May 20, 2023
In a world that’s
often polarized and divisive,
we choose to come together as one.
At the intersection of skepticism and curiosity are understanding and innovation. The power of ideas is what propels us forward. Inspired by the confluence of water where the Willamette River meets the Columbia, purpose and persistence find their way to the sea.
Year 11 will embrace fluidity, strength, and balance. We will celebrate the contrarians, open-minded thinkers, and doers committed to creating a better tomorrow for our city and the world.
Together, we will ebb and flow and find our way.
Land Acknowledgment
A day for learning
Sit back, lean in, and enjoy the most inspirational, educational day of the year for our city. Our team of 75+ volunteers works tirelessly year-round to bring you today’s experience. We suggest you approach the day with curiosity, skepticism, objectivity, love, and an open mind. Listen, ask great questions, and choose to meet new people as we all engage in this day of learning.
With reverence and respect, we would like to acknowledge that the land on which we gather today at the Keller Auditorium in Portland, OR, is the traditional and unceded territory of the Multnomah, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla, and many other indigenous nations of the Columbia River. May we honor with gratitude the land itself and all the ancestral stewards of this land — today and every day.
High
Session 1
9:00am – 12:00pm hosted by David Rae
Kim Scott
Toby Barnes
Dr. Yuan Po-Tu
Sarah Edmondson
Megan Diana
Aarthi Ananthanarayanan
Trevor Beaman
Kee Nelson
GZA
Lunch
12:00pm – 2:00pm
Keller Park
Session 2
2:00pm – 5:00pm hosted by Luis Vargas
Reyna Tropical
Kyle Thornton
Sam Diaz
Emily Stutzman
David Lucas
Thunderstorm Artis
Renny Gleeson
Happy Hour
5:00pm
Tyrone Hendrix and Tikylo Hendrix 2022 Performers
Eric Tran, Ph.D.
Details
Etiquette, Inclusivity, Food & Coffee
Etiquette
Please silence your cell phone.
Assigned seating for guests.
Everyone receives a Portland Gear Confluence bag.
• Inside is your - event book - name tag - name tag sticker sheet - lanyard
- A Kids Book About Public Speaking
Auditorium doors will be closed when the sessions begin to respect the speakers / performers on stage.
We will be clearing the auditorium between sessions and during the lunch break.
Feel free to take notes in your book.
Inclusivity
Thank you to our wonderful friends at Egg Press and Audi Beaverton for providing our inclusive Name Tag experience.
A Sharpie will be provided by a TEDxPortland volunteer in your aisle. Share with your neighbor and selfadminister YOUR LEGIBLE NAME on your badge.
Reference your Egg Press sticker sheet and legend to engage in a fun introductory activity to share something about yourself. Are you a night owl? Inbox zero? Sneakerhead? Prefer design talks? Looking for love? First TEDxPortland event? Let us and your neighbor know. This is a fun way to meet new people and engage in creative conversation.
Food
We are excited to be able to offer a multitude of local food carts in Keller Park for lunch today. Carts will be stationed on SW 3rd and 4th Avenues and can be accessed during the two-hour lunch hour. Options for purchase:
• Tamale Boy — Tamales
• El Mas Chingon — Tacos, Quesadillas, Burritos and Bowls
• Phil’s Meat Market & Delicatessen — Bentos & Kabobs
• Alchemy Sandwich Co. — Gourmet Sandwiches
• Pidgin Hole — Rice Bowls
Coffee
Coffee is an important part of our day here at TEDxPortland.
Thanks to Matt Milletto and his incredible team at Coffee Business, we are delighted to offer complimentary coffee in the morning and during the lunch hour while supplies last.
Thank you to our partners:
Speakers, Performers, & Hosts
Kim
Toby
Dr.
Sarah Edmondson
Megan
Aarthi Ananthanarayanan
Trevor Beaman
Kee Nelson GZA
Reyna Tropical
Kyle Thornton
Sam Diaz
Emily Stutzman
David Lucas
Thunderstorm Artis
Luis Vargas
David Rae
Renny Gleeson
Kim Scott
Kim was a CEO coach at Dropbox, Qualtrics, Twitter, and other tech companies. She was a member of the faculty at Apple University and also led AdSense, YouTube, and DoubleClick teams at Google. Earlier in her career she was an analyst at the Soviet Companies Fund, started a diamond cutting factory in Moscow, and was a director of operations at a pediatric clinic in Kosovo. She is the author of Radical Candor and Just Work, and co-founded a company that helps teams create respectful, collaborative working environments.
Notes
Hero?
Toni Morrison
Favorite TED Talk?
Still searching for it…
Favorite book?
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
Song of Solomon by Unknown Orlando by Virginia Woolf
Favorite movie?
13th
Top three favorite Instagram follows? Don’t do Instagram!
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Checks and balances wherever there is power
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Smooth
Biggest pet peeve?
Compressor noise when I’m trying to sleep
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear?
Running over someone with my car
Most embarrassing moment? I was coaching Dick Costolo when he was CEO of Twitter. When he stepped down I tweeted #welovedick.
Go-to karaoke song?
Respect by Aretha Franklin
Where would you go in a time machine? To visit dinosaurs
Under your bed right now? Sledgehammer in case of earthquake
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Writings of Tolstoy, Toni Morrison, Virginia Woolf, Robertson Davies, George Eliot
Toby Barnes
Toby is a seasoned design leader who has worked with renowned brands such as Amazon, Nike, Levi’s, and Microsoft. He founded and led Mudlark — an awardwinning design consultancy for the gaming industry. During his extensive career, Toby has opened a Vegas casino with Cardi B and built the world’s largest escape room at Comic-Con. Currently, he is the principal designer at Alexa where he leads Amazon’s efforts to understand the value, use, and challenges of large language models. Toby is also a devoted father and husband, parttime DJ, full-time hoarder, and on a personal journey to utilize his ADHD strengths.
Notes
Hero?
Hiroshi Fujiwara
Favorite TED Talk?
ADHD As A Difference In Cognition, Not A Disorder by Stephen Tonti
Favorite Portland restaurant? Tusk
Favorite book? Neuromancer by William Gibson
Favorite movie? Blade Runner
Top three favorite Instagram follows? @sunday.scaries @lukeunabomber @cakenotcrumbs
What’s one change you’d make in the world? Paid-for education for all
Chunky or smooth peanut butter? Chunky
Biggest pet peeve? Fakeness over honesty
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear? We forget that the world is one big ecosystem
Go-to karaoke song? I Can’t Stand the Rain by Tina Turner
Where would you go in a time machine? Ibiza, 1987
Under your bed right now? Too many books and magazines to count
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Johann Johannson, Nils Frahm, Andy Weatherall, Nina Simone, The Roots
Dr. Yuan-Po Tu
Yuan-Po — or Po, as he calls himself — is a dedicated physician with 28 years of experience at The Everett Clinic. His pivotal work during the COVID-19 outbreak has made him a respected expert in the field, and his groundbreaking research on patient-collected anterior nasal samples has revolutionized COVID-19 testing. Po received the Washington State Medical Association Community Advocate Award in 2021. Currently, he serves as the vice-chair of the Disaster Medical Advisory Committee for the Department of Health, helping to develop guidelines for Crisis Standards of Care.
Hero?
Charles Irvin, Ph.D.
Favorite book?
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite movie?
Top Gun (the original)
What’s one change you’d make in the world? Vaccinate to prevent mean people
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
I don’t eat peanut butter
Biggest pet peeve? Stupidity is not a virtue
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear? Developing dementia
Most embarrassing moment? Transition from running urgent care to the next position
Go-to karaoke song? I wish I could sing but I can’t
Under your bed right now? Dust bunnies
Sarah Edmondson
Sarah is an actress who gained notoriety for her role in exposing the NXIVM cult. In 2019, Sarah published Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult that Bound My Life, an acclaimed memoir chronicling her harrowing experience. Alongside her husband, she hosts the A Little Bit Culty podcast, which has become a powerful platform for cult survivors and recovery advocates. Sarah also attends conferences and events around the world as a speaker and cultrecovery advocate, as well as continuing her work as an actress and podcaster.
Notes
Hero?
Anne Frank and my mom
Favorite TED Talk?
Why Do People Join Cults? by Janja Lalich
Favorite Portland restaurant? Harlow
Favorite book?
Educated by Tara Westover (recent), The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (lifetime fav)
Favorite movie? The Princess Bride
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@hicaitlinreilly
@alittlebitculty
@minimalistbaker
What’s one change you’d make in the world? No abuse of power
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Chunky for toast, smooth for smoothies. So, both. I love peanut butter.
Biggest pet peeve?
Getting woken up
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear? Plane crash
Most embarrassing moment?
That time the whole world knew I was in a cult (thanks NYT)
Go-to karaoke song?
Toss up between Leaving on a Jet Plane by John Denver and Any Man of Mine by Shania Twain
Where would you go in a time machine? 1969, Woodstock
Under your bed right now?
Dust bunnies and earplugs. Maybe some Paw Patrol figures.
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Fleetwood Mac, Tracy Chapman, Bob Dylan, Indigo Girls, Paul Simon
Megan Diana
You may know Megan from Piano. Push. Play., her organization that rescues and gives new life to pianos in Portland. Megan’s passion for vintage keyboards is apparent in every note she writes, and when she puts them through an echo pedal, magic happens. Her voice is like silk, layering choral harmonies and going from atmospheric to intimate in the blink of an eye. With her debut album Women in My Head, Megan has crafted a sonic love letter to the inspiring women in her life. Whether it’s Dark Americana Noir or catchy pop, get ready to dance in your seats and sing along.
Hero?
Coco Chanel
Favorite TED Talk?
Do Schools Kill Creativity? by Sir Ken Robinson
Favorite Portland restaurant? Fermenter
Favorite movie?
Only Lovers Left Alive — Jim Jarmusch and Tilda Swinton ARE ARTISTIC GODS TO ME!
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@michellenorrisphoto
@dusttodigital
@vintageic0ns_
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Stop eating animals or universal healthcare for all
Biggest pet peeve?
No follow through
Rolling Stones or The Beatles?
Beatles — any George song gets my heart
Greatest fear?
Not traveling to everywhere I wanna get to before it’s all over
Most embarrassing moment?
Running for a bus, tripping, falling on my face — then having to walk down the aisle while everyone stared
Where would you go in a time machine?
May 1977, Studio 54 — I’d like to take Bianca’s place and ride in on that white horse
Under your bed right now?
Many, many pairs of damn fine boots
Something someone should know about you?
My meter for reading BS is spot on
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Beethoven, Palestrina, Jamiroquai, The Cardigans, and Wings
Aarthi Ananthanarayanan
POSEIDON
Aarthi is the Director of Ocean Conservancy’s Climate and Plastics Initiative. She designs and promotes solutions that address two existential, interconnected threats to the ocean and coastal communities: climate change and plastic pollution. Before launching the Climate and Plastics Initiative, Aarthi was Ocean Conservancy’s
Project Director, leading an interdisciplinary team of international researchers to advance innovation in fisheries. Additionally, she supported the launch of two Ocean Conservancy international plastics initiatives: Urban Ocean and Vietnam Plastics Initiative.
Favorite TED Talk?
Rethinking Infidelity by Esther Perel… a talk for anyone who has ever loved
Favorite book?
Range by David Epstein. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. The Power by Naomi Alderman. It’s a moving target...
Top three favorite Instagram follows? @weratedogs @poetryisnotaluxury
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Slow it all down — I think most of our problems come from going too fast.
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Chunky — the natural stuff with a little salt
Biggest pet peeve?
People who talk too much
Rolling Stones or The Beatles?
Beatles
Greatest fear? Catastrophic climate change and massive social unrest
Go-to karaoke song?
The Grease Megamix by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. I was Sandy in my middle school talent show.
Where would you go in a time machine?
I’d go forward, not back. I’m so conscious that I’m lucky to live in this time and place when I have a lot of freedom…and I’m curious to see how humans are able to work our way out of our current mess.
Under your bed right now?
Craft supplies and saris
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Mary Oliver’s Devotions and that first Tracy Chapman album
Trevor Beaman
Trevor is an active duty Special Forces Green Beret, husband, and father. He is also a strong advocate for mental health and trauma awareness. Through personal stories steeped in vulnerability and determination, Trevor serves as a beacon of hope for those on a similar journey to overcome pain and heal from trauma. Ultimately, Trevor inspires others to find happiness, growth, and purpose. For his own personal healing, he connects to the energy of life through live music and the ocean.
Notes
Hero? Aaron Bank
Favorite TED Talk?
Living by an Ethos by Nicholas Lavery
Favorite Portland restaurant? Olympia Provisions
Favorite book? Rules for a Knight by Ethan Hawke
Favorite movie? A Star Is Born
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@dreugenelipor
@ibreathwater
@camerondietrich
What’s one change you’d make in the world? Pain-curing clinics
Chunky or smooth peanut butter? Chunky
Biggest pet peeve?
Not being prepared
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Rolling Stones
Greatest fear? Losing a child
Most embarrassing moment? Asking my father-in-law for his daughter’s hand in marriage
Go-to karaoke song? Wild World by Cat Stevens
Where would you go in a time machine? Birth of my children
Under your bed right now? Picture frames
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Niccolo Machiavelli, Tina Turner, Neil Gaiman, Martin Luther King Jr., John B. Watson
Kiauna “Kee” Nelson
Kee is a rising star in the food industry, finding acclaim in Netflix’s Street Food: USA and Black History Month’s Trailblazer shoot. But it’s not just about the food for Kee. She is dedicated to giving back to the community through her Feed Black Portlanders initiative, which helps fight food insecurity among Portland’s communities of color. Kee’s attention to detail and generous portions have earned her a well-deserved reputation as a true trailblazer in the culinary world.
Hero?
Teressa Raiford
Favorite TED Talk?
The one I’m preparing for LOL :)
Favorite Portland restaurant?
Ruth’s Chris
Favorite book?
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
What’s one change you’d make in the world? End homelessness
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Smooth
Biggest pet peeve? Backhanded compliments
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? 2Pac
Greatest fear? Being back on welfare
Go-to karaoke song? Anything 90s gangsta rap
Where would you go in a time machine? The future
Under your bed right now? Empty water bottles, remote, hair ties
GZA
GZA, aka the Genius, is one of the most renowned hip-hop legends. His precise flow and intricate rhymes earned him a reputation as one of the best rappers of the Wu-Tang Clan. He explored his craft with some of the earliest hip-hop MCs in the Bronx and shared his skills with his cousins, Ol’ Dirty Bastard and RZA. His second studio album, Liquid Swords, earned him praise for its coolly understated menace. GZA’s passion for science and education inspired him to develop a science-meets-hip-hop program aimed at engaging high school students.
Lunch Time Chess Match
GZA will be performing 4 songs on our stage today to close the morning session. He will then be sourcing a local chess player from the Keller Auditorium audience to play in Keller Park across the street with life-size chess pieces in front of the water fountain feature.
The lunch break is from 12:00pm to 2:00pm.
The chess match will begin at 1pm, giving audience members 1 hour to buy their lunch, find a seat and enjoy the creative confluence of iconic hip-hop meeting a “checkmate” for all to enjoy.
Reyna Tropical
Fabiola Reyna is the creative force behind Reyna Tropical, a musical project that celebrates the tropical diaspora and spiritual survival. Despite the untimely death of Sumohair, her co-founder and bandmate, Fabiola chose to carry on with the band’s founding vision of Queer Love and Afro-Mexico. Fabiola and Sumohair met at Red Bull Music Academy’s Bass Camp at Bonnaroo in 2017, where they bonded over a mutual love of tropical music. Today, Reyna Tropical is a collaborative effort between Fabiola and a diverse group of musicians, DJs, and producers dedicated to the QLAM vision.
Hero?
My mom, Martha Elena Reyna
Favorite TED Talk?
The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown
Favorite Portland restaurant? Tropicale
Favorite book?
The 500 Years of Indigenous Resistance Comic Book by Gord Hill
Favorite movie? Selena
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@herban.cura
@sheshreds_media
@Igotyourblack_
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Give all land back to the indigenous stewards of those territories
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Chunky
Biggest pet peeve?
