Many consider meeting new people a burden; when it can be a goldmine. In this highly relatable talk, Adrienne Bankert shares how isolation and struggles with belonging can help us breakthrough when initiating conversation and allow us to "prompt engineer connection." Through behind-the-scenes stories from her work as a journalist she reveals one major key for how anyone can move from shallow or awkward interactions to being engaged, opening new doors of opportunity in an instant.

Adrienne Bankert, an award-winning national news anchor, spearheaded the launch of “Morning in America” on NewsNation and now leads Special Projects. With five years at ABC News, she earned two Emmys for “Good Morning America” and reported for “World News Tonight” and “Nightline.” From Tokyo to Paris, she has covered major events like the Women’s World Cup and tragedies like the Parkland shooting. Adrienne’s interviews span from Kobe Bryant to Lady Gaga, even singing with Garth Brooks! In her book, "Your Hidden Superpower," she explores the impact of kindness on personal and professional success. Based in Chicago, she embraces her new hometown while innovating in media and technology. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx