As the United States turns 250, Philadelphia, the city where modern democracy was born, is becoming the center of a global conversation about where it goes next.

In this sponsored bonus episode, Trenae talks with Laura Smythe, a Philadelphia-based journalist and TED Democracy speaker, and Gabbi Townsend, a content creator partnering with Visit Philadelphia, about “TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures.” Happening at the Kimmel Center on June 13th, the event brings together thinkers from around the world for 13 full-length TED Talks and six Philadelphia Flash Talks on the future of democracy. Laura and Gabbi walk through how the event came to be, what attendees can expect throughout the day, and why both of them wanted to be part of it.

They also explain how a free nationwide library livestream is bringing the event to communities across the country, and what they hope people think about long after they leave the Kimmel Center.

Thank you for listening to this special bonus Sponsored Episode by Visit Philadelphia. Use promo code CITYCASTPHILLY for 15% off tickets at visitphilly.com/ted2026. Can't make it in person? Find a free library livestream near you at visitphilly.com/TEDlive.