Barefoot

Observability is supposed to help us understand our systems but for many teams it has quietly become one of the most expensive and least flexible parts of the stack. Plenty of organizations take polished SaaS platforms like Datadog to get real value quickly early on, only to hit the same wall later: runaway costs, pricing tied to architectural decisions, and vendor lock-in so strong it makes Rogers and Bell both blush. In this talk, I’ll walk through a real-world case study of a JVM-based production system that migrated away from a Datadog-centric observability setup to an open-source, OpenTelemetry-based platform. We’ll dig into the why behind the move, the architectural decisions that mattered, the mistakes along the way, and how the team ended up with pragmatic visibility into latency, errors, and resource usage at a fraction of the cost. The second half of the talk is practical and forward-looking. I’ll show how OpenTelemetry unlocks real choice by acting as a neutral data plane for your telemetry. From there, we’ll look at modern, off-the-shelf observability backends you can plug in within minutes without rewriting applications or installing new agents. Want to dual-write, swap vendors, or route data somewhere new? This is how you do it without a big-bang rewrite or another long-term commitment with a new vendor. This session is for engineers and CEOs who are feeling the observability cost squeeze, want leverage back from vendors, and are looking for realistic ways to modernize monitoring without lighting their entire stack on fire each time they decide to change their tools of choice. **About the venue** Free Times Cafe has bistro-style seating and a full food and drink menu. Please consider helping to support the venue by planning to have supper during the talk. **Speaker Bio** Alexei Zenin is a Platform Engineering Consultant based out of Toronto, Canada. Over the course of his career he has worked across the Healthcare, Marketing, Video Games, and Banking industries. He loves to tackle hard problems in the distributed systems space with a focus on scaling platforms both from a technical and process perspective. He is a strong advocate for highly maintainable and well tested code while at the same time pragmatically delivering value to the end user. He has contributed to the broader tech community, namely to Confluent’s blogs on Apache Kafka, spoken at Current 2022 in Austin, Texas, and spoken at XP Game Summit 2025 in Toronto, Canada. During his 5 years at Uken Games he contributed to several games like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and Jeopardy. One title of note he saw from inception to completion was a game for Tim Hortons built right into the official app, Tim’s Word Challenge. Millions of Canadians have played it along with their morning coffee. He also got to work with Netflix on several unannounced games during his time at the studio. Currently, Alexei is working with various clients, both large and small to modernize and streamline their platforms with the most appropriate tools and practices. Outside of his professional life, he gives back to his community by volunteering at UofT. He also enjoys paddleboarding and attending live rock concerts to reset after long coding sessions.

The centre of East York looks old compared to Riverdale just to the south. And not in a historic way. This neighbourhood is low-rise and lined with modest businesses on 3 main streets (Coxwell, Donlands, Pape). Food choices are rather lacklustre. Thankfully, there are a few exceptions that we'll highlight in this hike. There are also some minor architectural marvels, like a circular library and a school house modelled from the 1890s. For food, influences of Greektown stretch here with Greek bakeries, fast food, and a Macedonian restaurant. Surprises include one of the oldest Kenyan/Tanzanian-Indian restaurants in Toronto, where you can try ugali (corn meal mash) and mishkaki (meat skewers). **Highlights** 1. East York Civic Centre (depart 6:30pm) 2. S Walter Stewart library / Cosburn Park Lawn Bowling Club 3. Century School House 4. East York Collegiate Institute 5. Holy Cross Church 6. Shawarma Frenzy (depart 7:25pm) 7. California Restaurant / Phyllo Cafe / Masa Buka Greek Restaurant 8. Westwood Middle School 9. Cafe Serano 10. William Burgess Elementary School 11. RajKapuri Paan & Snacks / Simba Grill (arrive 8pm) **Neighbourhoods** East York Centre > Pape Village > Old East York **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=131XOPvcXL3of5rwz0uEY73iqRmUgORM&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=131XOPvcXL3of5rwz0uEY73iqRmUgORM&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com. No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Hello everyone, **\*Please kindly read carefully-thank you\*** Join us for a fantastic and hilarious evening of mix, mingling, getting to know each other; and of course a super funny comedy show at **Absolute Comedy!** \*Joined by my other social groups too so we can anticipate a fabulous turn out and night **Event Fee:** I will be in the front lobby (look for me-Steve & group) Early Bird Price: **20 dollars in advance (e transfer any day prior to the day of the event)** Day of Event Price **25 dollars when you arrive (HST is included)** Cash or through e transfer to: steveflemming11@gmail.com More event details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer) **Event Details:** **Thursday Night Comedy Show! (at Absolute Comedy) (Yonge and Eglinton)** \*Please arrive between 7:30 & 7:50 for a little pre-show mingle which will be a great way to get to know everyone before the show starts \*You will see us in the front bar area of the venue when you first come in \*Plenty of parking on Yonge street and in residential area \*Walking distance (3-4 minutes) from the Yonge & Eglinton subway station \*You will be expected to purchase minimum beverage and/or appetizer once inside the comedy show to support the staff and comedians \*Dinner menu is also provided as well, so bring your appetite if you like :) **Going to be a great night gang with lots of laughs!**

♟️ **Join the Knight Clubbers Adventure!** ♟️ Come and experience an evening where the chessboard becomes a battlefield, blending good vibes and competitive spirit. 🔗 **Free registration**: [Sign up](https://knightclubbers.com/meetup/662855?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=social) ✨ **Games for all levels** Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned strategist, every game is the perfect opportunity to improve and meet other enthusiasts. 🕒 **Total freedom ? Play at your own pace** Take part in duels or simply watch in a friendly atmosphere. 🏆 **Challenge your opponents and climb the rankings** Rack up victories and try to become King or Queen of the Arena. 👑 **Ready for the challenge?** Join Knight Clubbers and become part of the legend!

Ready to sweat it out on the hills? Join us for a HIIT-style hill training hike This hike is part of the **HikeFit Series**, a collection of fitness-focused hikes designed to build strength, endurance, and overall hiking fitness. We’ll challenge you with steep climbs, rugged terrain, and a high-intensity workout. This isn’t a fast-paced hike, but it is **intense**. We’ll tackle multiple **very steep hills** in intervals, with plenty of chances to catch your breath, recover, or skip hills if needed. This hike is designed for intermediate hikers, but it’s **beginner-friendly** since you can skip as many hills as you need. It’s perfect for anyone looking to **get stronger, improve endurance, and boost their hiking fitness** at their own pace. **Weather-Dependent Notice:** The hike is a go, **(light)** rain or shine; However, if there's a risk of excessive mud making the hills too slippery, the hike will be canceled with around 24 hours’ notice. **Distance & Duration:** * **Length of hike:** \~4 km * **Event duration:** \~1.5 hours * **Trail maps:** Random hill at Earl Bales park * **Difficulty level:** L3 (Level 3/Moderate) * Terrain: L4 * Pace: L2 * Distance: L1 **What to Bring:** * **Water:** 1\~2 liters * **Extras:** Hiking pole (Highly recommended) * **Required Gear:** Hiking boots or Trail Runners with good grip, Headlamp, and [Microspikes](https://kahtoola.com/traction/microspikes-footwear-traction/?srsltid=AfmBOoqq-URDFRgNAISoLYH1l1cSLKeXOTSuU6EqUC6VupfLNZAGRg8P) **Costs:** * **Member Event fee:** FREE EVENT **Travel Coordination:** * No Travel Coordination for this Event, Meeting at Starting Point **Event Guidelines:** * **Punctuality,** Please arrive on time so we can start promptly. We won't be able to wait for more than 5min past the start time * **Pack out everything you bring** (including nut shells, fruit peels, etc.) to help keep our trails clean. * **RSVP:** Only those marked as “Going” and have confirmed travel details (if requested) are eligible to attend the event. * If your **plans change** and you are no longer able to attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible. * **No-shows** without prior communication may result in removal from future events. * **Weather Considerations** The hike is a go (light) **rain or shine**, so please be prepared for the conditions. for example, If it’s expected to rain, waterproof gear (like a jacket or shoes) * **Pets:** please check with the organizer for details before bringing your pet. Looking forward to seeing you on the trail

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** https://bit.ly/frc-toronto-chat **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

🍪👑 **ULTIMATE COOKIE CRAWL: TORONTO’S SWEETEST SHOWDOWN** 👑🍪 We’re Finding the Best Cookie in the City. For Research. Obviously. I’ve done the hard work (you’re welcome) and curated some of the top cookie spots and bakeries in Toronto so we can settle the ultimate question: Who makes the best cookie in the city? Is it gooey and underbaked? Crisp and golden? Thick and dramatic? Stuffed, dipped, or classic chocolate chip perfection? Join me for a sugar-fueled city walk as we explore some of Toronto’s most talked-about cookie destinations. And no — you don’t have to love cookies to join. You don’t even have to order one. You can simply come for the walk, the social energy, and the joy of watching the rest of us debate texture like it’s a competitive sport. 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* 🍪 The Cookie Lineup Here’s where we’re heading: • **Bakery Pompette** (Meetup Spot) • **The Night Baker** • **Andrea’s Cookies** • **Dear Grain** • **Midnight Cookie** • **Crumbl Cookies** • **The Well** – including Big Fat Cookies Yes. We’re committed. Lunch will be at the food court at The Well — because after multiple cookie stops, you may decide you need something… not round and sweet. \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ The Walk This will likely be a 2-hour walk (possibly longer depending on lines and cookie enthusiasm levels). We’ll move at a steady pace, but please be comfortable walking and standing in line. You’re always welcome to leave at any time if you need to peel off early. This is part food crawl, part city walk, part social adventure. \*\*\* 💰 Important Notes Members are responsible for purchasing their own cookies. Many cookies are large — sharing is encouraged! Split with a new friend. Build community through butter and sugar. Bring cash, as some spots may prefer it. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: Outside The Night Baker 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 1:00 PM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes End Point: The Well \*\*\* 👟 What to Bring • Water • Good walking shoes • Weather-appropriate clothing • Possibly a snack (if you want something non-sweet along the way) Comfort is key — this is a marathon, not a sprint. \*\*\* 🎟️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant socials But today? Today is about cookies. \*\*\* ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder Sometimes life happens and plans may shift — please keep an eye out for updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the cookies. Stay for the debates. Leave with a favourite — and possibly crumbs in your pocket. Toronto has opinions about everything. Let’s see who earns the cookie crown. 🍪✨

🌆🚶‍♂️ THE PATH WALK & LUNCH ADVENTURE 🚶‍♂️🌆 Toronto’s Underground City… Let’s Go Get Lost (On Purpose) Did you know Toronto has an entire second city beneath the city? Welcome to **PATH (Toronto)** — a 30-kilometre maze of tunnels, walkways, food courts, shops, office towers, and hidden corners connecting more than 70 buildings in the downtown core. It’s climate-controlled. It’s slightly confusing. It’s uniquely Toronto. And we’re going to explore it together — above ground first, then descending into the urban underworld like the confident city adventurers we are. [NOW Magazine piece](https://web.archive.org/web/20220429041937/https://nowtoronto.com/lifestyle/health/toronto-walk-exploring-the-path-in-winter) about the PATH awhile back. 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* 🗺️ The Plan We’ll begin at Wellesley Station and start by walking west. Then we’ll head south and eventually make our grand entrance into the PATH system. From there, we’ll continue indoors, weaving our way south through the network — past office towers, hidden corridors, and pockets of unexpected energy — all the way down to **Union Station**. At Union, we’ll head into the food court to grab lunch, sit down, and actually socialize (because that’s the point, right?). Expect lots of conversation, a little “Wait… where are we?” and a whole lot of discovering how this city secretly works. It’s part walking tour, part social hang, part urban exploration. \*\*\* 🌧️ Rain or Shine (Mostly Shine Because… Indoors) T his walk goes ahead rain or shine. The beauty of the PATH? We’ll be indoors for large portions of the route. That said, we’ll start above ground — so dress appropriately. It may be wise to bring a backpack or bag for your coat once we’re inside. You don’t want to be carrying it dramatically over your arm like you’re in a soap opera. \*\*\* 🐾 Important Notes Dogs are not allowed in the PATH system. Service animals are of course welcome. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Spot: Main entrance of Wellesley Station (near the bank of PRESTO machines) 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Start time as listed — please arrive on time We’ll begin promptly so we can stay on route. \*\*\* 🎟️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant meetups There’s always something happening. And remember — you can just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. \*\*\* ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder Sometimes life throws curveballs and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the tunnels. Stay for the laughs. Leave knowing a secret shortcut through downtown that most people still pretend to understand. Toronto has layers. Let’s go explore one of them. 🏙️✨

Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/f3mme-fatale-cabaret-tickets-1984412798098?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true Spice up your Saturday evening with a dazzling showcase of vaudeville, drag, and burlesque performances. Join us at the Rec Room Toronto for an evening of cabaret, burlesque, and drag. This show will entertain, amuse, and spice up your Saturday evening! We have incredible professional performers that will have you cheering and getting into the cabaret spirit. Don't miss out! Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/f3mme-fatale-cabaret-tickets-1984412798098?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-shelter)** ***Learn the timeless skill of building functional, practical and well-insulated shelters from camping gear and natural materials found in the wild!*** For all of human history, shelter has been essential for protection, warmth, and survival. Learning how to read the land, choose the right materials, and construct an effective shelter in a way that does not negatively impact the local ecosystem requires knowledge, creativity, and hands-on practice. In this course we will teach you skills for creating shelters and insulations in wilderness situations. We will discuss shelter and insulation principles, basics of thermoregulation, basic improvised cordage concepts for construction, and how to determine what kind of structures are necessary for various scenarios. We will be practicing these skills in ways that promote sustainability, ethical conservation principles, and respect for our natural landscapes. After two sold-out Firecraft courses, we are so excited to be back with the next incredible course in our Survivalist Series. You’ll begin to master the craft of shelter building with expert, hands-on guidance from our seasoned survival instructor and wilderness guide, Kyle. You'll be taught and encouraged to practice: 1\. Identifying and selecting safe and effective shelter locations 2\. Building debris shelters\, improvised portable bedrolls\, and tarp\-based structures 3\. Insulation\, weatherproofing\, and heat retention techniques This course will give you the foundation to build reliable shelters in a variety of environments and conditions. **Who it’s for:** This course is for beginners and intermediate survivalists alike. Bring your curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a love of getting outside. This is an amazing opportunity not only to learn from our expert, but it's a fun, practical lesson at a uniquely low price. **About this series:** The Survivalist Series is an expert-led set of courses designed to develop applicable, and life-saving skills in the wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for more courses coming soon! **Highlights** **Survivalist Skills Training:** Develop essential skills to survive and thrive in the wild. **Expert Instructors:** Our amazing expert guides will teach you everything you need to know in a safe and fun way **Sustainable Skills-Building:** Shelters will be built without falling live trees or negatively impacting the natural environment **Event cost: $80+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-shelter)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

