Real Talk

An inspiring, high-energy meeting of public speaking, connection, and personal growth in the heart of Berlin. **Mercury Toastmasters Berlin** invites you to our weekly meeting at our new home at **Das Center, Potsdamer Platz**, in the stunning **Historic Imperial Breakfast Hall**. *Experience the **power of prepared speeches** loaded with bold ideas, participate in our **dynamic Impromptu Session**, and **gain valuable insights** during our feedback segment.* *Leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration.* *Whether you want to speak up at work, boost your presence, or just meet inspiring people, you’ll feel at home at Mercury Toastmasters Berlin.* *** **[What to Expect:](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)** ✨ A supportive space to speak, grow, and connect 🎤 Engaging prepared speeches ⚡ Fun, fast-paced impromptu speaking challenges 💬 Feedback session you can actually use 🌍 A friendly, international crowd (around 25–30 people) **Schedule** (times may vary) ⏰ 19:15 - Doors open & networking 🎙️ 19:30 - Prepared Speeches 🏓 20:35 - Impromptu Session (Guest welcome to join) ↩️ 21:00 - Constructive feedback 💬 21:30 - Food, drinks & relaxed socializing **No experience needed.** ***Come curious. Leave energized.*** *** **🤙 [Hear it from our members:](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eRtvR9DRNqU9WZQn7)** *“You can sharpen your public speaking skills and gain tons of confidence, while having fun and making new friends. Mercury is well-structured, fun, and affordable.”* — *Therese Pitt* *“Mercury gave me a safe place to speak, create, and grow. I love the multicultural vibe and supportive community. It’s the best place to learn and have fun.”* — *Krisztina Linka* *** **[Did You Know?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Toastmasters is where people go to get better at speaking—and grow into confident communicators and leaders. Today [Toastmasters ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)has 350,000+ members across 16,000 clubs in 143 countries. And [Mercury](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/) is one of the best places to experience it. So bring your curiosity, your energy—and just be yourself. Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, there’s a place for you here. *** **[Wondering what you get as a member?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/membership-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Think expert feedback, real-world speaking practice, and a supportive crew that’s got your back. [See you Wednesday night! 🎉](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)

## **UPDATE: WE ARE SOLD OUT** ## **🔥 Register [Here](https://luma.com/p1fie3ns) 🔥** The event has limited seats and [requires registration](https://luma.com/p1fie3ns). *** ## **About The Event** **Stepping from Individual Contributor (IC) to Team Lead** is one of the biggest career curveballs in any profession, not just tech. From the outside, leadership looks like “impact, visibility, growth.” From the inside… it’s often being less hands-on and suddenly dealing with the reality of people problems. This panel brings together professionals who made different choices: **→** those who lead projects and expertise and **→** those who lead people. Expect honest stories, real tradeoffs, and the things no job description ever mentions. No glossy narratives. No corporate fairy tales. Just the truth about whether the manager track is actually for you. Plus: networking, snacks, drinks, and good Berlin vibes! *** ## **Who Is This For?** * International professionals in Berlin exploring leadership roles * New or aspiring managers wondering “is this the right path?” * ICs comparing the expert track to the people-lead track * Anyone who wants a clearer, more honest view of what management really involves *** ## **What’s In It For You?** * A real understanding of the IC vs Team Lead tradeoffs * Insights from people who chose different paths (and why) * What changes when you lead people, not just work * Practical questions to help you decide your next career step * Clarity on whether management is your next move… or not *** ## ​**Speakers** ​**⭐ Andreea Lungulescu** **- *Founder and Community Leader, Talent Crunch, Berlin*** The founder of The Principal Recruiter, Andreea brings 15+ years shaping specialist talent strategies. Twice awarded for Global TA Innovation, she led transformative programs at Zalando & Wayfair, including building and scaling Wayfair's Tech Hub in India. She also builds and leads Talent Crunch - Berlin, a thriving DACH community, from zero to 5,700+ through organic growth & 39+ events so far. Sharing insights on hiring excellence and career growth through her website, social media, and appearances at conferences and on podcasts. ​**⭐ Ester Atweh - *Senior Manager Workforce Support, Flink*** Ester is a senior people services manager passionate about helping teams thrive. With a background spanning workforce planning, team leadership, and employee support, she leads Workforce Support at Flink. Her work centers on improving collaboration, strengthening people processes, and supporting leaders and employees through the real, day-to-day complexities of a growing organization. ​**⭐ Jarek Wawszczak - *Engineering Manager, Zalando*** Jarek is an engineering leader with 15+ years of experience building and leading cross-functional teams in both high-growth startups and large-scale organizations. Currently at Zalando, he leads data and assortment engineering for the Sport and Beauty categories, having previously managed engineering teams across Berlin and Helsinki. Jarek focuses on technical strategy, delivery excellence, and leadership development. His track record spans high-impact customer products, core platform capabilities, and strategic company-wide initiatives. *** ## ​**Event Schedule** * 18:30 – 19:00 → Doors open: snacks, drinks & informal networking * 19:00 – 19:45 → Panel discussion with industry experts * 19:45 – 20:15 → Audience Q&A * 20:15 – 21:00 → Structured networking *** ## **Why Join?** **Because career decisions deserve more than assumptions.** **This event offers:** * Real talk instead of LinkedIn myths * Multiple perspectives in one evening * A community of professionals facing the same dilemmas * Practical insight you can’t get from job descriptions **If you’re weighing “leading projects vs. leading people,” this is the conversation you want to be part of.** *** ## **Venue** **Mindspace, Skalitzerstraße, Berlin** A cozy, central Kreuzberg location, fully equipped for a comfortable evening of discussion and connection.

Cuban salsa classes every Wednesday . Join us, learn how to dance, save lives and make friends! **Classes**: 19:00 - Absolute Beginners (For Free) 20:00 - Beginners 2 21.00 - Improvers 1 **Price: (Card payment only)** 1 class - 7€ 10 class pass - 49€ or 42€ reduced* (To use within 11 weeks. Valid for all our classes. It can only be used by one person per class. No refund possible) * Reduced price for students, Schüler, Azubis, H4-Empfänger, and pensioners/retired folks. A valid proof is needed. **Why should you learn Salsa, and why with us?** - It's great fun! - You don't need any prior dancing experience. - You get to know loads of new people. - No registration, just swing by. - No fix starting date - you can start any week. - No dress code - come in whatever you feel comfortable in. Note:No outside shoes in the room: socks or a pair of clean shoes will be required - No partner needed - we change regularly during the classes (bring all your friends though!) - You can help us make a difference! **What is Salsa4Water**? Simple! We teach Salsa and donate all our profits to the NGO Welthungerhilfe, which uses these funds for their local projects in Malawi. Welthungerhilfe fights for equal access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene in nearly 40 countries world wide. This gives you the chance to save lives while dancing!

Welcome to an intimate and powerful breathwork experience inspired by Holotropic principles. We create a safe, grounded and transformative environment for emotional release, clarity and deep inner connection. This circle is limited to **4 participants** to ensure personal guidance, emotional safety and comfort. *** ## **Session Structure** **1\. Welcome & Introduction \(30 min\)** * What Holotropic-inspired breathwork is * How the session works * Safety guidelines and recommendations for a free, supportive experience **2\. Active Breathwork Journey \(90 min\)** A deep breathing experience guided by a carefully curated musical sequence designed to support inner exploration. During this phase, participants may experience: * Body sensations, shaking, warmth, spontaneous movements * Emotional release (crying, laughter, sighs) * Images, memories, visions or states of expanded awareness **3\. Integration Circle \(60 min\)** A voluntary space to share and express your experience Suggestions for emotional and somatic integration Compassionate support, presence and grounding **Total duration: \~3 hours** *** ## **What to Bring** Please bring the following for comfort and immersion: * **Comfortable clothing** * **Eye mask** * **Water bottle** * **Blanket** * **Pillow / cushion** * **Yoga mat** (We have a few extra items if needed.) *** ## **Contraindications** Not recommended for people with: Cardiovascular conditions, epilepsy, pregnancy, recent major surgeries, or severe psychiatric diagnoses. If you’re unsure, feel free to message us. *** ## **Who We Are** We are **Paula & Javi**, certified breathwork facilitators and founders of **Holostar33**. To learn more about us and hear testimonials from other customers, follow us on Instagram: @holostar33 We are new in Berlin and building a conscious community centered around breathwork, embodiment and healing. We look forward to breathing with you. **Holostar33 – Transformational Breathwork & Community**

📚 Il nostro Book Club di gennaio ti aspetta! ✨ Martedì 28 gennaio alle 19:00 Questo mese ci immergiamo in "Piatti Rotti" di Esther Bondì, un libro che promette di farci riflettere, emozionare e, soprattutto, parlare per ore! Ma il nostro book club è molto più di una semplice discussione letteraria. È uno spazio dove le pagine dei libri diventano ponti tra persone, dove la solitudine si trasforma in conversazione, e dove magari trovi quella persona con cui continuerai a scambiare consigli di lettura anche dopo la serata. Perché leggere da soli è bello, ma condividere le emozioni di un libro con altri è ancora meglio! 💛 🎟️ Scegli la tua modalità di partecipazione: 📖 Solo atmosfera - 7€
Porta il tuo libro e goditi una bevanda a tua scelta mentre ci perdiamo tra le pagine di Esther Bondì. 📚 Libro + bevanda - 22,70€
Aquista il libro da Metis e una bevanda. Perfetto se non hai ancora iniziato a leggere! 🍷 Aperitivo-cena completo - 27€
Libro incluso + aperitivo-cena con bevanda. Perché letteratura e buon cibo vanno sempre d'accordo! 🥂 Solo aperitivo-cena - 12€
Aperitivo-cena con bevanda (porta il tuo libro). Non importa se sei un lettore divoratore o se hai appena riscoperto il piacere di leggere. Qui c'è spazio per tutti: per chi vuole discutere ogni dettaglio, per chi cerca semplicemente un momento piacevole, e per chi spera di trovare la sua nuova tribù di amanti dei libri. Libro disponibile nella libreria Metis. Ci vediamo il 28 gennaio alle 19:00! I posti sono limitati, quindi prenota il tuo posto e preparati a una serata di storie, risate e nuove connessioni. Perché la vita è troppo breve per leggere da soli. 📖💫 La partecipazione al book club dà diritto a uno sconto del 10% sul tuo prossimo acquisto di libri non tedeschi (escluso il libro del book club), offerta valida fino al prossimo book club.

Come along, grab a coffee, shut up, and write! We will do at least two sessions of each 45 minutes of writing and two breaks. We will start the first writing session at 10:15. For space reasons, we are limited to a certain number of attendees, so please update your RSVP if you can't come. We are typically by the large windows facing the U-Bahn entrance. If you are new, come and say hello, as we know that suddenly going quiet for 45 minutes and staring at that blank page can be intimidating when it's your first time. We have a lot of long-term regulars who will be happy to help you feel welcome. In between sessions, we have a Telegram chat: https://t.me/joinchat/ERW3pxD5kfELGeWs9SUhjw For more information, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com/).

Philosophy Discussion Meetup – Exploring Life’s Big Questions Through Books Join us for an open and friendly philosophy meetup where we explore life’s deepest questions through thoughtful conversation, shared reading, and discussion. Each participant is welcome to bring a book they are currently reading and share interesting ideas or questions from it. One of our main reference books is Sophie's World, which we often use as a starting point for discussion. 🗓 What to Expect Each meeting follows a relaxed and engaging format: Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes) Brief introductions and sharing what everyone is reading. Book & Topic Sharing (20 minutes) Participants present a short passage, idea, or question from their book. Group Discussion (45–60 minutes) Open discussion based on the shared material, often inspired by Sophie's World and related philosophical themes. Wrap-Up & Social Time (15 minutes) Final reflections and informal conversation. No prior philosophy background is required—curiosity and openness are enough. 🎒 What to Bring Please bring: A book you are currently reading (optional but encouraged) One or two questions or ideas from your book A notebook and pen (optional) If you don’t have a book, you are still very welcome to join and participate. 📍 How to Find Us We meet at Pizzeria Cucina, in Regattastraße 35, 12527 Berlin. Look for a group with books and notebooks on the table Feel free to join even if you arrive late. 🤝 Group Values Respectful and open discussion No judging or “winning” arguments Everyone gets a chance to speak Different viewpoints are welcome Curiosity over certainty Whether you are new to philosophy or a long-time reader, this group offers a supportive space to think together and learn from one another. We look forward to reading, questioning, and reflecting with you.

**Relax. Connect. Create. 🎨☕** After a full week of work, meetings, study sessions and life in fast-forward, it’s time to slow down. Join us this Saturday afternoon in Berlin for a relaxed coffee hang-out where this week's agenda is good company & warm drinks. You're also invited to bring some boardgames, drawing/coloring materials (I will bring an adult coloring book) **What’s the plan?** We’ll meet in a cosy spot, draw, chat about everything and nothing, swap stories and simply enjoy the moment. No pressure. No formalities. Just a bunch of friendly people sharing a Saturday coffee. **Who’s welcome?** Everyone! Whether you’re a Berliner born and raised, newly arrived in the city, from Germany or abroad, if you like meeting open-minded folks and spending some relaxed time—come join us. **When & how?** Saturday afternoon. Detailed time and place in our Telegram group. ➡️ Join us on Telegram: [https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee](https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee) Hop in, say hello, and we’ll share the final details. **Why join?** * Because you deserve a break. * Because you enjoy being creative. * Because you enjoy boardgames * Because meeting new people sparks fresh energy. * Because coffee tastes even better when shared. * Because Saturday afternoons were made for this. Respect and Safety: There is always at least one organizer present at every meetup. If you ever feel unsafe or bothered by someone’s behavior, you can reach out to an organizer privately. Your identity will remain confidential, your concern will be taken seriously, and no inappropriate behavior is tolerated — anyone making others feel uncomfortable will be removed from the group immediately. We hope to see you there. Bring yourself, your smile, drawing materials, your stories—or just your comfy self. 😊 Let’s make Saturday a little more laid-back, a little more social and a lot more nice. See you soon! —Your Saturday Creative Coffee Crew ☕

Nice! You are looking for real long time friendship! You might have already lived in Berlin or other big cities and experienced the "Anonymous" culture for a while. Meeting random people over and over and never see the same person again! In order to find "Real Long Term Friendship" in Berlin, do as follows: * You should not care how many people are joining this meetup. You RVSP. Even if only one person is joining. Because if everyone are waiting for everyone else to RVSP, nobody joins and nobody finds a new friend. * You do not care how many people of the opposite sex are joining. You are looking for friends. Finding the best romantic partner in the world, while avoiding not very attractive others, can be your other goal, for another time. Here we are looking for Friends. Real ones. * You are going to risk a very precious property of yours: Your time! Yes, there are thousands of opportunities in Berlin, there might be a rock concert for free, a birthday party you might miss, an important person might call you and invite you spontaneously, but you never find new friends until you decide to risk your time and meet people anyway. "I will check my calendar and get back to you" also does not work. Commit your time and spend it. Trust me, you won't go bankrupt ;-) * You are ready to use your phone as a real phone! You might have been using your phone as a tablet to visit Instagram and Facebook and watch movies. But if you want to find friends, you must know that people might take your phone number and give you theirs. That means they will Call you! And you have to pick up the phone and answer it. If you want to find new friends, you must be ready to do something really hard for the first time after years: Call people first, and if they called you: Answer your phone! * You are going to meet some people twice! That's the point of friendship. We already can experience random encounters with random people in random places one at a time. But that is not called friendship. If you want friends, you must be ready to meet the same person more than once. If you agree with above, RVSP and COME! You will meet other people who think the same way. P.S: Now that you've read all the way down to here, I suggest you [watch this animation](https://player.vimeo.com/video/547249272?h=22f3dd0f6f).

