What we’re about
Tired of small talk and craving conversations that actually matter?
The Bethesda Growth Mindset Salon is a community for curious minds who want to grow, learn, and connect through meaningful experiences. Each gathering centers on an idea that expands how we think or live, sometimes sparked by a short TED Talk, other times by a shared reflection or group activity.
Our mission is to create a space where curiosity drives connection and every conversation helps us practice the growth mindset: embracing learning, challenge, and change.
If you’re looking for thoughtful people and thought-provoking dialogue, join us. Let’s explore personal growth, one conversation at a time.
Our Ground Rules
- Step up and step back. If you've been talking a lot, step back and listen; if you've been quiet, step up and share your perspective or ask questions.
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Respect diverse viewpoints.
All events are free, inclusive, and non-promotional, focused solely on learning and growth.
Upcoming events
2
Book Talk: One Health and the Politics of Covid-19
Connie Morella (Bethesda) Library, 7400 Arlington Rd, Bethesda, MD, USJoin us for a casual, engaging book talk with Dr. Laura Kahn, a core member and organizer of our Bethesda meetup group,
Using an interdisciplinary One Health approach, Dr. Laura Kahn will draw upon material from her book, "One Health and the Politics of Covid-19," to talk about the history, science, research, and politics of coronaviruses. One Health is the concept that human, animal, plant, environmental, and ecosystem health are linked. This is a relatively new term, but an ancient concept recognized by indigenous peoples around the world.
- Location: Connie Morella Library 7400 Arlington Road, Bethesda, MD
- To learn more about the book talk event, visit: https://www.ncas.org/2025/12/coming-on-january-10-2026.html
- To learn more about Laura's book, visit: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/12713/one-health-and-politics-covid-19
7 attendees
Movie Discussion: Groundhog Day
Panera Bread, 7201 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD, USTo confirm attendance, please also register on Luma: https://luma.com/fwvre5x3
Let's discuss this classic movie Groundhog Day on the day before the Groundhog Day of 2026.
Please watch this movie before joining the discussion:
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107048/
If more than 6 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. (max 6 people per group)
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- Phil's character changed through accumulated daily choices over time. How do our repeated small decisions shape who we ultimately become?
- Phil's pursuit of pleasure without consequence left him feeling empty. Why might selfish gratification fail to provide lasting fulfillment?
- Phil's lowest moments became the catalyst for his genuine transformation. How can a crisis serve as a turning point toward growth?
- Phil found meaning through learning skills like piano and ice sculpting. What makes skill-building fulfilling even when external rewards are absent?
- Phil's calculated attempts to win Rita failed until he became genuinely good. What distinguishes authentic connection from performed affection?
- Phil transformed by memorizing the town's needs and serving others daily. How do small acts of service shape both individuals and communities?
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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:
- Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Be open-minded and value differences.
8 attendees
Past events
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