This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Since the day his movie came out, banjo players have become social outcasts. But I’ve learned the importance of not giving in to society’s pressure when it comes to doing something you love, and what I’ve learned can be applied by anyone who needs courage to be true to themselves even if it might mean being unpopular.

Howard grew up in Fort Worth, went to school in Denton, and now lives in Dallas. So if you ever need to ask directions to anywhere in the metroplex, he’s your guy.
He spent many years as a Senior VP, Creative Director with Publicis, one of the world’s largest advertising networks. He has created award winning campaigns for several national consumer brands, and may have convinced you to buy something at one time or another. He now runs his own independent advertising creative service and consulting business.
He loves to write, and currently has seven books available on Amazon. His latest book, Words To Never Live By, has sold upwards of a dozen copies. You can follow his ideological propaganda on Twitter: @howardgoldthwai.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event 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)