TIME. IT IS THE SILENT ARTIST PAINTING THE CANVAS OF OUR LIVES – A CONTINUUM OF MEMORIES PAST AND WHAT LIES AHEAD.
OUR MOST PRECIOUS AND FINITE RESOURCE, TIME IS FREE YET PRICELESS. IT CAN BE SPENT, BUT NOT SAVED. ONCE USED, IT CAN NEVER BE RETURNED.
TOGETHER, WE WILL LIFT UP ORDINARY PEOPLE WITH EXTRAORDINARY IDEAS TO CREATE AN INDELIBLE MOMENT IN TIME. IN YEAR 13, LET’S FORGE MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH HUMAN POTENTIAL, BOLD CREATIVITY, AND UNRELENTING PROGRESS.
PORTLAND IS WHAT WE MAKE IT – LET’S CHALLENGE ONE ANOTHER TO BE ALL IN, FOR ALL TIME.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
With reverence and respect, we would like to acknowledge that the land on which we gather today at the Keller Auditorium in Portland, Oregon, 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.
WELCOME TO THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL, EDUCATIONAL DAY OF THE YEAR FOR OUR CITY.
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 yearround 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 delightful day of knowledge.
Nike
Knot
Intentionality
SESSION 1: 9am - 12pm
Host: David Rae
LAERZ
Mike Bennett
Jennifer Pfeifer
Ivan McClellan
Christopher Brown
Brian McLean
White Lotus
Brennan Wood
Scott Hanselman
Lunch 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Keller Park
SESSION 2: 2pm - 5pm
Host: Luis Vargas
Small Million
Dennis Connors
Tal Sharabi
Jackson Rayne
Ariana Vargas
Christine Sinclair & Karina LeBlanc
Ron Artis II & The Royal Blues
CLOSER:
Leon Anderson
Happy Hour
5:00pm
Michael Curry 2024 Speaker
Lou Featherstone 2024 Speaker
DETAILS
Etiquette, Food, Music in the Park, Coffee & Tea, Merch
ETIQUETTE
• We suggest you approach the day with an open mind, curiosity, skepticism, optimism, and a willingness to learn something new!
• Please silence your cell phones.
• Assigned seating for guests.
• Take a moment to put your name on your name badge. A TEDxPortland volunteer has a Sharpie for you.
• Auditorium doors will be closed when the sessions begin to respect the speakers / performers onstage.
• We will be clearing the auditorium during the lunch break.
• Feel free to take notes in your book.
EMOTION
We have learned over the years that this experience can be filled with vulnerable emotion. Laughs, tears, intellectual stimulation— the day packs a punch! To support you, we have tissues if you need them. We are grateful to our friends at HYPHN. We espouse their values: we are one team, they never settle, they build community and they got our back! Thank you, Matt Newstrom & Team.
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 break. Options for purchase:
• Tamale Boy
• Alchemy Sandwich
• El Mas Chignon
• Cobra Dogs
• MidCity SmashedBurger
MUSIC IN THE PARK
A new element added to our Keller Park activation is SoundsTruck NW! The mobile stage is a wonderful innovation by Jon & Yoko Greeney and will add live music elements on our lunch hour with The Brothers Jam and our DJ Royale.
COFFEE & TEA
Coffee and tea are important parts of our day here at TEDxPortland. Thanks to our remarkable friends at Portal Tea Company, we are excited to offer the joy of complimentary coffee & tea in the morning and during the lunch hour, while supplies last. We appreciate you, Dominic Valdes, Angela Valdes, Jeremy Gamble & Team!
And special thanks to Matt Milletto and his incredible team at Vehicle Chocolates for their servant leadership.
MERCH
Stop by the tent outside on 3rd Avenue and visit with our awesome friends from Portland Gear who are managing our merch. Hoodies, shirts, bags, shoes, and more are waiting for you. Thank you, Marcus Harvey and Team!
Thank you to our partners:
ARTIST-INRESIDENCE, ART GALLERY, SPEAKERS, PERFORMERS & HOSTS
Kyra
L’Atelier
LAERZ
Mike Bennett
Jennifer Pfeifer
Ivan McClellan
Christopher Brown
Brian McLean
White Lotus
Brennan Wood
Scott Hanselman
Small Million
Dennis Connors
Tal Sharabi
Jackson Rayne
Ariana Vargas
Christine Sinclair
Ron Artis II
David Rae
Luis Vargas
Leon Anderson
@hernamewaskyra
KYRA WATKINS
Kyra is a Portland-based public and digital artist hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio. She served as PSU’s artist-in-residence during the 2023–2024 academic year. Kyra’s background is primarily in portraiture and figurative work as well as in large-scale public murals. She has a strong passion for working with youth, in part because her own creative practice began when she was a child.
Kyra has created two one-of-a-kind pieces for each speaker and performer in Year 13—one of their inner child, age 4–8, and one as a young teenager.
Beard’s Framing and Frame Central have proudly supported our first-ever Artist-in-Residence program and the work of Kyra Watkins, showcased at L’Atelier Yaffe Gallery. All expertly framed paintings and sketches will be gifted to Year 13 speakers and performers.
Very special thank you to George Ivan and Nani Kalakau for being such gracious hosts.
LAERZ
Known as LAERZ, Brandon Martinez is the pioneer of a new era in electronic music. Hailing from Los Angeles, LAERZ crafts mesmerizing, real-time compositions using his voice, a synthesizer, drum pad, and loop station. His groundbreaking approach to live EDM performances has captivated audiences worldwide, earning him comparisons to the likes of Rufus Du Sol, Lane 8, and Elderbrook.
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT?
Libre.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
@rufusdusol
@camila
@elderbrook
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
People interrupting people. MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Get rid of greed in humanity.
WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW?
A very clean floor, mopped and swept every 2-3 weeks.
GREATEST FEAR? Dying.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Rufus Du Sol, Aurora, Ben Bohmer, Forrest, Nimino.
TIME IS THE MOVING IMAGE OF ETERNITY. –
PLATO
MIKE BENNETT
Mike Bennett is an illustrator, immersive space designer, and self-proclaimed public joy creator. A lifelong cartoon enthusiast, Mike creates outdoor art via lawn signs, scavenger hunts, and educational displays like A to Zoo. Mike has built a community of more than two million global social media followers as well as immersive experiences like Dinolandia, a prehistoric adventure, and Wonderwood, a fantasy-inspired restaurant and mini-golf course.
WHO IS YOUR HERO? Jim Henson.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“Tubthumping” by Chumbawumba (ideally so folks sing along with me).
FAVORITE MOVIE? Shaun of the Dead.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? The Decemberists, The Shins, Koji Kondo, They Might Be Giants, Nick Cave.
WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? Shigeru Miyamoto, Gilda Radner, Conan O’Brien, Bill Watterson, Jim Henson.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
@hand.sewn.heads @ragmopandgoose @titanicfan_97
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Two extra hours a day to do something you love.
HOW DID IT GET SO LATE SO SOON? IT’S NIGHT BEFORE IT’S AFTERNOON. DECEMBER IS HERE BEFORE IT’S JUNE. MY GOODNESS HOW THE TIME HAS FLEWN. HOW DID IT GET SO LATE SO SOON?
– DR. SEUSS
JENNIFER PFEIFER
Jennifer Pfeifer, Professor of Psychology at the University of Oregon, leads the Developmental Social Neuroscience Lab and codirects the Center for Translational Neuroscience. An expert in puberty and brain development, her research explores how these biological changes impact social relationships, behavior, and mental health in adolescence. Her work is supported by the NIH, NSF, and Oregon Medical Research Foundation. Pfeifer also co-directs the National Scientific Council on Adolescence, bridging developmental science with policymakers, youth organizations, and the public.
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
My mom (Carolyn Pfeifer, née Popp).
FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT?
My favorite Eugene restaurant is Bar Purlieu.
CHUNKY OR SMOOTH PEANUT BUTTER? Nutella.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT?
Probably when I accidentally tucked part of my dress into a pair of underwear that had rainbow butterflies on it in elementary school.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
Paris during late Belle Époque and Années folles (but not during WWI).
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? This will seem chaotic, but Taylor Swift, Ludwig van Beethoven, Coldplay, Bad Bunny, Takács Quartet.
YESTERDAY IS GONE. TOMORROW HAS NOT YET COME. WE HAVE ONLY TODAY. LET US BEGIN.
– MOTHER TERESA
IVAN McCLELLAN
Ivan McClellan is a photojournalist and founder/CEO of the Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo. His essays have been featured in ESPN, GQ, Atmos, Elle, W Magazine, and The New York Times. Ivan has led creative projects for Apple, Wrangler, Stetson, Adobe, Tecovas, Instagram, and US Bank. His work has been displayed in museums and galleries across the country including the Eiteljorg, Portland Art Museum, Phoenix Museum of Art, and Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Speaker
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
Gordon Parks.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
My 12 Pairs of Legs by Aimee Mullins.
GREATEST FEAR?
Losing my mind.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
Pedestrians who direct traffic. WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? Rihanna, Jay-Z, Heather McClellan, Paul McCartney, Ernest Hemingway.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Steely Dan, MF Doom, Stevie Wonder, Stephen Sondheim, Lana Del Rey.
FAVORITE MOVIE? Rear Window. MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Shut off the internet.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan.
NO HOUR OF LIFE IS WASTED THAT IS SPENT IN THE SADDLE.
– WINSTON CHURCHILL
CHRISTOPHER BROWN
Christopher Brown is an acclaimed Jazz musician, composer, bandleader, retired military veteran, and educator who seeks to be a voice within the discourse of Jazz and American culture. He served in the Marines and Army National Guard before spending 13 years navigating the NYC Jazz scene. As an educator, he holds two music degrees from Rutgers University, coupled with eight years of teaching music between his alma mater and PSU. He currently leads a Jazz program through Portland’s Metropolitan Youth Symphony and performs monthly at Portland’s famed jazz club, The 1905.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
@vusithembekwayo
@earnyourleisure
@jockowillink
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
That everyone could identify their zone-of-genius with extreme clarity.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross. GREATEST FEAR? Regret.
CHUNKY OR SMOOTH PEANUT BUTTER?
Smooth.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT?
Having to take elementary school photos after getting hit in the forehead with a baseball the day prior.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Miles Davis, Journey, Chaka Khan, Branford Marsalis, Quincy Jones.
MUSIC HAS THE POWER TO STOP TIME. BUT MUSIC ALSO KEEPS TIME.
– QUESTLOVE
BRIAN McLEAN
Brian McLean is LAIKA’s Director of Rapid Prototype and was awarded a Scientific and Engineering Oscar® in 2016 for pioneering the use of 3D printers in stop-motion animation. In 2017, he received an Academy Award® nomination for Best Visual Effects for his contributions to Kubo and the Two Strings. In 2009, Brian won an Annie Award for Special Achievement in Animation for his work on Coraline and was named by Variety as one of 2012’s “Animation Elite.”
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT? OX.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
My favorite LAIKA film is Kubo and the Two Strings.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
I am kind of a Luddite when it comes to social media. I was into it a few years ago, and then saw myself getting sucked in, so I deleted them all from my phone.
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Elect different leaders.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
Shoes piled up in front of a door making it nearly impossible to open.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT? Being unprepared. WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW?
Probably a few missing socks.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? Bob Dylan, Colin Meloy, Issac Brock, Tom Petty, Wesley Schultz.
WE LIVE ONLY IN THE PRESENT, IN THIS FLEETING MOMENT. THE REST OF OUR LIFE IS EITHER PAST AND GONE, OR NOT YET REVEALED.
– MARCUS AURELIUS
WHITE LOTUS
The White Lotus Foundation is a non-profit based in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. Preserving and showcasing the traditional art forms of dragon and lion dance, their mission is simple yet profound: to support and empower individuals in the AANHPI community. They offer dynamic performances throughout the PNW, gracing events such as Lunar New Year celebrations, weddings, grand openings, and more. Beyond performances, White Lotus is committed to community engagement, offering free lessons to youth, and creating an environment where every member can flourish, discover their potential, and feel a sense of belonging.
THE TWO MOST POWERFUL WARRIORS ARE PATIENCE AND TIME.
– LEO TOLSTOY
BRENNAN WOOD
Brennan Wood first came to Dougy Center (the National Grief Center for Children & Families) in 1987 after her mother died just days after her 12th birthday. Brennan became Dougy Center’s Executive Director in 2015, after serving in various roles since 2004. She is the author of A Kids Book About Grief, and holds leadership roles with the Children’s Collaborative and the National Alliance for Children’s Grief. Brennan received the 2020 Light-a-Fire Award for Extraordinary Executive Director and the 2022 Women of Influence Award. Brennan loves to honor her mother’s legacy by making every day a celebration.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
“We Don’t ‘Move On’ From Grief, We Move Forward With It” by Nora McInerny.
FAVORITE BOOK?
My favorite guilty pleasure will always be the Sookie Stackhouse Series by Charlaine Harris.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
Ibiza: Love Drunk . MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? For the world to be aware of, and put into practice, the Ten Core Principles of Being Grief-Informed.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
Any sentence that begins with, “At least…” with the intention to minimize someone’s experience, pain, or feelings. For example, “At least they’re in a better place.”
GREATEST FEAR?
I fear that people will suffer silently, believing they are alone in their pain. That fear drives me to create spaces where people can share their stories and feel supported.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“9 to 5” by Dolly Parton.
SCOTT HANSELMAN
Scott Hanselman is the VP of Developer Community at Microsoft and has spent over 30 years as a teacher, programmer, and prolific blogger. In addition to writing numerous technical books, Scott has produced nearly 2,000 episodes of his popular Hanselman Minutes and Azure Friday podcasts. A passionate technologist, he focuses on empowering developers and fostering inclusivity in tech. Scott frequently speaks at conferences worldwide, sharing insights on software development, productivity, and diversity in technology.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
“Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable” by Luvvie Ajayi.
