Changing mindsets in a convenience culture | Ted Montalvo | TEDxUniversity of Montana Western

In an age of convenience, distraction, and increasing isolation, Ted Montalvo challenges us to reconsider what truly enriches our lives. Through personal stories and reflections on growing up in rural Montana, he makes a compelling case for embracing the "inconvenience" of human connection and investing in the communities that help us thrive. Sponsored by the Fund for Experience One, our conference provides a multidisciplinary forum for academic minds to gather and exchange ideas worth sharing. Speakers selected to present at TEDx University of Montana Western are directly connected to the local community or have topics that support Montana Western’s mission and values. TEDx University of Montana Western showcases the diversity and academic fortitude of our institution while providing a venue for speakers to submit their research to a global network. This conference was filmed in front of a live audience on March 21, 2026 in the Beier Auditorium. Learn more about TEDxUniversity of Montana Western by visiting www.umwestern.edu/tedx-umw/ or www.umwestern.edu. Ted Montalvo is crafting a portfolio that braids their interests in sustainable development with their artistic talents. Ted is a junior at the University of Montana Western pursuing a Bachelor of Science in environmental sustainability alongside three minors specializing in the arts and communication. In 2025 Ted was selected to be a Baucus Climate Scholar. They spent last summer designing science communication illustrations centered around water quality for the Henry’s Fork Foundation. In their free time, Ted is pursuing digital art or entertaining others through theater. Coming from a town of 500 people – and inspired by their grandfather’s passion for sustainable agriculture and connecting communities – Ted wants to help broaden communication and education among neighbors to build a more resilient rural America. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx