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SOLD OUT • ST PANCRAS • S2E8: PERSONALITY | Thought Experiments in Pubs
Join us for a special Friday night version of TEiP ST PANCRAS.
Open minded discussions and the opportunity to learn from other people's perspectives and life experiences.
This episode will explore the topic of 'PERSONALITY' by way of three original thought experiments (posted in the comments below on the day of the event).
We'll meet at the beautiful Betjeman Arms in St Pancras Station.
**The event start time is 7:30PM, rather than our usual 7:00PM.**
Spaces are limited and tickets sell out fast, so get your ticket early if you want to be there!
**THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS** \- posted in the comments below on the day of the event
**[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- read more about this community and other related stuff
**[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what we look like \(including The People of TEiP project\)
**[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- stay in the loop
**The idea:** A chance to meet and talk meaningfully about thought provoking topics.
**How we'll do it** (timings approximate):
* 7:30pm - Arrive at The Betjeman Arms. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). 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 people per group)
* Have a look at the **thought experiments** (announced on the day of the event)
* 7:45 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to veer off topic.
* 8:10 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment.
* 8:35 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment.
* 9:00pm - Wrap up - hear about upcoming events, feedback/requests for future meetups.
* 9:05 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. We have the room until 10pm and usually a lot of us stay until then :-)
**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 The Betjeman Arms. The nearest Tube station is King's Cross St. Pancras. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). 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, please [subscribe to the newsletter](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/) and [follow us on instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs) :-)
Thank you!
Tarot Practice @Mikis
Meet up fee £7 to be paid at the beginning of the meet up.
Card or cash payments.
Meeting at Mikis Paradise Cafe.
Please bring your favourite Tarot deck.
Julie Henderson Russell Boyle Badminton Academy
Every week is a badminton academy for improver/intermediate/advanced standard. I also run thirteen teams that play in leagues out of the academy. Unfortunately this class does not cater for beginners! Wanting people who wish to enjoy and improve with games and advice with a coach who has played county and national level badminton, and has also played for England.
Just come along, bring a racket, very friendly atmosphere! Class from 7.30 - 9.30pm weekly, £14.00 per session or £35.00 for three sessions t be paid up front and must be used within six months, payable by cash only. I have coached players from beginner to international standard. Please message me with any questions.
Thanks
🇬🇧🇪🇸🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🌞Outside Friday 😎🍹Language Social 🇩🇪🇨🇳🇧🇷🇰🇷🇪🇬🌎
PLEASE **READ the event information below**
**🇬🇧🇪🇸🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🇩🇪🇮🇳🇨🇳🇧🇷🇰🇷🇪🇬🇺🇸🇷🇺🇦🇺**
Join us this **Friday** for our always popular global language exchange and social. It's going to be a warm & sunny 24°C+ evening, so we're taking the fun OUTSIDE 😎🍻🍹
We"re **Languages in London👇**the Highest Rated 🏆 international language exchange group in London with 1600+ reviews rated 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
TO ATTEND THIS EVENT YOU **MUST:**
🔘 Have your Meetup confirmation visible on your phone when you arrive.
🔘 Collect & wear your languages badge as soon as you arrive BEFORE buying your drinks
🔘Pay the £2 event fee. **The event fee is £6 if you arrive after 8:30pm**
Then, start meeting the community and having fun...lots of fun!
[www.languages.london](www.languages.london)
**WHEN & WHERE**
We're returning to The Craft Beer Co, St Mary Axe.
**Address: 29-31 Mitre Street, London, EC3A 5BU**
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/49HnHGap8hQMbQNWA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/49HnHGap8hQMbQNWA)
**HOW WE DO IT**
It's simple ....
✴️When you arrive please collect and wear your personalised languages badge. We'll be waiting to give you a warm welcome 😃
✴️Wear your badge during the event and always return it before you leave ♻️
✴️You're expected to buy something from the bar to support the venue, who kindly offer us a dedicated space.
🇵🇱🇷🇴🇮🇷🇹🇼🇵🇹🇨🇦🇨🇴🇸🇦🇹🇷🇺🇦🇭🇰🇱🇧🇸🇪🇲🇽🇳🇱
**WHO**
Languages in London events are organised for our community - being social, making new friends, building cultural bridges and always very relaxed. We have the largest number of languages and countries represented in our weekly language exchange and social events in London.
**This is not a dating event**.
Our events are open to Internationals, Locals, Expats, Students, Travellers...Everyone!
Are you an 18 to 24 year old? Come and explore our events.
