Community

Our BIG FREE Friday night episode of Thought Experiments in Pubs. Join us to think (and imagine) out loud with an openminded group of people from all walks of life :-) This time we'll be talking about "BELONGING". We'll explore the theme using three **thought experiments** (posted in the comments below on the day of the event) **The aim of this meetup:** meet new people and have different, thought provoking conversations. You can get a sense of what the events and community are like **[here](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)**. **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D13LHw5BV3rEtUtO3ORklC)** \- stay in the loop **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- get our newsletter **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** & **[FACEBOOK](https://facebook.com/thoughtexperimentsinpub)** \- bits and pieces about the people\, the thought experiments\, and the community **How we'll do it** (timings approximate)**:** * **6:30** \- Arrive at the pub\, find us in the dining room * Organise ourselves into small groups (4-7ish...recent research finding: apparently 4 is the best number for a good conversation!) * Have a look at the thought experiments (posted here on the day of the event) * **6:45** \- First rotation begins \- Talk about the first thought experiment\. If you don’t want to talk about that one\, move on to another one\. Feel free to veer off topic\. * **7:05** \- Optional shuffle: swap groups\, move on to the second thought experiment\. * **7:30** \- Optional shuffle: swap groups\, move on to the third thought experiment\. * **7:55** \- Wrap up \- hear about upcoming events\, join the whatsapp group\, give feedback/requests for future meetups\. * **8:00** Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations :-) **Notes on the general atmosphere:** * The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic. * While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough! * Feel free to suggest ideas for future episodes of Thought Experiments in Pubs, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss. **Where we'll meet:** This group will be at the Earl of Lonsdale Pub on Portobello. The nearest Tube station is Notting Hill Gate. **Who should come:** Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about *doing* philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc. etc.... Looking forward to meeting & talking with you! If you would like to support me & these meetups with a donation, you can do so here: https://buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor Thank you! \*\*[ALTERNATIVE PLATFORM FOR TICKETS](https://tribeirl.com/thought-experiments-in-pubs) \- TRIBE\*\* #everyonewelcome #newideas #newpeople #inclusivity #openmindedness

**FEMME CLTV** **Private Women’s Community \| Events \| Hosting Opportunities** London needed a stronger **women-first** social space. So we built one. **FEMME CLTV** is a private, curated community for women who want **real friendships**, **better events**, and **opportunities to host**. Not dating-focused. Not chaotic high-volume drinks nights. Not “show up and hope for the best.” *Intentional. Vetted. Supportive. Fun.* **WHAT YOU'LL FIND INSIDE:** • Small curated socials • Brunch clubs • Live music nights • Walks & activity events • Day trips • Travel groups **• Paid hosting opportunities** We are building a strong core of female members and female hosts first. Safety and vibe matter. **HOW TO APPLY:** 1. RSVP to this event. 2. Leave a short intro comment using the format below. 3. We’ll DM you a short form for verification and matching. **Intro format:** Hi, I’m *[Name]*. Based in *[Area]*. I’d love to attend/host *[Brunch/Walks/Music/Food/Travel/Other].* *Available mostly [Weekdays/Fri/Sat/Sun]*. Approved members will be invited to the private Femme Cltv WhatsApp group and private events. This is a community, not just an event page. If you’ve been looking for better women’s socials in London, **join now!**

**BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET TODAY** Join us for an engaging session focused on enhancing your communication skills and achieving personal and professional success. In this meetup, we will explore effective communication techniques and delve into strategies for building strong connections and relationships. Whether you are looking to improve your communication within your personal life or seeking to enhance your professional interactions, this event is designed to provide you with practical tips and insights. During this session, we will discuss various aspects of communication. Through interactive exercises and group discussions, you will have the opportunity to practice and refine your communication abilities. Our experienced guest speakers will share their expertise on mastering influential conversations and navigating challenging communication scenarios. Join us and unlock your potential to communicate confidently, express yourself effectively, and create meaningful connections with others. This event is open to individuals of all backgrounds who are eager to develop their communication skills and accelerate their personal and professional growth. Don't miss out on this opportunity to become a more effective communicator and achieve greater success in all areas of your life! *Hosted by Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Centre, London*

Welcome to the Soho Living Room Bookclub! If you enjoy reading, sharing and discussing good books over a good cup of coffee (and maybe a crafty scone!), this is the group for you! Join the conversation every Friday from 10.00-11.30! Looking forward to seeing you there. For more information, call Richard on 07563 995 821

**How To Communicate Like A Pro – Workshop** Whether it’s pitching your business, nailing an interview, or simply making a lasting impression in everyday conversations—communication is the skill that opens doors. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn proven techniques to: ✨ Speak with clarity and confidence ✨ Keep your audience engaged (without boring them) ✨ Overcome nerves and think on your feet ✨ Build trust and influence through your words This isn’t about memorizing scripts—it’s about learning how to adapt, connect, and communicate with impact in any situation. Expect practical exercises, real-time feedback, and strategies you can use straight away. Perfect for entrepreneurs, professionals, or anyone who wants to level up their communication game.

Hello Everyone, For this meeting, we’ll be reading and discussing Peter Gelderloos’ essay **[“The Justice Trap: Law and the Disempowerment of Society.”](https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/peter-gelderloos-the-justice-trap-law-and-the-disempowerment-of-society)** It’s a provocative text that questions what happens when social movements rely on “justice” through legal frameworks and state institutions, and how the justice system can end up weakening collective power, autonomy, and even community bonds. The essay also explores alternatives: restorative approaches to conflict, decentralized ways of resolving harm, and what “social peace” might look like without policing and prisons. Gelderloos argues that the “justice system” can harm movements even when it appears to be fair. He describes how repression can work without convictions: two people are arrested, and an entire community ends up “punished” through stress, time-drain, fundraising, legal admin, fear, and disruption — meaning the **process becomes the punishment**, even if the court later “absolves” them. He also pushes us to separate *resolving harm* from *justice institutions*. He gives examples of restorative and community-based ways of arbitrating conflict without police, prisons, punishment, or a legal code. In these models, conflict is often **defined subjectively** by the people involved, based on shared cultural values that are **not codified** into law. Resolution is **decentralized** (not one official space, not one official outcome), and responsibility is **shared rather than specialized**. Instead of punishment, communities may use **social sanctions meant to discourage harmful behaviour** — from criticism and ridicule to withdrawing social ties, sometimes escalating to ostracism in serious cases. The underlying assumption is that most people want to remain part of the community and can be brought back into relationship through accountability and repair. **Guiding questions for the discussion** • Subjective conflict: if conflict is defined by individuals, how do we prevent constant conflict or bad-faith accusations — and how do we ensure real harms aren’t dismissed? • Non-codified norms: what do we gain from not codifying values (flexibility, context)… and what do we risk (arbitrariness, bias, exclusion)? • The spectrum of sanctions: which sanctions feel acceptable in your context, and which feel dangerous? Where is the line between “discouragement” and “punishment”? • If we step away from the justice system, what practices or structures could communities use to address serious harm and protect people, without reproducing prisons and policing under a different name? Looking forward to seeing you all for what should be a stimulating and welcoming session.

## About the Event Meet new people, make friends and enjoy sharing a meal together. Join us for a low-cost meal and good conversation! All are welcome! Location: **the Hall** next to Rosslyn Hill Chapel

Start your weekend by watching the sunrise from one of London's best viewpoints. Meet fellow early birds. Get a big dose of nature: wild sky, abundant green space, and occasional wildlife. And then warm up in a nearby cafe. Conversations fuelled by early morning light and coffee tend to be good ones. On Saturday 7th March, we will: * Meet from: 6:15AM at the top of Primrose Hill * **Sunrise at: 6:32AM** * Take in the view for a little while * Walk to a nearby cafe (Roots on Regent's Park Road) * Warm up with coffee (with 10% off) Become part of our community of regulars, or just drop by for a one off experience. We meet frequently - sometimes weekly, sometimes fortnightly - to create and sustain community. New people are always welcome :-) **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/C2KwIp79riz1A71dNF6pgF)** to keep up to date **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thesunriseclubetc)** to see what these meetups look like **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** for the newsletter and occasional extras **[WEBSITE](http://www.alltogether.one/)** for all other groups We are easy to find because we will be at the top of the hill with a big flag that says 'THE SUNRISE CLUB'. These are free meetups, but if you’d like to make a donation in support of my mission - to get people together, to create connections, and have fun - you can donate here: '[buy me a coffee](https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor)' ❤️ \*\*You can also join us on [TRIBE](https://tribeirl.com/the-sunrise-club)\*\*

Welcome to this incredible meetup at one of London's most historic and charming pubs near Oxford Circus! We are excited to invite you to join us at The Cock Tavern, on Saturday at 3 PM. This Free event, tailored for the over 50s, offers a perfect opportunity to connect and celebrate in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. #### Details at a Glance: * **Date:** On Saturday. * **Time:** 3 PM onwards * **Venue:** The Cock Tavern, 27 Great Portland Street, London W1W 8QE * **Nearest Station:** Oxford Circus #### **Convenient Location:** Located in the very heart of London, The Cock Tavern is just a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Its prime location makes it easily accessible, whether you're coming from home, a day out in the city, or a relaxing afternoon. **Engaging for the Over 50s:** This meetup is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for *members of our group*, particularly those over 50. Whether you're looking to make new friends, share stories, or simply enjoy the company of others in your age group, this event promises a comfortable and engaging environment. Although it may start quietly, it can become very busy as the afternoon progresses **Exciting Opportunity for Fun and Connection:** Join us for a delightful afternoon of meeting new people and engaging in fun conversations. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our events, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for making connections and enjoying great company. We can't wait to see you there! **[Prime Time Group](https://www.primetimebase.com) \| [FAQ](https://www.primetimebase.com/bulletin/category/faq/)**

Join us for a deliciously fun time at our Cheese Club! Each meeting is all about discovering new cheeses, exploring creative pairings, and enjoying great conversations. Parents, take a break and unwind in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Our Cheese Club is designed for families or parents to connect, learn about the world of cheese, and bond with other families. Every Saturday, 11.00am-12.00pm Silas: +44 7719 733103

Weekly cycling club open to members of that club only. Membership enquiries to creativewellnesswon@outlook.com

**Confidence & Connection: Using Your Authentic Truth to Find Your People** Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself, it’s about knowing where you belong and who you can grow alongside. In this April Confidence Lab Happy Hour, we’ll explore how living in your authentic truth helps you find your people, build meaningful collaborations, and create spaces where vulnerability is met with respect rather than risk. Together, we’ll reflect on what it looks like to advocate for yourself with clarity and care, and how confidence deepens when it’s rooted in connection rather than comparison. Featured speaker **Lachandra Baker**, founder of **[LBB Edutainment](https://www.lbbedutainment.com/)** and author of *Your Own Biggest Cheerleader*, will share reflections on authenticity, psychological safety, and the power of community over individual achievement. Drawing from personal stories—including the significance of turning 53—Lachandra will invite us into a conversation about showing up fully, being seen, and choosing relationships that support who you truly are. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with space for reflection, shared insight, and intentional connection—plus drinks, light bites, and the kind of conversations that remind you you’re not meant to do this alone. Come as you are. Leave feeling clearer about your voice, your people, and the confidence that grows when both are aligned. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

How do you feel happier with people? How do you get into the spirit of group activities? How do you get rid of the anxiety of communicating in front of people? In this meeting, you will learn the secrets of how to connect with people, open yourself up to people, and have a grand time being yourself. This meeting will be led by an expert who has been working with people just like you to feel happier and improve communication skills for over 10 years. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Whether you've never done improv before, or you've done it for so long you knew Del Close on a personal level, or anywhere in between, come join us! Swing by *Gresso's* for the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup** for some fun and games! The idea behind improv is to create entire scenes from scratch based on a suggestion from the audience. This can be done in game form, like *Whose Line Is It Anyway*, *ComedySportz*, or *Wild 'n Out*; it could also be done to tell stories, like *Middleditch and Schwartz*. Our meetup, which is central Ohio's longest running (and free!) weekly comedy event, brings the games (and occasionally different forms) for you to play in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. Not only is it a lot of fun, but you get to work on thinking faster on your feet, plus it's an excellent way to meet new people and make friendships that'll last a lifetime! Ask yourself if you want to join the **Columbus Improv Comedy Meetup**, and say "Yes, And" that you'll have fun!

Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District. (Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)

How to be a Better Communicator Communication is everything in life Sunday, 23 February at 2pm. You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024