What we’re about
*Not an actual fireplace
Welcome to The Fireplace, a space for open, honest, and respectful conversation. Here, we believe in speaking freely about ideas that matter, even when they challenge us — and in leaving kindly, keeping human connection intact.
What we do:
- Gather as curious individuals who value real dialogue.
- Share perspectives on topics big and small, from the everyday to the daring.
- Respect one another while navigating differences — this isn’t a “safe space” in the sense of avoiding uncomfortable ideas, but it is a space of mutual respect.
- Speak for ourselves, and understand our views might not work for everyone.
- State and restate personal boundaries when necessary.
- Shake hands at the end of each conversation to symbolize goodwill and continued connection.
What we don't do:
- Moral grandstanding or trying to force others into our way of seeing things.
- Speak or act on behalf of others.
- Knowingly break personal boundaries.
- Targeting anyone with attacks or insults.
- Support positions, symbols or actions against German law. (Mostly to say, no Nazi stuff or incitement to hatred or violence)
How it works:
- One on one conversations or small to medium group discussions, depending on the event.
- End every interaction with a secret handshake — a playful, human ritual to seal the dialogue.
If you believe it’s time to bring back open conversation without dividing people, this is the place for you.
Upcoming events
1
Handshake Conversations in the Ringbahn
Berlin Ostkreuz, Sonntagstrasse 37,, Berlin, DEJoin the community on Telegram. Live Location will be shared on the Event Chat channel:
https://t.me/+ankd9ZDenWExZWU0If Meetup description is incomplete on the browser please try on the phone app T.T
Step aboard Berlin’s Ringbahn for up to an hour or two of honest, thoughtful conversation with fellow chatty humans.
I know, the Ringbahn! Sounds crazy, right? Well, what would life be without a little crazy. However, it is quite empty on Wednesday after work hours, has plenty of seats, it is warm, under cover from rain, it picks you up and it takes you home. What a deal!
And all for the price of a valid Day Ticket or included in your DeutschlandTicket. Single Ticket is only allowed for a partial loop.
So what will we do?
We aim to have Conversations, not Debates. So, we don't aim to win or be completely right. Just have a chat about whatever is on your mind.
Due to the logistics, we will likely talk in pairs or in pods of maximum 4 people.Stick with the same people the whole time or mix it up, up to you. Just be discrete and respectful with other passengers, it's not a party. Keep the volume reasonable and be aware of your environment when sharing something, as not everyone in the train knows the situation.
You can talk about anything you like. From the weather to the thing that has been troubling you the last few nights. No topic is too small or too big.
Guidelines:
- Keep it sober, no alcohol or substances.
- No filming or public recording. Low profile. We are normal users of the train.
- This is not an intellectual safe-space — we don’t censor ideas or shy away from difficult topics — but participants are expected to treat each other and any member of the public with respect and close every conversation with a handshake. It is required to read the group description.
- Participation is under your own responsibility. The organizers are not liable for conflicts, damages or losses.
Logistics:
- Initial group meets at Ostkreuz station at 19:00, by the McDonalds, on the S42 side.
- We get in a S42 Ringbahn together after a brief explanation (~1 hour for a full loop. Might do two loops). If it isn't raining, we will stop at Schonhauser Allee and do a 25 minute walk to Gesundbrunnen.
- Others can join at any point on the route.
- Optional: wear a discrete orange accessory (scarf, pin, ribbon) to help identify fellow participants.
- Enter or exit at any station as desired, take a different train or go somewhere and continue the conversation with someone on your own terms.
- Will be sending updates sometimes on the Telegram. When you are done, make sure to say bye and turn off your Live Location if it was on :)
3 attendees
