Crowdfunding

Did you know that our lovely venue, HAWKINS FORGE, used to be a blacksmith's forge? At this episode we'll be discussing all '**MAKING'**, by way of three original thought experiments.💭 As well as being a former hub of 'making', Hawkins Forge embodies our values: warm, welcoming, convivial, and a home to deep thinkers. The pub has boardgames and cards for the after party, and they’ve also **kindly offered us a deal on their Arrowsmiths Darts experience**: **30 minutes free for anyone who buys a drink after the event**. Spaces are limited, so get your ticket early if you want to be there 😊 **THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS** \- announced on the day of the event **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- stay in the loop **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what we look like \(including The People of TEiP project\) **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- sign up for the newsletter and more **The idea:** A chance to meet and talk meaningfully about thought provoking topics. **How we'll do it** (timings approximate): * 7:00pm - Arrive at Hawkins Forge. We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. * Organise ourselves into small groups (3-4) * Have a look at the **thought experiments** (announced on the day of the event) * 7:15 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to pursue tangents and anecdotes. * 7:35 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment. * 8:00 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment. * 8:25pm - Wrap up - hear about upcoming events, feedback/requests for future meetups. * 8:30 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. Usually a lot of us stay until late :-) **Notes on the general atmosphere**: * The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic. * While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough! * Feel free to suggest ideas for future Thought Experiments in Pubs meetup groups, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss. **Where we'll meet**: This group will be at Hawkins Forge, 5 minutes walk from Clapham Junction. We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. **Who should come**: Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about *doing* philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc.... I'm so looking forward to meeting & talking with you in this beautiful location :-) If you would like to further support these meetups, you can do so here: [https://buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor](https://buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor) Thank you!

## Ever feel like your best ideas get lost because you're too nervous to share them? Public speaking isn’t a "natural talent"—it’s a muscle. At **King’s Cross Speakers**, we help you build that muscle in a supportive, friendly environment where mistakes are just part of the progress. We invite you to our **Special Open House Event**! This is a no-pressure opportunity to see a live demonstration of a Toastmasters meeting. You won’t be forced to speak (unless you want to!), but you will get to see how we help our members grow into confident communicators and leaders. ## What to Expect: * **Prepared Speeches:** Hear seasoned members deliver engaging, timed presentations. * **Table Topics:** Watch (or join!) our fun, impromptu speaking session where we practice thinking on our feet. * **Constructive Feedback:** See our evaluation process in action—where we focus on "glows and grows." * **Networking:** Meet professionals and locals from across London over pizza! ## Who is this for? * Professionals looking to level up their career. * Students or job-seekers prepping for interviews. * Anyone who wants to feel more comfortable giving a wedding toast or a community speech. * Introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between! > **"Toastmasters is where leaders are made."** Come find out why millions of people worldwide use this proven program to transform their confidence.

**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/business-networking-event-by-london-connector-2-chesham-hotel-tickets-1984553390614?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-networking-event-by-london-connector-2-chesham-hotel-tickets-1984553390614?aff=meetup)** Join London Connector for a premium business networking event in Central London. Meet entrepreneurs, professionals, founders and expats #### Business Networking Event by London Connector® \| 2 Chesham Hotel 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 100 events hosted every single year 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 9:00 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.** **WhatsApp Group** 📲 Continue the conversation before and after the event by joining our exclusive attendee WhatsApp group. On the day of the event, you will receive an email inviting you to join the WhatsApp message for the event. **Event Disclaimer 📸** Photos and videos may be taken during the event for use across our social media channels and promotional materials. * [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)

You can expect a friendly introduction to the sport, but in all honesty you will dive in at the deep end to learn UWR. Please bring swimwear and an open mind and expectation to have fun. We can lend an UWR hat, snorkle, mask and fins. Although if you have them already it is better to bring your own. Expect to swim, dive to 4m depth, hold your breath longer than you thought you could, be involved in drills and games. It is full contact and you will be wrestling other players to take the ball and pass to your team or score a goal. Please get on touch with questions or intent to attend prior to session so that we can support with kit etc.

\*\*London Shopify Meetup \*\* Join fellow Shopify founders, e-commerce operators, and partners for an evening of real conversations, practical insights, and meaningful connections in the heart of London. Whether you’re scaling your first store, managing multiple brands, or building apps and services for Shopify merchants, this meetup is all about sharing what’s working *right now* — from growth tactics and conversion optimisation to retention, reviews, and partnerships. Agenda: LuLu - AI visibility of e-commerce shops: an audit of 100 brands across different industries Jordan Finneran - Building a product in the age of AI. When anything can be “vibed” into existence Nick Trueman - What are Shopify Merchants looking for and how they ’shop’ for apps? Come to learn, connect, and leave with new ideas (and new contacts) you can actually use. **Spots are limited — RSVP now and be part of London’s growing Shopify community.**

***Note***: As the sunset is still early, we are starting at 6pm for now. The earlier we get there the more time we get! Ultimate Frisbee Pickup! All experience welcome! Main details: • For first-timers: you're very welcome, no experience necessary, we can teach you the rules and how to play. You just need a willingness to run around a LOT! Bring trainers (or cleats/football boots) and clothes you can run in and plenty of water • Please try to bring both a light top and a dark top as this makes splitting into balanced teams easier • Throwing from 6:00pm, we'll kick off a friendly pick-up game as soon as we get numbers. It's fine if you can only make it later on - we play with substitutes so you can join in at any point. If no one is there when you arrive, don't worry, people are probably just late! If the meetup is not cancelled, frisbee will be happening! • Afterwards we always head to a pub garden and have a drink or two :) • Frisbee is a non-contact sport, but the occasional bumps can happen, we're all playing at our own risk

London's slowest pub crawl. A new pub every Thursday where everyone talks to each other. Because in 2026, you shouldn’t need to join a run club to meet new people. Turn up, grab a drink, talk to new people and see them again next week. Come solo or with friends. Stay for one drink or stay all night. **Coming along? Do these two quick things:** 1. **[RSVP on CircleUp](https://circleup.space)** (not just meetup). Meetup only has some of the crowd, the full community is on CircleUp. 2. **Join our [WhatsApp chat](https://circleup.space/whatsapp)** to find the group & stay in the loop. **How to find the group** Check for updates on our **[WhatsApp chat](https://circleup.space/whatsapp)** or ask the bar for the booking under CircleUp. **About [CircleUp](https://circleup.space)** Your social life. Sorted. Like a uni society for your 20s & 30s. We're your circle to show up, connect, and keep seeing the same faces. No cliques, no pressure, just a social scene you can step right into. **Most of our plans aren’t on Meetup. Browse the full calendar on [CircleUp](https://circleup.space).** \*\* See the vibe on our [Insta](instagram.com/circleup.uk).\*\*

**Tickets** - [https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w](https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w) **Join The Kickback for Our Eleventh Private Screening** **WELCOME DRINK ON ARRIVAL + UNIQUE EXPERIENCES TO BE ANNOUNCED** **The Kickback Presents: Michael Private Screening** **Date:** Friday, 24 April 2026 **Time:** Doors Open at 7:30 PM \| Film Starts at 8:00 PM **Location:** Vue Cinema Westfield Stratford, Montfichet Road, London, E20 1EJ **Capacity:** 350 Guests **Dress Code:** Well dressed. Michael Inspired **Age:** 21+ Join The Kickback for our biggest screening yet as we bring together 350 Black and mixed-heritage professionals, creatives and film lovers for a special private screening of **Michael**. This will be more than just watching a film. It will be a cultural moment. **Michael** is one of the most anticipated cinematic releases, telling the story of one of the most iconic entertainers the world has ever seen. From the music to the legacy, this film represents genius, creativity, impact and global cultural influence. At The Kickback, we know the power of shared moments through film, and this screening is set to be one of our most memorable yet. Expect a strong atmosphere, a beautifully curated crowd, and a room filled with people who understand the significance of this story. Alongside the screening, we’ll also have a few surprises in store to make the night even more special. This is a chance to be part of a standout Kickback experience, connect with like-minded people, and celebrate a film that will have the whole world talking. This is not just another cinema trip. This is **The Kickback** way — community, culture, energy and experience all in one room. Tickets are limited, so secure yours early. **Please note:** Tickets are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. This event is strictly for **over 21s**. Guests are expected to come well-dressed, as this will be a high-energy cultural experience with opportunities to network. We will have a few surprises on the night 👀 **Follow: The KickBack (Click the usernames to Follow)** **Twitter:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.twitter.com/thekickbackhq/) **Facebook:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.facebook.com/thekickbackhq/) **Instagram:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.instagram.com/thekickbackhq/) **TikTok: [@](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq)**[TheKickbackHQ](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq) [Join our WhatsApp community here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G3afVSIpZLP1cQkRsdhMVc) *Pictures and Videos will be taken for marketing purposes.* *All attendees consent to the use of their pictures by @TheKickBackHQ*

**​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. ​9:15 Bag drop at the Regent's Bar and Kitchen, Regent's Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MmZdAVM8yXT9euKc7 ​9:30 Warm Up starts at the Inner Circle & York Bridge, South Gate: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6) 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 27 cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)** **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/)**

**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/exclusive-london-business-networking-director-connector-at-iod-champagne-tickets-1986522730964?aff=meetup]( https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/exclusive-london-business-networking-director-connector-at-iod-champagne-tickets-1986522730964?aff=meetup)** Network with like minded company directors, founders and entrepreneurs in a reserved area at the Institute of Directors Join **entrepreneurs, directors, investors, and professionals** at the prestigious Institute of Directors in London for high-level connections, strategic partnerships, and premium networking opportunities. Looking to make powerful business connections in London? Join **London Connector®** at the **exclusive Champagne Bar, Institute of Directors (IoD), 116 Pall Mall**, for a premium networking evening in one of the city’s most prestigious venues. This is not your average networking night. Hosted in the historic IoD building, usually reserved for members only, this event gives you a **rare opportunity** to step inside a venue that symbolizes professional prestige and British business excellence. Surrounded by refined interiors and an elegant atmosphere, you’ll be part of an evening designed to help you build **meaningful relationships, discover new opportunities, and grow your network** at the highest level. ## **Who You’ll Meet** Our events are carefully curated to ensure quality conversations and valuable connections. Expect to meet: * **Entrepreneurs & Startup Founders** – looking for investors, collaborators, and strategic partners * **Company Directors, CEOs & Executives** – seeking growth opportunities and alliances * **Investors & Advisors** – scouting new ventures and partnerships * **Professionals across industries** – including tech, finance, law, media, sustainability, marketing, and healthcare * **Business Owners & Consultants** – expanding their client base and building trusted connections Every London Connector® event brings together **forward-thinking, opportunity-driven professionals** who believe in collaboration and supporting one another’s growth. ## **Why Attend?** ✅ **Prestigious Venue Access** – Network at the Champagne Bar inside the Institute of Directors, a landmark in London’s business world that is rarely open to non-members. ✅ **High-Caliber Networking** – Connect with entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and innovators who are shaping the future of business. ✅ **Pre-Event WhatsApp Group** – Start networking before the event with fellow attendees in our private group. ✅ **A Hosted, Structured Evening** – With facilitated introductions and a relaxed yet professional setting, everyone feels included. ✅ **Premium Experience** – Limited capacity (60 guests) ensures quality interactions instead of crowded, impersonal networking. ⚠️ This event has **sold out more than once in the past**. Early booking is strongly advised as tickets are limited and non-refundable. ## **Who Should Attend?** This event is perfect if you are: * An entrepreneur or startup founder seeking investors or collaborators * A director, CEO, or executive looking for new partnerships and opportunities * An investor, consultant, or advisor scouting fresh talent and ideas * A professional in tech, finance, law, sustainability, or marketing expanding your network * A business owner looking to meet like-minded achievers in an elegant setting ## **What Makes London Connector® Events Unique?** Unlike traditional networking events that feel rushed or overcrowded, **London Connector®** creates experiences where genuine conversations and valuable relationships flourish. We focus on **quality over quantity**, ensuring each attendee gets the chance to build connections that matter. Our track record speaks for itself: * Consistently **sold-out events** at prestigious venues * A curated guest list of **decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and investors** * A welcoming atmosphere where introductions are facilitated, and no one feels left out * Post-event connections supported through our curated WhatsApp groups **WhatsApp Group** 📲 Continue the conversation before and after the event by joining our exclusive attendee WhatsApp group. On the day of the event, you will receive an email inviting you to join the WhatsApp message for the event. **Event Disclaimer** 📸 Photos and videos may be taken during the event for use across our social media channels and promotional materials. * [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)

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

**Welcome to the Women’s Columbus Bogleheads® Sub-Group** This sub-group is for **women who want to learn and discuss finances in a safe, supportive space**. For those interested in moving towards financial independence and retirement by learning investment basics, choosing your 401(k) investments, minimizing taxes, and more. We’re a local chapter of **Bogleheads®**, following a long-term, practical investment philosophy: [Investment Philosophy](https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy): https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy [Bogleheads Forum](https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php): https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php No question is too small, and no experience is too simple. Share, ask, and learn — at your own pace, without judgment, in a group of like-minded women. Let’s build confidence and knowledge **together**!

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

## Escape the Office: Your Remote Career Takes Off Here Imagine the possibilities: Ditch the daily commute, design your ideal lifestyle, and work from anywhere. This Remote Ready Bootcamp delivers the skills and community you need to thrive as a location-independent pro. In just two weeks, learn to build a flexible, fulfilling remote career that lets you earn on your own terms, anywhere in the world. ### Ready to begin? [Secure Your Spot! 🚀](https://remoteready.io/product/RemoteReadyBootcamp?city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-professionals-mastering-ai-income&startgmtdatetime=2026-04-24T22:00:00Z) --- **Is This For You?** This bootcamp is ideal if any of these describe you: * Yearning for remote work and ready to commit * Tired of being tied to a desk * Seeking ways to diversify your income streams * Craving location freedom in your professional life **What to Expect** Picture yourself in a vibrant cafe in Bali, effortlessly managing your work, then exploring ancient temples. Location-independent professionals make this their reality daily. This bootcamp empowers *you* to do the same. Over fourteen immersive days, you'll learn how to create multiple streams of income online and master the art of staying productive, no matter where you log in from. Our expert instructors have built successful remote careers across numerous countries. You're not just learning skills; you're joining a global movement. **Outcomes You Can Anticipate** * Developing diverse income opportunities to fund your lifestyle * Understanding crucial frameworks of successful location-free work * Gaining exclusive access to a network of remote-first entrepreneurs **Kickstart Your New Life** From the moment your enrol, you receive resources and support that prepare you for a remote-first trajectory. Don't wait! This course is high in demand, and seats dissapear quickly. [REGISTER NOW 🚀](https://remoteready.io/product/RemoteReadyBootcamp?city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-professionals-mastering-ai-income&startgmtdatetime=2026-04-24T22:00:00Z) **Important Next Step:** Completing the registration form is essential to formally confirm your placement.

**Sunday Golf League at Safari Golf Club ⛳** Join us for a fun and social golf season at **Safari Golf Club** (next to the **Columbus Zoo and Aquarium**) in Powell! 🗓 **Sundays at 3:45 PM** 📅 May 3 – August 2 🏆 Week 13 (Aug 2): 9-hole scramble, awards party, food & prizes 🌧 Rain Date: August 16 🚫 No play on May 24 ⛳ **Season Includes:** • 13 weeks of golf • 12 weeks of 9-hole play • 13th week scramble + awards celebration 🚶 Walking is welcome in this league! You can choose to play in a **competitive** or **social** group — all skill levels encouraged. 💲 Full Season: $382 💲 Half Season: $210 YOU MUST SIGN UP AND PAY FOR LEAGUE WITH LINK BELOW: [Sunday Golf - 2026 - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=686961&item_id=2877928&actr=3) Questions? Peggy McDaniel (Activity Leader) – 614-216-6779 Bev McCain (Scoring Assistant) – 614-738-6560

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!