In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Orchestra Hall
1111 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55403
United States

Barry Kudrowitz

Design & Creativity Researcher

Dr. Barry Kudrowitz explores innovation through the intersection of design, humor, and play in everyday life. He is a professor, researcher, and department head at the University of Minnesota. His recent book "Sparking Creativity: How Play and Humor Fuel Innovation and Design" draws from 19 years of academic research into how playfulness fosters creativity and problem-solving skills. Barry’s quirky approach to design inspires audiences to embrace curiosity and unconventional ideas. With a background in engineering and product design and a passion for immersive experiences, he challenges perceptions of what it means to innovate in a rapidly changing world. Barry received his PhD from MIT studying creativity, humor, and idea generation.

Brittany Lewis

Social Justice Changemaker

Dr. Brittany Lewis is a well-respected community engaged qualitative scholar, thought leader, author, and professor known for bringing those most often locked out of local decision-making processes to the action research table. Brittany draws on over 15 years of engaged research and expertise in social justice issues such as group and gun violence and sex trafficking. As these typically begin with lack of access to safe, affordable, and dignified housing, Brittany explores the urgent need for policy and practice change efforts to address housing inequality and advocate for the rights of vulnerable communities.

Cam Lee Small

Mental Health Professional

Cam Lee Small, author, clinician in private practice, and dynamic advocate for mental health and adoption literacy, brings lived experience and professional insight to the forefront of his work. Building from his personal journey as a Korean American adoptee navigating reunion with his birth family and heritage, Cam shares practical strategies to lift our relationships and our culture as a whole into new potentials and breakthroughs. His work synthesizes personal testimonies with decades of research in a way that brings new life to intimate histories, living origins, and untapped possibilities, both locally and worldwide.

Jack Jablonski

Philanthropist

With dreams of becoming a professional hockey player thwarted with paralysis from a spinal cord injury, Jack has become a beacon of hope and determination, advocating for spinal cord injury research and accessibility. Through his advocacy, he illuminates the transformative power of perseverance and community support in navigating life-changing challenges. Jack’s story transcends sports, offering insights into resilience, adaptability, and human spirit. Today, he leads the Jack Jablonski Foundation, a charitable organization he created to advance paralysis recovery treatments through research.

Kirsten Wittmann

Tribal Relations Specialist

Kirsten Wittmann (previously Kirsten Johnson) is a citizen of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and resides in Minnesota, working for the Department of Human Services in government-to-government grant and process development for home health care equity for Native Americans across the state. As an activist for appreciating and supporting different perspectives to solving problems, she inspires global audiences to embrace diversity and foster inclusivity as she shares her vision for a world where different cultural knowledge intersects.

Scott Dikkers

Author, Satirist, Rabblerouser

Scott Dikkers, co-founder of The Onion and a pioneer in satirical comedy, explores the power of humor in challenging societal norms and sparking critical thinking. Scott uses the art of satire as a tool for social commentary and change, highlighting its role in shaping public discourse. As a writer and entrepreneur, he shares anecdotes and wisdom on harnessing creative ideas to address complex issues with levity and intelligence.

Stevie Chancellor

People-centric AI Practitioner

Dr. Stevie Chancellor teaches computer science at the University of Minnesota, exploring the intersection of psychology and technology in shaping human behavior. Her work involves building digital tools to improve mental health and well-being, offering insights into managing digital interactions mindfully. As a scholar and advocate, Stevie emphasizes the importance of understanding our digital footprints and fostering healthy relationships with technology.