**NOTE - UNFORTUNATELY I CAN ONLY POST ONE SMALL PICTURE - IF YOU WOULD LIKE ME T0 SEND YOU THE EMAIL WITH MORE PICTURES OF THE CLOTHING - JUST EMAIL ME AT traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com or if you want to be added to the Email Blast** **LADIES SHOPPING DAY** **PEPPERTREE KLASSICS IS BACK FOR 2026 SPRING- GREAT DISCOUNT** **SAVE THE DATE!** **CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC** **SUNDAY MARCH 29 12:00 NOON TO 4:00PM** **JUST SHOW UP AT THE BACK DOOR -I WILL BE THERE TO GIVE YOU A STICKER - GREAT DISCOUNT - JUST ASK!** IT'S BACK! THE ANTICIPATED SPRING SHOPPING DATE AT PEPPERTREE KLASSICS! WITH AMAZING DISCOUNT! DESIGNS PROUDLY MADE IN CANADA! SAVE THIS DATE - Sunday March 29 12:00pm to 4:00pm at at Peppertree Fashions 137 Main Street MARKHAM (not Unionville) I have booked this shopping day for 12 years both Summer and Fall because of the award winning clothing and accessories, great discount and the amazing personal service. This discount will not be available for a couple of months to the general public and by then the stock is gone. I have been shopping in this store for OVER 30 Years - and the Owner Karen Piper asked about my group and suggested a shopping day for everyone - YES PLEASE! Over the years I have had so many compliments on my clothing pieces and shoes/boots and they all came from Peppertree! Karen has won numerous awards for her store - including female entrepreneur of the year many times - as well as Markham's favourite clothing and shoe store yearly. The selection is incredible and you will see a fabulous quality selection of items you don't see anywhere else! Customers drive from all over Ontario - and my members have driven in from Muskoka, St Catherine's and Kitchener to name only a few. Parking in front on the street or behind the store = PLEASE come to the back of the store – THIS IS A PRIVATE SALE AND NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC BUT YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY ARE WELCOME!! I will be there to greet you and give you a sticker. You will receive a generous discount off the entire store of new Spring fashions, shoes, and accessories and did I mention the incredible service? Karen who owns the store has an incredible fun and funky selection of ladies clothing, shoes and accessories. Sizes XS to XXL and Size 2 - 18 Her clothing sells out so quickly – which is fab that we get this great discount when the store is so stocked with so many great styles and sizes. I will pop in to get more pictures of the amazing items and send to you next month. The clothing literally sells so quickly you can see a completely different store of merchandise in only a few weeks. Don't wait to purchase (especially with the great discount) as the items will not be there in a couple of weeks! Guaranteed you won’t see this discount on all stock for many months. And a great time to support small business so they can stay in business!!! FRIENDS AND FAMILY WELCOME! DIRECTIONS 407 Take the 407 East to Markham Road – exit and turn left drive North. Pass over Highway 7 and drive through old town of Markham, Peppertree will be on the right (east side of the street) across from Mains Mansion. 401 Take the 401 East to Markham Road – head North up to Highway 7 Markham – keep going North a few minutes –and follow above directions. 404 Take DVP to 404 and North to 16thAvenue. Exit 16th Avenue and turn left – East. Follow 16thAvenue to Main Street Markham – Esso and Tim Hortons on corner. Turn right and travel South down Main Street to 137- the store will be on your left. 137 Main Street North Markham My Cell for the day is (416) 427 7843 Come and and join me for an afternoon of shopping! Hope you can join me! warm regards LeeAnn PS Pictured just a sampling of all the wonderful SPRING clothes - all grouped into a colour story for easy matching. PSS Don't forget to come around back.

Let’s bundle up and brave the cold with a winter stroll at High Park. After that, depending on how hungry (and frozen) we are, we can warm up at one of the cozy cafés or restaurants along Bloor. Hopefully, we’ll end the day feeling full, happy, and proud of ourselves for embracing winter ❄️😊 What to wear & bring: Dress in warm layers, a cozy winter jacket, hat, gloves, and a scarf—bonus points for thermal socks! Waterproof boots with good grip are a must. Bring a small backpack with water, lip balm, tissues, and maybe a thermos with something hot to sip along the way 💵 Cost: $2 (cash or e-transfer to mech.mandeep@gmail.com)

Join us for a flat 2.6 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail from the rear parking lot of the Easton Hilton Garden Inn to the Strawberry Farms Park and back. This scenic trail along Alum Creek is a gem. Come and hike it with us!

We meet at lunch each week and each meeting follows a fairly organized agenda. First all participants pass their business cards around. Then each member and guest is invited to give a one-minute overview of their company and what is a perfect referral for the week. We always have a 10 minute presentation from one of the members about their business in more detail. And finally we pass referrals. You're welcome to visit. Nobody is ever put on the spot. Bring plenty of cards!

Thanks for being a part of the CABS Meetup Group! We meet @ the COFFEE UNDERGROUND on Indianola Avenue. We play many different games @ CABS - bring your own or play one of the OVER 2000 in our library. What are your favorite games? What was the last game you played? Hope to see and game with you soon! Check us out on Facebook! Doors open early on Saturday Mornings at 10am and around 4pm on Fridays if you are interested in learning new / simpler games ... or new to the hobby or just want to check us out come in early just after noon and we will show you around before the crowd grows. Stay for a game or two, an hour or two or for the day! Your first visit is free and after that it's $5 a meeting or you can join for the year! It's Your Move

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).