TEDxPortsmouth Team

Role on the team: The decider, the email-answerer, the one who lies awake at night worrying if this year’s event will be a success.

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I’m a partner at The Hired Pens (www.thehiredpens.com), a copywriting agency with offices in Boston and Portsmouth. When I am not writing or working on TEDxPortsmouth, I am either playing Monopoly or soccer with my two young sons or lying on the couch watching high-quality television with my husband.

Favorite TED Talk ever: In the spirit of bringing more levity to the stage this year, one of my favorite recent talks was from scientist and investor Simone Giertz: “Why You Should Make Useless Things.”

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: As a writer, there is nothing more satisfying than seeing these talks go from rough ideas to polished speeches. By show time, I know these talks by heart and follow along in my head as our speakers hit their marks. I’m always so proud of them!

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? How about Eleanor Roosevelt talking about gender identity?

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 9

What I do when I’m not working on TEDx: Freelance writer / communications / marketing consultant. I like to “make and create,” whether I’m making art or writing creatively. I also like to move, whether it’s hiking with my husband, working out at the gym, running or dancing in my kitchen. I’m also a board member and storyteller for Long Story Short at 3S Artspace in Portsmouth.

Favorite TED Talk: I love Bevy Smith’s talk about being your authentic self. And because my childhood dream was to dance on Broadway, this talk by choreographer Ryan Heffington about self-expression and joy through dance really resonates.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: It’s a huge honor to help our speakers bring their big ideas to the TED stage. There’s nothing more rewarding than when they find their spot on the red dot and start speaking! I also love our TEDx team; the camaraderie and spirit is contagious. It’s a great group to work with!

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? Theodore Roosevelt. I’d like to know about his travels out West in the late 19th century and what inspired his efforts to establish national parks and preserve our natural resources. Also, artist Georgia O’Keeffe, because her work is so compelling.

Role on the team: Working with good humans to identify the heart of their idea and how they can share it with the world.

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I am the CEO of RockHealth.org working to center equity at the intersection of technology and healthcare.

Favorite TED Talk ever: Not only is Sisonke a powerful leader, but her command of the written and spoken word is so influential. In this talk, she emphasizes that stories lie everywhere if we are paying attention and if we can see well beyond “stages” to find wisdom and clues about how we can show up and act to make the world more just.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: Besides the wonderful team, the power of a place that has ideas relevant to a global community

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? I would love to hear from the mothers of Desmond Tutu, Mahatma Gandhi and Elie Weisel.

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I own Seacoast Moms, a local website serving parents in the area. We offer hyper local digital advertising as well as host events for families. I also have 3 daughters, a husband, 2 cats and an obsession with yoga! I love to write, read, listen to Taylor Swift, and go to bed early.

Favorite TED Talk ever: I loved Nora McInerney’s talk on grief. She’s able to dance between the light and the dark– the humor and the tragedy of life.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: Being in “the room where it happens”. Helping people be a part of shaping their message is so exciting. I love being a part of the creative process and encouraging people to refine their big idea.

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? This is an impossible question! So many people! I’d love to hear from someone prolifically creative about HOW they get inspired. But I’d want that person to also have a chaotic and busy life, like mine, so I could take their insight to heart. Someone like the poet Kate Baer or the musician Josh Ritter. I’m obsessed with people who are good with words and I want to hear about how they give themselves space to create in a chaotic world.

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: I joined in 2025.

What do you do when not working on TEDx? I’m usually writing something, either for a client or for my own purposes. Or else I’m out on my bike — thinking about what I’m going to write next.

Favorite TED talk ever: Sir Ken Robinson on whether schools kill creativity. That talk, from almost 20 years ago, serves as a TED template for how to deliver an important message with seemingly effortless humor.

Favorite Part of TEDxPortsmouth: Seeing a small town produce so many big ideas.

If you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED talk, who would it be and what would they talk about? No one, to be honest. Historical figures typically get plenty of opportunities to share their ideas. What’s great about TED is that it’s like American Idol for undiscovered thinkers.

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 5

What do you do when not working on TEDx? I am on a mission to rid the world of “you know, like, and kinda” filler words! I run my own company, Creative Training Resources (www.creativetrainingresources.com), providing customized training programs and coaching to help professionals clean up the mess created by poor communication. I’m always up for a cut-throat game of cribbage or hiking, biking, or paddle boarding somewhere in New Hampshire.

Favorite TED talk ever: Just one??? Brené Brown’s, Amy Cuddy’s, Sir Richard Branson’s…all in my top talks. My newest favorite is Sarah Kay’s, “If I should have daughter.” The performance, the message, the authenticity… all spot on! And, this is coming from someone who has a son.

Favorite Part of TEDxPortsmouth: I am always blown away by the amazing, smart, and creative speakers. The dedication and hard-work of the volunteers at making sure the speakers shine in the best possible light is astonishing. It truly is an honor to be part of the team.

If you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED talk, who would it be and what would they talk about? I would love to hear a TED talk by Lao Tzu on how to stay centered and grounded in a world that feels so totally out of control.

Role on the team: Operations / Executive Support

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: Just joined for TEDxPortsmouth 2026

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? Outside of TEDx, I enjoy staying active, whether hiking New Hampshire’s trails, hitting the gym, or practicing tennis; getting lost in a good book, writing my own stories, and exploring new places through travel!

Favorite TED Talk ever: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: The Danger of a Single Story. It’s a talk I return from time to time because it shows how limiting one perspective can be. A reminder that our identities are always richer and more complex than a single narrative, and that diverse voices are essential for understanding the world.

“The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete.”

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: My favorite part is witnessing the moment ideas take roots, and seeing how a single talk can inspire curiosity, conversation, and change!

If you could see any historical figure (living or dead) give a TED Talk, who would it be and what would they talk about? I believe Marie Curie would give an inspiring TED Talk on perseverance, curiosity, and breaking barriers in science, encouraging a mindset of relentless exploration!

Role on the team: Student & Educators Day Coordinator

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: Rookie class of 2026!

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? You can almost always find me outdoors, no matter the season! When I’m not on the soccer field in the fall or the track in the spring coaching, I’m exploring the White Mountains on skis or cruising the coast by boat. Professionally, for the past 15 years, I have worked on the Seacoast as a school counselor. Joining the TEDx community is a tremendous honor. My goal has always been to empower children and families by helping them build strong connections, and I’m thrilled to be part of a community that shares this vision.

Favorite TED Talk ever: Dr. Rita Pierson – Every kid needs a champion. The power of connection and relationship students have with their teachers is more valuable than anything. Every person, young or old, benefits from having a champion. 

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: TEDx Portsmouth has a way of creating a spark within me. This inspiring community that all comes together once a year and leaves me feeling re-energized and ready to take on new challenges.

If you could see any historical figure (living or dead) give a TED Talk, who would it be and what would they talk about? Princess Diana would have been an unforgettable experience because she was a person of immense influence, embodying a powerful blend of compassion, courage, and cultural impact. She broke down stigmas and used her fame to shine a light on those who were suffering.

Role on the team: I built and maintain the website and I advise and/or help implement technical solutions to aid the team’s workflow whenever possible.

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 9

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? Slinging code, writing and performing spoken word, making art, or making sure everyone appreciates that Halloween is the best damn holiday ever and that Portsmouth, NH is the best town to celebrate it in.

Favorite TED Talk ever: I really love the talk by Amy Cuddy called “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are.” It’s a beautiful blend of science, emotion, and personal story.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: It’s so hard to pick just one thing. My favorite thing is the way the talks prick and stimulate my brain in new ways, but I also love the interaction with other attendees between talks.

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? I would love to hear Prince talk about the intersection between his sexuality and his conservative religious views and how both flourished in him when, in many people, one eclipses the other.

Role on the team: I help TEDxPortsmouth tell its story across all social media platforms to generate new interest and enthusiasm for this incredible community-based event!

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? Taking care of my three kids and running marathons around the world! I started running after my 2nd child was born with profound disabilities, as a way to relax and restore my mental health. What started as running for charities to help people with disabilities became a passion for travel and for the sport!

Favorite TED Talk ever: “Embrace the Shake” always stuck with me. I love how Phil Hansen subtly makes the audience change their perceived assumptions about his disability over the course of his talk, as we discover, with him, that no person is limited.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: I love the supportive energy and the enthusiasm of the audience when we all clap and cheer for a speaker whenever something they just said strikes a chord with all of us. That kind of interactive, insta-feedback for a speaker must feel amazing!

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? Helen Keller. One of my son’s multiple disabilities is that he’s Deafblind. As an accomplished author and speaker, Helen Keller taught us that communication and connection with others is vastly more than just speaking words. I’d love to hear her give a talk on ways we can all be more inclusive of those who communicate differently. Her tireless advocacy for people with visual and hearing impairments literally made the world a better place for my son.

Role on the team: Digital Strategy & Development Coordinator

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 2026 is my first!

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I’m starting up a social media management and communications business called Amrose Connect. It is rooted in building connection and community for schools. I have a strong interest in educational advocacy and I spend much time parenting my teen daughters and chauffeuring them to ballet, horseback riding and art lessons. My favorite place is always close to any beach and walking is my favorite meditation. In my free time you can find me spending time with my family and friends, listening to podcasts, strength training, writing poetry, dancing until my feet hurt and thinking about big ideas.

Favorite TED Talk ever: Going blind at 45: Finding purpose after darkness with Freddy Petrone. His message about finding success in failure and giving back to others when you find yourself struggling impacted me deeply. I love that I was able to learn more about his non-profit and how it started. I carry that same mindset and I think the best thing we can do when we can is reach out and help someone.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: ALL of it! For years it’s been my most favorite day of the year for our community. Coming together in a packed house to hear stories and learn about new ideas is my perfect kind of day.

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? I would love to hear Toni Morrison talk more about this quote she said once..”There was something so valuable about what happened when one became a mother. For me it was the most liberating thing that ever happened to me”

Role on the team: Marketing Support

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I run a boutique multidisciplinary graphic design studio, helping mission-driven brands communicate and connect through the power of design. We specialize in higher education, nonprofit, and the arts with clients in Boston, Los Angeles, New York and Portsmouth.

