How can an academic discipline like Sociology be life changing? This talk suggests one way by exploring how sociologists teach us to re-imagine our personal problems and ourselves. In the end, we learn that even in our most private and seemingly isolated moments, we may be more connected to others than we realize. His unique ability to connect with students along with his innovative use of technology in the classroom makes Sam Richards a very popular Sociology professor in the United States. Every semester over 750 students at Penn State University take his class on race and ethnic relations, the largest course on this subject in the world. He creates an active learning space where he addresses with humor and courage the very questions that most of us choose to avoid. Sam is also a co-founder of Penn State's World in Conversation Center. Every year, thousands of students from around the world participate in the Center's mission to bring conflict into collaboration through peer-facilitated dialogue. 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)