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Increase empathy.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
@meetcutesnyc
@nickcho
@doechii
WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW? A clean carpet vacuumed by a robot.
WHO WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? Octavia Butler, Nyota Uhura, and Barack Obama.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
An arcade in 1989.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? Billy Joel, Beyoncé, A Tribe Called Quest, Janelle Monáe, Oliver Mtukudzi.
REALIZE DEEPLY THAT THE PRESENT MOMENT IS ALL YOU EVER HAVE.
– ECKHART TOLLE
SMALL MILLION
Portland-based indie pop band
Small Million, led by longtime collaborators Malachi Graham and Ryan Linder, crafts deeply affecting music that blends lush production with smart, introspective lyrics. Their songs explore intuition, inhibition, losing control and ending up in unexpected places, bodies hurt and bodies joyful. Their sound is both intimate and epic, delicate and fierce. Drawing comparisons to The Cranberries and Florence + the Machine, Small Million’s dynamic lineup now includes Ben Tyler (drums) and Kale Chesney (bass, harmonies). Their latest album, Passenger, is available via Tender Loving Empire Records.
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT?
Master Kong.
FAVORITE BOOK?
Mink River by Brian Doyle.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS?
@dusttodigital
@aleia
@looneytunes_ backgrounds
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Universal healthcare.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE? People who cut in line.
WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? Jane Austen, Carl Jung, Prince, Esther Perel, Paul Thomas Anderson.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
150 years in the future.
FAVORITE MOVIE? Before Sunrise.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
The Kinks, Radiohead, Perfume Genius, Aimee Mann, Kendrick Lamar.
THEY ALWAYS SAY TIME CHANGES THINGS, BUT YOU ACTUALLY HAVE TO CHANGE THEM YOURSELF.
– ANDY WARHOL
DENNIS CONNORS
Dennis Connors is a Paralympic Silver Medalist, Paracycling World Champion, and Paraclimbing National Champion. During Dennis’ nine years in the Marine Corps, completing three deployments to Iraq, he suffered from PTSD, multiple traumatic brain injuries, and in 2020, suffered his second stroke, partially paralyzing his left side. Dennis faced setback after setback for years, but was able to overcome them by creating a pathway through a new definition of perseverance.
FAVORITE BOOK? Inward by Yung Pueblo.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
I would go to the western United States pre-1700s to see what it looked like completely untouched.
GREATEST FEAR? Not being able to go into wild places and losing connection to nature.
WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW? Foam rollers and a percussion massage gun.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Dave Matthews, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Deadmau5, Chris Stapleton. MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
That no kids are ever hungry and can freely choose what to eat.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
“America’s Biggest Problem” by
Kirk Parsley.
TOUGH TIMES NEVER LAST, BUT TOUGH PEOPLE DO.
–
ROBERT H. SCHULLER
TAL SHARABI
Tal Sharabi, a somatic and transpersonal psychotherapist specializing in psychedelic facilitation and integration work, is a lead educator in the Portlandbased psychedelic training program, InnerTrek. With nearly a decade of experience in mental health, she integrates mindfulness and body-centered therapies with psychedelic facilitation. Tal empowers individuals to connect with their resilience and inner wisdom, fostering transformative journeys toward well-being and self-discovery.
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
Each of my clients. As a therapist, I witness my clients’ beautiful spirits show up to support them in healing from childhood trauma, allowing them to realize it was there all along. Also, Thich Naht Hanh for his resilience, radical compassion, and peace activism despite experiencing the atrocities of war.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
People living their lives solely for their own entertainment, without attempting to improve the world, or consider others. Oh, and I use scissors to open bags of food rather than tearing them open!
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Humanity will awaken to our interdependence, hopefully leading to the end of war, exploitation, and resource conflicts.
WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW?
A couple of monsters… just like under everyone else’s bed.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Estas Tone, Bach, Nigun Yerushalmi (Arab-Jewish ensemble), Nick Mulvey, and Zoe Keating. I would absolutely insist on inviting the poet Mary Oliver as well. In fact, may I invite my top 5 poets, too?
DO NOT DWELL IN THE PAST, DO NOT DREAM OF THE FUTURE, CONCENTRATE THE MIND ON THE PRESENT MOMENT.
– BUDDHA
JACKSON RAYNE
A headlining illusionist, TV personality, and escape artist, Jackson Rayne walks through walls, defies death, and his world-record escapes have been experienced by millions of people in over 20 countries. Jackson’s multiple national television appearances and credits include MTV, TLC, Guinness World Records, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
FAVORITE BOOK? Creative Blindness and How to Cure It by Dave Trott.
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I would snap my fingers and everyone in the world would acquire elite-level communication skills; an ability to reason, empathize, problemsolve, and compromise would hopefully fix 80% of the problems our world faces. I’ll work on this trick.
WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? Gary Vaynerchuk, Jesus, Cleopatra, Harry Houdini, Ryan Reynolds.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT?
I was walking back onto stage in the middle of a performance and face-planted in front of 1,000 people. The thud of my face hitting the floor could be heard all the way in the back. Distraction at its finest.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE? Slow internet.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? Brian Eno’s Ambient 1: Music For Airports , Amos Lee’s Amos Lee. Eminem’s The Eminem Show, Aerosmith’s Get a Grip, Blink 182’s Greatest Hits.
TIME STAYS LONG ENOUGH FOR THOSE WHO USE IT.
– LEONARDO DA VINCI
ARIANA VARGAS
Ariana Vargas, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, has built her career around brand strategy with a focus on employer branding, corporate philanthropy, and social justice. As the founder and former CEO of STIGMA, a mental health app named Google’s “2022 Best App for Good,” she has been a champion of mental health innovation. Born in Costa Rica to a father with schizophrenia, and as a mother to an autistic son, Ariana shares her journey living with anxiety and panic disorder. She now leads brand strategy at Populous, the global design firm behind iconic sports and live entertainment architecture.
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
My grandmother, “Tita” (Flora Jimenez de Vargas).
FAVORITE BOOK?
The Untethered Soul by Michael Alan Singer.
GREATEST FEAR?
Losing my connection to myself and my inner knowing.
WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE?
Tita, Bruce Lee, Michel de Montaigne, Lauren Washam Bradshaw, Richard Pryor.
MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Give every human “Self-Love” superpowers.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
Big Fish by Tim Burton.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
I would go to the future with my son, River, and visit every planet in our known solar system, and discover new ones, so he could experience space and meet the souls living in those places.
Speaker
CHRISTINE SINCLAIR
Christine Sinclair is a Canadian soccer legend and one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. She has captained Canada’s national team and holds the record as the world’s all-time leading goal scorer in international soccer. Known for her leadership, skill, and clutch performances, Christine has represented Canada in multiple World Cups and Olympic Games, winning gold at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. At the NWSL club level, she played for the Portland Thorns from 2013 to 2023, winning three NWSL championships for the Rose City. A role model on and off the field, Christine retired from international play in 2023 and NWSL club play in 2024.
WHO IS YOUR HERO?
I would have to say my mom. She passed away a couple years ago after a 40-year battle with MS.
FAVORITE BOOK?
Becoming by Michelle Obama.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE? When people leave one square on a toilet paper roll.
GREATEST FEAR? Spiders and sharks.
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT?
Really anything Mexican, but there is no better place than ¿Por Qué No? on a summer afternoon.
CHUNKY OR SMOOTH PEANUT BUTTER? Smooth.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
“Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams.
TODAY WE GOT UP AT 4:00 AM. AS USUAL, IT WAS TOUGH.
– TERRY FOX
RON ARTIS II
Ron Artis II is a multiinstrumentalist and singersongwriter celebrated for his soulful and honest musical style. As one of 11 children in a musically gifted family, he began playing piano at age four and guitar at 13. Over the years, Ron has collaborated with notable artists such as Mick Fleetwood, Jack Johnson, and Booker T. Jones. His performances, whether solo or with his band The Truth, are known for their electrifying energy and heartfelt lyrics, leaving audiences feeling loved and inspired. Having first graced the TEDxPortland stage for Bridges in Year 8, Ron will be joined this year by the Grant High School Royal Blues.
FAVORITE BOOK?
The Book that contains my list of favorite books.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Frank Sinatra, Mahler, Jacqueline du Pré, Mk.gee, Jack Johnson.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
“Believe in Yourself” by Paula Fuga. MAKE ONE CHANGE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Get people to love the people they disagree with.
TOP THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS? @journey_._together @studiozimoun ...I have so many that I can’t choose a third.
WHAT FIVE PEOPLE WOULD YOU INVITE TO YOUR ULTIMATE DINNER TABLE, DEAD OR ALIVE? If my family is already there, then John Cruz, Ernie Ecraela Jr., Jonathan Sanford, Brad Williams, and Yoko Ono.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE? Let me get back to you...
TIME IS WHAT WE WANT MOST, BUT WHAT WE USE WORST.
– WILLIAM PENN
DAVID RAE
David Rae believes that Portland is what we make it — his DNA is rooted in 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 curator and emcee since 2012.
HERO?
My parents and partner, Reegan.
FAVORITE TED TALK?
“The Way We Think About Charity Is Dead Wrong” by Dan Pallotta.
RESTAURANT?
Jake’s Famous Crawfish.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
Just one? I can’t. Everybody cut Footloose ! So many... The Natural, The Man from Snowy River, Pulp Fiction, Stand by Me, Top Gun, Project Grizzly, The Silence of the Lambs, Glory, The Last of the Mohicans, Star Wars, Predator, Christmas Vacation, Batman (1989), Field of Dreams.
WHAT IS 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.”
Channeling John Wooden —
“If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?”
GREATEST FEAR?
Something happening to our kids.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT?
Tripping on stage at Year 10 at the Moda Center to start the day in front of 8,000 people. Tore my knee up but stuck the landing. Be an athlete, lol.
SOMETHING SOMEONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?
My happy place is on Sundays with my Old Gold softball teammates. Swing with joy...
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU?
Prince, Tina Turner, Rolling Stones, AC/DC, and Ben Harper. Honorable mentions: Tragically Hip and Public Enemy.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
Someone not “earning their chain,” (a.k.a people who don’t chase their potential.)
UNTIL THE TIME IS RIGHT.
–
MICHAEL LEMING
Afternoon Host
LUIS VARGAS
Luis’ 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 who have the power or potential to be catalysts for change.
FAVORITE TED TALK? “Elusive Creative Genius” by Elizabeth Gilbert.
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT? Kann. Bright, spicy, delicious, and the lovely human that is Gregory Gourdet!
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.
GREATEST FEAR? Harm to our children.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
Elf, during the holidays, gets me every time.
WHERE WOULD YOU GO IN A TIME MACHINE?
To the apex of the Mayan Kingdom.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE?
Someone being effusively enthusiastic about an idea and collaboration and then ghosting.
ROLLING STONES OR THE BEATLES? Beatles.
SOMETHING SOMEONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Traveled to over 100 countries.
UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW?
Dormant dreams and desires ready to awaken.
IT’S BEING HERE NOW THAT’S IMPORTANT. THERE’S NO PAST AND THERE’S NO FUTURE. TIME IS A VERY MISLEADING THING. ALL THERE IS EVER, IS THE NOW. WE CAN GAIN EXPERIENCE FROM THE PAST, BUT WE CAN’T RELIVE IT; AND WE CAN HOPE FOR THE FUTURE, BUT WE DON’T KNOW IF THERE IS ONE.
– GEORGE HARRISON
LEON ANDERSON
Leon is an improviser, storyteller, and advocate for greatness, driven by curiosity, connection, and storytelling. From his start as an aerospace engineer, Leon has used a passion for problem-solving to navigate across numerous industries. He currently serves as President at Instrument, a multidisciplinary creative agency here in Portland, Oregon. Leon is a founding member of the improv group Broke Gravy, where he has the pleasure of curating captivating shows and experiences that have never been seen and will never be seen again.
FAVORITE PORTLAND RESTAURANT? AKADI.
MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT?
I was recently at an immersive art exhibition in downtown Portland, and while leaning over to join my son inside a giant clamshell my pants completely tore from crotch to knee.
We then had to walk three blocks back to the car on a busy downtown evening.
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?
Creep by Radiohead.
IF YOU WERE ON A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT FIVE MUSICAL ARTIST ANTHOLOGIES WOULD YOU BRING WITH YOU? Bob Marley, Pearl Jam, Otis Redding, The Roots, The Pharcyde.
GREATEST FEAR? RATS! So many rats!!
FAVORITE BOOK? Book of Hours by Kevin Young.
WHAT IS UNDER YOUR BED RIGHT NOW? Another mattress... you can never have too many, amirite?
IF YOU SPEND TOO MUCH TIME THINKING ABOUT A THING, YOU’LL NEVER GET IT DONE.
– BRUCE LEE
OUR ECOSYSTEM
Ian Williams
HISTORY OF TED
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 76M 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
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 485 C.
Ben Sand 2024 Speaker
Y La Bamba
TED COMMANDMENTS
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.
04
Connect with people’s emotions. Make us laugh. Make us cry.
05
Don’t flaunt your ego. Don’t boast. It’s the surest way to switch everyone off.
07
Feel free to comment on other speakers’ talks, to praise or to criticize. Controversy energizes. Enthusiastic endorsement is powerful.
08
Show us the real you. Share your passions, your dreams…and also your fears. Be vulnerable. Speak of failure as well as success.
03
02 Make the complex plain. Don’t try to dazzle intellectually. Don’t speak in abstractions. Explain. Give examples. Tell stories. Be specific.
06
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.
Don’t read your talk. Notes are fine. But if the choice is between reading or rambling, then read.
09
End your talk on time. Doing otherwise steals time from the people that follow you. We won’t allow it.
10
Rehearse your talk in front of a trusted friend…for timing, for clarity, for impact.
TEDxPORTLAND
Mission, Vision, Goals
We are so grateful you could join us for our 13th event.
For historical 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 then doubled the event size to the Keller Auditorium in 2014. We held our event at the Keller for six straight years. In 2022, we created history by hosting 8,000 guests at the Moda Center for Year 10. It was the largest indoor TEDx ever, with our organizing team persevering through three reschedules and a three-year hiatus with Covid-19.
After Year 12 and “Alchemy” in 2024, we are thrilled once again to return to the Keller in 2025 with you. Led by our 75+ member volunteer team, this experience delivers on “ideas worth spreading” to the Rose City and beyond. It is a year-round planning effort focused on high-quality speakers, outstanding content, premium event management, and partner appreciation. Our team believes that this is the most inspirational, educational day of the year for our city and that Portland is what we make it.
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.
TEDxPortland is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization
State of Oregon Registry Number: 747610-90
EIN: 27-4884880
Melina Palmer 2024 Speaker
DID YOU KNOW?
• 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 trailblazed many exciting initiatives for our city and beyond.
• Award-winning Event Book
• The Ideas Booth
• Regional workshops to support: TEDxBend, TEDxSalem, TEDxMtHood, TEDxMcMinnville, TEDxUOregon, TEDxSeattle, and TEDxVancouver
• Citywide Scavenger Hunt
• 6K “Paint the Town TED” fun run, now an annual experience 4 times running
• Annual Salon series
• High School TEDxYouth programming
• Citywide billboard campaigns
• A citywide art show, twice (featuring 74 local artists!)
• Artist-in-residence speaker portraits
• 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 13 years, more than 225 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 Wade
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
Kali Thorne Ladd
TEDxPORTLAND ALUMNI
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
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
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
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
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
BodyVox
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
2023
Kim Scott
Toby Barnes
Dr. Yuan-Po Tu
Sarah Edmondson
Megan Diana Aarthi
Ananthanarayanan
Trevor Beaman
Kee Nelson
GZA
Reyna Tropical
Kyle Thornton
Sam Diaz
Emily Stutzman
David Lucas
Thunderstorm Artis
Renny Gleeson
2024
Gabriel Rucker
Dr. Robert Guldberg
Ian Williams
Lou Featherstone
Open Space
Ben Sand
Amber Huffman
Y La Bamba
Kali Thorne Ladd
Kota The Friend
Michael Curry
Modest Mouse
Melina Palmer
Larry Miller
Renny Gleeson
OUR MISSION:
To provide accessibility to intentional wellness experiences that cultivate more resiliency in our physical, mental, and emotional selves, while connecting with the TEDx community at large.
WHY BE WELL?
Research shows that wellness activities not only boost longevity but also that social connection can help you better recover from anxiety and depression, lead to healthier eating habits, aid in preventing heart disease and dementia, and even support better sleep.
OUR BE WELL GOALS
1. Support our yearly speakers in feeling more grounded, centered, and mentally strong as they prepare to share their stories.
2. Support our Core Team, volunteers, and partners with opportunities to alleviate burnout, connect with others, and share their wellness journeys.
3. Cultivate community that’s centered on spreading positivity, joy, and belonging.
Mindful moments from our Be Well partners:
• Receive a complimentary chair massage from Knot Springs.
• Enjoy a guided stretching session and mindfulness break with Modo Yoga.
• Move and groove your body at our guided Silent Disco.
• Reflect on your personal wellness journey and share your thoughts on the Be Well wall.
CONNECT AND WIN
Human connections are vital for mental and physical health because they fulfill an innate human need to belong. Connected relationships allow you to open up, share, and feel truly supported by those around you.
STEP 1:
Connect with someone you haven’t met before and ask them one of the questions below.
STEP 2:
Fill out their response in the allotted space.
What skill would you like to master?
STEP 3:
Come to the Be Well tent and show your answers to a Be Well representative in exchange for a raffle ticket.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
What has been the highlight of your past week?
What do you daydream about?
OUR TEAM
CO-FOUNDERS
David
Mark
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David
David
Redray
Susan
LICENSEE
Dustin
ADVISORY TEAM
China
Gene
Jamey
LEADERSHIP
THESIS
INTRODUCTORY
STAGE
LIVESTREAM
VIDEOGRAPHY
Regan
Wilson
Zalika
CURATOR
David
HOSTS
David
CLOSER Leon
AGENCY
PHOTOGRAPHY Andrew
SOCIAL
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Play Nice
Special thanks to Kayt Mathers
LEGAL
Ballard Spahr
KELLER PARK ACTIVATION
Fuller Events
VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT
Dustin Fernandes
Justin Albano
Molly Fuller
PARTNERSHIPS & GRANTS
David Rae
Zie Zie Senzaki
PERFORMANCE DIRECTION & SUPPORT
Redray Frazier
Tim Cowan
STUDIO DESIGN TEAM
Annatova Neches
Jon Hill
Victoria Wells
TEAM UNIFORMS
Dehen 1920
Portland Gear
YETI
Nike
BE WELL INITIATIVE
Alli Lurie
Amber Reed
Jen Reed
Karyn Erickson
SALON
W+K
Jinnina Chiles
Jason White
Rebecca Groff
Susan Hoffman
Priscilla Bernard Wieden
PARTNER APPRECIATION NIGHT
Ritz Carlton
Residences
Terry Sprague
SPEAKER DINNER
Sarah Lewis
Tess Darrow
Nate Alvord
Kate Alvord
Olympia Provisions
KELLER PARK HAPPY HOUR
Rogue Ales, Stoller
Family Estate, Beam Spirits, & Wilderton
Apertivo Co.
with special thanks to:
Steven Garrett, Caitlin
Hopkins, James Falvey, Amira Makansi, Austin
Raz, George Mann, Brad Whiting
HOTEL PARTNER
Woodlark
Special thanks to Toni Chandler
AFTER PARTY
Hopscotch
Special thanks to Nicole Jensen
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Kyra Watkins
ART GALLERY
L’Atelier Yaffe
Special thanks to George Ivan and Nani Kalakau
DJ Benny Christiansen MASCOTS
Teddy (Wyatt Rae)
Gary the Gator (Nora Rae)
CONTROLLER
Jaime Diedrich
HUMBLE HEROES
Pete Achterman
Renny Gleeson
Pam Lloyd
“GLUE” EMERITUS
Carson Brewer
Johny Hernandez
TICKETING
David Paull
Brenda Bartlett
Carissa Barry
EVENT BOOK
Juli Cordill
Eric Farrara
Laura Mazy
Debby Kramm
Justin Kaye
Nicole Williamson
We love you Andy Gordon!
SHOE Tinker Hatfield
Michael Berger
Elizabeth Brock-Jones @harsky
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.
The Patron Society
TEDxPortland is proud to launch the Patron Society: an exclusive membership program honoring our most dedicated supporters.
As a Patron, you’ll enjoy year-round experiences, exclusive perks, and a deeper connection to the heart of TEDxPortland, all while supporting our 100% volunteer-run organization and mission.