Being asked a question and that person not listening when being presented with the answer
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Neither
Greatest fear? Being buried alive
Most embarrassing moment? I don’t think I really have one. I mainly embrace awkward situations.
Go-to karaoke song? Crazy by Patsy Cline
Where would you go in a time machine? December 2021
Under your bed right now? Lots of little boots
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Roots of Chicha compilation, Sumohair - his phone notes, We are Owed by Ariana Brown, Brujas World Syndicate by Arianna Gil, Horizon Unlimited by Lijadu Sisters, Las Últimas Composiciones by Violeta Parra
Kyle Thornton
Kyle is a software engineer and tech enthusiast who has always had a knack for helping untangle technical complexity. In his career, he has worked on solar tech at Tesla, flying cars at Kitty Hawk, and most recently fallen deep into the crypto rabbit hole. Currently, Kyle heads up Ledger’s Customer Success team in the USA, where he and his team of friendly blockchain enthusiasts spend every day helping newcomers stay safe in the world of web3.
Hero?
“Tim + Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!” for ruining my entire sense of humor
Favorite TED Talk?
Why city flags may be the worst-designed thing you’ve never noticed by Roman Mars
Favorite Portland restaurant?
PDX Sliders in Sellwood, the only restaurant I ate at my whole first year in Portland
Favorite book?
Dream Animals by Emily Winfield Martin because of how excited my daughter gets when she hears me read it
Favorite movie?
Not a movie but I can bust out a Futurama quote for most situations
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@truewagner @entrapranure @clickhole
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
It turns out that economics can be very powerful when you align incentives toward a greater outcome. Economic alignment for good.
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Chunky all the way
Biggest pet peeve? Incompetence + Bullies. So, incompetent bullies?
Greatest fear?
Getting crushed by a giant falling elm tree branch
Go-to karaoke song?
Hell no
Where would you go in a time machine? It always feels like every tech breakthrough is always “10 years away.” Let’s go forward 10 years and see.
Under your bed right now?
Probably some rogue baby toys
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
I’m trying to think of which artists’ anthologies could be used to build the most seaworthy boat
Sam Diaz
Sam is a visionary leader who is passionate about shaping the future of Oregon’s land use policies. As the executive director of 1000 Friends of Oregon, he has worked tirelessly to create healthier communities by expanding housing and transportation options and reducing carbon pollution. Through the Land Use Leadership Initiative, Sam has encouraged broader participation from Oregonians in shaping the state’s future. His experience in state agencies and local governments has enabled him to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for a more equitable and inclusive regional community.
Hero?
Selena Quintanilla Perez
Favorite TED Talk?
Love Letter to Portland by Rukaiyah Adams
Favorite Portland restaurant? La Taq
Favorite book? The Velvet Rage by Alan Downs Ph.D.
Favorite movie? Scream
Top three favorite Instagram follows? Private :)
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Deliver on the promise of equality
Chunky or smooth peanut butter? Allergic
Biggest pet peeve? Sprawl
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear? Ledges in high drop situations
Most embarrassing moment? Slid in mud at recess right before a big school play I was in
Go-to karaoke song? Take Me Home Tonight by Eddie Money
Where would you go in a time machine? Would want to be Chief of Staff to Cleopatra
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Stevie Nicks (Fleetwood Mac), Selena Quintanilla Perez, Whitney Houston, Nora En Pure, Rüfüs Du Sol
Emily Stutzman
Emily Stutzman is the CEO of Happylucky, a brand design agency, and co-founder of the dating app Reco, which is designed to foster meaningful relationships and build lasting connections. Emily believes in the power of community and human connection. With over 15 years of experience in advertising, she has worked with brands like Adidas, Stella McCartney, Chewy, and Zappos. Emily is also a member of the Chief Women’s Network, which supports women executive leaders. In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her wife, four cats, one tiny dog, and a house full of plants.
Notes
Hero?
My dad, Ellis Stutzman, or any beaver, I admire how resourceful, hard working and strategic they are
Favorite TED Talk?
The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown
Favorite Portland restaurant?
Oma’s Hideaway or Nong’s
Favorite book?
At Home by Bill Bryson or Smoke Gets in Your Eyes by Caitlin Doughty
Favorite movie?
Truthfully, Bridesmaids. I also for some reason, LOVE The Fugitive (‘90s version).
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@visanstefan
@openlygayanimals
@TSA
@c.hroma
@happyluckypdx
(it’s not a plug, I do genuinely love our Insta)
What’s one change you’d make in the world? This question is too big for a short answer! :)
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Smooth
Biggest pet peeve?
When people mix up: they’re, there, their
Rolling Stones or The Beatles?
Rolling Stones? Also I don’t think I care!
Greatest fear?
Losing all my limbs in an accident
Most embarrassing moment?
Tripping Selena Gomez by accident at a photoshoot in front of the whole cast and crew
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Beyonce, Mariah Carey, The Carpenters, The Chicks, Queen
David Lucas
David is the founder of Lucas Design-Build, where he maintains and services a portfolio of real estate properties. He is also the founder and executive director of the Maurice Lucas Foundation, which empowers youth through education and sports. Additionally, he serves on the Providence Milwaukie Foundation Board and the Sports Oregon Board. David’s passion for education, service to the community, and sports are longstanding. He has played professional basketball in Portugal, China, and Poland — and received the 2020 Liberty and Hope Award from the League of Minority Voters.
Hero? Maurice Lucas
Favorite TED Talk? The Domino Effect by Brian Grant
Favorite Portland restaurant? Janken
Favorite book?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Favorite movie? The Pursuit of Happyness
Top three favorite Instagram follows? @mauricelucasfoundation @motivated.mindset
What’s one change you’d make in the world? Everyone spending kindness, compassion, and empathy
Chunky or smooth peanut butter? Chunky
Biggest pet peeve? Someone touching my HAIR :) Hate it.
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Rolling Stones
Greatest fear? Not seeing my children grow up
Go-to karaoke song? Boyz II Men — every song :)
Where would you go in a time machine? 2010 to see my father
Under your bed right now? Clean. Empty. Clear.
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Boyz II Men, Kane Brown, Sam Smith, Miguel, John Legend
Thunderstorm Artis
Thunderstorm is a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who makes music that strengthens the heart and awakens the soul. Thunderstorm grew up in a musical family with 10 siblings and began songwriting at 13 years old to cope with the sudden loss of his father. He experienced astronomical success after being a finalist on NBC’s The Voice in 2020, and has shared stages with legends like Booker T. Jones and Jack Johnson. His new project is a genre-bending batch of emotionally raw and incisive songs that offer much-needed insight into living with hope even in the darkest of times.
Notes
Hero? Jesus
Favorite TED Talk?
Redefining Reality by Jordan Peterson
Favorite Portland restaurant? Takumi Sushi and Bar
Favorite book? Crazy Love by Francis Chan
Top three favorite Instagram follows?
@ziregold
@jpcoopermusic
@willsmith
What’s one change you’d make in the world? That everyone has a home
Chunky or smooth peanut butter? Smooth
Biggest pet peeve?
Eating with an open mouth
Rolling Stones or The Beatles? Beatles
Greatest fear? Snakes
Most embarrassing moment? My false start doing my knockout round on The Voice
Go-to karaoke song? If I Ain’t Got You by Alicia Keys
Where would you go in a time machine? To the ‘80s
Under your bed right now? Game controllers
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
John Lennon, Donny Hathaway, John Legend, James Taylor
Luis Vargas
Luis’s purpose is to inspire and enable others to have transformative travel experiences. He has spent 20 years working globally in the start-up and experiential travel space helping iconic brands like Disney, REI, and Backroads build and scale meaningful businesses. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board for TEDxPortland and is the Founder and CEO of the certified B-Corp and Climate Neutral award-winning travel company Modern Adventure. He deeply values community and actively invests time and resources in those that have the power or potential to be catalysts for change.
Notes
Favorite TED Talk?
Elusive Creative Genius by Elizabeth Gilbert
Favorite Portland restaurant?
Kann. Bright, spicy, delicious, and the lovely human that is Gregory Gourdet!
Favorite movie?
