Keynote Speakers

Top Notch Toastmasters is a friendly, supportive public speaking club based in **Takoma Park, MD**. We meet on the **2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm** at the **Takoma Park Fire Department, 7201 Caroll Ave, Takoma Park, MD 20912.** To enter, go down the driveway beside the building, then enter the basement door at the rear corner of the building (beside the parking area designated for Fire Officers). Our mission is to create an enriching environment where members can develop essential communication skills such as **listening, critical thinking, and speaking**. These skills build confidence, strengthen leadership, and deepen understanding between people. At our meetings, you’ll see prepared speeches, constructive evaluations, and fun impromptu speaking (Table Topics). Guests are always welcome, and there is **no pressure to speak** until you feel ready. You can simply come, observe, and get a feel for the club. Whether you want to improve your public speaking for work, school, leadership, or personal growth, Top Notch Toastmasters offers a warm, encouraging space to practice and grow alongside others.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Cuba, Our Closest Enemy,”** on our country’s volatile relationship with an island nation off Florida’s coast, with William M. LeoGrande, professor of government at American University and leading expert on U.S.-Cuban relations. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-cuba](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-cuba) .] The United States and Cuba are fractious neighbors who can’t get along but can’t move away from one another. From Fidel Castro’s defiant revolution to Donald Trump’s “Donroe Doctrine” asserting U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere, U.S. relations with Cuba have been acrimonious, tumultuous, and often dangerous—marked by invasion, attempted assassinations, nuclear confrontation, and half a century of economic warfare. Gain a deeper understanding of relationships between the two countries with Dr. William LeoGrande, widely recognized as one of the nation’s foremost experts on Cuban politics and U.S. policy toward the island, having authored or edited seven books on the subject, including *Back Channel to Cuba: The Hidden History of Negotiations between Washington and Havana.* Professor LeoGrande’s talk will chronicle the trajectory of this unique relationship of “perpetual hostility,” as Henry Kissinger called it, from confrontations to secret talks aimed at reconciliation. We’ll see how America’s playground of the 1950s became a cold war ally of the Soviet Union and how Cuban refugees became a powerful force in American politics. We’ll look at how the end of the cold war changed U.S.-Cuban relations—or didn’t—and how repeated attempts at rapprochement failed to rebuild the bridges that had burned in the early days of Cuba’s revolution. Since Fidel Castro left center stage in 2006, U.S.-Cuban relations have lurched back and forth at stomach-churning velocity. Professor LeoGrande, who has advised Congress on Cuba as a member of its foreign policy staff, will explore the stories behind the headlines. You’ll learn how changes from Republican to Democratic presidents produced radical swings in relations between Washington and Havana, most dramatically between President Barack Obama’s attempt to normalize relations and Donald Trump’s threats to bankrupt or invade the island. ( Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A Cuban military truck in Havanna in 2006 (Photo by Thomassin Mickaël / Creative Commons).

Do you have a startup that needs funding? Do you want to learn how startup funding works, what you need to do before trying to raise funding, and where you can go to get it - especially when interest rates are high, AI disruption is here and geopolitical uncertainty is here? Join us for this panel with real investors, which will provide practical, step by step advice. We will have entrepreneurs who have successfully raised money for their businesses, and investors actively funding ventures. Learn expert tips, big pitfalls to avoid, what investors are looking for, how equity works, and more. **❯ Guest Speakers include:** * Sever Totia (Partner, 3TS Capital Partners) * Mahir Iskender (Founder, KNDR Digital) * Guc Ozenci (Program Director, FI Washington DC) **❯ Who Should Attend?** * Anyone who is thinking about raising money for their startup * Anyone that wants an understanding of fundraising for early stage businesses and products * Founders who need guidance in uncertain times **❯ What are some of the Topics?** * The key metrics and pre-requisites for raising funding in the new World order * How to make yourself more attractive to investors during AI disruption and geopolitical uncertainty * How to utilize online fundraising networks and platforms, like AngelList, Gust, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo. * How to meet and work with different sources of capital, such as friends and family, angel investors, venture capitalists, government grants and loans, and more. * and more... **❯ What is the Agenda?** * Welcome and Socializing * Talks from Entrepreneurs who have raised capital, and Investors who fund startups * Question and Answer * Introduction to the Founder Institute * Discussion and Networking **❯❯ This is an in-person event, so be sure to RSVP at [https://fi.co/e/396628/meetup](https://fi.co/e/396628/meetup) to secure your spot and receive further details.**

This event is NOT for beginners please. If you can't make it, please try to sign out at least 5 hours before the event starts. Thank you!

**Vienna Toastmasters Club:** https://viennava.toastmastersclubs.org/ "Speaking in front of a group of other people is a natural human state, which is probably the reason so many of us are frightened of doing it." *\~ Elliot Essman* **Where and When We Meet** USUALLY, our meetings are on the SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of each month at **Vienna** **Community Center, 120 Cherry St SE, Vienna, VA 22180, as well as online via Zoom link.** Occasionally the meeting location changes, so please "Contact us" to confirm before coming.

Join us for an evening of deep product insights and conversation with Steve Johnson, CEO of Product Growth Leaders. Most product managers aren’t struggling because they lack frameworks, data, or AI tools. They’re struggling because they’re talking to the wrong people. Instead of learning directly from customers, they rely on second-hand input—sales requests, executive opinions, support tickets, dashboards, and now AI-generated summaries of all of it. The result? Noise. Misalignment. And products that look good on paper but miss the market. AI can process more data than you ever will—but it can’t replace direct human understanding. It can’t see hesitation. It can’t hear what’s not being said. And it certainly can’t build trust with a customer who doesn’t believe you yet. That’s where product managers have an advantage—if they choose to use it. In this session, you’ll learn how Customer Conversations cut through the noise and become your most powerful differentiator. Not as a research technique, but as a leadership behavior that builds market insight, credibility, and better decisions. Through real stories and practical methods, you’ll learn how to: • Talk to the right people at the right time in the product lifecycle • Ask questions that uncover real problems • Validate ideas before you build them Because in a world where AI can generate answers at scale, the product manager who understands customers firsthand becomes the one who asks better questions—and makes better decisions. AGENDA 6:00 - 6:30 pm: Welcome and Registration. Refreshments provided. 6:30 - 7:00 pm: Talk by Steve Johnson (CEO at Product Growth Leaders) 7:00 - 7:15 pm: Q&A 7:15 - 8:00 pm: Networking ABOUT THE SPEAKER Steve Johnson is a product success coach focused on removing the chaos from product planning. He uses modern methods to guide product teams from idea to market in only a few weeks. Steve has trained tens of thousands of product professionals in his career. He is a former instructor and vice president at Pragmatic Institute and the chief architect of the popular Quartz Open Framework.

It is irresistible to enjoy German, French, Korean, Amharic, Italian, Spanish, what not:) convo. The Event is open to all levels of these languages from novice to native fluency. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. We will give out name tags. You write your name and what language you speak and what language you would like to exchange. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1\. Event is free and 21\+ \(bring ID\)\. 2\. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well\. 3\. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible\. 4\. If you don't speak the other person's required language\, LEAVE THEM ALONE\. 5\. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion\. 6\. This is a face\-to\-face language exchange event\. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting\, by using the comment box or direct message\. 7\. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box\. Since it sends notification to all attendees\. If you have any questions\, send a message to the organizers\. Don't write in the comment box\. 8\. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation\. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event\. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via \(info@merevents\.com\)\. 9\. When you get there\, we will greet you and take you to your respective group\. 10\. Don't be shy of your local languages\. We have diplomates assigned to different countries\, who would love to practice your languages\. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** [) [) http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/3/2/8/600_8069480.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/f/a/600_416043322.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/a/e/600_416043502.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/f/7/a/600_416043962.jpeg

