Cisco Systems

**We are excited to invite you to our first event of 2026!** 💫 DSL #15 will happen on 12 February, organised by YLD and sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group. Free Eventbrite tickets will be live on 12 January at noon, so make sure you set your reminder: https://dsl15.eventbrite.co.uk Speaker line-up to be announced soon! \-\-\-\-\- Thank you to [YLD](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/design-systems-london-15-tickets-1977071290451?aff=oddtdtcreator) for organising and [Lloyds Banking Group](https://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/ "https://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/") for sponsoring this event. **Who are Llloyds Banking Group** A tech-led, digital-first financial powerhouse, Lloyds Banking Group is transforming how Britain banks. With a legacy spanning over 250 years, they’ve supported millions through life’s financial journeys. Now they’re redefining banking by putting technology, innovation, and data at the heart of everything they do. From personalised digital services to cutting-edge mobile experiences, Lloyds Banking Group is building a smarter, more inclusive financial future. One that’s secure, sustainable, and shaped by the needs of every customer **Who are YLD?** YLD turns digital investments into results by building what matters, delivering with impact, and making sure it lasts. Their product design, tech, and change experts work as one, applying AI where it shortens the path to value. With design at the heart, YLD brings clarity, puts users first, and shapes solutions that succeed from the start. YLD is hiring - check out the [job page](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/design-systems-london-15-tickets-1977071290451?aff=oddtdtcreator) Join the conversation on [LinkedIn](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/design-systems-london-15-tickets-1977071290451?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Join us at the next monthly London Security Engineering meetup! **🍕 6:00pm: Arrive** \- Kick off the evening with light refreshments and networking \(30 mins\) 🎤 **6:30pm:** **Main Talk** \- Gal Ordo\, Co\-Founder & CPO @ Native on "Secure\-by\-design: lessons from a multi\-cloud world" **☕ 7:00pm: Break** – Refresh, connect, and recharge (15-20 mins) ⚡ **7.15pm:** **Lightning Talk** \- Medad Newman\, Security Engineer @Nationwide Building Society on "Driving Security Tooling Usage at Scale" **🍻 8:00pm: Pub** \- We usually go to a neighbouring pub for a drink after\! This event is a good opportunity to gain practical insights, meet fellow security professionals and discuss the latest trends in the industry. 📍 **Where:** MMC Ventures, London 📅 **When:** Thursday Feb 12th 2026 *This event is made possible by the teams at MMC Ventures, Maze, and Tracebit.*

**Dead Product Society \| After Work Drinks** Come along, bring a friend/colleague or two and join us for a relaxed evening of informal product and tech chats over a few drinks and doughnuts. We aim to connect everyone without awkwardness or LinkedIn spiel, and value good conversation over boring presentations. **Who is welcome?** Product Managers, CEOs, UX/UI Designers, Developers, Scrum Masters etc. We welcome anyone who works in, with or wants to break into product. *Note: We intentionally keep our After Work Drinks on the smaller side to allow for more in-depth conversations.* **The Bike Shed** We'll be hanging out in the lounge area (behind the area with all the tables, next to the store). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Dead Product Society** Dead Product Society is a collective of like-minded professionals sharing real-talk and joining forces to navigate the twists and turns of the product world. Our down-to-earth community is for anyone who works in, with or wants to break into product teams regardless of their background or experience. **Our Sponsors** Shout out to our generous sponsors at Waggel Pet Insurance; Lifetime pet insurance, simplified. With their support we are able to host these events for you and create a space for those important, honest conversations.

Join Champs Within for an energizing lunchtime Boxercise session aimed at promoting a healthier lifestyle and supporting weight loss goals. This event is not only a fantastic way to stay active and fit, but also provides a social opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are focused on their well-being. Boxercise is not just a physical workout, but also contributes to mental health support by helping you de-stress and boost your mood. Come sweat it out, release some endorphins, and feel the empowerment and positivity that comes with taking charge of your health. Let's punch and kick our way to a healthier and happier you together!

🎉 **Event #22 – The Analytics Engineering Meet-up** 🎉 The first event of the year will be at Checkout.com! Talks: 🚀 [Toby Henley Smith](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobyhenleysmith/overlay/about-this-profile/) @ Moneybox *AE: Abstraction Engineering?* * The role that Analytics Engineering plays in your company is far more than just being the dbt team 🤖 [Rakhee Modha-Lobo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rakhee-modha-lobo-aab6a875/overlay/about-this-profile/) **@** Starling Bank *Embracing AI and Automation in Our Analytics Engineering Workflows* * A deep dive into how Starling are using AI and automation in the analytics engineering workflow. 📅 **RSVP opens Monday, 26th January** (3.5 weeks before the event). This event will be **over-subscribed**, so set a reminder — you won’t want to miss it! 📍 **Agenda** 6pm – Doors open, networking, food & drinks 7pm – Talks kick off 8:30pm – More drinks & networking @ local pub We’ll be hosted in the amazing **Checout.com office**. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with some of the UK’s top data professionals, share challenges, and exchange learnings. We are always looking to improve the event and get new ideas for talks, if you could please fill out a [feedback form](https://cognifysearch.com/the-london-analytics-engineering-meet-up-feedback-form/), this will help us continue to improve! The **Analytics Engineering Meet-up** is a community for data professionals working with the modern data stack, machine learning or AI. We host regular meet-ups featuring talks from data leaders building and scaling analytics, data platforms, and AI in forward-thinking teams. The community is ideal for Data Engineers, Analytics Engineers, Analysts, and those working in Data Science, Machine Learning, or AI. The meet-up is organised by [Cognify](cognifysearch.com), the recruitment partner for modern data and AI teams. Our sponsor is [Omni](omni.co), an AI-powered BI platform that helps people use data to do their best work. Whether users prefer AI, Excel, point-and-click exploration, or SQL, Omni enables fast, trusted answers from a governed semantic model. We’re always on the lookout for **venues to host** and **guest speakers** to inspire. If you’d like to get involved, feel free to chat with one of the Cognify team at any event. If you’re eager to dive deeper into industry insights, check out ***The Stacked Data Podcast*** for conversations with industry leaders: Listen on: [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/24fIpekn8WfRDZsVHNcf7Q) Your feedback is so valuable to us, we'd love to hear from you to help us continue to improve, [Feedback Form here](https://cognifysearch.com/the-london-analytics-engineering-meet-up-feedback-form/) **No-Show Policy**: * If you miss **2 consecutive events** or **2 out of 3 events**, you wont be able to attend the next event. We hope you understand this is to keep things fair for venues and other attendees.

Hello and welcome to our next **AWS AI UG** meetup. This event brings together engineers, builders, data and ML practitioners, architects, and leaders working with AI, ML, and generative AI on AWS. Our meetups are friendly, welcoming, and community-driven; everyone is welcome, whether you’re experienced or just starting your AWS AI journey. This session will include practitioner talks, demos, Q&A, and time for networking with like-minded peers. We run bi-monthly in-person meetups in London, bi-monthly online events across the UK, North America and APAC, and one online global AWS AI conference each year. Food and refreshments will be provided for in-person events where a host venue is supporting. We are delighted to host this event in **London** on **12th of February**, in partnership with [Arrows Recruitment.](https://www.arrowsgroup.com/) **Speakers and Sessions:** Speaker: Olga Pirog - Founder, Renaissance AI Session Title: AI Transformation and adoption Description: Organisations are pouring billions into AI tools - yet only 6% see significant business impact. The problem isn't the technology; it's what happens after deployment. In this talk, Olga explores the "missing middle" of enterprise AI adoption: the overlooked habit formation stage that accounts for 35% of transformation value but receives a fraction of the investment. Drawing on her experience leading AI adoption for thousands of users at IG Group and building Renaissance AI's training platform, she shares practical insights on why traditional training fails (70% forgotten within 24 hours), what actually drives lasting behaviour change, and how organisations can finally close the gap between AI investment and AI impact. Speaker: Paul Ross - Senior Worldwide Specialist Solutions Architect, In-Memory Databases, AWS Session Title: Optimise your apps and AI workloads for cost and performance using in-memory databases and Valkey on AWS Description: Organisations are rapidly adopting Valkey to dramatically boost performance while slashing operational costs. Join Paul Ross to discover how Valkey on AWS can transform your applications through lightning-fast data access, innovative developer features, and seamless real-time operations. **Agenda (GMT / UK):** 18:00 — Welcome and refreshments 18:30 — Introduction — Ethan Sumner 18:35 — Olga Pirog 19:10 — Break 19:20 — Paul Ross 19:55 — Close and networking **We are always keen to hear from:** • Speakers — case studies, engineering deep dives, demos and applied AWS AI stories • Hosts — organisations able to provide space for future meetups • Sponsors — support with refreshments, recording, marketing or accessibility If you would like to speak, sponsor, or host a future event, please get in touch with **[Ethan Sumner](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethansumner404/)** via LinkedIn. You can find our YouTube channel [here.](https://www.youtube.com/@CommunityStackHQ) This community forms part of the **[Community Stack ecosystem](https://www.meetup.com/pro/generative-ai-uk-community/)**[ ](https://www.meetup.com/pro/generative-ai-uk-community/)and follows the **Community Stack Code of Conduct** to ensure a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all attendees.