Elf, during the holidays, gets me everytime
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Optimism as an act of rebellion. That we would all connect with the bittersweet beauty of being alive and human. That all is one and one is all. More optimism, connection, and joy.
Biggest pet peeve?
Someone being effusively enthusiastic about an idea, project, and collaboration and then ghosting
Rolling Stones or The Beatles?
Beatles
Greatest fear?
Harm to my children
Something someone should know about you?
Traveled to over 100 countries
Where would you go in a time machine? 200 years into the future and see if optimism was sound
Under your bed right now?
Nothing
David Rae
David believes in creating joy in others through community connection. With pit stops at the University of Oregon, Nike, and 503, he is now the Principal of Raen Creative. His passion lies in brand strategy, delivering one-of-a-kind experiences, and evoking unforgettable moments. David was part of the original planning group that brought TEDx to the Rose City in 2009 and has worked tirelessly to grow the event. Formerly, David served as the licensee for TEDxPortland and has been the host and emcee since 2012.
Hero?
The person I admire most in this world is my wife, Reegan... (and Duke Caboom)
Favorite TED Talk?
Stroke of Insight by Dr. Jill Bolt Taylor was the first TED talk that I ever viewed online in 2007 and it changed the trajectory of my life. But the talk I continue to come back to is The Way We Think About Charity is Dead Wrong by Dan Pallotta.
Favorite Portland restaurant?
Jake’s Famous Crawfish
Favorite movie?
Just one? I can’t. Everybody cut Footloose! So many... The Natural, The Man from Snowy River, Blues Brothers, Pulp Fiction, Stand by Me, Top Gun 1 & 2, Project Grizzly, Silence of the Lambs, Glory, Star Wars, Predator, Christmas Vacation, Gladiator, Field of Dreams.
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
People’s behavior would be intrinsically wired to the notion of “leaving something better than you found it.”
Biggest pet peeve?
Entitlement (Eli Cairo’s Talk!) and people who don’t chase their potential
Greatest fear?
Something happening to our kids
Most embarrassing moment?
8th grade — accidentally running into a telephone pole trying to impress a girl I had a crush on. Lying on the ground with “tweetie bird stars” in the sky, I broke my nose. Been shit on by a bird 4 times in my life too — should I buy a lottery ticket?
Something someone should know about you?
My happy place is on Sundays with my Old Gold softball teammates. Swing with joy...
Where would you go in a time machine?
April 12, 1980 — dipping my foot in the Atlantic Ocean with Terry Fox as he began the Marathon of Hope across Canada
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Prince, Tina Turner, and Ben Harper. Honorable mention, Fleetwood Mac.
Renny Gleeson
Renny has been in the technology and interactive marketing space since 1994. He led Wieden+Kennedy’s global interactive strategy efforts, co-founded W+K’s technology accelerator, and consults with ASU’s Threatcasting Lab and Aspen Institute’s Rodel Fellowship in Public Leadership. He has also launched startups in gaming, advertising, and social media. Most recently, Renny founded the Business Innovation Group (BIG), which provides strategic insights to brands, businesses, and government. He is an original TEDxPortland board member, speaker coach, and advisor.
Notes
Hero?
I’m sticking by Gabriel Solmer (Dir. of the Portland Water Bureau). Do you like water? I like water. Her team makes sure we all get it. And do you know the PWB Mission Statement? “We serve excellent water every minute of every day.” Those heroes aren’t playing over there.
Favorite TED Talk?
Why Science Fiction Matters by Annalee Newitz
Favorite Portland restaurant? HOTLIPS Pizza
Favorite book?
No. Just...no. Recent: Shards of Space by Robert Sheckley; The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey neé Elizabeth MacKintosh; Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson.
Favorite movie?
Soundtracks? Glad you asked! Arrival by Jóhann Jóhannsson; Dune + Blade Runner 2049 by Hans Zimmer; The Mission by Ennio Morricone and Myst - The Soundtrack by Robyn Miller (yes, the game). And Mad Max 2: Road Warrior by Brian May (literally just learned it was by Queen guitarist/astrophysicist Brian freaking May).
What’s one change you’d make in the world?
Trust but verify
Chunky or smooth peanut butter?
Wait—there’s smooth peanut butter? Why?
Greatest fear?
That someone is still reading this
Go-to karaoke song?
Sister Christian by Night Ranger
Where would you go in a time machine? Mars, in the year 3000. Maybe I won’t need to bring oxygen? We’ll see.
A few favorite Portland things?
Red Clouds Collective, DZ Alterations, Les Schwab Tires, Coco Donuts, Ecliptic Brewery, Langlitz Leathers
If you were on a desert island what five artist anthologies would you bring? Artist can be dead or alive?
Queen, Ennio Morricone, Johnny Cash, NIN, Traveling Wilburys
Our Ecosystem
Vince Kadlubek 2022 Speaker
History of
Established in 1984, TED is an annual event where some of the world’s leading thinkers and doers are invited to share what they are most passionate about.
“TED” stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design—three broad subject areas that are collectively shaping our future. And in fact, the event is broader still, showcasing ideas that matter in any discipline.
The diverse audience of leaders, scientists, creatives, and philanthropists is almost as extraordinary as the speakers, who have included Brené Brown, Bill Gates, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Frank Gehry, Bryan Stevenson, Sir Richard Branson, Philippe Starck, Jill Bolte Taylor, and Bono.
5 TED Fun Facts
1. The First TED Talks were posted online, and shared with the world, on June 27, 2006
2. The most popular TED Talk with over 74M views is Do Schools Kill Creativity by Sir Ken Robinson
3. TED has committed more than $1 billion to their Audacious project to fund changemakers around the world to dream as big as they dare, and then shape their boldest ideas into viable plans
4. The recommended maximum length of a TED Talk is 18 minutes
5. The youngest person to deliver a TED Talk was Molly Wright at 7 years old
History of
TEDx is part of a revolution in global education made possible by local organizers wanting to engage their communities.
Established in 2009, more than 40,000 TEDx events have been organized worldwide.
Every week, in more than 135 countries, people are coming together to pursue three words: Ideas. Worth. Spreading. We seek to build partnerships that will surface, promote, and support great ideas. The concept is simple: create an immersive environment where prominent local organizations, thought leaders, and key enablers from vastly different fields can cross-fertilize and draw inspiration from unlikely places. This foundation of partners, speakers, and influencers forms the basis of the community we are trying to build in Portland and beyond.
5 TEDx Fun Facts
1. The “x” in TEDx stands for independently organized events that are licensed by TED
2. The most viewed TEDx Talk with over 78M views is Beatbox Brilliance by Tom Thum at TEDxSydney
3. The most viewed TEDxPortland talk is The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI by Maurice Conti with more than 7.4M views
4. More than 3,200 TEDx events will happen this year with a projected 3,700 globally next year
5. The color of the TEDx red is Pantone 185
Viva Las Vegas 2022 Speaker
Jelani Memory 2022 Speaker
Commandments
05 01
Dream big. Strive to create the best talk you have ever given. Reveal something never seen before. Do something the audience will remember forever. Share an idea that could change the world.
02
Show us the real you. Share your passions, your dreams…and also your fears. Be vulnerable. Speak of failure as well as success.
03
Make the complex plain. Don’t try to dazzle intellectually. Don’t speak in abstractions. Explain. Give examples. Tell stories. Be specific.
Don’t flaunt your ego. Don’t boast. It’s the surest way to switch everyone off.
No selling from the stage. Unless we have specifically asked you to, do not talk about your company or organization. And don’t even think about pitching your products or services or asking for funding from the stage. 06 07
Feel free to comment on other speakers’ talks, to praise or to criticize. Controversy energizes. Enthusiastic endorsement is powerful.
09
End your talk on time. Doing otherwise steals time from the people that follow you. We won’t allow it.
Rehearse your talk in front of a trusted friend… for timing, for clarity, for impact. 10
04
Connect with people’s emotions. Make us laugh. Make us cry.
Don’t read your talk. Notes are fine. But if the choice is between reading or rambling, then read. 08
TEDxPortland
Mission, Vision, Goals
We are so grateful you could join us for our 11th event.