Our events are for a truly global community and citizens from around the 🌎 It's your international language hub in London 💂
Is this the Intercambio you've been looking for? Want to practice your ingles, espanol,p francais, italiano, Deutsch, portugues or other European languages? Asian languages? Or maybe prefer to only speak English ....that's just fine.
**All languages and all fluency levels are welcome Spread the word..**.Bring your friends, colleagues and family 💚
🇦🇷🇲🇦🇹🇭🇰🇪🇵🇪🇳🇿🇨🇭🇬🇷🇭🇺🇻🇪🇳🇬🇧🇬🇩🇰🇱🇰🇯🇴
The creator and organiser of Languages in London - Girish, will always be visible at the event and there to support you and help with introductions, if you prefer.
We want to remain the BEST language events group in London, being the biggest isn't our focus.
These are real events with real people. We don't fill our events with inflated numbers and fictitious attendees 👻
**⚠️Inactive community members and those that "no-show" at our events are regularly removed from our group⚠️**
**LANGUAGES**
Here's a selection of some of the languages that our community speak or have been practicing ... English, Spanish (incl Latin American), French, Italian, Portuguese (incl Brazilian), German, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), Russian, Korean, Hindi, Turkish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Polish, Hebrew, Swedish, Bulgarian, Vietnamese, Hungarian, Bengali, Dutch, Catalan, Farsi, Greek, Urdu, Welsh, Romanian, Norwegian, Czech, Slovak, Estonian, Danish, Finnish, Turkmen, Latvian, Lithuanian, Nepali, Yoruba, Filipino, Thai, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, Ebo, Afrikaans, Tamazight, Tagalog, Creole, Malagasy, Mongolian, Tok Pisin and more... you get the idea!
🇮🇪🏴🏴🇧🇪🇵🇭🇮🇱🇪🇪🇵🇸🇪🇬🇳🇴🇬🇭🇵🇷🇲🇾🇻🇳🇪🇨
**SUSTAINABLE** 🌎🌳
Like you, we really care about our planet.
We don't like single use paper name tags, stickers or wristbands as they can't be reused or recycled and can even damage your clothing ☹️
The Solution?.Our personalised and completely reusable Languages in London badges! 👍
So, please make sure you return your badge when you leave the event. We'll sanitise it (anti bacterial & disinfectant cleaners) and use it again & again & again. Thanks for helping us do the right thing & keep our costs down🙏
**SAFE SPACE FOR EVERYONE** 👮♂️
We don't tolerate prejudice or harassment of any kind, at any time. Be polite and respectful to everyone else and they will reciprocate. Let's keep the space safe, welcoming for everyone and free of any political agendas. Please report any concerns to the Organiser immediately.
Please look after your belongings, the venue is a public place.
We may take photos or video at the event for future promotional use. Let us know if you'd rather not be included, we respect your choice 📸
**SPREAD THE WORD** 🗣️💬
If you enjoy our events, please tell your friends and colleagues and help us grow your community, thank you 💛
Join our community - [https://www.languages.london/](https://www.languages.london/)
We're looking forward to welcoming you at Languages in London 😊👋
🇨🇱🇵🇰🇨🇾🇲🇩🇰🇿🇫🇮🇿🇦🇦🇹🇲🇶🇲🇬🇵🇸🇦🇿🇬🇹🇯🇲🇦🇲🇮🇶🇸🇰🇨🇩🇭🇷🇹🇿🇧🇴🇶🇦🇲🇰🇳🇵🇧🇩🇩🇿🇮🇩🇹🇯🇦🇪🇦🇱🇯🇴🇱🇦🇱🇹🇱🇻🇰🇭🇲🇳🇬🇪🇦🇫🇲🇴🇨🇺🇩🇴🇭🇳🇧🇾🇺🇿🇲🇺🇸🇴🇵🇾🇹🇲🇮🇸🇵🇬🇰🇼🇿🇼🇪🇹🇸🇻🇷🇪🇾🇪🇬🇱🌎
Halal Dinner Club - Play, Sip, Connect - Sold out
**Ticket update 21/04/25 : Final 10 tickets left**
Booking Link
[https://www.tickettailor.com/events/halaldinnerclub/2154145](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/halaldinnerclub/2154145)
Join us for a relaxed and informal evening at Filli Cafe, where old friends and new faces come together over games and a bite to eat.
Whether you’re catching up with familiar faces or meeting new people, this evening promises a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for unwinding and enjoying good company.
We will have our own exclusive area.
Don’t miss out on this perfect opportunity to relax, socialise, have fun and indulge in some of the best food London has to offer. We look forward to seeing you there!
**Food/Drink:**
Your Ticket will include
A choice of one of the following Only (To be chosen at checkout)
Dynamite Chicken Burger
Beef Smash Burger
Classic Butter Chicken with rice
Dynamite Chicken Momos
Dynamite Vegetable Momos
Mutton Kebab Kathi Roll
Papdi Chaat with Chai
**Games:**
Feel free to bring a game to play at the event.
Click booking link at top of description to find out more and to book a ticket
Bitcoin Pizza Day
**Celebrate the sale of 2x Papa John pizzas for 10,000 BTC by making your own at the Cyphermunk House Garden Pizzeria. Plus music and drinks.**
**[PAY IN BITCOIN OR RESERVE A CASH TICKET HERE](https://btcpay.btc.aw/apps/rvvVwGSSSiJ7UgtzjmBdxy1Uq6a/pos)**
All materials for a Margherita included in ticket. Feel free to bring specialist toppings.
Promotional activities related to shitcoins not permitted.
No unsolicited photograhy.
Peace and love.
Discussion & Debate Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Deeper Conversations - 1 to 1 🗣️💬
Tired of small talk and ready to connect on a real level? Join us for **deep**, **meaningful conversations** and **new friendships** 👯♀️🎉 with a group of like-minded individuals who share your interests.
This event is **free** but you will be **required** to buy food or drink before you can join us 🍭🍬🧁🍰🥤🧃- having water doesn't support the venue
**Who is it for?**
* You want more satisfying, deeper conversations
* You want more meaningful and long-lasting connections in your life
* You crave more from life and know its out there
* You are bored of just socialising and want to have fun and explore a new type of event!
**What's in it for you?**
* **No more awkward silences!** We'll provide questions to spark engaging conversations. 💡
* **Meet like-minded people** who crave deeper connections. 🤝
* **Have fun** in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. 😊
**How does it work?**
* We'll pair you up with different people for **15-minute 1-1 chats**. 🔄
* **Use our questions** as a starting point, or go off on your own tangent! 🗺️
* Be **open**, **honest**, and **curious**. 👂
* 15 minutes is a good amount of time to explore a question deeply and **not have awkward silence**.⏳
* You are also **free to take the conversation in any direction** you choose.🤩
* You can always sit out a round to **take a break** 😪
**Examples of questions that we provide:**
* "If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?" 🦸♀️
* "What's your biggest fear, and why does it scare you?" 😱
* "What's the most meaningful thing you've ever done?" ❤️
* "What would you do if you had all the money and time in the world?" 💰
**Why do we love deep conversations?**
* They're **authentic**, **raw**, and **honest**.
* There are **no limits** to where they can go.
* You'll feel **uplifted**, **inspired**, and **connected**. 🌟
**How to be a great conversation partner?**
* **Be Respectful:** Listen attentively and avoid interrupting others. 👂
* **Be Open-Minded:** Consider different viewpoints and challenge your own assumptions. 🧠
* **Be Engaging:** Ask thoughtful questions and contribute to the conversation. 💬
* **Be vulnerable:** We are a safe space, so it’s okay to be yourself 🥺 🙈
* **Be honest:** Be honest about our experience of life 🌍
* **Be curious:** Be interested in the other person ❓ 🤔 👀
**Ready to take the plunge?**
🌊 Join us and experience the magic of deeper conversations! 💫 You may leave feeling **uplifted**, **inspired**, **connected**, **invigorated**, **positive**, **grateful**!❤️
**What others have to say**:
* **Parimal**: "I had the most amazing time! The conversations were refreshing and genuinely authentic."
* **David Saville**: "This is a wonderful event run by two extraordinary individuals."
* **Edomi**: "This is one of the best meetups I've been to. Highly recommended!"
We really hope to see you there! 👋
**About Deeper Connections**
We have a mission at Deeper Connections to improve the quality of people's lives through conversation. All our events are centered around the concept of connecting deeply, because we believe we all deserve to be seen, felt and understood for who we really are. To have the 'deeper conversation' approach when relating with others can change our lives and can change the world.
**Our Values**
* **Respect:** Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. ❤️
* **Open-mindedness:** Be open to different perspectives and ideas. 🧠💡
* **Active Participation:** Share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. 🗣️💬
* **Accessibility:** We believe meaningful connection should be accessible to everyone. Our community makes this possible by supporting each other. 🤝
**Staying in touch**
Interested in finding out about all the events sooner than on Meetup or staying in touch beyond the events, you can join our WhatsApp channel and community using
👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6CBAdIN9ijrEYdv33z)
👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqGsmF3021RKTwBpGcuR80)
**Keep This Event Free 💝**
If this event brings you something meaningful, you can help others access the same transformational experience. Whether it's £5 or £15, every contribution keeps these events accessible to everyone in our community. You'll find a QR code on your conversation sheet during the event, or you can contribute here #SupportYourCommunity
👉🏽 [Ko-Fi](https://ko-fi.com/deeperconnections)
👉🏽 [Buy Me A Coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/deeperconnections)
👉🏽 [PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/DDSNCCFCYUEB2)
Deeper Discussions - Fiction Book Club 📚💬
Join us for a special edition of Deeper Discussions, where we dive into thought-provoking **fiction** that challenges perspectives, sparks imagination, and opens doors to meaningful conversations. Whether you're a lifelong reader or rediscovering the joy of novels, this is a space to explore stories that stay with you long after the final page.
**This Month's Book - One hundred years of solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez**
One Hundred Years of Solitude follows generations of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo.
It blends everyday life with magical, surreal events in a dreamlike style.
The story explores time, memory, and the repeating patterns of family life.
**How does it work?**
* Brief introductions and reflections on what struck you most
* Moderated discussion exploring plot, themes, and characters
* Open conversation where different interpretations are welcomed ️
* We wrap up by sharing insights and connections made
**What to Expect?**
**Close Reading:** We go beyond surface-level plot summary. Expect discussions that examine the author's choices, narrative techniques, and the questions left lingering in the silence between pages.
**Thoughtful Dialogue:** This isn't a race to share opinions—it's a space for genuine exploration. We listen, we reflect, we build on each other's insights.
**Meaningful Connections:** Great fiction holds up a mirror to the human experience. Through discussing characters' choices and moral dilemmas, we often discover something about ourselves and each other.
**How to get the most out of this event?**
**Finish the Book:** Please attend only if you've completed the book. Spoilers will flow freely, and the richest discussions come from those who've made the full journey.
**Ground it in the Text:** Bring your interpretations, but anchor them in what's actually on the page. Quote passages. Reference scenes. Let the author's words guide us.
**Respect & Openness:** Every interpretation matters. Make space for quieter voices. Challenge ideas, not people. Stay curious rather than defensive.
**Why a Fiction Book Club?**
**Explore the Human Condition:** Fiction lets us inhabit lives we'll never live, forcing us to confront questions about identity, morality, love, and loss.
**Sharpen Your Thinking:** Close reading develops critical thinking—noticing what the author chose to include, exclude, and how the story is told matters as much as what happens.
**Deepen Connections:** Discussing characters' choices and moral dilemmas creates surprisingly intimate conversations with fellow readers.
**Who is this event for?**
* You find yourself thinking about books long after you've finished them
* You want more from book discussions than "I liked it" or "I didn't"
* You're curious how others interpret the same story differently
* You value thoughtful dialogue over debate ️✨
* You're looking for meaningful connections with fellow readers
**What's in it for you?**
* **Fresh Perspectives:** Discover interpretations you'd never have considered alone
* **Deeper Understanding:** Unpack themes and symbols that enrich your reading
* **Genuine Connection:** Bond with others over shared literary experiences
* **A Space to Think:** Slow down from the noise and engage with ideas that matter
**Ready to dive deeper into stories that matter?**
Join us for an evening where fiction becomes a gateway to understanding ourselves and each other. ✨
**We really hope to see you there!**
**About Deeper Connections**
We have a mission at Deeper Connections to improve the quality of people's lives through conversation. All our events are centred around the concept of connecting deeply, because we believe we all deserve to be seen, felt and understood for who we really are. To have the 'deeper conversation' approach when relating with others can change our lives and can change the world.
**Our Values**
* **Respect:** Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. ❤️
* **Open-mindedness:** Be open to different perspectives and ideas.
* **Active Participation:** Share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. ️
**Staying in touch**
Interested in finding out about all the events sooner than on Meetup or staying in touch beyond the events, you can join our WhatsApp channel and community using
[Deeper Connections WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6CBAdIN9ijrEYdv33z)
[Deeper Connections WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqGsmF3021RKTwBpGcuR80)
**Keep This Event Free**
If this event brings you something meaningful, you can help others access the same transformational experience. Whether it's £5 or £15, every contribution keeps these events accessible to everyone in our community. You'll find a QR code on your conversation sheet during the event, or you can contribute here #SupportYourCommunity
[Ko-Fi](https://ko-fi.com/deeperconnections)
[Buy Me A Coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/deeperconnections)
[PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/DDSNCCFCYUEB2)
Make New Friends At A Bookshop
Do you want to meet new people in a relaxing chill atmosphere surrounded by new books? Do you dislike loud and smelly places like pubs and clubs? This is the event for you.
Science and Philosophy Book Club is creating a new kind of meetup where people who love books and knowledge can meet new friends in a big book shop. We will explore around different sections of the book shop together as a group while making interesting conversations with each other. We will go to both fiction and non-fiction areas.
If you feel shy and feel nervous to come alone, I will make sure you will feel comfortable and accomodate to your needs. I will help introduce you to others so you can go over the barrier of anxiety when approaching a new person.
We will meet on the ground floor lounge area of Doubletree Hilton Hotel at 6 p.m. It is an amazing cosy bar with classy vibes. We will wait for everyone to show up while getting some drinks and socializing. At 7 p.m we will head to the Waterstones book store near Russel Square and UCL. After we explore the book store, we will come back to the hotel bar and stay there for the rest of the night.
This event requires £5 donation to cover the venue fees. You can pay via cash or card. Thank you for helping the book club!
Let's Discuss... Urban isolation
You can be surrounded by eight million people and still feel like no one knows your name. You pass the same faces on the same street every morning. You hear your neighbours through the walls, their arguments, their music, their laughter. But you've never spoken. The city promised connection. It delivered proximity.
Is proximity without intimacy crueller than actual solitude?
If everyone is lonely, who's keeping us apart?
Who is responsible for the stranger next door?
Here is a documentary about Joyce Vincent that is related to this topic: [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1819513/](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1819513/)
*Please do your own research and share resources related to this topic in the comments below.*
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**💛 Support The Examined Life**
Enjoying the discussions? Please consider donating, it keeps us running.
👉 Donate here: [https://examinedlife.uk/donation/](https://examinedlife.uk/donation/)
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**Join our Telegram group chat**
Stay connected between sessions: [https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk](https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk)
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**About the session**
The Examined Life "Let's Discuss…" session is an open, welcoming discussion, no prior reading or expertise required.
Format:
* **13:15** Free-flowing group discussion on the topic
* **14:00 (ish)** We split into smaller groups for deeper conversation on what interests you most
* **16:00** Official end of the meetup. Most attendees stay on and keep chatting until around 18:00
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**Please RSVP accurately**
Please update your RSVP if plans change, it helps us plan and frees up spots for others.
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**Artwork:** A Frozen River by a Town at Evening 1665 by Aert van der Neer
Speed Speaking, Express & Connect
Want to become more confident speaking in front of others, without the pressure of formal public speaking?
This event is designed to help you **build confidence in speaking naturally, expressing your thoughts more freely, and feeling more comfortable using your voice in everyday life and in front of a group.**
Due to the growing interest in our Speed Speaking event, we’ve now moved it to Sunday so more people can join and enjoy the experience together.
So, what actually happens?
We gather in a relaxed, welcoming circle and take turns responding to short, playful, and thought-provoking prompts.
Some questions are lighthearted and funny, while others spark curiosity, reflection, or unexpected conversations.
You’ll have **up to two minutes per turn**, just enough time to express yourself without pressure, and everyone gets several opportunities to speak throughout the session.
Each round introduces a fresh topic and a new invitation to share. There’s no need to perform, impress anyone, or “say the right thing.”
The goal is simply to practice speaking in a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to be themselves.
You’re always free to actively participate or simply listen and absorb the atmosphere.
Either way, you’ll be surrounded by warmth, kindness, laughter, and encouraging people.
What makes this experience special is how naturally confidence begins to grow. Without forcing anything, you slowly become more at ease speaking up, sharing your thoughts, and trusting your own voice, both in public speaking and in daily conversations.
Come for the conversation, stay for the connection, and leave feeling lighter, more confident, and more comfortable being yourself 💛
The event is completely **free**, and no ticket is needed.
**Please arrive in front of Arundel Building between 14:40 and 14:55**
Then we will head up together to the room on the 5th floor and begin the session at 15:00 promptly.
To keep the experience smooth and uninterrupted for everyone, entry won’t be possible after 15:00
Please RSVP in advance and keep your attendance status updated, as the activities and flow of the event are planned around the number of participants.
