Innovative design

**Meetups for Rebels of all kinds — to connect, learn and share** This is a Social Networking event with a Fireside Chat with [Jodie Cook](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-cook/) Founder of Coachvox AI Jodie Cook & her company has been featured in Forbes, Inc., New York Post, BBC News, and with top creators like [Ali Abdaal](https://www.youtube.com/@aliabdaal) & [The Futur](https://www.youtube.com/@thefutur) Her compnay, [Coachvox AI](coachvox.ai) helps coaches create a powerful AI version of themselves - AI You. Using the power of an AI replica, coaches can - optimize lead generation, improve user experience, fix ghosting & always reply back, understand your audience better, all with zero time. 📍 This Event is hosted at Natural Velocity AI Learning Centre, Docklands, 🍕 Free Pizza & drinks will be provided **Agenda:** * 5:45 - 6:30 PM (45 mins) - Get to know each other & Welcome * 6:30 - 7:20 PM (50 mins) - Fireside Chat & Q&A from Audience * 7:20 - 8:15 PM (55 mins) - More Social Networking There’s no dress code, no hard sales pitches, and no pressure — just great people and meaningful conversations 🙂 🌍 Est. 2013 – Rebel Meetups now run globally 🆓 This event is free thanks to our members, our partners, our volunteer hosts, and generous venues. **This event is hosted at [Natural Velocity AI Learning Centre](https://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-velocity/ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-velocity/")** **— a venue generously supporting our community** Notice: We will be capturing content from the event, to post on our socials. Join us as we learn from a Serial Founder, network, and walk away with a bunch of takeaways. See you there! **Directions Help:** Up the Escalator, between 'Melbourne College of Hair & Beauty' and 'Gap Maps'. As shown in the red dots in the image below: [Directions Map](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fkcpXvzZrEs0kKMPEI_vXbUCz7OEPTzf/view?usp=sharing)

Hey, Melbourne indie hackers! Join us on Thursday, January 22nd at 5:30 PM at The Imperial Hotel’s rooftop bar to kick off the year together. It’s summer, it’s the start of a brand new year, and it’s already been a wild one—so it’s the perfect time to catch up, unwind, and chat about fresh ideas, new apps, and what we’re building toward in 2026. Bring your thoughts, your curiosity, and your appetite for big ideas. See you on the rooftop! ✨

Achieving fast flow—the rapid and reliable delivery of change—requires picking the right socio-technical architecture: a combination of software architecture and organizational structure suited to your context. To paraphrase Einstein, it should be as simple as possible but no simpler. Unfortunately, many enterprises fall into the trap of over-engineering their architecture while simultaneously misaligning their teams, resulting in unnecessary complexity and friction that slows delivery. In this presentation, I describe a strategy for starting with the simplest possible socio-technical architecture for your context and then incrementally evolving it to support fast flow. You will learn about the building blocks of socio-technical architecture. I explain how organizational structures, like architectural elements, exist to solve specific problems and must evolve as those problems change. You will learn to recognize the signals that indicate when your socio-technical architecture needs to change—and how to transform it accordingly. **About Chris Richardson** Once again we are delighted to welcome Chris back to Melbourne and our Platform Engineering Meetup. Chris is a software architect and serial entrepreneur. He is a Java Champion, a JavaOne rock star and the author of POJOs in Action, which describes how to build enterprise Java applications with frameworks such as Spring and Hibernate. Chris was also the founder of the original CloudFoundry.com, an early Java PaaS for Amazon EC2. Today, Chris is a recognized thought leader in microservices and speaks regularly at international conferences. Chris is the author of the book Microservice Patterns. Chris helps organizations improve agility and competitiveness through better software architecture. He delivers consulting and training that helps organizations successfully adopt and use the [microservice architecture](https://microservices.io/patterns/microservices.html). Chris is the [founder of a startup](http://eventuate.io/) that is creating a platform that simplifies the development of transactional microservices. He maintains a comprehensive set of [resources for learning about microservices](https://microservices.io/adopt/index.html).

