Between 2011 and 2015, TEDxManhattan presented a transformative event series titled "Changing the Way We Eat." This initiative harnessed the influential TED talk format to engage diverse audiences around critical issues in sustainable food and farming practices. The events showcased visionary thinkers, pioneering farmers, and innovative leaders from across the nation and around the world.

Under the direction of founder Diane Hatz, TEDxManhattan became a vital platform for the food movement. The initiative gathered thought leaders, activists, and changemakers who shared bold ideas for creating a more sustainable and equitable food system. These presentations reached millions through online video platforms, with the full collection of talks accumulating over six million views on YouTube.

The impact of these gatherings extended far beyond individual presentations. As environmental advocate Ken Cook noted, this platform fundamentally shifted discourse within the food movement, providing a space where innovative concepts could reach mainstream audiences and inspire tangible change.

Event Evolution and Legacy

For five years, this initiative served as an annual gathering point for those committed to transforming agriculture and food systems. Speakers addressed topics ranging from regenerative farming practices to food justice, from reducing food waste to reimagining supply chains. Each event built upon the previous year's momentum, creating a growing community of advocates and practitioners.

The presentations remain accessible as a permanent video archive, ensuring that these important conversations continue to inform and inspire new audiences. The talks cover diverse perspectives from scientists, chefs, farmers, policy experts, and community organizers—all united by a common vision of healthier, more sustainable food systems.

Transition and New Directions

"This initiative changed the food movement by creating a platform where innovative ideas could reach and inspire millions of people committed to transforming our food systems."

As of April 2015, the TEDxManhattan event series concluded its run. The decision to retire the event under the TEDx framework opened new possibilities for exploring alternative formats and experiences focused on sustainable food and agriculture.

Event organizer Diane Hatz continues to develop programming around sustainable food topics, exploring fresh approaches to engagement and education. While future initiatives will operate independently of the TED and TEDx platforms, the mission remains unchanged: fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and inspiring action toward more sustainable food systems.

The conclusion of the TEDxManhattan series marks not an ending, but a transformation. All video content and event documentation remains publicly available, honoring the contributions of speakers, team members, and the thousands of participants who made these gatherings meaningful. The archive stands as a testament to collaborative efforts to reimagine our relationship with food, agriculture, and the environment.

Official Transition Statement

Both TED and the TEDxManhattan organizer reached a mutual agreement to conclude the event series as it operated from 2011 to 2015. Moving forward, event organizer Diane Hatz will continue developing food and agriculture-focused programming separate from TED, the TEDx program, and the TEDxManhattan brand. She remains an engaged supporter of the global TEDx community while exploring new opportunities within the sustainable food space.

All TEDxManhattan videos and photographs will remain online and accessible to the public. This ensures that the valuable content from previous events continues to serve the community of speakers, participants, and advocates who contributed to their success.

Deep gratitude goes to the tens of thousands of individuals who supported and participated in TEDxManhattan throughout its six-year run. The journey toward more sustainable food systems continues through new channels and formats, building on the foundation established during these remarkable years.