Social Spikeball - Victoria Park
Social spikeball session for lower intermediate players and above. We play near Victoria park bandstand.
Exact location: https://good.gl/maps/hYNjYG7GrczMRsAz5
We'll have 2/3 spikeball sets and will be running a friendly round robin format with a warm-up at the start.
Rules:
Casual spike ball rules (no worries if you don't know them). Please be on time.
I'll give a rundown of the rules at the start so no need to worry if you're not clear on anything.
WAR and PEACE: Socioeconomic/political debates (3.30PM)
**Open debate and discussion in small rotating groups of 3-6 people, on the theme of War and Peace (not the book). Propositions/ideas provided, and attendees are invited to develop their own.**
**Propositions posted on Monday in advance of event.**
**How the event works:**
**Intro:** 0-15 min: **Welcomes and introductions for new members**.
We come together in one big group and explain the format/framework for the discussion. A wide-ranging series of propositions will be read out, and people will be invited to step up and provide their own.
People will take a vote on topics of interest and self-organise with assistance from the host into smaller groups for meaningful discussion
**Main:** 30mins x 3: **Small group discussions x3**
Each group will have a moderator whose job is to control the discussion, ensuring fair participation from all members, and bring the discussion back to the question if it strays excessively
Discussion begins with a quick instinctive vote on the proposition; if all members agree can play devil's advocate or pick a new proposition to spark more debate
Then the discussion of the proposition and the taking of a vote at the end of the discussion, noting any changes in the proposition
**End**: 15 mins: all groups come back together to share interesting insights you heard from OTHER people
Feel free to stay after and extend the discussion and enjoy a drink or two but the hosted/organised portion of the event will end here.
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GENERAL RULES/PRINCIPLES:
\- This is meant to be a fun environment\, please put this first before anything else\, bring an open mind and warmth\, the objective here is not to convince anyone of your opinions\, nor intellectual showboating\, but rather state your case freely\, learn new perspectives\, and possibly make new connections with someone with a different worldview and background from yourself
\- Opinions and ideologies may be different and even controversial or extreme\, but abuse/harassment or threats against individual members is unacceptable\, and you will be asked to leave IMMEDIATELY\. Keep discussions general\, focused on issues\, not personal differences\.
\- Please bring active energy and a willingness to suggest topics or take a clear preference on what to discuss or not to discuss; discourse is better when everyone is invested and contributing
\- This group is not free therapy to unload your vexations with the world\, consider that you may be wrong and that other people have opinions that are different to yours :\)
\- Invite other people into the discussion if you notice they haven't said anything in a while
\- If you don't like your small group discussion\, please feel free to arrange yourself into another group\, or speak to me about any concerns
Discussion & Debate Events Near You
Connect with your local Discussion & Debate community
Drunken Philosophy: What’s up with all the AI hate?
**Welcome to Drunken Philosophy** a casual, curious social discussion
**Optional topic for this meetup: What's up with all the AI hate?**
A recent survey found that 74% of Americans have a negative view of AI, and I want to know why. Come out and debate whether AI is good or bad.
My hot take: a labor-saving tool that could potentially help cure cancer gets called dangerous because it might raise unemployment or cause a speculative investment bubble, that tells you a lot more about capitalism and the economic system we live under than it does about the tool itself. As a computer programmer, I think AI is a wonderful tool that has increased my productivity by at least an order of magnitude. I'd go so far as to say Claude Code is the best tool I have ever used. Debate me and name a better one.
Is AI potentially dangerous? Yes, but so are a lot of tools. Chainsaws. Steam engines (early ones would occasionally explode and kill everyone in the room). Do you think cavemen sat around debating whether fire could be used as a weapon or for self-harm, and decided not to discover it?
I have two friends who hate AI for opposite reasons: one thinks it's a fad and not useful, and the other thinks it's going to take over everything and cause human extinction.
Come out tonight, have a friendly debate, and make some friends.
No lectures. Friendly crowd. Drop in for one drink and stay if it's fun.
COUNT Discussion Meeting: Topic: Current Events
We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another.
Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us.
Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.
Pop-up Book Club 4: Going to Meet The Man, stories by James Baldwin
Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.
ASH UU Topic: TBD
ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio
TBD
Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[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.
* There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA).
* 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).
Men's Group meetup
**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.**
How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently?
Then we will go into a topic discussion.
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**COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS**
\*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\*
1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group.
2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another.
3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up.
4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space.
5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable.
6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.





