**NOVA Scribes is helping to get the word out about the IAF's Conference of the Americas! Please register at:** https://www.iafamericasconference.org/ [americas2026@iaf-world.org](mailto:americas2026@iaf-world.org) **ABOUT** The IAF Conference of the Americas 2026 is a premier regional gathering of professional facilitators, coaches, consultants, leaders, and educators from across the Americas and beyond. Hosted by the International Association of Facilitators (IAF), this bilingual conference offers immersive learning through workshops, keynotes, panels, and networking-advancing both the art and science of facilitation. **WHY ATTEND** Facilitating on the Edge invites participants to explore the evolving boundaries of facilitation-where human connection, complexity, culture, and technology converge. The conference emphasizes practical application, global perspectives, and professional growth. With over 250 participants, 40+ workshops, 5 pre-conferences, and 10+ countries represented, you'll gain: • World-class professional development with immediately applicable tools • International exchange, with facilitators and participants from diverse backgrounds • Deep professional networking across sectors and cultures • Opportunities for IAF Certification: the global standard on facilitation excellence CONFERENCE TRACKS * Relationships, Trust & Connection * Tech & Al in Facilitation * Facilitation as a Profession & Business * Facilitation Tools & Methods APRIL 30 - MAY 2, 2026 MONTERREY, MEXICO Crowne Plaza Monterrey by IHG GENERAL REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 5, 2026 **‼️Register by April 10, 2026 or until tickets sell out at:** iafamericasconference.org americas2026@iaf-world.org #IAFacilitators #AmericasConference2026 #FaciIitatingOnTheEdge | | | --- | |

What’s better than summiting a mountain with your favorite hiking group? Doing it with two hiking groups! Late Morning Hikers and Washington Outdoor Adventures are combining forces on a hike up Shenandoah’s scenic Hogback Mountain. This hike features sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and moderately strenuous elevation. We’ll approach the summit from two directions and meet at the top for a shared lunch break and to enjoy the view. From there, folks can make it an out-and-back to return to their cars, or continue straight and carpool back with a new group. **Here’s how it will work:** Both groups will meet at the Vienna metro station, which has free parking, and divide up to carpool to two starting points (Neighbor Mountain Access Trail or Appalachian National Scenic Trail Parking – see locations below). We’ll have roughly equal numbers of hikers go to each starting point, and we won’t be strictly divided between LMH/WOA. After we meet for lunch, hikers can head back the way they came or continue along the trail. Hike leaders will return to their cars to shuttle folks as needed. After, we will meet up at 4Js Farm & Brewery near Warrenton for food and beverages. **🕒 Estimated hike time: \~6–7 hours at a moderate group pace** **📍Day of the Event:** * Meet at the Vienna Metro Parking Area * 🕙 Arrival: 8:00 AM 🚗 Departure: 8:15 AM * We’ll organize carpools on-site or in advance via Meetup comments. * 🚙 Estimated drive time: 1 hr 30 mins. **✅What to Bring:** * 💧2–3 liters of water * ⚡Electrolytes (Gatorade, Powerade, etc.) * 🍫Snacks * 📸Camera * 🥾Comfortable hiking shoes * 🧥Weather-appropriate layers **🚗 Carpool & Parking Info:** * 💰Suggested carpool fee: $15.00/person * 💵Park Entrance fee: $30/vehicle (Free with Shenandoah or America The Beautiful Park Passes) * 👥Group size limit: 15 members. * **Note: Please sign up only once if you are a member of both Meetup groups!** 📍Directions: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DPjNvzFNx9cU4nk6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DPjNvzFNx9cU4nk6) 🌧️ The event will be canceled in case of poor weather **🗺️Trail & Weather:** 🗺️Map: [[https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/lmh-woa-combined-day-hike-d6bc793?u=i&sh=lfbxds](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/lmh-woa-combined-day-hike-d6bc793?u=i&sh=lfbxds) ](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/lmh-woa-combined-day-hike-d6bc793?u=i&sh=lfbxds) 🌤️Forecast: [[https://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/va/sperryville](https://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/va/sperryville) ](https://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/va/sperryville) **🍻Post-Hike Social:** After the hike, we’ll head to [4Js Farm & Brewery](https://www.4jsfarmbrewery.com/) for food and drinks. **📝 RSVP Details:** * **✅RSVPs open April 2 at 12 PM** * **⏰Closes: Friday, May 1 at 7 PM** CARPOOLING: We encourage those with cars to carpool with others - you're the ones who make LMH great! If you're a driver that is willing to drive, please post a comment on the event page with the following information: (1) Number of seats (2) Meeting location (3) Meeting time As a rider, please comment on the driver's post to take a seat or post in the comments that you need a ride so a driver can find you. Riders are encouraged to help their driver out with the cost of gas ($15 suggested). BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT LMH: Please remember that this group is an informal group of friends and volunteers inititiating trips under the common adventurer model ([http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm](http://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.html)). We do expect our members to be familiar with the best practices of hiking. This is not a group for first time hikers and is NOT a group for those seeking hiking instruction. We are also not professionals, nor are we trained hike leaders, nor do we scout out hikes. We plan hikes for fun. You are responsible for your own welfare and safety at all LMH events. Be careful to choose hikes only within your own physical abilities and hiking knowledge; take maps, suitable clothing, provisions (at least two liters of water plus any food or medical supplies you might require) and equipment, and act responsibly and safely at all times. Act responsibly and safely: if you ever believe you may be lost, follow the advice of the US Forest Service ([https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost](https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost)) LMH organizers and members shall not be liable for any injuries, loss or damage to persons or property, direct or consequential, arising out of any aspect of LMH activities. By attending this event, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to the contents of our waiver of liability in the following link ([https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pQ0dedcqlyjc_Aib3TEbTX4gQRQt4C7FeCmsAPyTxd4/edit?tab=t.0))

