Ignite Phoenix 13 Submissions

These are all the submissions we received for Ignite Phoenix #13, which is being held on Friday, October 26th, 2012 at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. We are currently in the judging process and look forward to sharing with you your presenters for Ignite Phoenix #13! Stay tuned to our newsletter and our blog for more information.

I have someone else’s heart in me, no really… I do.
Presenter	Preston Smith
Biography	I’m a father of 2 boys (Jude 2.5, Koen 1) and the husband to a hilarious women (Mindi 32). I’m an improv geek, marketing nerd, gourmet soda connoisseur and general workaholics.
Description	I had a heart transplant, it was life changing but not defining. In this talk I will take on the most common misconception about organ donation: do you take on the characteristics of your donor? This is NOT a speech advocating organ donation, you can do what you want with your organ.
Monkeying around: Why you should care about Monkeypox and why I needed a background check to study it.
Presenter	Brian Johnson
Biography	I am a 3rd year PhD student in Bert Jacobs’ lab in Arizona State University, where I study two relatives of the smallpox virus: vaccinia, which was used in the smallpox vaccine, and monkeypox. One of our goals is to develop vaccinia virus into a tool that can be used to fight other diseases, without starting a zombie apocalypse. So far so good!
Description	With smallpox gone, people are no longer vaccinated against it. However, the vaccine also protected against a relative of smallpox, monkeypox, and infection rates are now rising in Africa. This is not an isolated problem; in 2003 there was a monkeypox outbreak in the US! I’ll talk about this outbreak and the tools I use to study the virus.
HIV and go seek: Why it’s so hard to make an HIV vaccine and how scientists are trying to solve this problem.
Presenter	Brian Johnson
Biography	I am a 3rd year PhD student in Bert Jacobs’ lab in Arizona State University. We mostly study the vaccinia virus, a relative of smallpox that that was used in the vaccine that eradicated it. One of our goals is to develop vaccinia into a tool that can be used to fight other diseases, without starting a zombie apocalypse. So far so good!
Description	Despite billions of dollars spent and decades of research, we still don’t have a vaccine for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. I’ll talk about what makes HIV so tricky to fight and how researchers in the Jacobs lab have redesigned an old friend to help in the fight against HIV: the smallpox vaccine!
Out of the Box: Art in the Real World
Presenter	Elizabeth Johnson
Biography	2-3 brief sentences about who are and what you do. (Limited to 350 characters) Elizabeth is a choreographer, dancer, and educator with a particular focus on connecting communities through choreography. Investigating movement and meaning, Elizabeth creates art that promotes civic dialogue, addressing the social concerns of our times.
Description	There was a time when people danced and the rain came, when preparing for the hunt was actually becoming the lion. Some places in the world do not separate art from daily experience, but in our society art is too often seen as something you have to have and MFA to understand. Explore how art can help us connect, reflect, and deal with complexity.
How the Matrix is Shaping the Future of Work
Presenter	Yolanda Facio
Biography	I am a valley native, entrepreneur/business owner with a passion for the power of our brains. When I’m not working, running with my dogs, driving at the track, playing guitar or drawing… I’m reading, writing and studying that beautiful mass of gray matter, neurons and synapses. My goal is simple, I want to help you plug into your brain power!
Description	Unlike Neo in the movie The Matrix, future workers won’t be able to simply plug into the Matrix and suddenly have the knowledge they need. And yet, with the swiftly changing world and global economy, success will come for those who capitalize on their neural networks to stay ahead of the curve. Are you ready to be a FutureWorker?
Happiness — free for the taking
Presenter	Lorin Thwaits
Biography	Hard-core geek, amateur musician, and eternal optimist.
Description	At the core we all claim to seek happiness. Paradoxically many of our actions drive us away from the very things that would be most fulfilling. “Someday I will …” replaces “Today I will act and …”. Well, today is the day. Please attend this five-minute workshop and let’s create new opportunity in your life.
Double-Fisting for Book Lovers
Presenter	Nikki Steele
Biography	I’m an instructional designer and freelance writer and editor. I tussle my way through the written word in all four of my jobs–9-5, contract work, blog, and personal writing.
Description	I read books–a lot of them. I just entered the competitive reading sphere (aka book blogging) this year with my blog, bookpairing.com. While working on the blog, I’ve found that pairing books with wine, food, events, and other books can add much to our understanding of these books and how they can impact the world if we let them.
It’s Right Under Your Nose
Presenter	Sarah Johnson
Biography	Job Title: Mother of Four Who Hates to Cook, with over 12 years of experience holding consistent family dinners. I’ve had various “family configurations”: a single woman with roommates, a newlywed living with empty nesters, a “single mom,” a wife wooing my husband, and a mother of four busy children.
Description	Here’s a Lucky Solution right under our noses: We can have a huge impact by helping families sit around a dinner table regularly. The surprising benefits include decreasing suicide & drug use, improving test scores & health, but also increasing job satisfaction! What a simple, crazy, & elegant way to change the world for the better!
The Art of Trolling
Presenter	Joshua Ziering
Biography	I’m a Phoenix SEO Consultant and if I wasn’t such an outgoing person, you’d never know I exist; except that you’d be one place lower in the Search Engine Results Page. I love writing, good sushi, decent vodka, and airplanes.
Description	We’ve all heard trolls stirring the pot on the internet. Who are these people and what motivates them? Do they act this way in real life? Meet Josh Ziering, a troll who turned this disruptive past time into a profession and how you can leverage trolls for your benefit as well.
Your Resume Sucks, That Tie is Ugly, and 13.5 Other Reasons Why Every Military Veteran I Talk To Will Kick Your Butt Getting a Job
Presenter	Drew Peneton
Biography	My name is Drew Peneton, and I’m a Financial Advisor in Tempe. But that’s not the important part. The important part, is that I was one of almost 1,000,000 unemployed veterans who figured out the hiring process for selective companies and landed a job at one of the top ten “Fortune Magazine Best Companies to Work For.”
Description	Since someone pointed out that like some sort of camouflaged unicorn, it was rare to find an under-30 former two-tour combat infantry soldier in a well-fit suit behind a cherrywood desk managing millions, I decided that it was my duty to help other veterans who wanted similar careers get there. That’s why, in 2009, I created Boots to Suits.
Toppling the blockades we set for ourselves
Presenter	Lorin Thwaits
Biography	Over the past two years Lorin has undergone significant transformation in his personal life. From being at the center of a heavily stressed environment, now to a much more sustainable and rewarding existence, he is thankful to again have joy in the journey.
Description	Rewards in life might seem to bob right in front of us, taunting like a stuffed pinata. We swing, but blindfolded always seem to miss. Why does the big payoff always feel just out of reach??? Perhaps the root cause is within us.Plan now to attend this five-minute workshop that’s geared to help uncover things you never knew about yourself.
I Chase Storms
Presenter	Mike Olbinski
Biography	I’m a Phoenix native and when I’m not shooting weddings and families, I chase storms during the summer monsoon season.Picked up a camera around four years ago when my daughter was born and suddenly realized what I could do with it. Flash forward to the present and I’m a super busy wedding photographer and my storm images have been seen worldwide.
Description	There are a crazy breed of weather nuts out there called storm chasers. I’m one of them. I’m also a photographer. I drive all over Arizona during the summer monsoon trying to capture the most insane storm photos I can. My hope is to give people a glimpse into this obsession of mine and reveal what it takes to capture these kinds of images.
Dot Sucks
Presenter	Maria Speth
Biography	I’m a lawyer with 24 years of experience. My fields are intellectual property and Internet law. I represent the top consumer review websites in the world and I am a leading expert in the country on website liability.
Description	An unhappy customer can completely and permanently trash bad guys on the Internet without getting sued. Buyer beware is long gone. Today’s company needs to treat its customers right or be exposed. By next year, the new domain extension .sucks will make it even easier for the disgruntled to get their message out. Let’s talk cyber reputations.
Improv: It’s Not Rocket Science!
Presenter	Scott Schoneman
Biography	Aerospace Systems Engineer (aka ‘rocket scientist’) for a few decades, Improv Performer for a few months, and 20 year resident of Phoenix. Also, in no particular order or purpose: AZ wine evangelist, foodie, pilot, sailor, home brewer, ASU lecturer, and musician
Description	A ‘rocket scientist’ approaching burnout has been reignited via learning and performing improv. Launching rockets requires meticulous attention to detail with the goal of leaving nothing to be made up on the spot. Improv involves making everything up on the spot. The contrast – and catharsis – has launched a new passion I want to share!
Sleep Around Much?
Presenter	Diane Salisbury
Biography	I like to think of myself as a Learner. I’ve been a full-time student (twice), and I’ve been a continuous learner for personal and professional growth. But what fun is it to learn something if you can’t share the good stuff? Lastly, I’m a napping advocate who doesn’t get enough sleep.
Description	Napping isn’t just for babies. I’ve worked a variety of different work schedules, and slept in some unusual places along the way. I’d like to share what I’ve learned about napping because it’s something so many of us can benefit from and most of us have the necessary skills. I hope to grow the pro-napping community and talk technique.
Phorgotten Phast Phood of Phoenix
Presenter	marshall shore
Biography	Marshall Shore moved here 13 years ago and became obsessed with the obscure and forgotten stories of Arizona. Marshall focuses mainly on Arizona history after the car arrives, figuring that ‘s when all the fun really began.
Description	The Valley is the birth place of fast food Americana? Really? Yes, Ronald, without the first AZ McDonald’s there would be no McDonald’s, Tempe was once the home of KFC, before it was KFC, and the explosion of Bob’s Big Boy across the country was launched right here in Phoenix.
To Fight or Not … That is the Question
Presenter	Senior Master Michelle Landgren Lee
Biography	At 13 years old, 4′ 11″, 95 lbs I was the victim of rape. This experience is what put the fire in my belly to never let someone physically take advantage of me again. Currently I am a 7th Degree Black Belt, highest ranking female martial artist in Arizona and 11 time World Champion.
Description	Still 4′ 11″ but now 45 yrs old, I can fight to defend but face a harder question, “when should I fight or not?”. Children with school bullies, a woman having belongings stolen, a stranger being assaulted or abducted… when do I fight or intervene physically. Lets debunk myths and explore realities of personal safety to preserve human DIGNITY!
Plastic is Fantastic: the Hidden Power of Your Credit Cards
Presenter	Andy Woodward
Biography	I am an IT consultant and occasional bodger. I’ve worked and consulted in various aspects of the banking and credit industries for more than 15 years. I have a credit card and I know how to use it.
Description	The consumers have post of the credit card power, not the banks as most people think. Banks and retailers convey this knowledge to you in little tiny print that few of us ever read. I’ll explain how you can use this power to protect yourself and how you can help local businesses you frequent in the process.
From Taxidermy to MLB Bath House: Tale of the Buckhorn Baths
Presenter	marshall shore
Biography	Marshall Shore moved here 13 years ago and became obsessed with the obscure and forgotten stories of Arizona. Marshall focuses mainly on Arizona history after the car arrives, figuring that ‘s when all the fun really began.