We are holding accessible and confidential Systemic & Family Constellations group workshop. Systemic constellations are an embodied and experiential method for the respectful exploration of difficulties across multiple areas of life. Attendees up to 16. One of three facilitators will facilitate two to three issues. Fee: Flat fee of £45 for both issue holders and representatives payable prior to the event. More information on our website https://cityconstellations.com/ or upon request londoncityconstellations@gmail.comww

We are back! This is going to be a monthly IN PERSON meet up in London. A very big thank you goes to Accurx who is hosting us in their amazing Shoreditch offices. This will include access to facilities including coffee! 😻☕️ **Want to know more? 👇** As with all CoffeeOps, this is an interactive, chatty, build your own adventure type of meet-up. Instead of booking in experts to *learn* *from*, we gather a group of practitioners to ***learn*** ***with***. We have been running for over 4 years now and often get feedback that this is the most useful meetup people join! The event is approximately 90 minutes and always starts by brainstorming topics to discuss. The group then votes on the most relevant/interesting to them and we then cycle through the topics trying to discuss each deeply, but in a time bound slot. To get an idea of topics, you can check out our remote board [here](https://easyretro.io/publicboard/h404NF84Uje4tCcxpJdHr4Ycs9B3/a4a35d2b-181b-409b-832e-a729be1af79c). The general gist is anything is fair game, though we tend to revolve around software delivery and definitely lean towards the more Ops-y or DevOps-y side of things.

### 📍**CheckedIn London — Speed Networking for Real Connections** CheckedIn London is built for one thing: **helping you meet the right people faster—in real life.** We get you out from behind the screen and into the room, where real conversations happen. We show up at tech mixers, networking events, and industry gatherings across Leeds and use the **CheckedIn app** to turn quick introductions into meaningful connections—*on the spot*. ### 🚀 How Speed Networking Works with CheckedIn At each event, the CheckedIn app helps you: * Instantly connect with people you meet—no business cards required * Follow up later without awkward LinkedIn requests * Remember who you met, what you talked about, and why it mattered * Turn short conversations into real collaborations, fast Think of CheckedIn as the **spiritual successor to LinkedIn**— but built for **in-person moments**, not endless scrolling. No cold DMs. No forgetting names. Just tap, connect, and keep the conversation going after the event. Whether you’re a founder, operator, creative, or curious professional, this is a space for conversations that actually go somewhere. Come solo or bring a colleague. No pressure. No pitches. Just good people, efficient introductions, and momentum. *** ## 🌍 Help Us Grow CheckedIn CheckedIn is expanding, and we’re actively looking for **chapter organizers** to help run and grow chapters in cities around the world. If you enjoy: * Bringing people together * Hosting great events * Building real community We’d love to hear from you. 👉 Apply here: **[www.checkedIn.site/organizer-apply](http://www.checkedIn.site/organizer-apply)** *** ## 🌍 About This Chapter CheckedIn is a **chapter-based, community-driven network**. The Londonchapter is part of the wider CheckedIn community. On some occasions, the primary organizer may not be in attendance. These meetups are designed to be **self-led, welcoming, and participatory**—members take ownership of starting conversations, making introductions, and helping others connect. If you show up, you belong. If you tap in, connections start immediately. **Join us. Check in. Connect faster.** **CheckedIn — open the app and tap.**

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-business-networking-event-by-london-connector-2-chesham-hotel-tickets-1980564198834?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-business-networking-event-by-london-connector-2-chesham-hotel-tickets-1980564198834?aff=meetup)** Join London Connector for a premium business networking event in Central London. Meet entrepreneurs, professionals, founders and expats London Connector hosts premium business and social networking events across Central London, including Belgravia, Mayfair, Soho and the City. Our events connect entrepreneurs, founders, expats, investors and professionals looking to grow their London network. With more than 400 events hosted and a vibrant international community, London Connector is one of the city’s leading networking platforms. ## **Why Attend?** The London Connector series has built a reputation for bringing together ambitious entrepreneurs, company directors, investors, innovators, and professionals from a wide variety of industries. The goal is simple: to connect people who are serious about business, collaboration, and creating opportunities in a relaxed and welcoming environment At this event, you can: * Meet **entrepreneurs and directors** looking to expand their network. * Connect with **investors and professionals** from diverse sectors. * Explore **partnerships, collaborations, and client opportunities**. * Enjoy a **stylish and relaxed setting** ideal for both social and business networking. ## **Event Highlights** * **Informal networking** with introductions facilitated by our host and the members of the London Connector community.. * A welcoming environment where conversations naturally lead to opportunities. * Networking from **6:00 PM until 9:30 PM**, with plenty of time to meet new people and build lasting connections. ## **Who Should Join?** * **Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders –** looking to showcase your ideas, find mentors, or attract strategic partners and investors. * **Business Owners & Company Directors –** interested in building partnerships, meeting potential clients, or discovering innovative solutions for your business. * **Investors & Advisors –** seeking exposure to exciting ventures, forward-thinking entrepreneurs, and professionals in various industries. * **Professionals from SMEs & Corporates –** aiming to grow your personal network, generate leads, or explore collaborations outside your immediate field. * **Consultants & Service Providers –** in areas such as marketing, finance, legal, HR, tech, or sustainability, who want to connect with decision-makers and companies in need of your expertise. * **Innovators & Tech Enthusiasts –** eager to stay ahead of trends, share insights, and explore potential alliances in digital, fintech, AI, or other growth sectors. * **Anyone new to London’s business scene –** looking for a welcoming community where professional introductions are natural, warm, and meaningful. ## **Secure Your Place** Spaces are limited and this event may sell out in advance. To avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend booking early. 👉 **Reserve your ticket today and be part of an evening where business meets opportunity in the heart of Belgravia.** **📸 Photography & Video Disclaimer:** Please note that photos and videos may be taken during the event to capture the energy of the evening. These may be used on our website, social media, and future promotional materials. If you prefer not to appear in any content, simply inform one of our event hosts upon arrival and we will ensure your preference is respected. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events/) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events/) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london/) * [London Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking/) * [London Business Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking/) * [#business](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business/) * [#startup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup/) * [#entrepreneur](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23entrepreneur/) * [#networkingevent](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23networkingevent/) * [#london](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23london/) * [#businessnetworking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23businessnetworking/) * [#december](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23december/) * [#business_growth](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_growth/) * [#business_professional](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_professional/) * [#londonconnector](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23londonconnector/)

Join startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals in business, finance and tech for an **evening of business networking in the elegant Sycamore Bar at the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel, Covent Garden.** **💼 Note re Contactless Cards** 
Free RSVP gives entry only - the contactless business card is not included.
To receive a contactless networking card, please book a paid ticket when available. **This informal yet refined business mixer** is the perfect opportunity to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and build meaningful business connections that go beyond LinkedIn. **👔 Dress Code**
 As this is a 5-star hotel, smart or business attire is required. Please avoid casual wear, hoodies, or sportswear. **What to Expect** ✅ Relaxed, premium networking environment - no stage or speeches, just natural conversations with inspiring professionals.
 ✅ Mix of industries - startups, tech, finance and business. ✅ Guest list of max 40 attendees to encourage genuine connections as opposed to impersonal crowded conferences.
 **Why Attend** • Expand your network with startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and senior professionals in business, finance and tech from London and beyond.
 • Share insights and opportunities in tech, business growth, and digital innovation.
 • Experience luxury yet relaxed networking in one of Covent Garden’s most sophisticated venues. **Venue** Sycamore Bar, Middle Eight Hotel
A refined, design-led bar inside the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel.
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, within walking distance of Holborn, Covent Garden, and Tottenham Court Road stations. **Important Info** • Ages: 18+ (ID required for bar purchases)
 • Photography Notice: The event may be filmed or photographed for promotional use by [CineEye (audiovisual production company in London)
](www.cineeye.co.uk) • Dress Code: Smart/business attire only (see above). • Contactless Cards: Free RSVP does not include contactless business card (see above). **Join Us** Step into an evening where business meets elegance - designed for founders, innovators, and professionals who value meaningful business conversations. **Limited to 40 spots - reserve yours today!**

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-connector-sustainability-networking-event-for-leaders-innovators-tickets-1981513505235?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-connector-sustainability-networking-event-for-leaders-innovators-tickets-1981513505235?aff=meetup)** Connect with sustainability leaders, founders & professionals for ethical, purpose-driven networking and collaboration in London. ### **Connect with Sustainability Leaders, Innovators & Impact-Driven Businesses** Are you passionate about sustainability — or offering solutions that help businesses become greener, cleaner, and more efficient? This event brings together **London’s sustainability community**: innovators, corporate leaders, investors, founders, consultants, and professionals driving real environmental impact. ## **🌱 Why Attend?** ✨ **Meet Sustainability Leaders** — from renewable energy, eco-tech, waste reduction and circular economy solutions to sustainable food, manufacturing and agriculture. 🤝 **Build High-Value Connections** — network with professionals and organisations actively implementing sustainable strategies. 💡 **Showcase Your Expertise** — share what you do, explore partnerships, and connect with companies seeking green solutions. 💸 **Meet Impact Investors** — investors and VCs interested in sustainability-focused ventures regularly attend our events. If you plan to join as an investor, either Angel investor or VC, kindly contact Duccio on 07789 740193, we have a list of fund raising startups who may join the event if you cover their area. 📲 **Stay Connected** — all guests join the exclusive WhatsApp group for warm intros and continued collaboration. ## **🕖 Event Format** **4:30 PM** – Doors open4:30 -6:30 **PM** – Hosted networking, mix and mingle with sustainability-focused professionals 6 PM Onwards. Guests attending the Sustainability Connector® event will be able to join the London Connector® event starting at 6pm **Throughout the evening** – Guided introductions, open conversations & business networking **Ongoing** – Access to our private WhatsApp group for follow-ups and opportunities ## **🌐 Who Will You Meet?** 🔹 Sustainability solution providers & eco-tech innovators 🔹 Corporate sustainability & ESG managers 🔹 Green investors, venture capital, impact funds 🔹 Founders, startups & entrepreneurs 🔹 Nonprofits, climate leaders & changemakers ## **📍 Event Details** **Venue:** 2 Chesham Hotel Belgravia — one of London’s most stylish networking venues **Time:** 4.30 PM start **Dress Code:** Smart casual or business attire ✨ At previous Connector® events, founders met investors, companies discovered new partners, and long-term collaborations began. Join **London’s growing sustainability and impact-driven community**. 👉 **Secure your ticket today — limited places available and expected to sell out.** ## **📸 Event Disclaimer** Photos and videos may be taken during the event for use on our social media channels and promotional materials. If you prefer not to appear in any content, please inform the event host upon arrival — we will ensure your preference is respected. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events/) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events/) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london/) * [London Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking/) * [London Business Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking/) * [#business](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business/) * [#startup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup/) * [#entrepreneur](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23entrepreneur/) * [#networkingevent](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23networkingevent/) * [#london](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23london/) * [#businessnetworking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23businessnetworking/) * [#december](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23december/) * [#business_growth](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_growth/) * [#business_professional](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_professional/) * [#londonconnector](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23londonconnector/)

Bring your work or your hobby, hang out, and code with us. Follow @buckeyecocoa for more information.

Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!! https://sessionize.com/cbus-hug-2026/

**\*\*\*\* More details and sign up at: https://aifalliance.org/summit-2026/ \*\*\*\*** **What is AI Freedom Alliance?** AI Freedom Alliance promotes the responsible growth of AI guided by practical, commonsense ethics. Our nonprofit is built by professionals from a wide range of industries and is made up entirely of small- and mediumbusiness representatives—never large tech companies. We provide a counterbalance to big corporate influence, focusing instead on how AI can benefit businesses and the world at large. **What’s Happening?** ***The inaugural AI Freedom Alliance Summit.*** This full-day event will explore how we can ensure AI is adopted responsibly through shared ethical standards that empower humanity. The summit will feature interactive and educational sessions led by thought leaders, technologists, policymakers, and advocates who are passionate about making AI fair, transparent, and beneficial for everyone. **Why Attend?** Learn about the legal and technical challenges with implementing AI solutions within your organization. Build better solutions while protecting your organization from legal and compliance risks. And learn how to think strategically about AI as a differentiation tool for your business. This summit is highly recommended for C-Suite leaders to learn as well as interact with each other and our sponsors.

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

#### Turning Rentals Into Income: How Investors Pay Off Properties Faster #### **Featuring Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** #### A lot of people get into real estate because they want freedom. Then they buy a rental…and realize most of the rent goes straight to the bank. They technically own property, but the mortgage controls the income. And waiting 30 years for properties to be paid off doesn’t feel realistic. This meetup is about understanding a different way to think about rental properties… one that focuses on paying them off sooner so the income is actually usable. **Featured Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** We’re excited to welcome John Blackburn as our guest speaker for this event. John has been actively investing in real estate since 2006 and has: * Been involved in **5,000+ real estate transactions** * Helped investors **acquire over $150 million in rental property** * **Raised more than $100 million** in private capital John didn’t start with family money or shortcuts. He built his portfolio by focusing on clear systems, real numbers, and long-term strategy. For this meetup, John will walk through how investors shift their focus from simply owning rentals to building properties that eventually pay them…without a mortgage attached. **What You’ll Learn** John will break down, in simple terms: * Why most rental properties don’t produce much usable income early on * Why buying more rentals isn’t always the answer * How investors structure their properties to pay off mortgages in a fraction of the time * How properties can work together to eliminate debt faster * What changes once rentals become free and clear This approach is often referred to as an accelerated paydown strategy — using rental income intentionally to reduce debt sooner, rather than waiting decades for mortgages to run their course. John will also share a simple calculator you can use to see how this works with real numbers and realistic scenarios. **The Core Idea** When a rental has a mortgage, the rent has one job: **pay the bank.** When a rental is paid off, the rent has a different job: **pay you.** Most people only see one timeline…30 years. This session shows how investors shorten that timeline and gradually increase their income as properties become free and clear. **Who This Event Is For** This event is for people who want more than just “owning rentals” on paper. * Rental owners who are tired of most of the rent going to the bank and want a clearer path to real, usable income * New investors who want to understand how rental properties actually build wealth over time before jumping in * People with capital who want to invest in real estate with intention and a long-term plan * Anyone serious about freedom and curious how rental properties transition from debt-heavy assets into income-producing ones **Event Details** **Location:** Ohio Brewing Company - 421 E 2nd Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Date & Time:** January 25th, 6–8 PM (Doors open at 5:30) **Cost:** Free (Seats are limited - RSVP required) **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** If you’ve ever wondered how rental properties actually turn into freedom —this is the room to be in.