**This talk is completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available. You must have purchased a ticket to be admitted.** [Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Exploring the Deep Sea,”** a scholarly dive into an enormous and little-understood ecosystem, with Melissa Betters, deep ocean explorer and deep-sea biologist at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-deep-sea](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-deep-sea) .] If you’re afraid of the deepest, darkest reaches of the ocean, you aren’t alone. For centuries, humans have imagined the ocean’s depths to be inhabited by all manner of monsters, from the Kraken to Godzilla. But what is the cost of viewing over 70% of our planet with fear and aversion? Who benefits from that? Come to see the deep sea as far more worthy of fascination than fear with the help of Dr. Melissa Betters, a biologist and marine ecosystem researcher who has made nine trips to the bottom of the ocean and taught at Bryn Mawr College and Temple University. She’ll take you on a scholarly exploration of various deep-sea ecosystems around the world such as deep coral reefs and boiling-hot hydrothermal vents. We’ll get to know some of the deep ocean’s captivating biodiversity, examining where it lives, what it does, and why it matters to us. With her help you’ll come to see the deep ocean as a tapestry of different environments, each of which host their own forms of life and present their own suite of ecological challenges. Importantly, we’ll also look at how the deep ocean is portrayed in both myth and media, considering how our perceptions are skewed by the rhetoric used to describe it and the images used to depict it. Despite appearing far-removed and out of reach, the deep ocean is still a part of our planet, subject to all the same challenges and human impacts as life on land. The final part of this talk will examine the variety of human impacts affecting the deep ocean and actions we can take to protect Earth’s final frontier. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Magnoteuthis magna, the most common deep-ocean squid, as photographed in Kinlan Canyon off of Rhode Island (NOAA Ocean Exploration photo).

I’ve always had a love for poker but not enough people to play with, so I’m making it happen! Come join me of what I hope becomes a weekly tradition. Texas Hold’em | Tournament Style 📍 Tysons Corner (exact address sent the day before) 🍕 Food & drinks provided ♠️ All skill levels welcome — beginners, I got you! No cash on the line, just good competition and even better company. Let’s build something fun together. Each player must contribute $20 to winnings pot. Last player remaining wins the full amount (pot)

# Stories That Matter Film Screening of "Deepfaking Sam Altman" Film screening, panel discussion, and Q&A **Register here:** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stories-that-matter-film-screening-of-deepfaking-sam-altman-tickets-1986940257798?aff=InviteSL#organizer-card ### Stories That Matter™ presents a special screening of the comedy documentary *Deepfaking Sam Altman,* followed by a Q&A and panel discussion with Emmy-nominated director Adam Bhala Lough and Emmy-winning producer Luke Kelly-Clyne, who is also a Johns Hopkins alumnus. ### This lighthearted documentary takes a mind-bending, thought-provoking turn when confronted with the unintended consequences of AI and the ensuing ethical and legal minefield that hilariously unfolds. ### **PANELISTS INCLUDE:** • Adam Bhala Lough, director of *Deepfaking Sam Altman* • Luke Kelly-Clyne, producer of *Deepfaking Sam Altman* and head of studio for Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat production company • Noel King, co-host and editorial director of Vox's *Today, Explained*, former host of NPR's flagship program, *Morning Edition*, and the popular podcast, *Up First* • Sig Libowitz, moderator and director of the Johns Hopkins Graduate Film and Media Program ### **WHEN:** Thursday, April 30 5:30 p.m. Check in 6:30 p.m. Program 8:20 p.m. Panel Discussion with Q&A 9:00 p.m. Event concludes ### **WHERE:** Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 ### **CHECK IN:** **•** A photo ID is required for entry. **•** Each attendee must have a ticket registered in their own name. If you reserved a ticket for someone else, please ensure their name and information are correctly entered. **•** A printed ticket is not needed. **•** Theater seating is first-come, first-served. Guests are encouraged to arrive early; overflow seating may be available. ### **ABOUT THE FILM:** The film follows Adam Bhala Lough, a father of two and a working Los Angeles filmmaker who represents the anxious everyman of the AI age. Adam has always believed in the promise of technology, until the arrival of AI threatens to upend his profession, his kids’ future, and possibly the fate of humanity itself. Adam wants to interview Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI and one of the most influential figures shaping the future of AI. But Altman doesn’t return his calls. Or emails. Or DMs. Then a headline-grabbing Hollywood controversy sparks a new idea. Adam travels to the other side of the world, where he teams up with an Indian deepfake artist to build Sam Bot, an Altman-inspired AI trained on the voice and public appearances of the real man. Sharp, glitchy, and unexpectedly charismatic, Sam Bot becomes a creative foil and sidekick, reshaping the direction of Adam’s film and his understanding of human connection. A verité film with a sci-fi comedy twist, *Deepfaking Sam Altman* is a sharp, surprisingly moving exploration of how we navigate the chaotic new world of artificial intelligence.

