http://www.pechakucha.org/cities/bozeman

Pecha Kucha Bozeman, 17 West Main Street, Bozeman, MT (2026)

03/17/2026

Orville “Butch” Bach, Jr. has worked as an interpretive ranger at Yellowstone National Park for more than 50 years. Author of several books on the park, Butch will recount how the park has changed since he started work there in 1969.

Butch is one of 11 presenters at Bozeman’s 50th PechaKucha Night at the Ellen Theatre, Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 22. Both events start at 6:40 p.m. and feature the same speakers.

Missy O’Malley, Bozeman personality extraordinaire, auctioneer, snowboard instructor and DJ, will emcee the special event sponsored by Jamie Hetherington, ERA Landmark Real Estate.

Persevering at something you love is also the theme of ultramarathon runner Andrew Grillos’ presentation. Two months after running a 100-mile race in Idaho six years ago, he suffered a massive stroke and was life-flighted to Salt Lake City for major brain surgery. He was back to trail running five months later, and that’s just part of the story!

Mark Egge recounts his own epic journey last summer, becoming just the fifth person to bike 3,000 miles of the Continental Divide hiking trail from Canada to Mexico in 65 days, minus the wilderness sections.

Morgan Keenan took a very different route when he and his brother rode dirtbikes across the country on the TransAmerica Trail. Their five-week adventure ended abruptly at a cliff outside Moab, Utah.

Meanwhile, James Stuart of Mt. Ellis Academy is busy training the next generation of adventurers. At the beginning of each school year, James takes the entire student body on a week-long adventure in places including the Tetons, Glacier National Park, the Missouri River and the Beartooth Mountains.

At seven, Quinn Krinke is already fascinated with girls who broke records, made history and changed climbing forever—most of them before they were old enough to drive. Quinn tells us about girls who proved the wall doesn’t care how old you are.

Of course, people travel not only for adventure, but also to learn about other cultures. In 1973, National Geographic published a tantalizing article on small pockets of centenarians thriving across the globe. A few years later, Valerie Hemingway joined a team of scientists to explore an example of this phenomenon in the hills of Ecuador.

A relationship to the Montana landscape does not always include travel. A great-granddaughter of early Montana settlers, Jennie Montana began 20 years ago creating bison yarns and handling bison hides before sending them to the mills to be blended. She will share how important bison are to our outer and inner landscape.

Digging into the landscape right here in Bozeman became a passion of the Extreme History project, which helped conduct an archaeological dig on a site once associated with the city’s red-light district. Presenters Crystal Alegria and Nancy Mahoney will describe how a partnership with MSU’s Dept. of Anthropology and a local property owner allowed students to uncover material evidence of daily life within this marginalized, yet socially and economically significant community.
Bozeman singer/songwriter Russ Chapman is fascinated by those fanciful padlocks that couples attach to bridges signifying their commitment to one another. The locks are very popular in romantic hotspots in major cities such as Paris, but you can find them here in Bozeman as well. Chapman will offer a musical tribute to these “love locks” and the trouble they can cause.
While working as executive director of a Cystic Fibrosis nonprofit, Pam Western learned that her daughter had Type 1 diabetes. A few years later, Pam was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. All of this has led to what she calls the "paradox of resilience". She has been learning to let go of the weights she was never meant to carry.

PechaKucha offers anyone with a passion or a vision--designers, artists, inventors, architects, adventurers, entrepreneurs—an opportunity to share their ideas with the community during a fast-paced, friendly social get-together. There's just one catch—presenters have only 20 slides x 20 seconds each, a total of 6 minutes, 40 seconds!

Tickets are available at theellentheatre.com for $9 (including facility fee). Students may purchase tickets at the door for $5.50.

02/18/2026

“Rusty”, a 1949 International Harvester, can’t wait for tonight’s Pechakucha Night at the Ellen Theatre! See you there!

02/13/2026

Hey Last-Minute Charlies! Only a small number of tickets for next Thursday's PK, but still a good selection for Wednesday. Should be another great show. Check previous posts for all the details!

01/19/2026

Lisa Trankey will recall her unique and humorous struggles racing a small sprint team in the 1990’s while based in California. She is one of 11 presenters at our next PechaKucha Night at the Ellen Theatre Feb. 18 and Feb 19. For more info on the event see our previous post below!