Description	An obscure corner in Mesa that started off as a taxidermy shop, became a spa before they existed, and then played a huge part in the Baseball history of Arizona.
Phoenix is a Gas: history of neon in the Valley
Presenter	marshall shore
Biography	Marshall Shore moved here 13 years ago and became obsessed with the obscure and forgotten stories of Arizona. Marshall focuses mainly on Arizona history after the car arrives, figuring that ‘s when all the fun really began.
Description	Iconic signs like My Florist & Courtesy Chevrolet show a glimpse into our past car culture. They Valley was once covered with these bright beauties. Sadly they are going out one by one. Like the Log Cabin sign along Van Buren, that recently fell and almost disappeared, except saved by Hookers.
…even without hair
Presenter	Melissa S. Rex
Biography	…is currently on faculty at ASU in the School of Dance teaching Creative Practices: Performance, Stage Design and Production. Melissa is also an advocate for Alopecia awareness through her personal outreach and in her own creative practices. Her story is filled with intriguing elements and is one of pure self-realization.
Description	Alopecia is a growing phenomenon that is the cause of pain and insecurity in some, and the focus of insensitivity, ignorance and lack of compassion in others. Outward appearances, whether chosen or not affect how we are perceived. SO much beauty comes from what so many perceive as ugly.
How We Ended Up Here
Presenter	Matt Brown
Biography	I’m a lawyer and a blogger. My work and my writings focus on issues involving the criminal justice system.
Description	We incarcerate an alarming number of people. As AZ’s population doubled over 30 years, its prison population increased tenfold, and despite spending close to a billion dollars a year on our prisons, we still have among the highest crime rates in the US. I want to discuss how we got to this point and what we can do to get to the root of the problem.
Failure Is As Failure Does
Presenter	Andrew Kolikoff
Biography	(Said proudly) I’m a Failure at almost everything. Have been for years. Will be for years to come. Heck, my official title at my firm is CFO (Chief Failure Officer). And while I have had many profound successes in life & business, it is my failures that have shaped me, my businesses, my life and ultimately my knowing of how anything is Possible.
Description	Former environmental scientist (2 grad degrees), university adjunct professor, not for profit founder, entrepreneur and now CFO (Chief Failure Officer) of a rather irreverent and more results based international sales and marketing firm offers his unique perspective on Failure and the insights failure affords humanity and business.
In Defense of Speculation
Presenter	Matt Londen
Biography	I am a professional investor and trader, so for my job I study markets and economies, which comprise billions of human minds. So I study those too. I’m also a semi-professional scientific skeptic: I co-founded the Phoenix Skeptics in the Pub min 2009 and the Phoenix Area Skeptics Society in 2012.
Description	I would like to talk in defense of financial market speculation, including short-selling, derivatives, and day-trading. This is important because most people are anti-speculation, even though they have no idea what it really means and how important it is to the global economy (and therefore every person on earth).
Yoga changed my life
Presenter	John Hill
Biography	I am many things to many people. Some know as a Massage Therapist, some as a Social Media/Marketing Mgr, or a Dance Instructor, and even a rock climber. And last but not least, as a Yogi (yoga practitioner).
Description	Yoga is not a trend. It is not a religion or a movement. It is not a cult. Yoga is a life changing idea that anyone, YES ANYONE, can do. I share the idea of Yoga with friends, clients and family. Yoga is more about “How you live and think” than about ” Chanting, twisting yourself into a pretzel or even doing a fancy party-trick posture.”
How to rule the world
Presenter	Perri Collins
Biography	The Queen
Description	How to aspire to the throne, live a life reflecting nobility and leave a royal legacy that bards will sing about ages to come. There are those who are born to lead and those who will forever remain commoners. Which one are you?
Ultimate: When a ball dreams, it dreams of being a disc.
Presenter	Wayne Roemhildt
Biography	Only a resident of the Valley since April 2012, I instantly found a sense of home in the local Ultimate culture. In living around the country, I’ve met interesting people through my food & beverage career, but the most fascinating people through Ultimate. I’ve played since 1998, & coached nearly as long, sharing my passion for the sport with many.
Description	Ultimate (Frisbee) is the greatest team sport in the world. Self-officiated, even at the World Games, it challenges integrity & sportsmanship. More than just throwing a disc, this cardio powerhouse is the fastest growing sport in America. AZ boasts the best fields in the country & a dynamic culture of players eager to share their love of the disc.
Intentional Happiness
Presenter	Marvin Forte
Biography	Hi, I am Marvin Forte, a designer and musician from sunny Phoenix, Arizona. While playing in a rock band by night, my design skills led me to a day job as a graphic artist. I struck out on my own in 2000 to found a print and Web design firm. I love music, art, architecture, hiking, good food and bad science fiction.
Description	We all want to be happy. For many, happiness seems like a destination but it is a key factor in helping us meet our goals. Studies show 50% of our capability for happiness is genetic, while only 10% is attributed to income, social status, health and age. That leaves intention. I suggest we choose to be happy and in my talk, we will explore how.
A Recipe for Innovation: Chevrolet Camaro
Presenter	Joseph Manna
Biography	Joseph Manna drives his 1998 Chevrolet Camaro SS and is incredibly passionate about the legacy of the Camaro. He often takes it on road trips, enjoys working on it and sees his car as more than just a car; it’s an experience.By day, he is the Community Manager at Infusionsoft and manages the company’s social media program.
Description	Most people look at their car as simply a vehicle. This talk explains why the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro is a great example of American innovation, community and passion. You’ll learn a little bit more of why the Camaro has die-hard fans and you can draw conclusions on how your ideas, products and services attract loyal fans.
Battlefield: Business – The Unspoken Arena Veterans Face at Home
Presenter	Drew Peneton
Biography	Two-time combat veteran turned business and finance professional. Advocate for fellow veterans in the struggle to find careers when they leave the service. Lover of technology, modern media and positivity. Wears cuff links way too often; once fashioned a tie tack out of a paperclip.
Description	Someone once asked me how I did it so easily. “Easily?” Going from gunshots and explosions to school and business was most certainly not “easy.” That was when I was encouraged to tell my story and why, since then, I have made my mission to not only help those in the same struggle succeed, but raise awareness and gather support.
F.E.A.R – What is it good for?
Presenter	Andy Shirk
Biography	I’m intrigued by what it takes for us to change. After years of leadership development in business and education, I’ve learned “knowing” does not always mean “doing”. My passion is to close this gap, for more success, satisfaction, and all around awesomeness.
Description	Fear has kept humans around for thousands of years, but it’s not as helpful in the modern world. Doing something new feels like a tiger is chasing us. Why? Because to our brains, it’s the same biology at work. Let’s play with two simple ways to deal with fear- thinking and smiling. And maybe you’ll present at Ignite next time
Oh Stewardess! I Speak Science!
Presenter	Steph Kost
Biography	I am senior in Barrett at ASU majoring in Biology, concentrating in Animal Behavior and Physiology, minoring in Psychology, planning on an MPH and medical school. I also act as the the resident ‘science person’ for my friends. (It’s like being a less famous version of Bill Nye.) Yes, I love science. No, I don’t sleep. Occasionally, I do improv.
Description	I’m that person who won’t shut up when I learn about something cool the scientific community has put out…and I’m not sorry ’bout it because science is rad and, more importantly, caring about science is fundamental to our collective societal progress. The issue here? People have a hard time caring about what they don’t understand.
Turning Pain Into Passion
Presenter	Claire McCarthy
Biography	I’m a bereaved Mom living and working in North Scottsdale attempting to navigate my life on the Real D List – death, divorce, dating and the lil’ man who makes my life living every day, Dylan. Clotheshorse and shoe addict with a love of creative writing, statement jewelry and wearing 5 inch heels for no other reason than it’s Tuesday.
Description	October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. If you or a close loved one has not experienced such a loss, you may be blissfully unaware of the emotional, spiritual, financial and physical effects of child loss – at any age. My pain has brought me to a passion for writing, speaking and advocating for bereaved parents everywhere.
Creating a movement to end Alzheimer’s
Presenter	Jessica Langbaum
Biography	Jessica Langbaum, PhD scientist & associate director of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. She has been personally affected by Alzheimer’s, having lost her grandfather to the disease in 2012. This loss has made her even more passionate about finding effective treatments, and one day, a way to prevent it entirely.
Description	Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death and the only one without a treatment or cure. But now, through the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry, there is something everyone can do, starting in Arizona. We need 1000s! Every person’s involvement in the Registry, whether by raising awareness or committing to research, brings us closer to a solution.
What would you expect – a kid from the Bronx
Presenter	Bob Martin
Biography	I am a artist, painter who is in love with music, all things basketball and most things New York.
Description	The amazing journey and unspectacular journey of a kid from the Bronx
How to get fired from the Apple Store,
Presenter	Jesse Robinson
Biography	I am Jesse. I own an ice cream shop. I’ve spoken about that at Ignite ASU. As of 9/19 I will end my 6 1/2 year career with Apple Inc. to maintain my shop full time.
Description	My presentation will answer many FAQs and common misconceptions of the most valuable brand in the world.I will pull back the curtain about what life is really like working there.I will give the audience tips on how to get what they want.I did not get fired from Apple, but this talk surely would have gotten me fired.
A Picture Changed My Life
Presenter	Tiffanie Luster
Biography	Mixed chick. Quirky. Photographer. Sister. Wife. I’m a whole bunch of things and I play many roles. I live a pretty easy going life thanks to my faith and the support of my husband. In the past year, I’ve met my husband, got married and got pregnant. All within 14 months. Best part? I’m not even nervous. Excited for what the Lord has in store next.
Description	February 2011: put pics on OkCupid. May: took them down due to low response. June: different ones back up. Huge Response. July: guy messages me. Go on date. November: sort of engaged. December: Married February: Pregnant. November: baby due. Many facets: A photo makes a difference. Speediness of relationship when God is involved.
Bugatti Veyron — the Ultimate Machine
Presenter	Robert Simyar
Biography	Softcore Adult website owner and dentist. Owner of several exotic cars, experiencing all sorts of driving experiences from the track, road, and top speed events. Achieved 258.3mph in the Bugatti Veyron. ‘Infamous’ for the Lambo 219 and the Bugatti 225 videos. Once you own one of these cars, you’ll fall in love with its every aspect/feature!
Description	The Bugatti Veyron is more than meets the eye — even though its 2+ million, it can do things that no other cars can. Besides the top speed and horsepower, its unnatural stability at speed, road courses and support technology make it worth its 5 million build cost. As an owner and driver, there are unique feature not reviewed by the auto media.
Fantasy Football Helped Save My Life (*But I’m Still Going to Die)
Presenter	Raoul Encinas
Biography	Reformed geek by background, management consultant by profession. Avid and passionate volunteer for several Valley non-profits. Born in Detroit and raised in 4 countries and 4 different US states.
Description	On 9-11 of ’09 I was diagnosed with a rare form of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for which the survival rate is ~13%. Fortunately, I had already drafted my fantasy football teams that season.A true tale of how a completely meaningless hobby about a fake competition based on a game played by real people provided motivation to survive another day.
Kaleidoscopes For Everyone!
Presenter	Dennis Gable
Biography	Well, my four-year-old step daughter calls me a “weirdo-bo-bierdo”… and that might explain it all. I love people, stories, laughter and a well crafted beverage. I have spent the last six years in over-drive, seeking adventure and wisdom to become the truest, most honest version of myself. Fortunately for us all, this is a continual journey.
Description	As a barista I am learning how to identify the quarks in coffee. I usually try to over-think what my tongue is experiencing, rather than just admitting that I have no clue what is happening in my mouth. So, drinks now taste “blue” or “red” or some other generally descriptive word. Personal perspective is similar; sometimes life is just “yellow.”
ALPHA Script / Cloud Script – A unified programming meta-language over the cloud
Presenter	George A. Delaportas
Biography	I am an Informatics & computer Engineer. I work ad a Software Architect and as a Hacking Security Expert & Consultant. I have deep understanding and experience of System Programming languages and Operating Systems. I love Reverse Engineering and I am an active member of the Open Source Community with 3 major projects.
Description	An abstract and unified programming meta-language which is not really compiled on its own syntax but it’s being converted to other languages on-demand over the cloud. This way you will have only one universal “language”, like English, and converters on the cloud to parse and compile according to the infrastructure.”Code Once Run Anywhere”
Lady Gaga Might Actually Be The Death Of Me
Presenter	Erica Dermer
Biography	I’m a native Arizonan, and a graduate of ASU’s business school. I’m a market researcher by birth – nerd from the start. I also enjoy food, but food doesn’t enjoy me. I’m reluctant celiac living in a world full of wheat, writing a food blog to make a celiac’s journey a little bit easier (and tastier).
Description	The popularity of the gluten-free diet by celebs like Lady Gaga is making my Celiac autoimmune disease even more annoying. I fight for restaurants to understand that it’s more than just the next fad diet – it’s my way of surviving. Gluten-free food is my only prescription – it’s my lifestyle. I’m Born This Way despite my Bad Romance with gluten.
Growing Food in Unlikely Places
Presenter	Dennis McClung
Biography	In 2007 Dennis McClung made a 5 year plan to change his life and live as self-sufficiently as possible. Two years later he purchased his first home with his wife, a foreclosed home in Mesa with a big rundown empty pool. Dennis designed and built a food producing ecosystem in the pool and founded a nonprofit organization called Garden Pool.
Description	I have developed sustainable ways of producing food in normally nonproductive places like empty pools, roof tops, and bookshelves. I believe that this system can be used anywhere to grow local sustainable food. I learned that sharing my food production methods created community and also made people think twice about growing food in unlikely places.
Rarer Than Being Struck by Lightning
Presenter	Laura Orsini
Biography	I’m a self-publishing consultant. I work with authors to shepherd them through the publishing process from original idea to distribution. However, writing the book is just Phase 1. I also teach my authors low- to no-cost marketing strategies, telling them, “Without marketing, you and your mom may be the only people who buy your book.”
Description	“It’s more likely that a woman over 35 will be hit by lightning than get married.” I’m not sure which genius came up with it, but even my NYC therapist (who was later fired) said it to me! Guess I broke the mold. Met my HUSBAND via Craigslist; we got married St. Pat’s Day 2011. I will talk about the challenges of dating and getting married after 40
Igniting Community – Ideas for Action and Inspiration in Your Community
Presenter	Stacey Champion
Biography	Ms. Champion is a life-long entrepreneur, mama, community activist, rabble rouser, writer, speaker and lover of all things silly.She has been nominated as a “Diva Visionary” and is hell bent on making the world a better place.Her favorite color is green and she has a wee bit of a sweet tooth.
Description	Less talk, more action.Many people have ideas about how their communities could be better but don’t even know where to begin. Learn what it takes to become a community activist, get inspired by some refreshing ideas and help become a domino in creating positive change all around you.
Confessions of a Mommy Blogger
Presenter	Kelly Loubet
Biography	I am… a Mom, Writer, Speaker, Community Builder, Doodler of notes, Part-time jet-setter, Full-time optimist. I lend my experience to brands… helping them to share their message with the right audience. I specialize in the organic growth of an active and passionate community across multiple platforms.
Description	As a parenting blogger and social media consultant for the last 5 years… I’m using my own parenting experiences as well as soliciting the help of my blogger friends… to put together a presentation exposing some of our guiltiest parenting moments. I think this will not only be entertaining, but also enlightening.
Sit Down, Stand Up, Walk Out
Presenter	Tyler Coulson
Biography	I was born in rural Illinois. I graduated from the University of Iowa College of Law, then practiced corporate law at a leading national firm in Chicago. I left the corporate world and walked across the United States with my dog, Mabel, in 2011.
Description	My talk centers on my experience hiking across the U.S. and how that experience changed my worldview, the way I interact with people, and my values. I highlight that what I saw made me gradually more and more aware of failing American domestic policies and the need for substantial campaign finance reform.
Esteem Media
Presenter	Noah Dyer
Biography	When I do it wrong, I do it right.
Description	What’s going to come after social media? Esteem media. Feeling a sense of connection (or sociaility) is a higher level human need. But more important than feeling connected is feeling positively regarded. I’ll propose some ideas for how current and future web and mobile properties will evolve to meet this higher level need.
Lucid Living
Presenter	Sean Oliver
Biography	I’m a 23 year old independent filmmaker with a huge interest in lucid dreaming. I’ve combined my passions into a web series called Lucidity which has heavy dream themes. Since its creation I have spoken on international podcast and presented at the 29th Conference for the International Association for They Study of Dreams.
Description	Lucid Dreaming is the result of being consciously aware of our reality, but what is so astounding is how real the dream world actually is. I will explore a few key reasons every human should be researching their own dreams and how we can all learn not only to Lucid Dream, but Lucid Live.
B.E.
Presenter	Sarah Stahlbush
Biography	I am a high school teacher, neuroleadership enthusiast, and bilingual American. I am a Communication Studies major and a coach.
Description	B.E. stands for behavioral enrichment and is a necessary routine for animals in captivity. Zoos and animal rehab centers acknowledge the need for mental stimulation and comfort zone destruction in order to preserve sanity. Humans have the same needs.
She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not: A Tale of Relationship OCD
Presenter	Robert Hoekman, Jr
Biography	Robert Hoekman, Jr is a writer and design strategist who has previously given Ignite talks on the Japanese art of taiko and how to rescue a stray dog.
Description	Obsessive-Colmpulsive Disorder (OCD) is one of the most common afflictions in the world, but sometimes its effects aren’t so obvious. What happens when it hides in the sufferer’s mind, out of view, & drives the love of your life to alternate between imagining your future & completely withdrawing? And how do you survive it?
Autism and Neurodiversity through Comedy
Presenter	Laura Nagle
Biography	I am a fifty-nine year old woman with Asperger’s syndrome who presents on autism and promotes the civil rights of those who have autism.
Description	I believe that autism needs to be viewed within the neurodiversity movement which means society needs to appreciate those who are neurologically different. Appreciation can come through accepting civil rights. I attempt to raise public appreciation about autism and civil rights through comedy.
After The Fight (Coming Home)
Presenter	Matthew Micheletti
Biography	I am a stand-up comic, a hyperbolic pundit and an efficient procrastinator. I enjoy intelligent discussion on a myriad of topics. Life is too short to be shy.
Description	During the last 10 years we have seen the growth of a war that has engulfed our youngest generations. They have sacraficed, bled and some have died to keep this country safe. Those who did survive have come home to a nation still repairing the broken system that was made evident after the conflict in Vietnam. Its time for change.
Waste Not Want Not
Presenter	Dan Catlin
Biography	I have been employed in the environmental field for over 30 years and during the past several years have been remodeling a 1993 built all electric frame home in Mesa, Arizona to be a zero energy user (thats right our summer electric bills from SRP have been $0.00). We keep the home a cool 78 degrees and also operate a tidal pool and hot tub.
Description	I will show how to live the good life using sunshine and rainwater to create an urban oasis. I will explain why the economics of solar PV systems is now good for homeowners. Why waste our sunshine and rainwater?
Mesozoic Holocaust Highways
Presenter	Stephen Mark Alvis
Biography	I’m a retired school teacher. When I was 13, I decided to rewrite the history of the world. My preoccupation is leading volunteer explorers, the Time Travelers, to dinosaur tracksites around the Southwest. As a geomythologist rewriting the whole science of geology, my sole qualifications are curiosity and a disregard for scientific authorities.
Description	My earth-shattering theory proposes the violent births of pagan gods were natural thermonuclear fusion explosions that blasted fragments of crust and mantle into orbit as debris streams of asteroids and meteors. Shock waves beheaded dinosaurs, whose tracksites align in vectors for hundreds of miles beside fissures where heat fused rock into metals.
56 Days Remaining on that Crazy Mayan Calendar
Presenter	Bony Tony
Biography	6000 years old and feeling at the top of my game! I host my own show “The Afterlife With Bony Tony”, I enjoy celebrating the dead (including myself) and making light of the fact that we all decompose (you’ll get used to it).I have recently been immortalized beyond the dead by having my full body scan completed. I can now be replicated virtually.
Description	The End of Days may be near, but that’s no reason to fear! Just think, no mortgage, you can fly wherever you want, and the social scene is pretty lively in “The Afterlife”. If you have reservations about dying, it will only make getting a seat on my show that much easier. Join me for another side splitting journey to where we all gather in the end
That Joke Reminds Me of a Lawsuit
Presenter	Matt Storrs
Biography	I’m a comedian, law student, baker, ordained minister, embroidery enthusiast, and aspiring house boyfriend. My resume is eclectic. Yet, I’m fascinated by how it all comes together.
Description	There’s a race between attorneys and stand up comedians as to who can do more to establish copyright protections to prevent joke theft. Sounds like a good idea right? Well, such restrictions can cut off the underlying ideas of a joke, making the ideas unusable by future comics. The implications of such restrictions could be dire.
An Urbanized beach comunity in Phoenix that you can see from outer space….I want it to have its own TV show
Presenter	Charles Blonkenfeld
Biography	I am Phoenician who likes to go on long walks, shop at local retailers, feast on quality cuisine watch a sunset ride a bike fly a kite even make a collage out of found objects . I was in California a week ago, and I was struck by the activity that is related to a beach setting yet does not take place in the ocean and I had an Idea!!!!!!
Description	Phoenix needs an urbanized beach with free access, dense housing, local businesses, diversity, & a thriving community. There are 2 things that a beach has that a park doesn’t; size & economic activity. I will show why it needs to be massive, where to put it, How to finance it and why collaborative design will make it happen
Game Over – What I Learned by Failing to Level Up
Presenter	Linda Jeffries
Biography	I’m a process developer and for a database company. I’m a mom and a self-styled geek who enjoys reading, writing and arithmetic. You can find me online lurking on reddit and feeding bottom lane on League of Legends.
Description	I spent 1 year trying to master the game “League of Legends” – a MOBA and failed spectacularly and repeatedly. I learned some lessons about gaming, the gaming community and myself in the process.
Death of a competitor – How Games ruined my life
Presenter	Linda Jeffries
Biography	I’m a self-proclaimed geek with a love of reading, writing and arithmetic. A techno mom who works for one of the largest database companies in the world, whom you can find traveling the world teaching people how to fill out TPS reports.
Description	I tried to become a “gamer girl” , (board & video) , infiltrate the gamer culture (attended Stategicon, League of Legends lvl 30) & expand my horizons and instead failed miserably, dystroying my relationship in the process. Doesn’t everyone like a cautionary tale?
How Lego saved my life (or at least my career?)
Presenter	Ken Schneider
Biography	I am what you call a True Phoenician, born and raised. I am a Computer Animator turned Graphic Designer turned Marketing Manger. I have a 4 year old boy and a 1 year old girl. I play adult kickball for fun. I love comic books and legos even though im turning 30 this year!
Description	I grew up playing Lego and building anything and everything with Lego. Who could of beleived that 20 years later it would save my life… or at least my career. In a job that lends it self to creativity, I found myself dull in the process. Until Lego entered my life for the second time.
The Art of being “Taken”
Presenter	Kimberly Schneider
Biography	At age seven my parents gave me my first camera – it was pink. That was the day I fell in love with photography since then I’ve honed my skills, always seeking to capture those special moments that become memories. I have used my skills to capture images for studio photography, magazine, fashion, sports, birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings.
Description	In the day and age of 8.1 megapixel iphone cameras, the art of the photograph has gotten lost slightly. When I shoot, I look to capture the “Candid” – the picture that no one knows is being taken, but yet is mostly cherrished. I want to express my love for photojournalism and how it can change how creatives look to use photography.
The Big Lie About PHX (and How to Defeat It)
Presenter	Jose Gonzalez
Biography	I teach & perform at The Torch Theatre in Phoenix, a longform improv theatre I co-founded with awesome people, and have performed at comedy festivals all across North America. I was born & raised in west Phoenix and have worked & played in downtown & central Phoenix since 2001. I
Description	The biggest lie about Phoenix is that there’s no culture here. I’ll explore why this lie exists & how to combat it. If you’re reading this or seeing this in any form at all, chances are I’m preaching to the choir, but my hope is to turn the choir into iron warriors willing to throw hatchets of knowledge at the necks of know-nothings around them.
Our Obsession with Metaphors
Presenter	James Archer
Biography	James Archer is the founder and CEO of Forty, a nationally-respected design firm. He has shared his passion and expertise with clients like Microsoft, Motorola, Walmart, and Yahoo, and projects he’s worked on have appeared in U.S. News & World Report, Fast Company, Business Week, Entrepreneur, The New York Times, AdAge, TechCrunch, and NPR.
Description	Humans are absolutely obsessed with metaphors. Even the word “metaphor” is a metaphor (it means to “carry across”). We use them all day, every day, in almost every sentence we speak. I’ll reveal our secret obsession with metaphors, and how they totally transform the way we think about ourselves and the world around us.
911 What is your emergency? (somebody pass me the chips)
Presenter	Alicia Magera
Biography	I’m a 32 year old retired derby girl who made the jump from social worker to 911 dispatcher (it’s not that big of a leap). I’m outspoken, opinionated, but never lose my sense of humor. No matter what life throws at me.
Description	Have you ever called 911 before? What happens to your call? Why do we ask you 8 million questions? No I don’t know where that one building with the blue trim is. Life as a 911 dispatcher (a rookie even) is challenging, rewarding, and entertaining. Join me as I highlight the happy, the sad, and life behind the telephone.
How George Lucas ruined Star Wars or Why Episodes 1, 2, and 3 Are Horrible Movies
Presenter	Dayna Doskocil
Biography	I’m a high school chemistry teacher who wants to empassion students about how science can help them view the world in a better way. I also love science fiction and fantasy.
Description	Star Wars episodes 1, 2, and 3 are horrible movies. From Jar Jar Binks to midichlorians, the movies don’t add to the rich history that the original Star Wars brought to life. But my main problem with them is that Lucas didn’t watch the originals before writing the scripts and ruins any redeemable quality Kenobi said Vader ever had.
Synthetic Life, DNA Coding and the Anti-Intellectual movement
Presenter	Leigh Dow
Biography	I’m a life long curious cat, always inspired and motivated by the ever-changing world of technology. By day I have the privilege of helping technology companies share their amazing products with the world, by night I’m a cheer/dance/hockey mom.
Description	In 1990 Carl Sagan said, “We live in a society exquisitely dependent on science and technology, in which hardly anyone knows anything about science and technology.” With society now 100% dependent on science for its future, why is an anti-intellectual movement on the rise?
Deprecation is not Defecation
Presenter	Stefanie Francis
Biography	A walking contradiction….a co-founder of a quantitative research firm that spent almost a decade as a social services provider. A person who is told they are together and confident, but who is secretly, or perhaps not so secretly, scared to death.
Description	Positive self-talk and the elusive “Secret” have put self-deprecating stories under attack. If we could join in the ridiculousness of human nature and acknowledge our foibles, we can move from having “secrets”, to laughing at them. Sharing our gaffs might be less about “defecating” on oneself than embracing our whole self, including the silly parts
Champagne is a place!
