AC Coppens

Artist, Connector, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Idea generator, Musician, Performer, World traveler, Writer/Editor

International Curator and Moderator shaping conversations in Tech, Culture & Society | Creator of "The Art of Moderation" As a curator, speaker and event consultant, I explore how technology and societal shifts are rewriting the future of entertainment, innovation, and public discourse. My mission? I transform conversations into catalysts for connection, insight and action. For over 15 years, I’ve moderated hundreds of high-stakes conversations at the intersection of technology, culture, business and society - from TED to the Cannes Film Festival, Ars Electronica to the Salzburger Festspiele, I’ve discussed with astronauts, policymakers, and AI pioneers, turning complexity into clarity and ideas into impact. I help brands, companies and institutions shape these conversations that matter, and turn them into momentum for people to move forward. Whether curating multi-day programs for international conferences, hosting dynamic discussions with global experts, or mentoring startups and creative visionaries, I thrive on connecting knowledge with audiences. My approach blends strategic thinking, deep research, storytelling and a background in performing arts - a method I call "Performance Moderation", which transcends panels into energizing and engaging conversation formats. Because the real question isn’t just what we talk about: it’s also how. How do we design conversations that spark innovation, bridge divides and drive decisions? How do we preserve authenticity and trust between people in a world where the media are on artificial steroids? And why is moderation (often overlooked) a critical leadership skill for the 21st century? Through "The Art of Moderation", I help leaders and organizations master the craft of powerful dialogue, on international stages, in corporate strategy sessions or in internal meetings. I'm French, but Berlin and Zurich are my HQs and my work takes me everywhere! If you’re organizing a conference, leading an innovation event or building conversations that move the needle, let’s talk. Together, we can turn ideas into impact!

Growing mindsets, incl. mine - with outstanding conversation guests!

Time is scarce :-) so let's make the most of it (NOW)!

Acting, Communications, Creative Industries, Curation, Innovation, Marketing, Speaking, Strategy, Technology, Writing

Back then, I invited TED Tech curator Simone Ross on our FAST FORWARD podcast, dedicated to the work of Curators of Conferences - the brains behind the brains! We deepened our connection as Simone asked me for speakers recommendations for TED and host a Discovery Session in 2024 on Brain Machine Interfaces. And then I was asked to launch the brand new TED Next 360° Stage in Atlanta with a talk on our Relationship with AI. And here we are: now I'm a TED speaker and, since 2025, I also moderate Spotlight Sessions at TED in Vancouver!

Martial Arts