01/15/2026

In a timely presentation, Bozeman oncologist and Venezuela native William Conkright will showcase his country’s natural beauty, culture and history at the next PechaKucha Night at the Ellen Theatre.

Conkright is one of 11 presenters at the event, Wednesday, Feb. 18 and Thursday, Feb 19.

Much natural beauty can be found right in our own state. Matt Peters will give us a tour of some of Montana’s greatest venues for music, ranging from Pine Creek Lodge, to a 9,000-person forest oasis.
Of course, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, or so the saying goes. Few have ever imagined needing to wear a prosthetic eye in a culture where eye contract is so important. But Melissa Butynski will introduce us to the surprisingly hilarious and evolving world of ocular prosthetics, which offer a novel means of self-expression.
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all, and Karen May has the perfect vehicle—a 1949 International Harvester pick-up truck she calls “Rusty.” Karen will describe the two-year process of bringing Rusty back to life and the many adventures she and Rusty have shared.
In keeping with this “retro” theme, Ron Harms will recount his life as a country doctor in northern Wisconsin and give an old timer’s perspective on healthcare today.

Auctioneering is another profession that has changed greatly over the years. Craig Mandeville, who grew up in the auction business, will trace its history from Babylonian time to eBay.

Dog mushing also reminds us of a bygone era. Lisa Frankley will tell of her unique and humorous struggles racing a small sprint team in the 1990’s.

This PechaKucha features two presentations that focus on raising children outside of the traditional school. Jamie Hetherington will recall the story of Victor, “the wild boy” of Aveyron discovered in the forests of Southern France circa 1800.The boy, once dismissed as “hopeless,” became the subject of a landmark experiment that would forever change the landscape of education.

Here in Bozeman, many parents continue to look for new approaches to educate their children. Ciera Krinke will explore why the school day feels misaligned for so many families. She argues that understanding the origins of schools helps us rethink what learning could look like.

It’s not just children who can benefit from a new approach. Tricia Williamson, a school counselor for 20 years, helped create Felines and Foliage for Fulfillment (4F), a nonprofit that partners with local therapists to refer clients to “cat enrichment sessions” and pairs people to work on gardening projects.

Gardening is close to Tori Pintar’s heart as well. Two years ago, Tori and her husband began converting their turf grass into raised vegetable gardens and perennial drought tolerant plant beds. Like any DIY project, it took much longer than anticipated, cost more, and gave them far more than tomatoes, including some unexpected visitors.

Terry Cunningham, who just completed his term as Bozeman’s mayor, will serve as emcee of this PK Night, which is sponsored by Gallatin Valley Earth Day.

PechaKucha offers anyone with a passion or a vision--designers, artists, inventors, architects, adventurers, entrepreneurs—an opportunity to share their ideas with the community during a fast-paced, friendly social get-together. There's just one catch—presenters have only 20 slides x 20 seconds each, a total of 6 minutes, 40 seconds!

Tickets are available at theellentheatre.com for $9 (including facility fee). Students may purchase tickets at the door for $5.50.

11/04/2025

We've had a few last-minute changes in our PK line-up. The program below has the up-to-date list of speakers! If you haven't purchased your tickets, please do so ASAP. Only a small number of seats left for both nights!

10/27/2025

Marjorie Smith, who spent several years as a journalist in the Pacific in the 1960s, will share the remarkable story of Japanese Corporal Shoichi Yokoi, who was serving in Guam during World War II when it was liberated by US troops. Like many others, he fled into the jungle. In 1972, 28 years later, he was finally discovered, completely alone, but still certain he would eventually see the Emperor’s Navy on the horizon, coming back to rescue him.

Marjorie is one off 11 presenters at the next PK Night at the Ellen Theatre, Wednesday, Nov. 5 and Thursday, Nov. 6. (See previous post for more details and other presenters).

10/11/2025

Squirrels are a common sight in Lindley Park, but not in the rural area 10 miles away where Connie Mandeville and her family make their home. The unexpected appearance in the yard of a squirrel they dubbed “Filbert” delighted her children and grandchildren. Because Filbert was alone, they tried to relocate him to a more conventional environment, with quite unexpected results!

Connie is one of 11 presenters at the next PechaKucha Night Wednesday, Nov. 5 and Thursday, Nov. 6 at the Ellen Theatre.

In keeping with the downhome, local character of PK, Sam Buenrostro will talk about his new project, Howdy Karaoke. Once a week, Sam drives around Bozeman with three other locals and they take turns singing their favorite Karaoke song. Then, they share something important and positive about the community.

Marjorie Smith, who spent several years as a journalist in the Pacific in the 1960s, will share the remarkable story of Japanese Corporal Shoichi Yokoi, who was serving in Guam during World War II when it was liberated by US troops. Like many others, he fled into the jungle. In 1972, 28 years later, he was finally discovered, completely alone, but still certain he would eventually see the Emperor’s Navy on the horizon, coming back to rescue him.

Building community takes many forms. Bethany Green’s love for Christmas inspired her to serve as Downtown Bozeman Christmas Stroll’s Master of Ceremonies. Her love for the holiday has been tested over the years by family challenges and the death of a brother, but she realizes now that the real Christmas magic is built, brick by brick, by parents and messy families doing their best.

For Noah Pontiff, sports are much less about the scoreboard than about connection and camaraderie. As the owner of Overtime Sports, he tries to create a space where people can find that same sense of belonging through volleyball, kickball, co****le, flag football and a variety of other activities.

Gabrielle McElwain says she has never been much of a sports person, but an unexpected trip to the Olympics in 2010 completely changed her mind. You don’t need deep pockets or insider access to share in the resilience, pride, heartbreak and joy, Gabrielle says. Since 2010, she has been to Olympics in London, Sochi, Korea and Paris.

One of the many ways to contribute to your community is to be a mentor. Amy Crees, development and outreach manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country, will describe how mentors shaped her development and why she sees it as her life’s mission to make sure kids have the kind of support that changes not only their own outcomes, but the future of their communities.

An important form of mentoring is teaching. Carol Brenner spent 20 years teaching children the 12 key virtues, or superpowers, found in Shakespeare plays to help them develop creativity, confidence, mastery and moral strength, as well as better language skills. In “Finding Bacon in Ham-let,” Carol will speak on the secret wisdom embedded in the plays, the authorship controversy and other thought-provoking topics providing keys to personal and business success.

One of the many lessons from Shakespeare’s plays and well-known myths is that many of the most important things we learn in life occur only after a great tragedy. In “Beyond the Veil: A Journey of Self-Revelation,” Ally Leadbetter, describes how these moments can bring “the uncomfortable shedding of who we thought we were.” These “descents” are often framed as breakdowns, yet well-known myths reveal that they are actually breakthroughs.

Yet another way to play an important role in your local community is to participate in government and educate citizens about how it works. EJ Porth and Jackie Haines, two of seven elected officials on the Gallatin County Local Government Study Commission, will use historical photographs and humor to tell the story of how Montana developed “the most beautiful and progressive constitution in the United States.”

Bozeman is, of course, but a small speck in the world community. Marcus Pearson, who describes himself as a professional lawyer and an amateur lover of maps, will present on “The Longitude Problem: Why Humans Want to Know Where on Earth We Are.” His talk examines how different societies view the world through unique lenses based on their perception of the world around them.

Actor and director Cara Wilder, who emceed PK Bozeman’s first PechaKucha Night 14 years ago, will emcee the November show.

Moka Boutique, 36 West Main Street, is the presenting sponsor.

PechaKucha offers anyone with a passion or a vision--designers, artists, inventors, architects, adventurers, entrepreneurs—an opportunity to share their ideas with the community during a fast-paced, friendly social get-together. There's just one catch—presenters have only 20 slides x 20 seconds each, a total of 6 minutes, 40 seconds!

Tickets are available at theellentheatre.com for $9 (including facility fee). Students may purchase tickets at the door for $5.50.

08/29/2025

Next PK is coming right up - Sept. 10 & 11, get your tickets soon at theellentheatre.com! See the line up in the post below

08/06/2025

At 5’ 4” and 120 pounds, large animal veterinarian Kelsey Martin has had her hands full going up against Montana’s finest 2,000-pound beef cattle on a daily basis.

Kelsey combines corny, country-fried comedy with honest, gritty vulnerability to discuss a profession often viewed as noble, but that also has a darker, more complicated side.

Kelsey is one of 12 presenters at the next PechaKucha Night Wednesday, Sept. 10 and Thursday, Sept. 11 at the Ellen Theatre. The same presenters will be featured both nights.