Presenter	Cisco Saavedra
Biography	I’m a Sommelier with over 10 years experience, so basically I’ve been drinking professionally for a decade. I’m also a father and husband and consummate wine geek
Description	Of all the misconceptions I encounter about wine in my job, and there are A LOT, the most infuriating to me is the misuse of the word Champagne. Champagne is a place in France as much as it is a style of wine. There are many wonderful sparkling wines from all over the world, and many, many terrible ones, but they ARE NOT Champagne!
Convicts Ain’t So Bad
Presenter	Derrick Chambers
Biography	I’m a 30-year-old who has spent more than half my life in prison. I’ve gotten my life on the right track now.
Description	I would like to talk about how society automatically judges all ex-convicts not realizing how much rehabilitation actually occurs there. The recidivism rate is so high because we’re not given a decent chance to prove change. I would like to see society relax a little on our past and put more thought into how we could contribute to our community.
Smart Products Are Here, More are Coming, and they Will Change your World
Presenter	Eric Miller
Biography	I’m an engineer, small business co-owner, father, and husband obsessed to a moderate degree with history, the continued progress of the enlightenment, and technology. I spend my working day immersed in helping people and companies turn their innovation into practical, serviceable products. I love seeing the world become a better place.
Description	The biggest change in technology since the internet came from nowhere is happening. Smart products, products with compute power and internet built in, seem to also be coming from nowhere. But just like the internet, they evolved from earlier technologies and are spreading. Ask you phone to invite you iron so they can learn where it is all headed.
The Death of the Handwritten Note
Presenter	Cara
Biography	I create.
Description	I believe in the power of a handwritten note and am afraid that it is a dying life form. When is the last time you took an e-mail and saved it in a shoebox? While electronic communication has its time and place, there are times when you want to convey a level of personal connection that only a handwritten note can achieve.
ADD/HD: Evolution, Revolution or Scam t
Presenter	Kevin Ross Emery
Biography	I am a life long ADD/HD’er, catalyst, innovator, trouble maker and rebel. I am also an author, speaker, teacher and renaissance man. On my tombstone it will say I died LIVING.
Description	Exploring ADD/HD as 1) an evolutionary process, 2) an opportunity movement to overthrow the old ways of thinking and being, and 3) a way to control bright rebellious kids, leave dysfunctional broken systems in place, and create billions of dollars of yearly cash flow. Is it one, two or all three?
How 250 People Run Your City
Presenter	Kolby Granville
Biography	I’m a teacher, turned lawyer, turned politician. Was recently elected to Tempe City Council and would like to share what I’ve learned in the election process.
Description	Tempe has 160,000 people, yet only 20,000 vote. Those 20,000 are advertised to on the campaign contributions of 250 people. So, when you change the question from who do you represent, to who do you have to keep happy to get reelected, the decisions of city, state, and national government all makes sense.
N3tw0rk – connecting others based on their interests
Presenter	Mike Simmons
Biography	Husband, Father of two sons, Flag Football Coach, Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve Volunteer, Fiesta Bowl Committee Member, Jeep Enthusiast, Reader, Gadget Geek, and Connector of People. Director of Strategic Accounts – Safari Books Online
Description	Each and everyday we learn more about the folks we are connected to. Imagine if you took the time to connect those who you know, to others who are also passionate about the same thoughts, ideas, games, sports, interests, etc. I will share examples how we are all connected, using previous speakers, technology, topics of interest, and hobbies
From fast food junkie to heart attack survivor
Presenter	Jay Thompson
Biography	Short bio: Real estate & social media fan boy, father, husband, heart attack survivor.Five weeks ago I got a new job with an online real estate media company. Two weeks ago I ate like crap, didn’t exercise and was a heart attack waiting to happen.It happened.And it pretty much sucked.But my new life fills my damaged heart with joy.
Description	At Ignite Phoenix 10, I publicly declared my love of fast food. Eleven months later a cardiologist looked me in the eye and said, “You are having a massive heart attack.”That’ll wake you up.Get the trials and tribulations of a life-altering event first hand. My goal is to educate you and to make you laugh, and cry, inside of five minutes.
The brink of extinction
Presenter	Jamie Alcumbrac
Biography	I am a 25 year old phoenix native. I am currently a teacher at Sunnyslope High School passionate about science and turtles.
Description	The world turtle population has been on the decline for many years. This is due to the Asian turtle markets where turtles are captured and slaughtered by the 100,000s in one day for a holiday. A small group of turtle loving conservationists around the world banned together to try and save the 25 most endangered turtle species and I am a part of it.
How I accidentally ended up staying in a haunted prison for a month
Presenter	Anabel Martinez
Biography	I’m Anabel, a gaming enthusiast and digital illustrator. I like to balance my day job by exploring crazy awesome video games and experiencing new festivals and events.
Description	I was fortunate enough to get laid off (!!!) and use that as motivation to take my dream trip to New Zealand, in which I ended up taking some odd jobs. Traveling without an agenda can lead to surprising circumstances, especially when you run out of money and end up staying and working in a haunted prison (even sleeping in a cell on death row!)
Controllers and Canvas: The Art of Video Games
Presenter	Anabel Martinez
Biography	I’m Anabel Martinez, a video game enthusiast and local illustrator. My day job as a graphic designer is balanced out by my hobby of playing video games, studying the groundbreaking games from the retro days to those not-yet-out, and expressing my love of games through digital artwork.
Description	Video games, despite being one of the single most expressive mediums, are still widely contested as an art form. My hobby is exploring the artistic and cultural impacts of mainstream and underground video games. Why are gamers drawn to worlds where they can do everything from play a galaxy-saving space marine to watching an old woman die in a park?