Please come visit the Tender Loving Empire experience on 3rd Avenue at lunch or the happy hour to learn more.
Thank you to our dear friends, Brianne & Jared Mees of TLE
• Limited to 40 members
• Premium access to TEDxPortland events, including exclusive seating, behind-the-scenes access, and more
• Invitations to private events, workshops, and VIP after parties
• Access to partner discounts and perks (e.g., Portland Gear, Dehen 1920, Stoller Wines, Tender Loving Empire, etc.)
• Special Year 13 swag and membership gifts ($300 value)
• Early bird access to ticket sales
• Limited to 30 members
• All Luminary perks plus:
• Exclusive access to TEDxPortland alumni events
• Networking opportunities with TEDxPortland speakers and alumni
• Nike shoes (when available—shoes don’t drop every year—we wish)
• Two-month Moda Yoga membership and VIP experience
• Knot Springs foot rub and soak VIP experience
• Limited to 10 members
• All Luminary and Vanguard perks plus:
• Personal concierge services
• VIP backstage access
• Curated private dinners with TEDxPortland alumni chefs
• A personalized Dehen 1920 cardigan
• Entered to win exclusive prizes like TED Conference access and Alaska Airlines credits
Thank you to our friends at KGW8 and Audacy for your help with television, podcasts, and radio.
David Rae 2024 Morning Host
Luis Vargas 2024 Afternoon Host
Renny Gleeson 2024 Closer
PARTNERS & COLLABORATIONS
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 and Matt Roberts — 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.
Lastly, it is important to note that this University of Oregon inspirational phrase has been proudly adopted by our volunteer team to inspire our year round planning efforts:
“SOMETIMES YOU. SOMETIMES ME. ALWAYS US.”
Go Ducks!
Dr. Robert Guldberg 2024 Speaker
The Thesis and TEDxPortland partnership was natural from the start—forged in friendship and fortified by shared vision. From the unified currents of CONFLUENCE in Year 11, through the transformative magic of ALCHEMY in Year 12, our three-year journey has led us into an exploration of time itself: CONTINUUM.
We’ve collaborated on this concept through compelling brand design, vivid photography, and perhaps our proudest achievement this year: launching the new TEDxPortland archival website, celebrating our event history from an inspiring past to an ever-evolving present.
Founded over 20 years ago in Portland, OR, Thesis is an independent creative agency anchored by strong values— values we’ve seen enrich the vibrant city we share. Curious to learn more?
Visit us online: thesis.agency
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 award-winning 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, Laura Mazy, and Justin Kaye for being models of professionalism and generosity. And we will never forget the legacy left by the remarkable Andy Gordon.
Please visit the “Event Book Experience” in the lobby of Keller Auditorium during the break. It is a testament to what true collaboration can look like.
We are proud to showcase this exhibit because no other TEDx in the world produces an Event Book like this for its attendees.
We are so lucky and grateful to have this legacy partner supporting our community building efforts!
Our imperial red cover is sponsored by Neenah Paper, thank you Nicole Williamson.
Amber Huffman 2024 Speaker
We never thought TEDxPortland would grow into what it is today. It was 700+ people at the Armory in Year One in 2011. We grew to the Keller Auditorium in 2014 and it was the largest TEDx in North America with 3,300+ attendees. In 2022, for Year 10 in the Moda Center / Theater of the Clouds, we had over 8,000 attendees — a global TEDx first as the largest indoor event ever held. It was not without its challenges, coming out of Covid-19 after a three-year hiatus and three reschedules. It was “Audacious” in every sense of the word!
Thank you to the stoic leadership at Ballard Spahr 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 501(c)(3) non-profit incorporation, we are eternally grateful to the legal counsel (and friendship) of Jeff Wolfstone, Lisa Poplawski, Carter Mann, and Joe Cerne for their thoughtfulness and stewardship.
We love and appreciate you.
We marvel at Hampton Lumber and their deep commitment to people, community, and sustainability. Rooted in fourth-generation timber legacy, this family-owned company was founded in Oregon in 1942. Since then, they’ve grown alongside demand for sustainable building materials. Hampton’s 1,700 employees now manage Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)-certified forests and manufacture lumber in Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, serving customers across North America, Europe and Asia. The Hampton family takes great pride in manufacturing carbon-friendly building materials sourced in the Pacific Northwest from some of the most sustainably managed forest resources on the planet. Since its founding, Hampton has endeavored to be a good steward, a good neighbor, and an engaged member of the communities in which it operates.
That legacy continues today through its community-giving programs, scholarships for employees and their families, lumber donations, and spirit of volunteerism. They champion well-being, inclusiveness, and opportunity for all in their workplace, industry, and communities.
The Hampton family is also a well-known supporter of the arts. Music and dance are particularly close to their hearts. Jamey is co-Artistic Director at the Portlandbased dance company BodyVox, which he founded with his wife Ashley Roland in 1997. BodyVox performed on the TEDxPortland stage in 2017, and it is still regarded as one of the best performances we have ever seen, titled: “In the Garden of Synesthesia.”
The Hampton brothers Jamey and David also regularly perform together in the Portland metro area with their band the Brothers Jam. Formed in the ’70s, the Brothers Jam is a rootsy mashup of the Grateful Dead, rock, jazz, and exuberant jamming. Hampton Lumber, we thank you for your support and partnership. It plays a key role in the success of our event. With deep gratitude we appreciate what you do for our city and state.
Hampton Lumber has proudly supported the Timbers since 2017 and the Thorns since 2020.
Modest Mouse
Performance
For six inspiring years For Good & Company has partnered with TEDxPortland, playing a pivotal role in bringing the event’s vision to life at the Keller Auditorium. From Year 4’s “Perfect” theme, where they crafted a honeycomb stage backdrop inspired by nature’s geometry, to Year 6’s groundbreaking 70-foot curved screen, For Good & Co. consistently pushes the boundaries of event production.
This year, they’re bringing to life a visionary stage design by Year 12 alumni Michael Curry, paired with electrifying lighting by Indigo Design. From bold visuals to immersive AV moments, For Good & Co. continues to set the bar—elevating every detail and delivering experiences that stay with you long after the final talk.
We are so grateful to be partnering with this world class team.
Nike’s purpose is to move the world forward through the power of sport.
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 supporting us in all our creative endeavors.
Our community organizing “mindset” is anchored in the iconic slogan “Just Do It.” We challenge our 75+ volunteers everyday to DO noble deeds, not dream them all day.
Lastly, with our Year 13 theme of “Continuum” and the preciousness of time, let us be inspired, by the legend Joan Benoit Samuelson:
EVERY TIME I FAIL, I ASSUME I WILL BE A STRONGER PERSON FOR IT. I KEEP ON RUNNING FIGURATIVELY AND LITERALLY, DESPITE A LIMP THAT GETS MORE NOTICEABLE WITH EACH PASSING SEASON, BECAUSE FOR ME THERE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PLACE TO GO AND A TERRIBLE URGENCY TO GET THERE.
– JOAN BENOIT SAMUELSON
Nixya’awii Community School
The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation 2024 Performance
At TEDxPortland, we believe in the power of bold ideas and community-driven leadership—and so does KeyBank. With a long-standing commitment to empowering local communities and supporting visionary leaders, KeyBank is a true partner.
From investing in underserved neighborhoods to championing financial education and inclusion, KeyBank leads with purpose, values impact, and helps turn ideas into action.
By powering the inaugural Women’s Leadership Forum, KeyBank is doing more than supporting an event—they’re championing a movement. It’s a strong first step in what will be a lasting partnership with the TEDxPortland community.
Last October, a 40-person TEDxPortland organizing team traveled up to Timberline Lodge for an offsite retreat to dream about and create Year 13. We were once again inspired at 7,000 feet to create the foundational elements for our “Continuum” campaign. We’d like to extend special thanks to Sally Kohnstamm, the entire family, 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.
P.S. The new outdoor pool is pretty fantastic, too.
At TEDxPortland, we firmly believe that elevating mental, physical, and emotional 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. And now, through the Be Well Initiative, we have the tools to do so.
Enter Knot Springs. Knot Springs has always shown up for our TEDxPortland community through a dedicated strategic partnership for our speaker and staff community, and continues to do so for Year 13.
Knot Springs’ Wellness Social Club focuses on empowering individual wellness through real community. The tools they offer the community to elevate wellness and good
times 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.
@knotsprings knotsprings.com
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.
Become a part of the Knot Springs Wellness Circle and begin to cultivate consistency with your own wellness goals.
We can’t wait to welcome you in.
When a TEDxPortland Speaker or Volunteer needs to fly, we choose to fly with Alaska.
Why?
For many reasons, they have taken wonderful care of our travel needs.
They believe in Portland and they work with intention to build community.
They are a leading carrier in our beloved PDX Airport.
We know their recent partnership with Hawaiian Airlines will deliver more premium experiences, a more powerful platform and greater value to travelers adventuring to / from the Rose City.
These two beloved airlines have rich histories proudly rooted in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii for more than 90 years.
Furthermore, we have found that their organizational culture is guided by integrity, ingenuity, and professionalism. Values that we intrinsically share in our TEDxPortland organization.
Thankfully for us, Alaska and Hawaiian serve 141 destinations across the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific.
With very special thanks to Harry Cheema, Jeanette Waddle and Contesa Diaz-Nicolaidis for their leadership, kindness, and caring demeanor.
TEDxPortland shares a common values system with another communityimpact organization. This remarkable place is called Caldera, founded by Dan Wieden and his family 28 years ago.
Caldera is a place in Central Oregon, dedicated to unleashing the power of creativity in youth, artists, and everyday people.
This magical place provides a much-needed third space for underserved youth acting as an access point to creative practices, in-nature learning, good people, and practicing professionals.
2013 TEDxPortland Alumni and Caldera’s Executive Director, Kimberly Howard Wade, is a visionary leader whom we are proud to partner with and support. We encourage our TEDster audience to learn more and lean in if you can.
Nike COLLABORATIONS
AirMax 90
Designed by TEDxPortland Year 1 alumnus—and legendary Nike innovator—Tinker Hatfield, the Air Max 90 remains one of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes. With its bold colorways, mixed leather and mesh construction, and unmistakable design language, the Air Max 90 has been turning heads and setting trends for 35 years—thrilling athletes, collectors, and streetwear fans alike.
COLLABORATIONS
Dehen 1920
105+ years into the family-owned business, the Dehen Knitting Company continues a tradition of heavy duty, quality manufacturing that is proudly produced in NE Portland.
Founded by William Peter Dehen in 1920, the Team creates classic and traditional U.S. heavyweight apparel that began with varsity and collegiate sweaters for student athletes. Keeping true to their humble yet pioneering beginnings, they are known for long-lasting durability, workmanship, and rugged styling.
In 2017, TEDxPortland became incredibly inspired after Benjamin Dehen-Artaiz graced our stage for our “Spectrum” theme. His TED talk was about “Resurrecting the American Dream.” We have since collaborated and partnered to outfit all of our TEDxPortland alumni speakers, performers, core volunteers, and legacy partners in a custom Dehen varsity sweater.
It is a gesture to show our people 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.
With special thanks to Jim Artaiz and Peter Lee for their steadfast support, incredible professionalism, and kindness.
Benjamin Dehen-Artaiz 2017 Speaker
Visit their HQ and new retail store at 1040 NE 44th. They are open Tuesday through Saturday, hours 11:00am - 5:00pm.
Bring in your Year 13 Event Book and show the Dehen Team to enjoy 15% off with in-store purchase!
COLLABORATIONS
Portland Gear
From citywide scavenger hunts, cascade backpacks, tote bags, to iconic custom “TED Red” and “TED Trailblazer” hats, Portland Gear has provided creative collaborations for our volunteer team and attendees for 10+ years. Their infamous VW bus made its debut in 2014 on 3rd Avenue and we have never looked back.
We salute the leadership of Portland Gear for opening their new store in the West End at 403 SW 10th Ave.
Next time you visit downtown, be sure to pop in. They are open 7 days a week, hours 11:00am - 7:00pm.
Special thanks to Marcus Harvey, Eli Abramovitz, Zack Dean, and Wookie Bae.
COLLABORATIONS
The Backpack
COLLABORATIONS
We are honored to partner with Stoller Family Estate for the 7th straight year to raise a glass to our community-building efforts.
Cheers to ideas worth spreading as we commemorate the Year 13 Class!
The Stoller family established the property in 1943 and the vineyard 50 years later. Over the last 30 years, they have patiently transformed the 400-acre property into the largest contiguous vineyard in Oregon’s Dundee Hills. They control every step of the wine-growing and winemaking process, from pruning
to bottling and everything in between. The result is an award winning workplace and award-winning wines that are balanced, complex, and consistently exceptional.
Their winery was the first in the world to receive LEED Gold certification, attesting that their winery is sustainably built and environmentally friendly. We think their iconic oak tree and tire swing is pretty cool too.
Special thanks to Gary Mortensen, James Falvey, Amira Makansi and Austin Raz for your partnership.
We are honored to partner with Rogue Ales for the 8th straight year to raise a glass to our community-building efforts.
Cheers to our “Continuum Pilsner” and to ideas worth spreading as we commemorate the Year 13 Class!
For over thirty years, Rogue has been at the forefront of Oregon’s booming beer industry. By offering an ever-changing product lineup, Rogue has developed a fan base that never knows what to expect other than the unexpected.
TEDxPortland is continually inspired by their mantra:
DARE. RISK. DREAM.
DARE MORE THAN OTHERS THINK IS WISE.
RISK MORE THAN OTHERS THINK IS SAFE. DREAM MORE THAN OTHERS THINK IS PRACTICAL.
With special thanks to Steven Garrett and Caitlin Hopkins for this thirstquenching, delicious partnership.
YEAR 13 PARTNERSHIPS
Presenting Partner Diamond & Creative Agency of Record
Community
M I R AC L E SIGN CO.
THINKING ABOUT TIME... A COLLECTION OF INTERACTIVE REFLECTIONS, VISUAL EXPERIMENTS, AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING EXERCISES DESIGNED TO CALL ATTENTION AND INTENTION INTO HOW WE SPEND OUR TIME.
202 204 205 206 208 209
April to April Aspirations
Time Trivia
The Timing Test Your Best Day
Time and Language
Intentionality and Cutting Back
APRIL TO APRIL ASPIRATIONS
While we often tie ourselves to the new year as a marker of time, wherever we find ourselves on the calendar, there’s another expanse of 365 days waiting to be tread before us. Today you’ve landed at TEDxPortland, stimulating your heart and mind with learning. What would you like to see unfold over the next year?
Fill in the dots with your desires using the legend, or make your own markers and start dreaming.
LEGEND
FILL
Learn: Acquire a skill, practice a language, listen to a podcast, pick up a new book, etc.
HORIZONTAL LINE
Move: Hit the gym, take a long walk, stretch it out, practice a sport, attend a yoga class, etc.
DOT
Socialize: Phone a friend, book a brunch, plan a poker night, reconnect, write a letter, etc.
VERTICAL LINE
Adventure: Hit the road, cross state lines, leave the country, staycation in your city, etc.
CROSS
Create: Write a poem, doodle at your desk, take a photo walk, practice an instrument, etc.
For those of you that actually fill this out, we really want to hear from you. Email us your circles at info@tedxportland.com We want to hear the stories behind the work in these dots.
For those of you looking for extra credit check out Rick Turoczy’s 2018 TEDxPortland talk.
TIME TRIVIA
13 questions related to time.
01. What animal has the longest lifespan on the planet?
02. How long does it take to boil a soft-boiled egg?
03. How long is an actual “jiffy”?
04. If a million seconds is 11.5 days, how long is a billion seconds?
05. How many time zones does China have?
06. Finish the second half of this quote by the author Jack London: “I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them…”
07. How long does it take the light of the sun to reach the surface of the earth?
08. What is the basis of internet time?
09. When and why were time zones established in the United States?
10. Over a billion years ago, a day on Earth lasted around 18 hours. What’s causing our current days to slow to 24 hours?
11. When was the first selfcontained, battery-driven clock invented?
12. Fill in the blank in this quote by the philosopher Seneca: “Time heals what _____ cannot.”
13. What is the maximum number of times “Friday the 13th” can occur in a year?
11. The year 1906. 12. Reason. 13. Three.
10. The moon’s gravity—as it’s now farther away from the earth, the earth doesn’t spin as fast.
9. In 1883, the railroad industry was established and having a hard time scheduling trains—so they created a standard to move local towns off their own sunrisebased timekeeping.
Eight minutes.
“I shall use my time.”
Just one, despite being larger than mainland US.
About 31.5 years.
The length of time it takes for light to travel one centimeter (in physics).
Six
The NIST-F1 Cesium Fountain Clock, an atomic clock so accurate it won’t gain or lose a single second in 20 million years.
The Immortal Jellyfish, which has the ability to regenerate cells and can potentially live forever.
minutes.
THE TIMING TEST
Turn to your neighbor. One of you is Person 1 and one of you is Person 2.
Person 1, choose a question from the list below and pull out a stopwatch on your phone. Start timing your neighbor’s response as soon as you finish asking and stop when they stop talking.
Person 2, try to keep your answer to one minute exactly, without counting or timing on your end.
Question 1: What’s your favorite event you’ve attended at Keller Auditorium and why? (Not TEDx)
When the results are in, discuss: Were you close to a minute? Did it feel faster or slower than expected? How does this compare to your daily experience of time? min sec
Question 2: What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned at TEDxPortland Year 13 so far?
Question 3: If you had two more hours a day to spend any way you wanted, what would you do and with whom?
YOUR BEST DAY
We all know each day contains 24 hours, but how will we fill those hours? Well, that varies a whole lot—and ultimately, our lives depend on it. Start by filling out the pie chart below with your ideal progression of hours, then write in around it with even more detail about how those hours transpire.
Consider: How can you make more of your days look more like your perfect day?
Example from volunteer Emi Day.
6PM 12PM 12AM 6AM
We’d love to be inspired by your perfect day! Share with us on social media @tedxportland or email us your circle at info@tedxportland.com
You might just be surprised with a special gift.
TIME & LANGUAGE
An idiom is a phrase, usually specific to a given language or culture, that has a meaning distinct from the makeup of its words. For example, when we say something happens “once in a blue moon,” we know that this means “not that often”—despite the event having little to do with the literal color of the moon.
Our beliefs about time pervade the way we speak. How many time idioms can you come up with?
We’ll get you started.
We waited until the eleventh hour.
INTENTIONALITY & CUTTING BACK
Imagine you’re a minimalist, but about time instead of things. If you committed to cleaning out your calendar to live a more intentional life, what would you spend less of your time on?
Check off what you’d turn down, then fill in the last three on your own.
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 DialSmith.
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.
Feedback survey here
Powered
by
Tracy Oseran 2016 Speaker
FAREWELL & HAPPY HOUR
Beer, Spirits, Non-Alcoholic, & Ice Cream
Thank you to our friends at Stoller Family Estate, Rogue Ales, Beam Suntory, and Wilderton Apertivo Co. 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. Look on the back of your name tag for allotted drink concessions.
Please enjoy responsibly and plan a safe ride home.
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.
There is no limit to non-alcoholic beverages for people under age. While supplies last.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHTS
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR LEGACY LEADER
Coming in hot, Rhett Acelar has been instrumental in securing valuable partnerships and serving as a trusted advisor behind the scenes. From day one, he jumped in and started delivering—no hesitation, no handholding. Rhett is the definition of a model volunteer, and we’re beyond grateful to have him on the team.
Zie Zie Senzaki is a true unicorn— first a TEDxPortland attendee, then a brand-side partner, and now a key member of our leadership team driving special projects with heart and hustle. A big thinker and a master connector, Zie Zie embodies the spirit of TEDxPortland: curious, creative, and committed to making things happen. She brings people together, and in doing so, moves us all forward.
“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
WANT TO VOLUNTEER WITH US?
We would love to hear from you and explore possible opportunities.
ROLES WE ARE SPECIFICALLY LOOKING TO FILL ARE ON OUR CORE TEAM:
• Graphic Designers / Animators
• Event Planner Extraordinaires!
• Content Creators
• Social Media Strategists / SEO
• Grant Writer
• Partnerships / Sponsorships
• Vendor Management
• Speaker Coaches
• Wellness Advocate
• Ticketing & Sales
If you love logistics, strategy, herding cats and rolling up your sleeves we would love to hear from you!
Respectfully, we are not looking for “day of volunteers.” Our bench is full there.
We would love to work with and empower individuals who are willing to volunteer 9 months of a year — roughly 80–120 hours (depending on the role).
Email Molly Fuller & Justin Albano and we will get back to you later this summer once the dust settles from Year 13.