Most of us are more familiar with the veterinarians who take care of our dogs and cats. Mary Sadowski, writer, photographer and pet-lover, will describe an epidemic of overcrowded pet shelters—and ways we can all make a difference. There are an estimated 3-5 million dogs, puppies, cats and kittens surrendered or rescued every year.

In keeping with the eclectic nature of PechaKucha, Sandra Oldendorf’s presentation is titled “I Went to College and Joined the Circus.” A farm girl, Sandra entered Illinois State University in Normal, IL as a math major, but also began nearly four years riding a unicycle and being twirled around on a rope above the university arena.

But you don’t have to join a circus to have fun. Katie Dolen, co-founder of State of Play, a play and art space for families, will show us how early experiences in play and creative expression are the key to building resilient, curious and empathetic humans.

A meaningful relationship with an adult also can play a vital role in a child’s development. Mikki Slater, a first-grade teacher in Bozeman, says there were many moments growing up when she felt invisible. Something shifted when she went to school. Teachers treated her with kindness, believed in her and made her feel she mattered. She now tries to play that same role for her own students.

Unfortunately, says Allison Bryan, social connections are now being frayed by digital devices and Artificial Intelligence. The founder of Physical Space, an interdisciplinary architecture practice, will explore the role of physical space in fostering authentic, in-person relationships, as well as connection with self.

For some, the normal challenges of growing up and negotiating our way through life are made much more challenging. Brianna Daniels lost a limb to cancer as a child,but was able to rebuild her life after moving to Montana and finding Eagle Mount and the adaptive community. The outdoors became her sanctuary and helped her transform personal adversity into purpose.

The challenges we face take many forms. Jelani Mahiri will present on “Blacks in Diving.” Mahiri, a springboard diver in college, will describe the history of diving and racial politics around pools and tell us about black divers today.

The news is dominated these days by election controversies and challenges to voting laws. Patti Steinmuller will present on the key role the League of Women Voters plays locally and nationwide in educating voters and promoting voting.. The nonpartisan group was founded in 1920 by suffragists.

Gallatin High School Senior Ezra Graham notes that ever since frontier days, the Mountain West has attracted writers and journalists. The young journalist will draw from historical records and his own newspaper collection to shed light on the forgotten stories that have helped shaped rural journalism.

Benjamin Griffin looks back at the Montana of the past to explore the life and legacy of his grandfather, Ed, a Montana legislator and poet. His presentation, “The Absence of Whales,” reflects on what remains when someone is gone.

To guarantee attendees a full dose of color and humor, the peripatetic Missy O’Malley, frequent PK emcee, charity auctioneer and media personality will offer her very personal take on the two-dollar bill, and its storied role in her family traditions.

Justin Barth, director of development for Gallatin Valley Land Trust, returns for his third stint as emcee.

The Bozeman Art Museum is the presenting sponsor for the September event.

PechaKucha offers anyone with a passion or a vision--designers, artists, inventors, architects, adventurers, entrepreneurs—an opportunity to share their ideas with the community during a fast-paced, friendly social get-together. There's just one catch—presenters have only 20 slides x 20 seconds each, a total of 6 minutes, 40 seconds!

Tickets are available at theellentheatre.com for $9 (including facility fee). Students may purchase tickets at the door for $5.50.

07/24/2025

We're still in the midst of summer, but we're already preparing for the next PechaKucha Night Wednesday, Sept. 10 and Thursday, Sept. 11.

For those interested in presenting, please email your proposal to us by Tuesday, July 29 to: [email protected]

We can’t wait to hear what you have to offer to the PK and Bozeman community!

Here's what we need from you to be considered:

1. A title and brief description (a paragraph or so) of your presentation topic and story you’ll be sharing with the audience.

2. 3-5 images that illustrate your theme and topic

3. A brief bio on yourself (two lines) as to why you are interested in this topic and your expertise if any (not required.)

If selected, you will be contacted a few days after the deadline. A mentor will be assigned to you to help guide you through the process of developing your presentation—from the technical to image, content, and delivery tips. Final presentations will be due on September 4. Come grab your six minutes, 40 seconds of fame! We will be waiting by the mailbox!

Pecha Kucha Bozeman

03/17/2026

02/18/2026

02/13/2026

01/19/2026

01/15/2026

11/04/2025

10/27/2025

10/11/2025

08/29/2025

08/06/2025

07/24/2025

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