When I’m not at my office, you will find me hiking and skiing with my husband, son and daughter, running with my dog, walking with friends, thrifting, rollerblading and doing yoga.

Favorite TED Talk ever: It is very hard to pick just one and I have to admit that this might not be my favorite since there are just so many great talks. The one that made me laugh and has stuck with me is called This is What Happens When You Reply to Spam Email – a reflection on the absurdities of our digital lives.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: The people. It’s such a wonderful group of talented, motivated, smart, thoughtful people who want to knock it out of the park every year. And they do.

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? I would love to see Queen Hapshetsut talk about ruling in an era when men dominated society. I would love to hear about how she gained control and held respect.

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? Along with running Dotworks Design, an independent graphic design studio, I solo parent an amazing 12-year-old boy and our growing menagerie of pets. I’m a library trustee for the Portsmouth Public Library and volunteer as a UNH Marine Docent so I can teach kids about our incredible seacoast. I also make sure to squeeze in potluck dinners and Mah Jong with my cherished pandemic pod friend group. All of which often requires closing my eyes to the never-ending list of household maintenance.

Favorite TED Talk ever: The one that hasn’t been given yet. There are so many TED Talks that have opened my mind to new things. I love hearing about how ordinary people do extraordinary things. I want TED Talks to keep growing and expanding, and can’t wait to hear my next favorite.

Favorite part of TEDx Portsmouth: I always leave this event so inspired and wired. I’m amazed at the diversity and creativity within this community — how so many people have interesting things to share, and are willing to put so much energy into enhancing Portsmouth and beyond.

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk, who would it be and what would they talk about? I never got to meet my grandmother, who was a pioneer in her own right. I’d love to be able to hear her recount how her grit and ingenuity led her to shelter a Jewish child during the Holocaust, work on women’s commissions during the 1950’s and raise four children as a young widow.

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 13

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I was semi retired as of 2020, I do some work for community groups, of which TEDxPortsmouth is one. I started as an apprentice in printing after high school, moving from plate making, to color separations on camera (before scanners were a thing!), then on to computers, graphic design and settling into layout and image retouching. I’ve been volunteering to help out and make meals for the Seacoast Fridge, trying to feed people who need it. I’m hoping my vegetable garden will be less weedy this year for more free food!

Favorite TED Talk ever: Ethan Gilsdorf: “Why Dungeons & Dragons Is Good for You (In Real Life).”

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: Learning how everyone has a skill to share, and I love how the amazing TEDXPortsmouth experience transcends the stress of all the prep!

And, if you could see any historic figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? Terry Pratchett. I’d love to hear about his Discworld series, and my favorite characters Tiffany Aching and The Nac Mac Feegles (The Wee Free Men). Yes, it’s a YA book. Shut up.

 What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? Taking portraits, hanging out with my family and playing with my dogs.

Favorite TED Talk ever: The first one that comes to mind is the woman who talked about no longer dressing to be invisible (Stasia Savasuk’s “Change your pants, change your life”).

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: The community!

And, if you could see any historic figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? Obama on how to get out of our current mess.

Yeats working with TEDxPortsmouth: 6

Role on the team: Photography

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I am a portrait photographer in the Greater Seacoast area of New Hampshire. I have always enjoyed creative outlets and have a degree in fashion design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. To me, fashion design and photography are related, you are curating and creating a look that will hopefully make someone feel wonderful about themselves. In this media driven world, I believe that everyone, regardless of what they do, should have great images of themselves that they love.

Favorite TED Talk ever: Oh – that’s a tough one!! Erin Santini Bell’s Reimagining the Job of Bridges for a More Sustainable Future

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: Community

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about?Betty Friedan, Bella Abzug – feminists from the 60s, radical feminists!!

Role on team: I put together performances that highlight our theme and get the audience excited for what’s to come.

When not working on Ted: I am a nurse at Philips Exeter Academy and continue to dabble in singing/theater while still longing for my old piano bar days in NYC. I love exploring record stores and listening to music with my two sons and am very lucky to have an amazing husband who loves to cook so I can focus on making us a fabulous cocktail.

Favorite Ted talk: Quinta Christianson, “The New 5 second rule: Redefining the first impression”

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: In such a crazy world, we all need some time to step back and catch our breath. I love that this day allows for the audience to relax, reflect, and be inspired. As a friend once said, “it’s like a spa day for your brain.”

And, if you could see any historical figure, living or dead, give a TED Talk who would it be and what would they talk about? Florence Nightingale on integrity, compassion, and humility. The world could use a little more of all of the above.

Role on the team: DJ

Years working with TEDxPortsmouth: 10

What do you do when you are not working on TEDx? I’m a Senior Facilitator at SME Strategy, a firm that specializes in helping teams design their strategic plans and the systems to implement them.

Favorite TED Talk ever: Emilie Wapnick, “Why some of us don’t have one true calling” from 2015.

Favorite part of TEDxPortsmouth: The strong sense of community and open-mindedness you leave with.