For context, we received our TEDx license in 2009, and it took us 14 months to pull off our first event at The Armory. There was never an intention to organize an annual event, but the feedback was so overwhelmingly positive, we decided to return to the Armory for Year 2. We grew to the Portland Art Museum in 2013 and the Keller Auditorium in 2014, and we most recently created history by hosting 8,000 guests at the Moda Center for Year 10 in 2022.
Our “homecoming” return to the Keller in 2023 is led by a 75+ member volunteer team working year-round on this experience to deliver ideas worth spreading to the Rose City and beyond. Our team goals center on speaker quality and content, premium event management, partner appreciation, and inspiring Portland to think and do.
Mission
To spread ideas. TEDx is part of a global TED community, welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, perspectives, and lives.
On TEDxPortland.com and TED.com, we’re building a clearinghouse of free knowledge. A community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other, both online and at our events.
Vision
Create a world-class experience that inspires Portland to think and do.
Goals
To organize the most educational and inspiring day of the year.
To bring our community together to celebrate people, partners, and places.
To develop a core team organizing dynamic that fosters love, passion and commitment to one another.
To be the most innovative TEDx event on the planet.
Jordan Dinwiddie 2022 Speaker
Rukaiyah Adams 2022 Speaker
Did You Know?
Fun Facts
• TEDxPortland at the Keller Auditorium takes 9 months to organize
• We work with 75+ volunteers
• We collaborate with 60+ local Portland partners
• Every year, Core Team members are sent to greater TED conferences outside of Oregon to strengthen our relationship with HQ in NYC, learn from other events, and build a deeper bench with our volunteers
• Every fall, our Core Team holds a strategy retreat at Timberline Lodge to reenergize, plan, and drive innovation for the year to come
In true pioneering spirit, TEDxPortland has trail-blazed many exciting initiatives for our city and beyond
• The Ideas Booth
• Award-winning Event Book
• Citywide Scavenger Hunt
• 6K “Paint the Town TED” fun run, now an annual experience 4 times running
• Annual Salon series
• High School TEDxYouth programming
• Regional workshop that supports TEDxBend, TEDxSalem, TEDxMtHood, TEDxMcMinnville, TEDxUOregon, TEDxSeattle, and TEDxVancouver
• Citywide billboard campaigns
• A citywide art show, twice (featuring 74 local artists!)
• Interstitial creative short films
• Annual Speaker Dinner celebrating our current speaker class and alumni every year
• More incredible custom collaborations than we can count, from custom beer (Rogue) and wine (Stoller) to shoes (NIKE)
Community
TEDxPortland Alumni
Over the past 11 years, 175+ speakers and performers have graced the TEDxPortland stage. We cherish our relationship with our alumni, working year-round to keep in touch with them and support them. Their ideas have shaped this city and our world!
2011
Greg Bell
Jim Riswold
Brian Druker, M.D.
Tinker Hatfield
Bobbie Conner
Elliot Mainzer
PHAME
On The Rocks
Mark Edlen
Scott Kveton
School of Rock
Thomas Lauderdale
Spencer Beebe
Karen Brooks
Storm Large
Mia Birk
John Jay
2012
Thomas Brown
Jessica Green, Ph.D.
Gavin Davison
David Terry
Portland Youth Philharmonic
Bassima Mroue
Hideshi Hamaguchi
John Waller & Ben Canales
Joe Whitworth
Kate Davis
Sahar Alnouri
Ward Cunningham
Rose City Trombones
Gene Sandoval
Aithan Shapira, Ph.D.
Jeb Corliss
Sam Adams
2013
Asia Greene
Brian Grant
Mike Thelin
Jonathan Krisel
Tom Brokaw
Naomi Pomeroy
Kate Bingaman-Burt
The Royal Blues
Laurie Marker, Ph.D.
Ben Huh
Guido Rahr
Kimberly Howard
Brian Faherty
Di-Ann Eisnor
Denver
2014
Aaron Draplin
Andrew Revkin
G Cody QJ Goldberg
Zalika Gardner
Eric Giler
Nong
Poonsukwattana
Jackson Gariety
Al James Macklemore
Zach King
Isaiah Holt
D’Wayne Edwards
James Keller
Frank Moore
Oregon Ballet
Theatre
Lisa Sedlar
Renny Gleeson
2015
Jon Wexler
Vidya Spandana
Karen Gaffney
The von Trapps
G Douglas Bundy
Linda Smith
Fawn Weaver
Jacob Miller & The Bridge City Crooners
Benji Wagner
Gregory Gourdet
Con Bro Chill
Dr. Cameron Smith
Jenna Nicholas
Kent Thornburg, M.D.
Regina Ellis
Amber Starks
Daniel Wilson, Ph.D.
Speech
Renny Gleeson
Vitor Bastos 2022 Speaker
TEDxPortland Alumni
2016
Elias Cairo
Nadya Okamoto
Joey Harrington
Intisar Abioto
Israel Bayer
Maurice Conti
Rex Burkholder
Tracy Oseran
Timber Jim Serrill
Thaniya Keereepart
Mara Zepeda
Samuel Hulick
Radiation City
Bobbi MacKenzie
Portland Gay
Men’s Chorus
Tylor Neist & Bridgetown
Orchestra
Rose City Trombones
Renny Gleeson
2017
Emma Mcilroy
Stephen Green
Dave Sanders, M.D.
Annie Choo
Thor Drake
Redray Frazier
Luis Vargas
Renu Malhotra, Ph.D.
Benjamin Dehen-Artaiz
Marla Smith-Nilson
Adam Garcia
Ragini Dindukurthi
Colin O’Brady
Ben Kaiser
Renny Gleeson
2018
Ann Curry
Albert Chi, M.D.
Tami Lynn Kent
Tom Sachs
Chief Danielle Outlaw
Peter Cho
Kevin Cavenaugh
Tyrone Poole
Colleen Yeager
The Gay Beards
Mira Kaddoura
Rick Turoczy
Christopher Nichols, Ph.D.
Kristine Napper
Steven Eberlein
Hunter Noack &
Thomas Lauderdale
Edna Vazquez
Ron Artis II
Oregon Symphony
Renny Gleeson
2019
Rachel Knox, M.D.
Steve Oldham
Paloma Medina
David Peyton, Ph.D.
Carine Kanimba
Rebecca Jordan Smith
Tyler Malek
Anna Debenham
JD Hooge
Julia Niiro
Nandini
Ranganathan, Ph.D.
Kary Youman
Xiomara Torres
Duncan Campbell
Portland Cello Project
NW Dance Project
Piano. Push. Play.
Renny Gleeson
2022
Asia Greene-Rhodes
Jelani Memory
Amy Wolff
Eric Tran, Ph.D.
Jordan Dinwiddie
Digable Planets
Tatiana Mac
Atticus
Vince Kadlubek
Regan Parker
Tyrone Hendrix
Death Cab for Cutie
Emily Nestor
Vitor Bastos
Taylor Stewart
Portugal. The Man
Viva Las Vegas
Broke Gravy
Rukaiyah Adams
Renny Gleeson
Pink Martini
This year we found it essential to find a way to prioritize mental health.
We know we don’t have to sell you on the importance of this; the daily reminders of stress and anxiety are enough. We know that everyone needs support — and as an organization, this year we wanted to figure out how to begin to tackle this issue and help our team and community at large.
Prioritizing mental health was not an if for us. It was simply a how and when.
Thus, the Be Well initiative was born.
This Initiative is an intention and commitment for TEDxPortland as an organization to cultivate more resilience, balance, and well-being within our internal culture and community at large.
Our goals for this initiative:
• To help our core team mitigate, prevent, and alleviate their burnout
• Normalize workplace well-being
• Most importantly, cultivate community and camaraderie centered on the value of learning how to take care of ourselves
How it Came to Life
Over the past 9 months we have worked diligently with our partners to execute this vision. We are proud to say we were able to accomplish the following:
• Hosted 15 private events and trainings for our core team centered around health and well-being
• Supported more than 200 people with these events collectively
• Enhanced our speakers’ experience to help them reduce stress and cultivate greater mental health while preparing for their big day
• Offered dedicated coaching and mentorship to our core team and speakers
So What’s Next?
The first year of this initiative was a focus on how to support our internal team, but as this vision grows, our hope is to share this with our community at large! So keep your eyes out for some Be Well offerings just for you.
How to Get Involved
Have an idea? Want to get involved? Ready to be a sponsor? Then email us directly with all your brilliance at bewell@tedxportland.com.
A special thank you to our founding partners with this initiative — Timberline Lodge, Knot Springs, and Modo Yoga. And to our Director of Wellness, Jordan Aftanas, thank you — we could never have done this without you. We appreciate your grace, wisdom, and leadership.
Be Well Exercise
Here is an exercise to help you gain a snapshot perspective on different levels of balance and imbalance in each area in your life. Examine the different areas of life on the pie chart and place a dot in each slice at the degree to which you are fulfilled in the area (outer rim indicates great fulfillment; inner circle, less fulfillment). Connect the dots. This will show you what areas of your life are out of balance and might need more attention and where you might be thriving. Use the reflection questions for what to do next.
Physical
Relationships
Home / Family / Friends / Community
Mental + Emotional Health
Hobbies + Interest Joy / Creativity / Self-expression / Play Love + Romance
Financial Health Sense of Purpose
Reflection Questions
What areas in your life do you feel most balanced and fulfilled? Write down three things you want to celebrate about that.
What areas in your life do you feel are the most out of balance and why do you think this is?
What are three things you could do tomorrow to help bring you more balance into each of these areas?
How can you support yourself to make this change?
What are your favorite practices / tools that help you Be Well that you can do daily, weekly, monthly?
Our Team
Co-Founders
David Rae
Mark Starkey
Board of Directors
David Paull
David Rae
Luis Vargas
Murali Nallakrishnan
Rachel Knox, M.D.
Redray Frazier
Renny Gleeson
Susan Hoffman
Licensee
Dustin Fernandes
Advisory Team
China Forbes
G Cody QJ Goldberg
Gene Sandoval
Greg Bell
Jamey Hampton
Karen Brooks
Leon Anderson
Megan Diana
Mike Thelin
Regan Parker
Regina Ellis
Stephen Green
Tinker Hatfield
Wilson Smith III
Zalika Gardner
Curator
David Rae
Hosts
David Rae
Luis Vargas
Producer
Johny Hernandez
Leadership Team
David Paull
Dustin Fernandes
Grace Moen
Johny Hernandez
Jordan Aftanas
Justin Albano
Molly McCluskey
Murali Nallakrishnan
Peter Achterman
Risk Management & Oversight Committee
David Paull
Dustin Fernandes
Michelle Lin Regan Parker
Speaker Curation & Coaching
Amy Wolff
Cathey Armillas
David Paull
David Rae
Dustin Fernandes
Grace Moen
John Hoke
Johny Hernandez
Jordan Aftanas
Karen Brooks
Kerry Tymchuk
Leon Anderson
Lou Radja
Michael Doherty
Murali Nallakrishnan
Pete Achterman
Pete Lewis
Renny Gleeson
Ryan Buchanan
Sarah Schiffman
Vidya Spandana
Vince LaVecchia
Agency of Record
Thesis
Core Team:
Alison Pond
Amanda LaMarco
Courtney Lael
Evan Corpuz
Faulkner Allocco
Ginger Lee Kretschmer
Griffen Snow
Joe Carolino
Phuc Hong Phan
Sara Suttles
Support Team:
Alex Cho
Jim Nowierski
Keely York
Kimberlin Conway
Michael Barrett
Ned Lannamann
Sara Cocco
Veronica Gomez
Introductory & Interstitial Videos
Thesis
Partner Content
Nikolaus Popp & Puurple World
Stage Management & Production
Meyer Pro
with special thanks to:
Gayle and Steve Meyer
Matt O’Dell
Conrad Burmester
Sound Carlson Audio
Lighting Outlaw Lighting
Livestream KGW+
Meyer Pro
Videography & YouTube PostProduction
Raen Creative Photography
Andrew Wallner
Henry Cromett Thesis
TEDxPortland
Stage Sign
Brad Hogan and the wonderful team at Pinnacle Exhibits
Social Media & Interactive
David Paull
Dustin Fernandes
Johny Hernandez
Thesis
Public Relations
Lyn Hart
Keller Park Activation
Fuller Events
Volunteer Management
Dustin Fernandes
Molly McCluskey
Justin Albano
Partnerships & Grants
David Rae
Kate Incerto
Johny Hernandez
Performance Direction
Grace Moen
Redray Frazier
TEDxPortland Studio
Design Team
Annatova Goodman
Daniel Westling
J Yun
Jon Hill
Jordan Aftanas
Joseph Wells
Victoria Wells
Team Uniforms
Dehen 1920
Knot Springs
Portland Gear
Sneakers
Tinker Hatfield
Brendan Hughes
Alex Wang
John Hoke
Botanical Innovation
Rosemary Stafford
Floral Design
Hair & Makeup
Kelly Searle
Be Well Initiative
Jordan Aftanas
SALON W+K
Jinnina Chiles
GALA
Kelsey Nealeigh
Johny Hernandez
Jordan Aftanas
Partner Appreciation Night
Hotel Vintage
Casey O’Donnell
Speaker Dinner
Pam Lloyd
Sarah Lewis
Happy Hour
Rogue Ales & Beam Spirits
with special thanks to:
Dharma Tamm, James Falvey, Austin Raz &
George Mann
Hotel Partner
Hotel Vintage
DJ
Benny Christiansen
Mascot Teddy
Legal
Lane Powell
Controller
Jaime Diedrich
Humble Hero
Pete Achterman
Glue Emeritus
Carson Brewer
For First Believing In Us
Michael Doherty
We are very grateful to the staff of Portland’5 and Keller Auditorium. Your precision and professionalism continue to take us to new heights.
Collaborations
122 124 Dehen 1920 Portland Gear
Dehen 1920 Varsity Sweaters
Well into their tenth decade, Dehen continues a tradition of heavy duty, quality manufacturing while actually producing their goods in Portland.
Benjamin
Dehen-Artaiz 2017 Speaker
Founded by William Peter Dehen in 1920, Dehen Knitting Company produces classic and traditional U.S. heavyweight apparel. Keeping true to their humble yet pioneering beginnings in Portland, Oregon, they are a family business known for long-lasting quality, workmanship, and rugged styling. In the 1920s they began knitting varsity and collegiate sweaters for student athletes. Today, well into their tenth decade, Dehen continues a tradition of heavy duty, quality manufacturing while actually producing their goods in Portland. Quality is built into every garment that Dehen makes.
TEDxPortland became incredibly inspired after Benjamin Dehen-Artaiz graced our stage in 2017 for our Spectrum theme. His Talk was about “Resurrecting the American Dream.” We have since collaborated and partnered to outfit all of our TEDxPortland alumni speakers / performers in a custom Dehen varsity sweater.
It is a gesture to show our alumni how much we cherish them, their ideas, and their continued involvement in our community-building efforts.
There are three stripes on the sleeve to symbolize TED: Technology, Entertainment, Design.
We are very proud to outfit our TEDxPortland family in these one-of-a-kind sweaters and share with you the “Heavy Duty, Old School Truth” that is Dehen 1920.
Portland Gear Apparel
Special thanks to Marcus Harvey, Eli Abramovitz, Zack Dean, Sean Oulashin, and Wookie Bae.
From citywide scavenger hunts to iconic custom “TED Red” hats, Portland Gear has provided creative collaborations for our volunteer team and attendees. Their infamous VW bus made its debut in 2014 on 3rd Avenue and we have never looked back. This year we are thrilled to provide Portland Gear + TEDxPortland Confluence Bags for ALL attendees. Custom one-of-a-kind wool hats and t-shirts are available for sale outside in Keller Park.
Partners
The University of Oregon, specifically the School of Journalism and Communication in Portland, was one of our first partners in 2011 and helped get TEDxPortland off the ground. In 2012, the University of Oregon became our presenting partner and has continued their support ever since. We are so thankful for their support, not only with our main event at Keller Auditorium but also with past TEDx SALONS and TEDxYouth@Portland events. With heartfelt appreciation we thank Jane Gordon, Matt Roberts, Larissa Ennis, and Justin Fisher — your team has been with us from the very beginning and we are forever grateful.
We are excited to support your communitybuilding efforts as you embark on your new campus endeavors in North Portland with the Ballmer Institute and your commitment to mental health services and equitable access.
Go Ducks!
Amy Wolff 2022 Speaker
TEDxPortland Year 11 marks the beginning of our creative collaboration with Thesis, our latest agency of record. New relationships are energizing, messy (in all the best ways), and mutually inspiring — you know that feeling you get when you find a new rideor-die? Yeah, that. It’s been an absolute joy to get to know this team of nimble, thoughtful, and passionate professionals.
Thesis sits at the confluence of humanity and the digital experience, where insightful data, diverse perspectives, technology, and creative spirit come together to solve problems and work toward a better world. That’s why we’re all here, right? From coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions to photo/video shoots and feedback loops to the delivery of every last pixel and piece of paper — this year has been a wild, wonderful ride. And the best part? We did it together.
Nike’s purpose is to use the power of sport to move the world forward. Our TEDxPortland organizing team is inspired by their belief in a fair, sustainable future—one where everyone thrives on a healthy planet and a level playing field. Nike has been with us as a partner from day one and we cannot imagine this journey without them. Thank you for continuing to inspire us and for supporting our creative endeavors. Our community organizing “mindset” is anchored in your iconic slogan “Just Do It.” We challenge our 75+ volunteers everyday to DO noble deeds, not dream them all day. Furthermore, your mission aligns with ours: to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world.
With special thanks to Tinker Hatfield, Wilson Smith lll, John Hoke, Brendan Hughes, Lara Anderson, and Peter Achterman.
*If you have a body, you are an athlete.
Atticus 2022 Speaker
This amazing Portland family business elevated our production value to new heights when we first started working with them in 2012. In 2014, we introduced our first volume of the awardwinning TEDxPortland Event Book. These books are now cherished collectibles, finding homes on personal library shelves, coffee tables, and ottomans. All the printed collateral you see here today is made possible by the amazing team at Premier Press. In particular, we would like to thank Juli Cordill, Eric Farrara, Christina Coon, and Jean Kelleher for being models of professionalism and generosity.
Please take a moment to reference the Year 11 dedication at the end of this beautiful book in memory of Andy Gordon. Your love and legacy is in all of these pages.
Carving your own path in life embodies the spirit of every Portlander, and that is what ShiftKey promotes when it comes to helping healthcare professionals achieve the balance in life that works best for them.
After decades of persistent inaccessibility and inequality for women, single mothers, caregivers, people with disabilities, and other groups disenfranchised by competing responsibilities and systemic time constraints, many are at a breaking point in the workforce conversation. An independent option is the only the path forward, and it’s long overdue.
Giving all professionals the option to choose how to work and expanding options for work and life in a diverse economic landscape is what ShiftKey is proud to do. Empowering those to decide the best work options for their life, family, needs, and preferences at any given time.
ShiftKey is the first scheduling and credential management platform designed to combat the national healthcare shortage. By offering the opportunity to work as much or as little as they choose and putting the power back into the hands of healthcare workers, ShiftKey is bringing more licensed professionals back into the workforce on their own terms.
Thank you ShiftKey for all the work you do in the healthcare industry and for supporting TEDxPortland.
Tatiana Mac 2022 Speaker
Ishmael “Butterfly” Butler,
We never thought TEDxPortland would grow into what it is today. It was 700+ people at the Armory in Year One. We grew to the Keller Auditorium in 2014 and it was the largest TEDx in the United States with 3,300+. Last year in the Moda Center/Theater of the Clouds, we had over 8,000 guests.
Thank you to the leadership at Lane Powell for earnestly looking out for the organization’s best interests as things have developed over the years. From formalizing our initial organization to supporting our non-profit incorporation, we are eternally grateful to the legal counsel (and friendship) of Lisa Poplawski, Jeff Wolfstone, and Carter Mann for their thoughtfulness and stewardship.
Audi Beaverton is the oldest Audi dealer in Oregon and has been in business for 43 years. Since 1980, Audi Beaverton has been taking pride in crafting each and every experience you have with them. They deliver with trust, commitment, and follow-through. Not only do they put their customer’s needs first, but they also make sure to take care of their employees who in turn provide you with an experience you can only get from a family owned dealership.
Audi believes in their community, as is evident from their support of our event. From our lanyards to supporting the Hotel Vintage and our wrapped e-tron volunteer vehicles, thank you!
Special offer until the end of July!
Audi Beaverton is offering $2,000 off any new in-stock by mentioning “TEDxPortland”
With special thanks to Karen Feiner, Frank Geary, Peter Young, Brandon Elliott, and Kate Abke.
#AudiBeaverton @AudiBeaverton
Emily Nestor 2022 Speaker
Portugal. The Man 2022 Performance
Thank you to the incredible team at MeyerPro. The production and execution that you see here today is a result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.
When there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. MeyerPro personified this. With special thanks to the leadership, grace, and unconditional support of Gayle & Steve Meyer. Lastly, Matt O’Dell and Conrad Burmester — we applaud you and are grateful for your guidance and mentorship. Thank you to MeyerPro’s partners, Carlson Audio and Outlaw Lighting, for making our stage design dreams come to life.
Last November, a 30-person TEDxPortland organizing team traveled up to Timberline Lodge for an offsite retreat to dream about and create “Year 11.” We were once again inspired at 7,000 feet to create the foundational elements for our “Confluence” campaign. We’d like to extend special thanks to Sally Kohnstamm and the remarkable staff at Timberline Lodge for making this trip possible. This Oregon treasure is such a special place. The magic found there touches everyone who enters the Lodge.
At TEDxPortland, we firmly believe that elevating mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual connections is paramount to living our best lives. Through tangible tools and resources to support our individual and shared wellness goals, we are better equipped to weave wellness into all that we do.
Knot Springs has always shown up for our TEDx community through a dedicated strategic partnership for our speaker and staff community. For Year 11, we have expanded this partnership to a yearlong collaboration rooted in the Be Well initiative.
Knot Springs’ wellness social club focuses on cultivating community and camaraderie centered on wellness and good times. The tools they offer the community to enhance individual wellness through shared connections allow all of us to habitualize our health and self-care.
Unlike traditional spas, Knot Springs’ wellness social club is a place to connect and share experiences with old and new friends. Their Springs area includes soaking pools, steam, and sauna that allow you to rejuvenate, relax, and recover all while taking in the best views of the Portland skyline. Move from tepid, to cold, to hot and back again for the full Knot Springs’ experience.
Knot Springs’ treatment program is unparalleled to the rest. With several unique modalities for full body massages, customized foot rubs, and high-end facials, experience a deep reset while boosting overall physical and mental well-being.
Attention to how you’re moving in the world changes your experience. With a multitude of options ranging from HIIT to yoga to meditation, our personal training and group fitness classes offer something for every body.
@knotsprings www.knotsprings.com
Hyphn enhances our community’s potential one workspace at a time. Using research, data, and experience, together they design and deliver inspiring workplace solutions that enable you to do your best, feel your best, and achieve your best. We are so fortunate and grateful to have received a gift from this remarkable group of teammates that transformed our TEDxPortland HQ. If you have ever visited our office, you know! We hold this team in such high regard and cannot recommend the company’s capabilities enough.
They espouse their values and we feel they are an extension of us!
We’re One Team
We’ve Got You
We Never Settle
We Love to Laugh
We Build Community
Matt Newstrom, thank you for kindness, sense of humor, and your leadership. With special thanks to Christi Vermillion, Jenny Williamson, Dianne Zeltner, Grayson Barber, and Shaston Jee.
Renny Gleeson Closer
With a passion for excellence in home improvement and maintaining that standard in everything they do, High Performance Homes is an example of a true community leader as a first-time partner of TEDxPortland.
High Performance Homes was founded during the height of the recession in 2011 and is majority owned by women, focused on diversity and inclusion. HPH was built with the principle to put America first. With its roots in the Pacific Northwest and having expanded to the Southwest, they utilize local manufacturers that understand and design products specific to the climate challenges consumers face. With this expertise, HPH creates smart homes that reduce waste and improve energy efficiency.
High Performance Homes’ vision is to protect their customers’ greatest investment, the planet, and animals. To serve our country and communities, and to make a difference in the lives of hardworking people.
With a focus on giving back, High Performance Homes strives to make a difference in underrepresented communities through multiple self-started initiatives that help those in need of housing improvements. One such initiative was donating a new roof to Angels with Misplaced Wings, a local nonprofit that provides quality care for severely disabled animals. In addition, HPH continues to partner with and support organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital and The Portland Rescue Mission.
Thank you Parveen Adel and Cameron Root for supporting TEDxPortland and the Pacific Northwest community!
We are honored to partner with Stoller Family Estate for the fifth straight year to raise a glass to our community-building efforts.
Cheers to ideas worth spreading as we commemorate the Year 11 Class!
Special thanks to Gary Mortensen, James Falvey, and Austin Raz for your partnership.
Our collaborative Confluence wine three-pack:
• 2018 Oregon Pinot
• 2018 Chardonnay
• 2018 Rosé
Death Cab for Cutie
We could not feel more welcome by our partners at the Hotel Vintage. They have gone above and beyond to make our Speakers and Core Team and greater TEDxPortland community feel comfortable and relaxed. Boasting 117 rooms, this beautiful boutique hotel was built in 1894 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. We were delighted with the urban tasting lounge, game room, dog accommodations, yoga mats in every room, and complimentary happy hour every night in the lobby, to name a few things! Beyond the thoughtful amenities, we also hosted our Partner Appreciation Night here on May 11 earlier this month. 60+ partner brands and 175 guests enjoyed a first-class evening.
Special thanks to Dale Johnson, Jennifer Paredes, Nikki Pleasant, and Casey O’Donnell for your hospitality and professionalism. We love and appreciate you!
To Our Media Partners
Thank you to the partners who have helped lift our organizational voice and raise awareness for community organizing efforts.
Special thanks to our friends Brenda Braxton, Paul Kenney, Steve Carter, Rick Jacobs, Ellen Boynton, Lacey Evans, Greg Retsinas, Anna Zusman, Chris Hammond, Sean Sterling, Chris Finks, and Andrew Longeteig.
A Tribute to Len Bergstein
November 13, 1945 – October 17, 2022
With full hearts, we salute Len Bergstein.
He and his wife Betsy are the only guests that we know of that attended all 10 consecutive TEDxPortland main events held in our history.
Len’s passion for civic engagement was infectious. He was known for his insatiable curiosity and puckish sense of humor. His insights and intellect provided a well-rounded perspective for our community.
Len, your love and loyalty to this city and state was a shining example for all of us.
2023 Partnerships
Diamond Partner / Creative Agency of Record
In Closing
Thank You
Thank you for being with us today.
We believe that better is possible and we believe in this city. We hope that you have learned something today and that you are inspired to go back to your communities to make an impact with positive change.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
—Margaret Mead
Donate
Feedback
Now that you’ve experienced what we hope was the most inspirational, educational day of the year, we want to hear from you.
This is truly your event and we want it to exceed all expectations.
Please help us by completing a short survey by our friends at the Portlandbased insights agency Lillian Labs.
We read every response and use them to help make TEDxPortland better and better every year.
When you complete the survey you’ll be entered into a drawing for two tickets to next year’s TEDxPortland.
Thank you for your ongoing support! We can’t do this without you.
TEDxPortland needs your help. We are a charitable 501(c)3 non-profit. It takes a village to curate and produce yearround programming for our city.
If you have an interest in getting involved with our fundraising and development opportunities, please reach out. We would love to hear from you. Email us at build@tedxportland.com
If you would like to attend our 2024 Gala with an intention to donate we would love to host you. Please email gala@tedxportland.com.
Thank you for your trust in us and we appreciate your support.
Please Give Today
TEDxPortland.com
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Farewell & Happy Hour Beer, Spirits & Ice Cream
Thank you to our friends at Rogue Ales, Stoller Family Estate and Beam Suntory for providing a hosted bar for
3,200+ guests!
Let’s celebrate and discuss what we just saw! Sharing highlights, insights, and inspiration from the day gives us a chance to reflect and grow. We suggest you meet new people, raise a glass, and commit to doing something with the information and ideas you have learned today. Each guest can imbibe two complimentary drinks. Please enjoy responsibly and plan a safe ride home with Tri-Met, ride share, or a designated driver with a carpool!
Attendees age 21+ may enjoy a drink during the lunch hour and at the end of day. Wristbands are required and are provided with ID check.
Tyrone Hendrix and his band 2022 Performance
Regan Parker 2022 Speaker
Volunteer Spotlight
Cathey Armillas
Meet Cathey — one of our beloved speaker coaches on our TEDxPortland core team.
We were in introduced to Cathey in 2012 when she masterfully coached John Waller and Ben Canales at the Armory in Year 2.
Since then, she has made a huge impact coaching a diverse range of speakers, from WWII heroes to hip-hop artists to CEOs. Past TEDxPortland speakers she has partnered with include: Frank Moore (2014), Zach King (2014), Speech (2015), Tracy Oseran (2016), Stephen Green (2017), Emma McIlroy (2017), Tyrone Poole (2018), Mira Kaddoura (2018), Xiomara Torres (2019), Jordan Dinwiddie (2022), and Dr. Eric Tran (2022). This year she is involved with Kee Nelson and Sam Diaz.
She is a world-renowned coach, author, and international speaker and who has given two TEDx talks herself. One of Cathey’s books, The Unbreakable Rules of Marketing: 9 ½ Ways to Get People to Love You, won an award with the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).
We deeply admire Cathey for her passionate zest for life and how she leads with intention. When she’s not busy being a master storyteller, she’s out chasing waterfalls and exploring the most epic bridges around the globe. She is the ultimate adventurer! Thank you for all you do Cathey, we love you.
Year 11 Dedication
In Loving Memory of Andy Gordon
Year 11 is dedicated to THE man who was the instrumental guiding force behind our award-winning Event Books.
His name is Andy Gordon.
Andy worked at our cherished partner, Premier Press.
Andy was the type of guy you wanted in your life. He was solid gold. An extremely devout husband, father, friend, and coworker. His selflessness is something to which we should all aspire. To know him was a gift.
Thank you for elevating our professional standards to ambitious new heights. Your attention to detail and profound levels of execution are forever imprinted in the DNA of our organization.
We love you, “Commissioner Gordon,” with all our collective hearts.
Dear Future Me
A Letter to Your Future Self
Inspired
by Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way and our partners at Egg Press, we want you to channel “confluence” insights learned today to your life for the coming year. This intention leads to a self-addressed, handwritten time machine
filled with insight and inspiration for YOU by YOU!
This section is a two-page worksheet. Simply fill it out, detach the perforated page, then drop it off at the Egg Press tent in the Keller Park courtyard during the happy hour. One year from now we will mail your letter to your future self. See step five for more information.
Step 1.
Imagine you have several alternate lives. What would you do with them? Without overthinking it, list the three possibilities, no matter how wild or impractical (e.g., mountain climber, zoologist, YouTube chef, treehouse dweller, keytar player, etc.):
Step 2.
For each life, list the two qualities that most appeal to you:
Step 3.
Brainstorm some ideas about how you might incorporate those qualities into your life during the coming year:
Step 4.
Write a letter to your 2024 self. You can say whatever you like, of course — it’s just you talking to yourself after all! — but here are some of our suggestions for using your worksheet as a jumping-off point:
• Imagine that you are your 2024 self. Describe the coming year as though it’s already happening. Talk about the adventures you had, the changes you made, and the things you accomplished.
• Write a letter of intent describing your aspirations for the coming year. What are your hopes, goals, and objectives? What are some creative ways you might transform those aspirations into reality?
• Summarize or respond to the worksheet. Describe the things you’re already doing or that you’re happy with, but also describe the things you’d like to focus on or improve upon.
Step 5.
When you’re finished, go to the Egg Press tent in the Keller Park courtyard. They’ll have envelopes ready to be stuffed, addressed, stamped, and collected for safekeeping until next year, when we’ll send your letter to your future self, who by then will be your present self, and who will hopefully have their April 2024 mind blown by this tiny TEDxPortland time machine.