collective ambition.
TMG Global is deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this event and know that the lessons learned will help support us in our future endeavors. As we reflect on the insights and connections gained, we’re inspired to continue embodying the “Lift as You Climb” message in our work and community engagements.
