Inspiration abounds if you just look or seek. I find it most often from nature and my backyard. But recently, I read about a series, "Walk the Talk," that appealed to me. It is a speaker series that is held in the Village's yard, The Vogue Theater.

After attending my first evening of inspiration, a program about Compassion, I was delighted to see this motivational Ted-inspired talk bubble up in our community. If you don't know Ted Talks, you might want to access the Internet, and search for Ted Talks (Ted.com). TED is a nonpartisan, nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks. TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers almost all topics - from science to business to global issues - in more than 110 languages. Indianapolis has also hosted a day-long TEDX for the business community.

But now, two local men, Steve Ross (owner of the Vogue and seeker) and Richard Brendan (WICR radio personality and Counselor/Teacher) both had a vision to bring local, passionate speakers who will address a common theme to tell how they "Walk Their Talk." Their words become food for the soul, and their images and words inspire the audience.

I asked Steve how this all came about. This project was realized to fulfill his spiritual quest. His dream was to provide a platform for people to share the stories of their spiritual journey with others who are also seeking. The story format (usually 10 minutes per speaker) is accompanied by impactful slides or videos that punctuate their personal journeys. How it works is Steve and Richard announce a topic (like Gratitude, Love in Action, Compassion, or Miracles). Through social media and direct contact, potential speakers audition for the event. After they are notified, they rehearse. "Ted Talks require their speakers to practice 400 hours," said Steve. Wow!

On the evening of the performance at the Vogue, chairs fill the dance floor. The bar is open, but not flooded, because the audience in coming for soul words, not drink! A band opens for the performance. Along with confetti, the band introduces each speaker. The stories of each of the six speakers move the evening along so fast that I felt like I had just sat down. The finale was highlighted by a balloon drop to celebrate the wisdoms of the night, and the audience mingles to share their thoughts.

This is the first year for Walk the Talk: Creating an epic shift. Steve and Richard have put together a meaningful evening for speakers and audience. The synergy of the night is different from most events that happen at the Vogue. The future topics of the series are Positive Thinking, Life's Purpose, and Forgiveness. They assured me they will not be running out of topics. If you want more information or to see prior talks, go to their website, www.walkthetalkseries.com. You can also follow them on Facebook where they have individual segments spotlighted in addition to audition and event information.

I wanted to capture Steve's story during my interview with him. He told me had has owned the Vogue Nightclub for 31years. Why did he go in this direction? He grabbed a notebook where he had handwritten a list of his vision and goals. He read the first three to me. "1. Help people grow and learn, including myself. 2. Create a better world. 3. If I had the money, I'd want to make this event bigger and reach more people." This is a man on a mission! Finally I asked him if he could personally invite people to the talk, what would he say? Steve answered thoughtfully, "Certain things move everyone's soul. Walk the Talk is not religious or denominational. . . it appeals directly to the core of every human being. To create an epic shift, it has to begin with one person. We invite you to hear food for your soul and take away key learnings so you can walk your talk."

I was inspired by the speakers and the men behind the evening. I hope to see you at the next event, Positive Thinking, April 19th, 8:00pm at the Vogue. ($15) Take time to feed your soul and be open to creating an epic shift in your thoughts, heart, and actions.