**[🎟️ Sign up here to grab your ticket 🎟️](https://luma.com/ftst1berlin)** We are back in Berlin for **our first event of the new year!** **📦 WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?** FTST is a **one-of-a-kind social experience** where strangers come together for an afternoon of meaningful, fun, and deep conversation. It’s also a different & cool way of meeting new people by getting a bit out of your comfort zone and skipping the small talk! Join us for **games**, **talks**, and **connections** with **friends you haven’t met yet**. Join if you get annoyed after being asked what you do, where you are from, and how long you've been in Berlin every single time you meet someone. If you feel that there are better questions in life, this is the place for you. 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** We start with a short & sweet intro talk followed by a few light-hearted group games to warm up. After that, we split you up into small groups and start with the conversation rounds (with 3-4 people). We'll have awesome question cards that will guide the flow of the conversation. You’ll never have to speak in public if you don’t want to. **🕹 HOW TO JOIN?** **[Take 1 minute to sign up 👈](https://luma.com/ftst1berlin)** Our events are **limited to 30 handpicked guests** to ensure a cozy atmosphere. We aim to curate events with similar age and gender groups *wherever possible.* If you're invited you'll receive a confirmation within 48 hours via Luma (our ticketing platform) ***Can't make it/event sold out?*** *[Sign up here](https://epicllama.myflodesk.com/berlin) and we'll let you know about the next one 😎* **🧧 HOW MUCH IS IT?** The cost to attend is **15€-18€** and includes the following: ⏰ 3 hours of facilitated and curated activities 🍎 Light snacks to keep the energy going (only if outdoors) 👥 A space to meet new people in the least boring way possible 💛 Supporting our mission to spread human connection events around the world *(🎫 also includes those annoying ticket fees!)* **🌳 WHERE IS IT?** We host our events in awesome bars & parks across the city. *We only **reveal the location** to ticket holders **24 hours** before.* This edition will be in a cool bar in Friedrichshain. **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** 🗣 “Great way to connect with people in a more meaningful way. Get to the heart of the matter, dive straight into what really counts!” - Matthias 🗣 “F\*ck the Small Talk changes the narrative from "Where are you from?" to "When was the last time you laughed uncontrollably?" and I think that's beautiful.” - Monika 🗣 “I loved F\*ck the Small Talk, I was a little bit nervous at first but they are pros at making you feel comfortable with the rest of the group, the activities are really fun and I enjoyed every second (consider that the one who's saying this is very, very shy). Give it a try!” - Brenda 🗣 "It’s a wonderful experience, it’s like being a kid again, when you were at the park, playing with other kids, and just decided you were going to be best friends for the next hours. Maybe you’ll never see those kids again. But that hour was amazing because you both opened up and trusted each other." - Sara [Check out our 130+ Google reviews here](https://www.google.com/maps/place/EPIC+LLAMA/@29.4255256,-41.3746386,3z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xf758abc88e22289c!8m2!3d29.4255256!4d-41.3746386?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiAydX55IP9AhWWQjABHejpCCkQ_BJ6BAhWEAg&coh=164777&entry=tt&shorturl=1)[ ](https://goo.gl/maps/TpZy77bfPFkGoikn7)💛 *(these are real humans, we promise!)* **🤓 FAQ** **• What's the age range?** Most people who come to our events are between 24 and 40 years old. But everyone is welcome to attend! (it's just a reference) **• Can I come alone?** Of course, we encourage it :) **• Can I be late?** Please don't! Late arrivals will disrupt the floooooooow. **• I signed up but never got an invite. Why?** We get a high volume of sign-ups yet we can only invite around 30 people. Please try again next time if do not receive an invite - no hard feelings 💛 **• Why do you charge?** We value our time and put a lot of love, planning, and effort into creating & designing these experiences. ♥️ This is our project/business and what we give to the world and we think everything should be a fair exchange! 🎈 However, money should never be the reason for people not to attend. If you can’t afford it send us a message! **• Can I bring my pet llama?** 100% yes, any *well-behaved* pets are highly encouraged as long as you can still focus on connecting with the humans around you! Especially llamas. Please confirm with us beforehand. **• Can I get a refund if I can't make it?** Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds. However, feel free to pass on your ticket to a friend or consider coming to the next edition. [and let us know]! 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨, 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙. ✨ \* Location is only revealed to ticket holders! 🙅‍♀️📱This event is a no-phone experience. 🙅‍♀️📱 We started in Berlin back in 2019 and there are now chapters in 11 cities around the world including Mexico City, Lisbon, Vancouver, Malta, Zurich, and London! 🗺️ \*\*\* Follow us on[ Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/epic.llama/)👈 Our [website 👈](https://epicllama.com/fuckthesmalltalk)

Berlin is dark. Especially in winter. That's why it's important to catch those rays of sun, while they are still there. At lunch time the sun is the strongest. While walking together we can enjoy a nice conversation, get those steps in, increase our serotonin production as well as sync the circadian rhythm. It's also a lovely break from work. I would like to invite you to our mental health walk event. Agenda: 12:10 We meet at Schöneberg Park next to the fountain with the golden deer statue ("Der goldene Hirsch"). 12:15 We walk to Volkspark Wilmersdorf 12:45 We arrive back in Schöneberg Park, at the golden deer statue. We walk at every weather, so make sure to dress properly! Looking forward to meeting you at our lunchtime walk. ____________________________________________ Who is hosting? I’m Marija - a life coach, software engineer, yoga, dance and nature lover. [https://www.instagram.com/marija.juodyte/](https://www.instagram.com/marija.juodyte/) https://www.linkedin.com/in/marija-juodyte/

The "classical" bookswap is simple: * We meet in a café and put the book(s) we brought down on the tables. * We browse and discuss the books with one another while sipping coffee or hot chocolate, or eating cake. * We write our names down on any books we’d like to take home (post-its and pens provided). * At the end of the evening, negotiate any books that are contended and take a new-to-you book home! Books/happiness shared are books/happiness multiplied! A Bookswap is 10 times better than a Book Club because you can talk about ALL the books instead of just one! This is a great way to give your books a new home and make room for new books: that book you feel guilty for not having read even though it's been sitting on your bedside table for the last 5 years, the book you liked but didn't love, the book you loved so much you want everyone to read it, the book you somehow own three copies of, that book you absolutely hated even though everyone else loves it, and so on. Moreover, you will meet fellow readers, get a new book or two, and several book recommendations. We’ve often had readers experience books they wouldn't normally buy and enjoy it. GROUP EXPECTATIONS for PLEASANT SWAPPING * Please bring a book! It's not that you bring one you take one, but do try your best to bring something. * Books stay on the tables, open for sharing, until you are ready to leave so that everyone can have a look. We are notably not first come first serve. Please wait until you are leaving to bag the book. * If two or more people want the only copy of a book, negotiate. Maybe one of you reads it first and then gives it to the others. Or perhaps they have found another book instead. Or leave it to fate and toss a coin. The best part: now you have found somebody whose taste you can really admire. In any case, please don't walk away with a book with several names on it without letting the others know. These negotiations are fun and easy, so don't shy away from a book because there's already a name on it, and feel free to put your name on as many books as you find interesting. It's not that you bring one you take one; you may take as many as you can negotiate. * Political discussions with consent: make sure the people you are talking to would like to have a political discussion with you. * Please respect this space as first and foremost a community for connecting readers over their love of books and reading, stories, and narratives of all sorts. Please be respectful of tastes and opinions. * If something is bothering you, please reach out to the organizers, and we'll do our best to resolve it. * Lastly, don't expect your book back. It will find a new home. If you love it, let it go. Major LANGUAGES (and genres) of this meetup: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Serious Reading, Light Fun, “classics", Krimis, Booker winners, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Self-Help and more. You never know who can read what languages, and there's no accounting for taste. We are a delightful and international group of readers. We look forward to swapping with you!

Let’s meet and discuss whatever comes to mind about one of Tennesse Williams’ most famous plays.

**Day 1 — Foundation & Deal Control** This two-day, end-of-month Real Estate Investing (REI) Intensive is designed for investors who want real traction, not theory. Day One is about controlling the deal flow. We break down how to find opportunities in today’s market, underwrite them correctly, and avoid the emotional and financial traps that wipe out most new and mid-level investors. You’ll learn how operators are sourcing deals right now, how to analyze markets and properties with discipline, and how to structure acquisitions so the numbers work before you ever swing a hammer. This is about building a repeatable system—not chasing the next shiny strategy. **Day 2 — Capital, Execution & Scale** Day Two shifts from deals to execution and scale. We go deep on renovation management, capital stack planning, and exit strategies—fix and flip, buy-and-hold, and hybrid plays—so you understand how to protect downside risk and maximize upside. You’ll see real case studies, real numbers, and real mistakes made by experienced operators, not influencers. The intensive closes by connecting the dots between education and action, showing you how to plug into ongoing coaching, deal opportunities, and higher-level collaboration for investors who are serious about building long-term wealth, not just doing a one-off deal. REGISTER HERE: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://link.elitereimm.com/widget/form/CqtTT4UVTJj3JvHKns3x?am_id=debbie4982)

CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.

**Understanding the Columbus Housing Market: Let’s Talk Downsizing for Seniors** Understanding the Market to Make Your Best Move Yet Thinking about downsizing or helping a parent prepare for a move? Join us for a friendly, educational seminar designed specifically for seniors in Central Ohio. We’ll break down what’s happening in today’s Columbus housing market, explore timing and planning for downsizing, and discuss easy ways to prepare a longtime home for sale—without overwhelm. You’ll also learn about low‑maintenance housing options, financial considerations, and simple steps to make your next move smooth and stress‑free. This is a relaxed, no‑pressure event where you can ask questions and get practical advice tailored to seniors and their families. Hosted by: Katie McCartney, Broker & Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES)

Let’s meetup at Cafe Istanbul for the last day of Restaurant Week. You get three courses for $30. This is the menu: https://614now.com/rw-menu/cafeistanbul-easton

Hear how 3 investors went from broke to 8 figures and learn what’s working now in real estate, private money, and scaling your business. 🎟️Register **[HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/broke-to-8-figures-live-panel-open-qa-tickets-1969996398258?aff=cicmeetupapp)** ## **Broke to 8 Figures: Live Panel + Open Q&A with 3 Young Investors Who Built Real Wealth Through Real Estate** A decade ago, none of them were “set.” 10 years ago, these three weren’t millionaires. They weren’t influencers. They were broke, doubting themselves and fighting to make their first deal work…just like a lot of people trying to get into real estate today. Now, two of the Columbus Investors Club’s founders, **Tiffany and** **Josh High**, sit down with **Austin Rutherford**… a fellow Columbus native who went from parking cars as a valet to owning a **$30M+ real estate portfolio.** Together, they’ve flipped and wholesaled **thousands of homes**, raised **millions in private money**, and built businesses that run without them in the day to day… creating both wealth and freedom before 35. This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a real conversation about what it actually takes to build something that lasts… the fears they had to face, the habits that changed everything, and the systems that got them there. You’ll laugh, you’ll take notes, and you’ll walk away seeing what’s truly possible no matter where you’re starting from. **What You’ll Learn** * How three broke twenty-somethings built 7–8 figure real estate businesses * The mindset shifts that separate wishful thinking from real wealth * How to raise private money even if you’ve never done a deal * What’s working right now in flipping, wholesaling, and building a portfolio * How to create financial and time freedom through systems and people **Open Q&A - Ask Them Anything About** * Raising private money with confidence * Finding and structuring profitable deals * Getting past fear, self-doubt, or “I’m not ready yet” * Scaling your business without burning out * Building a team that actually performs **Who You’ll Hear From** **Austin Rutherford** – From valet to a $30M+ rental portfolio. He has flipped and wholesaled hundreds of houses alongside his rental portfolio and recently got into commercial deals. **Tiffany & Josh High** – Founders of **Heels Homes** and **Results Driven REI**. They’ve built multiple 7- and 8-figure companies, including a fully virtual real estate operation closing 250+ deals a year. Through Results Driven REI, they help experienced investors install the people, processes, and infrastructure needed to build a truly self-managing company. **Event Details** **Location:** *To Follow* **Date & Time:** January 29th, 6–8 PM (Doors open at 5:30) **Cost:** Free (Seats are limited - RSVP required) 🎟️Register **[HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/broke-to-8-figures-live-panel-open-qa-tickets-1969996398258?aff=cicmeetupapp)**

[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).