**A Transformative Half-Day Event** Welcome to Confidence Lab, the ultimate experience designed to help you step into your most confident self. This half-day event is packed with actionable strategies, inspiring sessions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who are ready to invest in their personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career, deepen your self-belief, or simply embrace new challenges, Confidence Lab is your starting point. **What You’ll Experience** **Your Confidence Lab ticket includes:** * **Engaging Speaker Sessions**: Learn from experts about harnessing confidence in your career, relationships, and everyday life. * **Interactive Experiences:** Participate in dynamic activities designed to help you step into your most confident self. * **In-Depth Audience Q&A:** Get direct insights from speakers as they answer your most pressing questions about building confidence and stepping into leadership. * **Networking Opportunities**: Connect with a supportive community of professionals and confidence enthusiasts. **2026 Speaker Sessions:** * **Seeing Clearly** Understand how you show up - and what’s been getting in the way. * **Confidence in Relationship** Communicate, navigate conflict, and build trust more effectively. * **Sustainable Agency** Learn how to lead without burning out. Your energy is part of the strategy. * **Confidence in Service** Align how you show up with the impact you actually want to have. **This Is For You If…** * You’re ready to take up more space in your work or life * You want to communicate with clarity and confidence * You’re stepping into (or preparing for) leadership * You’re done second-guessing yourself **Our Speakers** **Lachandra Baker** Founder of LBB Edutainment and the kind of person who makes you realize you’ve been confusing confidence with performance your whole life. Lachandra blends psychology, research, and radical humanity to help individuals and teams stop code-switching their way through the day and start showing up as someone they actually recognize. Expect to be challenged, affirmed, and genuinely seen - sometimes all in the same breath. **Annette Santiago Reyes** Annette has a rare talent: she makes the way you communicate feel like a discovery, not a critique. A connection catalyst and culture strategist, she helps people understand why they show up the way they do, and how to bridge the gap between intention and impact. Whether you're navigating change, life’s challenges, or simply trying to better understand yourself and others. Annette gives you the language and the lens to get there. **Elizabeth Wangugi** Creator of The Nap Concert and the RESTOR™ framework, Elizabeth is here to tell you that rest is not a reward - it’s a strategy. Rooted in neuroscience and restorative practice, her work helps high-achievers stop running on fumes and start leading from a place of actual capacity. If your calendar is full and your tank is empty, Elizabeth might be the most important person you hear from at Confidence Lab. **Stephanie Andrews** Founder of Social Black Butterfly Training & Consulting, Stephanie knows what it takes to lead through complexity because she’s done it across social services, healthcare, and operations. She specializes in succession strategy and leadership development, equipping leaders to build trust, navigate the hard moments, and leave something worth inheriting. Stephanie doesn’t just develop leaders. She develops the kind of leaders people actually want to follow. **Lillian Morales-Laster** SVP Human Resources Director at United Midwest Savings Bank and Executive Director of the Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy (ELLA). Lillian has spent her career combining her passion for equity and inclusion with her experience in human resources to lead teams and organizations in the development of supportive work environments. She leads with a vision of ensuring Latinas' voices are included in crucial decision-making processes, because for Lillian, ELLA is more than just a program. It's a vibrant community of hermanas supporting and uplifting each other as they navigate their paths to leadership. A Columbus Business First Community Champion and Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan, her commitment to empowering others shows up everywhere she goes. **Rachyl Kershaw** Founder of Greater Columbus Consulting and the architect behind the Confidence Lab Annual Summit, Rachyl has a gift for cutting through the noise, helping high-achievers stop performing success and start living it. She asks the questions most people are afraid to, creates space for honest reckoning, and somehow makes the hard work feel energizing. If you’ve ever wondered why doing everything right still feels like something’s missing, you’re in exactly the right room. **Why Confidence Lab?** Confidence is the foundation for success in every area of life. Whether you’re navigating a career change, launching a business, or striving for personal growth, building your confidence is the key to unlocking your higher purpose. This is your chance to invest in yourself and start living boldly. **Join Us on May 4** Confidence Lab is more than just an event - it’s a movement. Step into your power, embrace your potential, and make this the year you thrive. Secure your spot today and take the first step toward a more confident YOU. Cost should never be a barrier to growth. If you'd like to request a complimentary community ticket, reach out to us at [hello@confidencelab.org](hello@confidencelab.org), no explanation needed. Read more and see additional ticketing options at [https://confidencelab.org/](https://confidencelab.org/)

The topic for May is "Ink" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas ***NOTE:*** Pre-registration is required for this event. **Please arrive 10 minutes early** to check in at the security desk.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

It feels like we just saw each other 🤷. Join members of the local design and UX community for our monthly breakfast. For May we’re stopping in for Rooh’s popup breakfast/cafe concept. You know someone is getting the lobster yuzu croissant, and that’s not even the prettiest thing on the menu!.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation