Jeff Gould (“America’s Storyteller”) sits down with Thadeus Amadeus Giedd for a conversation that starts light—misheard names, funny mix-ups, and Jeff’s signature “JEFFARDY” question board—and gradually deepens into faith, leadership, fatherhood, and the power of living with intention. Thadeus, the longtime organizer behind TEDxSiouxFalls, shares what he believes makes a truly great TEDx talk: it’s not a lecture—it’s a story arc. The best speakers don’t try to cram in everything they know; they deliver one unforgettable insight, one unexpected moment, and one powerful takeaway in just 15 minutes. From there, Thadeus opens up about the ideas shaping his life right now—especially his love for Stoicism (Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca) and how he’s combined its virtues—courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance—with what he believes Stoicism lacks most: love. For Thadeus, letting Christ into his life didn’t replace the discipline of Stoicism—it completed it. The conversation also turns personal as Thadeus talks candidly about depression, identity shifts, and how becoming a father changed him. Jeff and Thadeus explore modern parenting styles, the difference between gentleness and permissiveness, and the importance of accountability—especially the humility of admitting when you’re wrong. Later, the interview shifts to leadership lessons from a recent men’s summit featuring John Maxwell and Tim Tebow. Thadeus shares what stood out most: Maxwell’s idea of making an impression from afar but creating impact up close, and Tebow’s consistent message of living with urgency and intentionality—waking up each day asking, “How do I be a vessel today?” They close with a surprisingly emotional final moment: Thadeus gets one question to ask Jeff, and he chooses a question about memory—if Jeff could relive one day, what would it be? Jeff’s answer lands like a quiet gut punch: a return to a simple moment at the table with his mother, fully present, noticing what he couldn’t appreciate at the time. The episode ends with a shared reminder that gratitude and attention are not optional if you want a meaningful life. A funny, thoughtful, faith-forward conversation—anchored in story, grounded in real life, and full of practical takeaways. #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #PodcastInterview #ThadeusGiedd #TEDx #TEDxTalk #Leadership #Stoicism #FaithAndLife #ChristianPerspective #IntentionalLiving #Parenthood #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #Storytelling00:00 Introduction and Name Confusion 04:10 Exploring Biblical Parables 06:59 The Role of TEDx Talks 09:45 The Application Process for TEDx Talks 12:43 What Makes a Good TEDx Talk? 14:57 Stoicism and Love in Life 18:05 Parenting Perspectives and Lessons Learned 24:10 Exploring Connections with Influential Figures 27:10 Reflections on Wealth and Influence in Heaven 29:11 Making Impressions vs. Impacting Lives 32:06 Navigating Personal Struggles and Mental Health 35:57 The Power of Authenticity and Generosity 38:11 Dream Lunch with Heroes and Influencers Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com