The discussion topic for this meetup will be identity and whether or not history is a necessary condition for consciousness as Dretske proposed. James

📢 **New Member?** ❤️ *Click ‘**Read Description**’* 📢 LINK: [https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/) ***\*\*If you want a resolution to your queries, message on the group chat.*** ***Direct message will not be entertained.\*\**** 🎾 **Paddle & Ball Provided** 🎾 💲 **Payment Link**: Posted in the comment section 1-3 days before each session 💲 Join group chat for update. ### ✅ **Who Can Join** ✅ * This event is open to RMIT students and the Public * To play in this event, you need to be an RMIT Pickleball Club member 2026 - [https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball](https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball) * RMIT students can sign up using an RMIT account to get student benefits; for benefits, check our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/). * This event is open for all ages, genders, and skill levels * First-timers, beginners, intermediate, and advanced players up to DUPR 5.0 are usually expected. * Minors under 18 (if not RMIT Students) are required to be accompanied by a guardian. \#\#\# ✅ **How to Join the Session** ✅ 1. Sign up to the waitlist. Everyone is on the waitlist until the event is finalised. 2. Wait for us to change your RSVP to "Going". 3. Wait for the payment link to appear in the comments below. We usually post it 1-3 days before the session. 4. When your RSVP status has changed to "Going", you can pay for the ticket. **⚠️Any tickets you purchased while on the waitlist are not valid. Invalid tickets are ineligible for refunds or transfer.** \#\#\# ✅ **Priority on Waitlist** ✅ 1. Meetup profile with first and last names. 2. Meetup profile with a clear, recognizable photo with 50-70% of the area covered by face. e.g., LinkedIn/passport photo. 3. RMIT Student Priority—message in group chat. 4. Players with a DUPR rating of 3.0+ who have been and will be playing round-robin with us. 5. Regular players who attend multiple times each week and focus on improving their skills will receive priority. \#\#\# ✅ **What to Bring** ✅ * Paddles & Balls will be provided 🏓🎾 * Wear comfortable sports/running shoes. 👟 * Outdoor Tennis shoes are perfect. 👟 * Bring your own water/energy drink & towel 💧🧴 * No onsite toilet or water fountain is available. * The nearest public toilet (Melbourne Central) and water fountain (IGA/RMIT Tram Stop) are 3-5 minutes from the court. 🚗 **Parking**: Paid parking is available 3-5 walk from court. Check IGA @ 58 Franklin St, [Kim Lim Parking](https://www.parkopedia.com.au/parking/kim_lim_parking/) @ Abeckett St, or [Parkopedia](http://parkopedia.com.au/) for more options. \#\#\# ✅ **On the Day** ✅ * New players should introduce themselves to the host. * **New players who want to learn the rules** come early. When the event starts and politely ask the hosts to join an introductory quick course. * Hosts will check tickets on the day. Please have tickets ready * Social play is for everyone—please assist the host with setting up and closing the session. 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 \#\#\# 📢 **FAQ** 📢 * We do not use Meetup messages for communication. * Payments are processed via the provided link (no cash, Pay ID, or bank transfers). * Initially, everyone is on the **waitlist** until the event is finalised. * Pay only when you are marked as **going** on Meetup; otherwise, payment is invalid. * The payment gateway and **paid status** on Meetup are not connected. Everyone shows unpaid. * RSVP does not confirm your spot until payment is made. * If you can’t attend, please update your RSVP as ‘**Not Going**’ to free up a spot for someone else. * Failure to update your RSVP results in a "**No Show**," which affects your future participation priority. * Payments should be made at least **24 hours before** the event. * If you can’t find the payment link, contact us via **Facebook chat** * Sometimes, payments are on hold due to uncertainties such as court availability or rain. You don't need to find the old payment link and make a payment; ask us on Facebook chat. \#\#\# ✅ **Cancellations & Refunds** ✅ * Full refunds can only be arranged due to event cancellations, including poor weather conditions or court availability. * Credits for future events are available with mutual agreement only in case of event cancellation; you purchase any ticket after we ask you to make payment. * No refunds for changes of mind, inability to attend, or no-shows. * Please buy tickets only when the payment link is shared. Any payments made before this are at your own risk. * There are no refunds if you make a payment out of violation using the old link while we are holding the payment link as the court is not available due to rain or some other reason. Pay only when we share links; if you have any queries, ask in Facebook chat. \#\#\# 📢 **Game Rules** 📢 * Serve always starts from the right side. * The serving team swaps positions after earning points. * Points are only earned when serving. * Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2, and capped at 15 points. * More detailed rules available on YouTube/Google. \#\#\# 📢 **Disclaimer** 📢 Participation in Melbourne Social Pickleball involves inherent risks, including personal injury, disability, or other harm. By attending, you accept all risks, and Melbourne Social Pickleball and its affiliates are not liable for any claims.

