Idea Cafe
Starting a new project, career, business, or campaign? Exchange information and ideas with people who are interested in making their dream into a reality. Make new friends!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out idea cafe events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the idea cafe events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find idea cafe events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Idea Cafe Events Today
Join in-person Idea Cafe events happening right now
Shut Up & Write! Kingsdale Shopping Center
Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington.
The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo.
Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine.
We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you.
The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly.
Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome.
The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit.
Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times.
Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have.
Happy writing!
Shut Up & Write!® East Side Columbus
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
**SCHEDULE:**
6:45ish - Quick introductions
7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour
8:00 - The End
**OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
**BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild!
**WHAT SHOULD I BRING?**
Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you!
**OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:**
* **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space!
* **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels.
* **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay!
* **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.
AI Agents 101: How to Make ChatGPT Do Actual Work
Most people still use AI like a search box: type one question, get one answer, repeat.
But the next step is AI agents: systems that can take a goal, break it into steps, use tools, remember context, and produce useful work for a human to review.
In this beginner-friendly session, we’ll demystify what AI agents actually are — without hype or jargon. We’ll walk through practical examples of how agents can help with research, planning, writing, coding, operations, and personal productivity.
We’ll cover:
* What makes an AI “agent” instead of just a chatbot
* How agents break tasks into steps
* Where agents are genuinely useful today
* Where they fail, hallucinate, or need human review
* How to design simple AI workflows for your own work
* A live demo of an AI agent-style workflow from start to finish
No coding experience required. This is for anyone who wants to understand where AI tools are going and how to use them more effectively right now.
LOGISTICS AND PARKING:
The talk starts at 7:00 PM. The first half hour is reserved for everyone to get set up and mingle. Free pizza and drinks!
The cheapest parking option is to find street parking, which will only cost you a few bucks. Otherwise, park in the nearby veteran's museum lot for $8. It's highly recommended you avoid the nearby $15 garage parking.
Evolve Elevate (Virtual)
Evolve is all about creating an Authentic Community, Deeper Connections, and Confident Growth. We are a group of entrepreneurial women who connect personally and professionally. We welcome every guest to experience our authentic community with no cliques and no judgment. Come as you are! There's a seat waiting for you.
Elevate is an action-oriented connection experience designed to help women entrepreneurs move beyond surface-level networking and into meaningful growth, collaboration, and courageous action. Each session centers around a focused business or personal development topic, followed by intentional breakout discussions that encourage deeper conversations, real relationship-building, and practical next steps.
Unlike traditional networking events, Elevate is designed to create momentum. Women are encouraged not only to share ideas, but to actively support one another through accountability, collaboration, brainstorming, and action-based growth. Every meeting is an opportunity to build authentic connections, gain fresh perspective, and leave with a clear action step to implement before the next session.
This is a space where women rise together — not through competition or hustle culture, but through encouragement, courage, consistency, and intentional community.
\*\*Evolve Women's Collective is a membership based professional women's group. You can find more information at [www.EvolveWomensCollective.com](https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.EvolveWomensNetwork.com&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw0UekYvD4PoVa7WUlFFVHyp). Feel welcome to be our guest anytime!
[Join the Call](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://zoom.us/j/7894682064&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw127u1EMKvrsjTOPRaLUJ51)
Board games at The Forge
The Forge does have a full bar and kitchen. There is no cover charge but they do request all attendees to purchase a minimum of ~20 per person. Soft drink refills are 1 each. Please support our hosts so we can continue to provide great events for the group!
The Forge has a large library of games available for us to enjoy. Hosts and regulars will also provide numerous popular games but please bring any games you would like to teach and/or play.
Doors open at 6, and we expect gaming to be rolling by around 630. Please promptly end your games and clear out the space at 10pm when the bar closes.
We encourage socializing but do not permit disruptive behavior of any kind. Thank you for your continued commitment to providing a fun and welcoming space to veteran, newbie, and rookie gamers in the Columbus area.
Parking can sometimes fill esrly. There is additional parking lot behind the neighboring Mexican restaurant that is free and easy to walk from but it's a bit hidden.
Idea Cafe Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Columbus Safe Space Gay Speed Dating
🥂 Gay Speed Dating Night for Columbus Singles — On Zoom
Hosted Zoom rounds, Columbus gay singles your speed, and matches sent the next day. Easy as that.
What to expect:
Register and take a short personality quiz
Jump on Zoom when the event starts
Meet singles in guided one-on-one rounds
Get your mutual matches by email afterward
Find your bracket and grab a seat:
→ Ages 18-32 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=582&productType=onlineSpeedDatingGay&city=Columbus&groupurlname=local-francophile-cafe-chat-and-practice-group&ar=18-32&face_v=9.0)
→ Ages 30-46 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=582&productType=onlineSpeedDatingGay&city=Columbus&groupurlname=local-francophile-cafe-chat-and-practice-group&ar=30-46&face_v=9.0)
→ Ages 40-58 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=582&productType=onlineSpeedDatingGay&city=Columbus&groupurlname=local-francophile-cafe-chat-and-practice-group&ar=40-58&face_v=9.0)
→ Ages 55+ — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=582&productType=onlineSpeedDatingGay&city=Columbus&groupurlname=local-francophile-cafe-chat-and-practice-group&ar=55+&face_v=9.0)
> Important: RSVP is not the same as registering. Use your age link below and complete the quiz to secure a place. Limited capacity.
See you on Zoom, Columbus. 🌈
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Grandview Grind
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!
Game Dev Meetup (@Improving In-Person)
PLEASE NOTE!!!
This event will be In-Person for our 2nd Improving collab! If you know the [Columbus Unity group](https://www.meetup.com/columbus-unity-user-group/) location, we'll be at the same place. This is our 2nd event at this location so bare with us as we grow into this space.
There's paid street parking on Saturdays but you can also pay to park in any of the local garages. See image of [parking map here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mr9_LFIggbs-0_Zd3AJTGNqEhgMf2TzQ/view?usp=sharing).
\-\-\-
On the last Sunday of the month, we're having our usual end-of-the-month social gathering with our GameDev Meetup meeting. There will be announcements and presentations followed by some social networking Let's continue the conversations with good vibes and friends.
All are welcomed from all ages and backgrounds to this public event. If we can, we'll be streaming or uploading the video later via our COGG YouTube channel here:
[https://www.youtube.com/@TheCOGG/streams](https://www.youtube.com/@TheCOGG/streams)
(Also please do subscribe if you have not done so!)
No game development experience required!
If you are interested in doing a 20 minute game development related presentation, please fill out our form online here:
[https://goo.gl/forms/lVdTJZiNJewlPJuj1](https://goo.gl/forms/lVdTJZiNJewlPJuj1)
Or e-mail us at [info@thecogg.com](mailto:info@thecogg.com)
with the following:
Your Name, Company/Affiliation, Name of Your Game/Topic, Description, Tech Needs, and Your Contact.
Be sure to check out our Discord for real time news updates:
[https://discord.gg/NrBhuNQ](https://discord.gg/NrBhuNQ)
Columbus Online Speed Dating on Zoom
**🍀 Zoom In, Columbus — Speed Dating Is Live**
> It's speed dating, made comfortable — Columbus singles, your sofa, and Zoom doing all the heavy lifting.
**It runs like this:**
🔹 Drop your details and zip through a quick personality quiz
🔹 Log into Zoom right at go-time
🔹 Cycle through short one-on-ones with Columbus singles
🔹 Check your inbox tomorrow — your matches will be waiting
---
**Select your age group to lock in a place:**
🔸 **Ages 18-32** → [Claim your spot](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=deutsch-conversation-film-night-cafe-gather&ar=18-32&face_v=10.0)
🔸 **Ages 30-46** → [Claim your spot](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=deutsch-conversation-film-night-cafe-gather&ar=30-46&face_v=10.0)
🔸 **Ages 40-58** → [Claim your spot](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=deutsch-conversation-film-night-cafe-gather&ar=40-58&face_v=10.0)
🔸 **Ages 55+** → [Claim your spot](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=deutsch-conversation-film-night-cafe-gather&ar=55+&face_v=10.0)
_Fair warning: RSVP here is just a follow, not a registration. Your seat is only locked once you sign up and finish the quiz. Places are finite._
---
A room full of possibilities is just one link away. 🎵
Shut Up & Write!™ Easton Town Center
We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator.
Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking!
• What we'll do
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros.
10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing.
OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you!
• What to bring
Whatever you need to be able to write!
Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible.
See you at The Café on Saturday!
Columbus Earn Real Dates with Locals
🌹 Columbus Singles Meet on Zoom: Live Speed Dating
Four quick rounds, real conversations, and Columbus singles matched to you by age and personality. All from your couch.
What to expect:
Register and take a short personality quiz
Jump on Zoom when the event starts
Meet singles in guided one-on-one rounds
Get your mutual matches by email afterward
Find your bracket and grab a seat:
→ Ages 18-32 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-francophiles-cafe-chat-and-film&ar=18-32&face_v=11.0)
→ Ages 30-46 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-francophiles-cafe-chat-and-film&ar=30-46&face_v=11.0)
→ Ages 40-58 — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-francophiles-cafe-chat-and-film&ar=40-58&face_v=11.0)
→ Ages 55+ — [Register here](https://theliveround.com/product?productId=573&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=circle-of-francophiles-cafe-chat-and-film&ar=55+&face_v=11.0)
> Heads up: an RSVP here does not hold your seat. Register through your age link and finish the quiz. Spots are capped.
Bring yourself and an open mind — we'll handle the rest. 💜
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.
* 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).
Idea Cafe Events Near You
Connect with your local Idea Cafe community
Tabletop Cafe
Come hang out at Tabletop Cafe. We can play boardgames and get to know each other. There is a small entry fee they tack onto the bill so take a look at their website beforehand 🙂 there is some snack food and tons of games!
Columbus Publish Ebooks with AI Fast
💎 **Write Publish Earn — AI Ebook Business Blueprint — The ebook business model AI makes scalable.**
*A passive income blueprint built on AI writing and automated publishing*
If you have a library of ideas sitting untouched because actually writing them feels like a second job, this masterclass makes the whole AI-assisted publishing process concrete. By building the ebook pipeline from idea to live listing, you walk out with the AI tools, workflow, and live listing to start earning.
**⚠️ Action needed:** Clicking rsvp is only the first step not the whole process, so click below to register — completing that form is what holds your seat — attendance is capped so register as soon as possible, and completing registration is the only way to be confirmed.
### [🔗 GET YOUR PLACE](https://aiventurelab.org/product/AIEbookBusiness?city=Columbus&groupurlname=cafe-conversation-and-french-films-for-our-community&startgmtdatetime=2026-06-30T22:00:00Z)
---
**Your publishing pipeline delivers:**
- How to use AI writing tools to produce full ebooks in hours not weeks
- A publishing schedule that keeps the pipeline producing income continuously
- A cover design workflow using AI tools that does not require design skills
AI has changed what a single person can publish in a year — grab your place and learn to publish ebooks at scale using AI, and the skills from this session apply immediately after.
🏦 *Your knowledge earns more as an ebook than in your head.*
Columbus Write Publish Earn with AI
💰 **Build Passive Income with AI Ebooks – Masterclass**
Build a passive publishing business with AI — from idea to income.
⚠️ Your spot is only held once you complete registration below.
### [🔗 SAVE YOUR SEAT](https://aiventurelab.org/product/AIEbookBusiness?city=Columbus&groupurlname=network-of-book-lovers-and-discussion-meetups&startgmtdatetime=2026-06-30T22:00:00Z)
---
What's covered:
- Publish across platforms for passive income
- Format and list ebooks so they actually sell
- Find profitable niches using AI research tools
*One system. Recurring income.* ✍️
Columbus Go Viral Without Your Face
📱 **Build a Viral AI Content Brand – Faceless Influencer Blueprint**
Launch a content brand that grows on autopilot using AI-generated media.
⚠️ Complete registration to confirm your seat. RSVP is not enough.
### [🔗 CLAIM YOUR PLACE](https://aiventurelab.org/product/AiInfluencer?city=Columbus&groupurlname=network-of-book-lovers-and-discussion-meetups&startgmtdatetime=2026-06-30T22:00:00Z)
---
What you'll create:
- A monetisation path from day one
- AI tools to generate, edit, and post content automatically
- A content system that grows on autopilot
*Your brand. Your rules. No face needed.* 🚀
CMG Gives Back: Serve Dinner at FAITH MISSION GRANT KITCHEN!
Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. NOTE: We’re switching it up this time and going with a DINNER shift on Mon, 7/6. Here are complete details and our plan for this event:
FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces.
PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for DINNER from 4:30 to 6:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 4:20pm and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants.
LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details:
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to those volunteering at this (or any of our previous or future) CMG Gives Back events!
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Columbus Turn Forecasts into Income
📊 **Profit from Predictions – Polymarket Strategy**
Stop guessing on Polymarket. Learn the analytical system that generates real profit.
⚠️ Complete registration below — RSVP alone doesn't reserve your spot.
### [🔗 CLAIM YOUR SPOT](https://aiventurelab.org/product/Polymarket?city=Columbus&groupurlname=network-of-book-lovers-and-discussion-meetups&startgmtdatetime=2026-06-30T22:00:00Z)
---
What you'll learn:
- A systematic approach to forecasting outcomes
- How to identify high-value markets before the crowd
- Polymarket strategies that generate consistent daily profit
*The forecasters who win have a system. Get yours.* 🎯






