## 🌿 Kismetrix \| Singles Wine Night @ Ruelle Wine Bar [(Ticketed Event)](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26149) **Your Mid-Week Spark for Something Real** 📅 **January 22** \| 🕖 **7:00 PM – 10:00 PM** 📍 **Ruelle Wine Bar — 30 Chatham St, Prahran** 🎟 **Ticket Includes: One Complimentary Standard Drink** 💫 **Age Range: 35–58** Step into an intimate Prahran wine bar for a night of effortless conversation, laughter, and genuine connection. After a series of beautifully curated city events filled with great energy and amazing people, **Kismetrix \| True Connection** brings its signature vibe to **Ruelle Wine Bar** — a warm, stylish space designed for real conversation and real chemistry. No apps. No awkward speed-dating. Just great people, great wine, and authentic connection. ## 💫 Who’s it for? This evening is curated for singles aged **35–58**, creating a relaxed, emotionally intelligent space to meet people in a similar life stage. If you’re tired of endless swiping, shallow conversations, or dating that feels like an interview, this night is for you. Come curious. Leave connected. ## 🍷 Your ticket includes * **One complimentary standard drink** on arrival * Entry to the exclusive Kismetrix Singles area * A warm, balanced crowd of genuine singles * Light ice-breakers & conversation starters hosted by the Kismetrix team * A relaxed, stylish environment designed for natural connection Additional drinks and food are available for purchase at the bar. ## 🥂 The Venue — Ruelle Wine Bar Tucked away in Prahran, **Ruelle Wine Bar** is known for its intimate, elegant atmosphere — perfect for leaning in, sharing stories, and letting chemistry unfold naturally. This is not a loud club or a crowded pub — it’s a space where conversation, eye contact and real presence take centre stage. ## 🔥 Why Kismetrix? Kismetrix events consistently attract a high-quality, warm, and emotionally available crowd. Each night is carefully curated to create: ✨ Balanced energy ✨ A comfortable social flow ✨ A genuine mix of men and women ✨ An environment where people feel safe to be themselves This isn’t about chasing matches — it’s about creating moments where connection actually has room to happen. ## 🎯 Who should attend This night is for singles who: * Are open to something real * Enjoy meaningful conversation * Value emotional intelligence * Want quality over quantity * Are ready to meet people in person, not just online Whether you’re newly single, returning to dating, or simply curious to see what’s possible, Kismetrix gives you the space to show up as yourself. **🎟 Tickets & Entry - [BOOK Here](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26149)** Pre-booking is strongly recommended to secure your place in this curated experience. **Door price (if available): $59** Entry on the night is subject to venue capacity and gender balance. Once the event reaches its curated limit, no further tickets will be released at the door. Tickets are **non-refundable** once purchased. ## ## 💌 About Kismetrix \| True Connection Tired of dating apps? Over speed-dating that feels transactional? Kismetrix was created to bring human connection back into dating. Come for a drink. Stay for the vibe. Meet people who are also ready for something real. **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **[social@kismetrix.com.au](social@kismetrix.com.au "social@kismetrix.com.au")** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")** 🤝 Collaborations: **[collabs@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au "mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au")** 📄 **Important Notice** By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/"). Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions. **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** **Follow us on Eventbrite** **and Socials** for upcoming events. [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353") [Website](https://www.kismetrix.com.au "https://www.kismetrix.com.au") [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_?igsh=cGRmYmhiOG96ZDdk&utm_source=qr "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_?igsh=cGRmYmhiOG96ZDdk&utm_source=qr") [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/share/Yjpi2K6WDNn3PRmE/?mibextid=LQQJ4d "https://www.facebook.com/share/Yjpi2K6WDNn3PRmE/?mibextid=LQQJ4d") Collab ideas? Contact us: **collabs@kismetrix.com.au**

While it follows the same formula that makes Welcome to Thornbury so popular, the Brunswick outpost has its own distinct personality. For one, the 450-person space hosts a 4 Pines brewery-bar. You can head in for a brew, or order from the window looking out over the beer garden. Why not join us for the first event of the year. Whether new or old to the group, you're always welcome. And don't forget to check out our Facebook page. https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Community/Northside-Explorers-113121036867952/?__nodl&refsrc=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Ffbrdr%2F274%2F113121036867952%2F&_rdr

Ready to ride the vibe? Join us for **Vibe Hack** – a free workshop where you'll learn to build real, practical apps using AI-powered vibe coding tools. **No experience needed**, just curiosity and good energy. Whether you're a small business owner, creative professional, or lifelong learner, this **hands-on session** will help you turn your ideas into digital solutions. Come discover that "I can do this!" feeling in a welcoming, energetic space where everyone belongs. Bring your laptop, build something awesome, and connect with the Vibe Club community.

## 🌿 **Kismetrix Singles Social Run + Coffee – TAN Track** ## [Register Here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jan-25-kismetrix-social-run-coffee-the-tan-track-botanical-gardens-tickets-1979697692089?aff=oddtdtcreator) 📅 **Date:** Sunday, 25 January 🕘 **Time:** 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM (please arrive by 9:45 AM) 📍 **Meeting Point:** Royal Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre 🏃 **Route:** TAN Track loop through the Royal Botanic Gardens 📏 **Distance:** Approx. 3–4 km (relaxed social pace) 🎽 **Dress Code:** Comfortable activewear or casual running clothes ## **About the Event** Looking to meet new people, get active, and enjoy great company — without the pressure of a dating event? The **Kismetrix Singles Social Run + Coffee** is a relaxed, feel-good experience for singles who enjoy movement, nature, and meaningful conversation in a warm, welcoming environment. We’ll run at an easy, conversational pace around the iconic **TAN Track**, giving you plenty of chances to chat, laugh, and connect with different people along the way. There’s no racing, no awkward icebreakers — just a friendly group of singles sharing a beautiful morning together. After the run, we’ll walk back as a group and enjoy **optional coffee and mingling at the Visitor Centre café**, where conversations can continue naturally and comfortably. Many guests tell us these events feel more like meeting new friends — with a spark of something extra. ## **Who It’s For** ✨ Singles who want to meet people offline ✨ Adults 18+ across a wide range of ages (20s to 60s+) ✨ People who enjoy light running, jogging, or active social experiences ✨ Anyone looking for community, confidence, and connection **Singles only. Adults only. No children or dogs.** This helps keep the space relaxed, focused, and socially comfortable for everyone. ## **What to Bring** * Water bottle * Comfortable running or walking shoes * Sunscreen / hat * Light jacket (weather can change) * Positive energy and an open heart 💛 ## 🎟️ **[Tickets & Community Support](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jan-25-kismetrix-social-run-coffee-the-tan-track-botanical-gardens-tickets-1979697692089?aff=oddtdtcreator)** This is a **free community event**, with **optional donations** to support the Kismetrix community. While many of our curated singles events are ticketed, this run is part of our **open community series**, created to make connection, movement, and belonging accessible to everyone. Your support helps Kismetrix continue building safe, welcoming spaces where real human connection can grow — romantically or platonically. ### **Hosted by:** **Kismetrix \| True Connection** Because real love starts with real connection. ### **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **[social@kismetrix.com.au]()** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 **Follow us on Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/") **, Facebook & Eventbrite** 🤝 **Collaborations: [collabs@kismetrix.com.au]()** ### **📄 Important Notice** By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s Terms & Conditions\, Privacy Policy\, Disclaimer and Code of Conduct\. Some events may be non\-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions\.

**Collaborate, Share, Talk, Hack, Make, Break, Fix, Enjoy, Learn, Re-use, Contribute** Visitors and newcomers are very welcome, please see https://hackmelbourne.com/newcomer-faq/ for more details. Short walk from Glenferrie train station. Car parking at Hawthorn Town Hall or St Columbs St. Please pay attention to parking signs as the inspectors are always on the job. Bring a laptop and/or project you are working on. There is also a number of group projects that you are welcome to join in. 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Electronics, Programming, Robotics, Prop Building, Costuming, Milling, Machining, Home Automation and more. The Connected Community Hackerspace (CCHS) is a community workshop, sometimes also known as a makerspace. We are run by members for members and are dedicated to providing facilities, tools and networking for members to achieve their projects. Our members work on personal and group projects. If you are interested in making/hacking join our Discord where like-minded people discuss their projects. See Discord link on our website. hackmelbourne.org Note - not all our members use meetup, so the RSVP's here dont reflect the total numbers.

🎉 Join Us at FAD Gallery Bar! 🥂 Looking for a fun, easygoing way to meet new people and kick off your weekend? Come hang out with us at FAD Gallery Bar in the heart of Melbourne CBD! 🎨 About the Venue: FAD is an iconic, laneway bar with a unique artistic vibe — think comfy couches, art on the walls, cool music, and that classic Melbourne laneway feel. 🍻 Happy Hour: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Hosted from 5.30 but feel free to rock up early. Enjoy great drink specials during happy hour and very cheap drinks after that — perfect for chatting, chilling, and making new friends. 👋 No need to know anyone — come as you are! This is a relaxed, welcoming meetup where everyone’s there to have fun, make connections, and enjoy good drinks and great company. 💃 Good Vibes & Dancing: Later in the night the bar transforms into a dance-friendly space with DJs and groovy tunes — whether you want to boogie or just hang out, it’s a great crowd and no one’s a stranger here!

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your lamp, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Join us for a hands-on workshop where families can learn the art of creating beautiful Turkish lamps together. This unique and engaging class will guide parents and kids through crafting intricate and colorful lamps. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide step-by-step instructions on design, assembly, and decorating techniques. This workshop is perfect for families and friends to bond, unleash their creativity, and take home a stunning handmade craft that can brighten any room. Come discover Turkish lamp-making's magic with your little ones in a fun and supportive environment. In this 2.5-hour workshop, you'll lose track of time and end up with a beautiful lamp to take home!

Hi Radiant Ladies, After our Saturday walk, join us at Windchimes Café for coffee, friendly vibes, and a relaxed catch-up. 🅿️ 2-hour parking out front. See you there! Lyn 😀

HYBRID EVENT, VIRTUAL SPEAKER In this talk, Sean Hoar will explore the transformative journey of AI’s role in modern software engineering, from rapid prototyping (“Vibe Coding”) to strategic AI integration by skilled practitioners. It clarifies the distinctions between AI-assisted, AI-enabled, and practitioner-led approaches, offering insights into how developers can effectively adapt to and harness AI tools. The presentation also highlights recent advancements and practical strategies for leveraging AI in daily workflows and long-term development.

**\*This is an in-person event\*** Most people hold their ideas too tightly. They refine too early, hesitate to share half-formed concepts, and wait for “perfect” before putting anything in front of a user. Frankie Abralind works the opposite way and that mindset is a big part of why his projects succeed. In this session, Frankie walks you through his real creative process: messy drafts, discarded versions, surprising user reactions, and the moments when he threw out something he loved because the evidence pushed him in a new direction. You’ll see firsthand how treating ideas as *disposable, not precious* accelerates learning and leads to better outcomes. You’ll also get to examine real artifacts from the development of his games **BrainSpin**, **DIEKY**, and **eckso**. Explore prototypes, dive into design dilemmas, and hear candid stories of iteration, failure, and breakthrough that have earned former DT:DC director Frankie Abralind a reputation as an “entrepreneur who ships.” **What you'll learn** • What you need to test an idea quickly • Where to find real users (beyond friends and family) • How to ask non-leading, non-biasing questions • User-testing methods that uncover meaningful insights • Best practices for rapid iteration • How to log feedback, share modifications, and track updates • How to receive feedback with openness and use it productively • How to build, and reward, a network of testers and supporters **Agenda** **6:00pm** – Snacks & connection **6:30pm** – Case Study 1: *BrainSpin* — finding user testers **6:50pm** – Case Study 2: *DIEKY* — play tester appreciation **7:10pm** – Case Study 3: *eckso* — rapid prototyping **7:30pm** – *Zenmo* — live user testing **8:00pm** – Debrief & questions **8:30pm** – Adjourn **About our presenter** **Frankie Abralind** is an experience designer, artist, and neurodiversity advocate. He earned his MBA from the University of Maryland, where he has taught “Innovative Thinking” to graduate students since 2014. He also served as co-director of the Innovation Hub at Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial Hospital. In 2018, Frankie co-founded **The Good Listening Project**, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening psychological safety in healthcare. He is the inventor of the bestselling game **BrainSpin**, which showcases the power of divergent thinking and collaboration. Today, he leads the stealth startup **Zenmo**, which helps people connect through color. He’s Autistic (and proud!)

(2024) by Christof Koch, 288 pages [Psychology] • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=613100 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review "A wonderful book."―Sam Harris, Making Sense with Sam Harris “a fun introduction to a number of debates… Mr. Koch’s book provokes questions… and counterarguments, but that’s what gives it life.” ―The Wall Street Journal “Easily the most current, thorough, and helpful exploration of consciousness available. Koch’s light, simple, yet authoritative writing style will appeal to general audiences as well as scientists and researchers. An essential, highly recommended purchase.”―Library Journal “magisterial… charming, sometimes beautiful, and almost always illuminating” ―Science Magazine “an impressive and sometimes exuberant work, showcasing decades of [Koch’s] research”―New Scientist “Koch’s adept use of analogies and entertaining anecdotes — complete with his own near-death experience and psychedelic drug trips — make the book a compelling and surprisingly light read.” ―Science News “undeniably compelling… a smoothly written must-read for anyone interested in a detailed introduction to the relationship between the brain, consciousness, and transformative experiences” ―Ars Technica “Expertly weaving in personal experience with science that few, if any, can speak more authoritatively about, Koch leads us on an amazing journey of consciousness—from birth to death. Deeply personal and infinitely digestible, Then I Am Myself the World is a remarkable must read for anyone interested in knowing their mind.”―Judson Brewer MD, PhD, New York Times–bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety “Koch’s latest book brilliantly navigates the intricate landscape of our mind and our brain, offering insightful perspectives on the nature of conscious experiences, both ordinary as well as extraordinary ones.”―Hartmut Neven, founder and lead of Google’s quantum AI lab “Then I Am Myself the World is the new record of note for the scientific understanding of consciousness. This is an elegant tableau, a travelogue of subjective experience grounded in the latest neuroscience and philosophy traversing religion, science, and a life dedicated to the biggest questions. Filled with crystalline prose, lucid explanation, and revelatory honesty, this book will continue to be read centuries from now.”―Patrick House, author of Nineteen Ways of Looking at Consciousness “What would happen if a hardcore neuroscientist, with encyclopedic knowledge and four decades of experience in his field, were personally confronted with transformative mystical experiences carrying inevitable metaphysical implications? What would happen if the neuroscientist in question were open-minded, humble, but remained rigorously grounded in reason, evidence, and his hard-earned understanding of how consciousness relates to brain structures and function? What would he, the most preeminent professional of his generation, make of his extraordinary experiences? And what if, in addition, the neuroscientist was a modern renaissance man versed in physics, philosophy, the arts, the classics, and could pluck irresistibly evocative metaphors from the Western literary and artistic canon as if leisurely picking apples in early fall? This is what you will find in this treasured book, a whirlwind ride of insight after insight—so many they can’t possibly be all documented in footnotes—that will surprise and delight you from the get-go. ‘Primacy goes to consciousness, not to the objective world,’ he boldly states already on page two, in a prelude of things to come. ‘Everything else follows from there, including the realist assumption of the existence of objects, out ‘there,’ independent of my experiencing them.’ The book embodies the ever-evolving wisdom of a man whose intellectual prowess is only matched by his intellectual honesty. And this man, in the seventh decade of his scintillatingly productive life, has a lifetime of learning to share with you.”―Bernardo Kastrup, executive director, Essentia Foundation “Koch’s first book was entitled The Quest for Consciousness. And such has been Koch’s life, an adventurer’s pursuit of a distant goal, undeterred by the prevailing winds. The reader will learn where this quest has led and, like the author, will be enriched by it. Koch, one of the most accomplished scientists of our time, a mind singularly open to learning and changing, here opens his soul, revealing his vast, scintillating appreciation of nature in all its forms. It is a touching, profound book. Which is as it should be, since consciousness touches everything and is everything we touch.”―Giulio Tononi, University of Wisconsin-Madison ### About the Author Christof Koch is a neuroscientist at the Allen Institute and at the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation, the former president of the Allen Institute for Brain Science, and a former professor at the California Institute of Technology. Author of four previous titles, Koch writes regularly for a range of media, including Scientific American. He lives in the Pacific Northwest.

**Important! Please register on [Luma Page](https://luma.com/n7h7ynr4)** This event is organised by Projector Institute community and Ukrainian Tech Space DC MD VA Join us for an exclusive evening dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a Product Designer — and how to manage this role more effectively in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. ​ During this session, we’ll dive into: • The pros and cons of working in product vs. non-product companies • Communication as one of the main design tools • Business-oriented approaches to product design • Practical insights for both junior and senior designers • The use of AI tools and workflows — backed by real-world examples ​ Speaker: [Misha Rybachuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rybachuk/) — Co-founder of [Projector Institute](https://prjctr.com/en/about), Art Director at [Lezo.io](https://lezo.io/en), and former designer at Accenture. With over 10 years of experience in interface design, Mike has helped build impactful digital products by merging creativity, strategy, and technology. ​ This event is your opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, gain hands-on insights, and see how design bridges creativity, communication, and business success.

Register at Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy at [Writing in Nature (New Location) - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/writing-in-nature-february/) Join Nancy Morgan, Director Emeritus, Georgetown Lombardi Arts and Humanities Program, for this regular monthly workshop, presented by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, to enjoy the combined health benefits of time spent in nature and writing thoughts and feelings. Writing is often considered a solo, reflective practice, but writing in the company of others can be a supportive, community building activity that encourages regular practice. Each session is a stand-alone event – come when you are able. Registration for each session is open through the morning of the workshop. For directions, click on the Google Map link at the bottom of this page. ***Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*.

Our local amphibians and reptiles are both susceptible to habitat destruction and pollutants and can often be victims of being misunderstood. Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for an introductory look at our local amphibians and reptiles, what our citizens can do to help protect their habitats, and what related programs are available through Loudoun Wildlife to help monitor populations and increase community awareness of these often overlooked and fragile species. This presentation takes place at Rust Library and is co-sponsored by the Loudoun County Public Library and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy.