sharing your life stories

Inspired by Sheila Liming's 2023 book, Hanging Out, this event is about "daring to do nothing much, and even more than that, about daring to do it in the company of others." If you're curious, you can read more about my rationale for the event [here](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/p/hanging-out), and how our pilot event went [here](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/p/it-worked). **This event will take place in the foyer of The Southbank Centre.** You can find us by looking out for: * Me - I will be wearing a black T-shirt with HANGING OUT written on the back * Our table - which will have a red flag draped over it with THE SUNRISE CLUB emblazoned on it (though this clearly isn't THE SUNRISE CLUB! If you want to find out about that, you can do so [here](https://www.meetup.com/the-sunrise-club/).) There are plenty of places to buy refreshments, but you can also bring your own if you prefer. If you feel like using this event as a carrot for some creative work, please join us an hour earlier for [WRITE CLUB](https://www.meetup.com/experimentsin/events/314649034/) \- an hour of silent writing/reading in the same location\. And if you'd like to finish the evening with a dance, there is a free social salsa meetup just outside The Southbank Centre just afterwards. More info [here](https://www.instagram.com/salserosfriends/). [WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FgGCrGc8TNzF8q7lvwozbR) [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/experimentsingroupwisdom) [SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/) Looking forward to meeting and hanging out with you :-) Bonny

**Friday 21st** **Friday E2** **7-9pm** IN PERSON & ONLINE The Garrett Centre 117 Mansford St E2 6LX One of London's only drop-in Long Pose classes, set in our main studio space, providing all the equipment you might need, the format for this class is a single pose for the evening, with three short warm up poses to get you started. We also serve hot vegan food in the break, just as we do on Wednesday, so perfect if you arrive hungry. Expect a calm and relaxing atmosphere, lots of time to explore your drawing practice and tutored support. Real Life Drawing - Long Pose - Every Friday - 7pm: Dear Friends This is our legendary Friday Long Pose class - Each week we work with London's best models, providing you with tuition if you want it, and leaving you in peace if you prefer that. There is food and great company, this is the class for you if you would like to connect with a community of like minded artists. We will make you feel welcome and always have a good word to say about your work, even if you don't. That is what this group is all about, community, friendship and art, come and join us. **£ COST - BOOKING TICKETS & DROPPING IN:** JOIN US IN PERSON OR ONLINE **IN PERSON: £13** This is a drop in class, but buying a ticket means you can simply drop in without needing to worry about paying on the night, use the link bellow to book: https://bookwhen.com/londonlifedrawing_livestream **ONLINE:** **£8** These sessions are streamed via Zoom making it possible for you to join us where ever you are, we have a warm online community and this is the perfect way to keep drawing throughout the week even if you cant make it to a class. You can book to join online by using the same link and selecting **Zoom Online Ticket** https://bookwhen.com/londonlifedrawing_livestream **SCHEDULE & POSE LENGTH:** 6.45 pm > arrival 7.00pm > We start drawing at 7pm with 3 poses of 5mins each and follow this with a single pose for the rest of the evening We have a 15 min break at 8pm and the session ends at 9pm: > > 7pm start > > 3 x 5 min pose > > Long Pose > > 8pm break (15 min) > > Long Pose > > 9.00pm session ends **DRAW MORE PASS:** If you have a Draw More Pass - HOWEVER OLD - please select that ticket option in Bookwhen - this will give you a free booking confirmation - bring a print out or screen shot of the booking to the session along with your Draw More Pass - if you have any difficulties please call Adrian on 07966925723 **BUYING A DRAW MORE PASS :** The Draw More Pass makes our classes the most affordable in London and it's incredibly versatile. The Pass enables you to drop into our classes in person or online, any time you want to. You don't have to come back every week, instead choose your times and just turn up, they never expire - you can buy a Draw More Pass in any class or via our website: [https://www.adriandutton.com/shop](https://www.adriandutton.com/shop) When you buy a pass online you will receive a PDF, simply screen shot this or print it out and bring it to any session and we will exchange this for a PASS, also, as soon as the transaction is made you will be listed to receive our link emails for online sessions: 5 sessions: £52.50 10 sessions: £100 20 sessions: £190 50 Sessions: £400 About the venue. **The venue opens at 6.30pm** our classes take place in the Lower Ground Floor The Garrett Centre - This is fully wheelchair accessible via a ramp to the space and has wheelchair accessible doors and amenities Nearest tube: Bethnal Green (central line). **Directions (see map below):** Tube/train: approx. 8 minutes walk from Bethnal Green Tube (Central Line) and 12 mins. walk from Hoxton & Shoreditch overground stations. Buses: Nrs. 8, 388, D3 - stop Pollard Row. Nrs. 26, 48, 55 - stop Hackney Road. Nrs. 106, 254 - stop Old Ford Road. Nr. 309 - stop York Road. When walking/cycling, there is a footpath behind the Tesco's on Bethnal Green Road that will get you there faster (see highlight on map above). If driving you will need to go via Hackney Road and turn left on Mansford St, follow to the end of the Street where you will see the Garrett Centre on your left. Parking is free after 6.30 in the surrounding streets and directly in front of the centre, however, you should note that the thick white lines denote no parking areas, only use actual parking bays. **Bikes:** please bring your bikes down to the basement, we are currently able to offer secure space in one of the rooms of the centre. To view a BBC film taken at the Bethnal Green Life drawing class, see below: You can watch the BBC film of Rhod Gilbert's Work Experience' made at our life drawing class here: https://vimeo.com/120288888 (http://vimeo.com/ziplinecreative/review/78714935/a64159a7bb) http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/9/1/8/600_434466424.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/f/9/600_433149721.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/9/f/3/600_432579411.jpeg

The first rule of WRITE CLUB is that you do not talk ***during*** WRITE CLUB. This very simple meetup is based on the premise that public and peer accountability enables more productive writing than sitting at home and getting distracted by the fridge. We will write/read for an hour in silence. (I will be writing thought experiments for my other meetup group: [THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS IN PUBS](https://www.meetup.com/thought-experiments-in-pubs)) If you'd like to hang out afterwards, or if you prefer just to hang out, I have another event immediately afterwards in the same place :-) You can find that here: [HANGING OUT AT THE SOUTHBANK](https://www.meetup.com/experimentsin/events/314649073) And if you'd like to finish the evening with a dance, there is a free social salsa meetup just outside The Southbank Centre just afterwards. More info [here](https://www.instagram.com/salserosfriends/). **This event will take place in the foyer of The Southbank Centre.** You can find us by looking out for: * A tote bag with WRITE CLUB sewn onto it * My T-Shirt, which will have HANGING OUT embroidered on the back of it * A big red flag with THE SUNRISE CLUB emblazoned on it (though this clearly isn't THE SUNRISE CLUB! If you want to find out about that, you can do so [here](https://www.meetup.com/the-sunrise-club/).) * Other writers - who may be spread out across the centre. They will have white pieces of paper with the WRITE CLUB stamp at the top of the page. There are plenty of places to buy refreshments, but you can also bring your own if you prefer. [WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BpMwnRev0H237KMx4uPnek) [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/experimentsingroupwisdom) [SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/) Looking forward to meeting and writing with you :-) Bonny

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

Circling is a present-moment relational awareness practice. We’re bringing our attention to what’s unfolding in real time, repeatedly returning to what’s happening within ourselves, between us and in the shared space of the group. We practice approaching our own experience and the experience of others with curiosity, becoming more aware of the subtleties of what is present. The emphasis is on staying in contact with your experience as it unfolds. The unfolding may be quiet and internal or it may lead to words – naming sensations, thoughts, emotions, impulses or perceptions. It might also include movement or other non-verbal expression. The idea is not to try to change what’s there, but to become more aware of what it is and how we are meeting it and relating to it in the moment. Often awareness follows expression and this is okay too. We are all swimming in the ocean of the unknown. Occasionally the whale lifts its head above the surface and we catch a glimpse – a moment of seeing something about ourselves that we hadn’t noticed before. Over time, many people find that this kind of awareness practice deepens their sense of aliveness and helps them notice patterns in how they relate to themselves and others. With ongoing practice, some people discover an increased capacity to be with themselves and others in a more conscious, grounded, flexible and responsive way – where we can experience ourselves as active participants in our lives rather than passive reactors to what is happening internally or around us. Both those new to Circling and those with more experience are very welcome. **To reserve your place, transfer £18 via my eventbrite page:** **[https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735)** Any questions, please direct message me here or email: [robyncontact365@gmail.com](http://robyncontact365@gmail.com) **Facilitation and Terms of Service** This is a facilitated group practice but not group therapy and not psychotherapy. Because of my NARM background and own personal journey, I value personal choice, agency and emergent self-awareness. Participants are encouraged to stay connected to their own pace and to keep checking in with themselves throughout the practice – noticing what feels supportive, what feels like too much, and what they may need in any moment. There’s no expectation to be vulnerable or to share anything that feels too personal or emotional and you are always welcome to speak, remain silent, pause, step back and take a break, leave or ask for what you want, including asking for support. Participants are also invited to respect one another’s pace and boundaries. The intention of my Circling leadership is to support myself and people in staying present with their experience while in relationship with others, and to develop greater awareness of how they are meeting that experience. Having said that, like solo meditation, it’s normal that we will all repeatedly lose presence and Circling can sometimes evoke strong emotions or reactions in people which can be difficult for them and challenging for others in the space to navigate. If you find the prospect of this potentially destabilising or overwhelming, or if you are currently experiencing significant emotional distress or instability in your life that might be exacerbated by this type of group environment, or if you are unsure you’ll be able to take care of yourself and ensure the practice works for you, then please contact me before registering so we can discuss further. By registering you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the above.

Art Journaling is a fun and simple way to incorporate creativity into everyday life. An art journal is a great place to experiment and try out different approaches to art without the pressure of creating a masterpiece. It is an artistic form of self-expression – instead of using words alone; you will be using various media and different art techniques to express your creativity. In a busy world, largely driven by technology, taking time to be creative can often seem frivolous and indulgent. But studies show that creative activities encourage positivity and significantly improve our wellbeing. Art journaling is an effective way to de-stress and practice self-care. Join us for these drop-in sessions in Art journaling with Sai, an experienced teaching artist, avid art journaler and professional calligrapher. From simple mark making to elaborate mixed media art you will learn a variety of new skills; gain confidence in your artistic ability and develop an amazing creative habit that is both enriching and nourishing. Whether you have five minutes or half an hour to spare, Art journaling will inspire you to be creative, practice self-care and reconnect with yourself. Each week we work with different media and techniques. Sai provides some resources, however please bring an art journal and some basic supplies with you. Contact Sai directly to book bluepaletteartstudio@gmail.com

If you **genuinely love music** and mixing with fellow passionate music fans **-** then join for a super fun euphoric good vibrations captivating night out with cool talented musicians and **us** performing songs from our favourite artists mixed with drinks, fun conversations, laughs and dancing. Not only do you get the rare chance to **meet** elusive **fellow** **music fans** to enjoy standout live hits but you'll also have the **option to sing** **your favorite** **song** from the all time greatest music tunes catalog with a live band (or if you're too nervous to go up alone - just grab me, we’ll make it happen together!), as a high energy young crowd cheer, sing and dance along with you in full pop star support This epic night will be **fully hosted** by me till the fat lady sings - a friendly radio/club DJ, singer, dancer, Musicologist with a natural innate flair to get the musical vibes flowing through your every chord of existence! Expect to hear **multi-genre** **anthemic songs** from Amy Winehouse, Bruno Mars, Bob Marley, Adele, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Beatles, Backstreet Boys, David Bowie, Alanis Morissette, Britney Spears, Oasis, Madonna, Katy Perry, Fleetwood Mac, Blur, ABBA, Bon Jovi, , Queen, Lady Gaga, George Michael, Rihanna, Nirvana, Shania Twain, Whitney, Kings of Leon, Elton John, Dua Lipa, , A‑ha, The Proclaimers, Natalie Imbruglia, Michael Jackson, Radiohead, U2, Guns N’ Roses, Luther Vandross, The Monkees, John Denver and 100 other musical legends **=== High Octane** **Melody Fueled** **Night Out ===** This will be a highly fun entertaining night out with high octane feelings blanketed with an electrifying atmosphere charged with raw musical energy, soul and emotion. Whether you like to get in front of a mic at Karaoke or you're a secret car perfomer - expect symphonies to unfold in harmony with a vibrant crowd of young music lovers as the band transforms you from boring city of London exe by day into a **pop star** for the night. And if you have a natural sense of rhythm it would be selfish not to show off your charismatic stage presence by droppin some **funky dance moves** as no rock star performance is complete without! Of course, you don't need to get up and perform - if you **love music** but don't want to sing, you are welcome to socialise, cheer, singalong and dance with the rest of us. Slots to build melody fueled new connections are strictly limited. So in order to give genuine music fans a fair chance to attend - as per attendance rules **\- anyone who has not answered the screening question properly or does not demonstrate passion for music as indicated by interests listed in their profiles \- will be moved to not going to create space for like\-minded genuine people** **=== If You're Singing ===** You don't need vocals like Zara Larsson or Amy Winehouse - most of us are not professional singers - we do this for pure fun indulgence, entertaininment and love of music but if you've never sung live with a band on stage before - ideally choose a song that you know the lyrics / musical timing too well. We'll have **two** **experienced guitarists** (base and electric)**,** a **drummer** who also do **backing vocals** to help out if you get lost. **=== Venue & Itinerary ===** We are back at our Camden venue with the band offering excellent choice of songs. Early on we will meet around the bar area and once the first song hits most of us will move closer to the front stage to dance and singalong to the tracks so come on time for early intros - when the band starts it gets pretty loud. I will share my number on the eve and update in the comments section on whereabouts. **=== MUSIC ONLY EVENTS ===** For music fans who love music and want to hear about mostly free music‑related events in London, we do have an exclusive WhatsApp group you can join subject to minimal vetting. If you have attended an event before or at least met the organiser in person send me a request and I will add you / send you link to join:! I’ll share all my music events here in advance first so people can RSVP earlier and avoid waiting lists. People can also share last min non‑meetup MUSIC events too. Lucas The Music MaestroGonna Be Li

If you crave depth and genuine connection, join a walking think tank of curious people, topics spark meaningful conversations, and you leave inspired. ## Details [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).

# LIFE DRAWING & COLOURED PASTELS WITH FRANK GAMBINO – 6 JUNE 2026 **Colour, markmaking and exciting dynamism- inject electric colour confidence into your life drawing – a great class for all abilities!** Join us for a great material based workshop with the brilliant figurative artist and London Drawing tutor Frank Gambino! Create strong and impactful drawings in colour using chalk pastels and conte. Build your confidence in rendering a likeness in your drawing and really make the most of your materials- working with layering, application and lush colour combinations. Over lock down Frank has developed his work into colour using pastels- and he will be sharing his techniques and insights in this new workshop full of demonstrations, tips, advice and one to one tuition. A great class not to be missed! Materials: All basic materials will be provided as part of the class- so you can test it out and see if the medium is for you before investing in materials which can be expensive. However- if you have your own pastels/ conte or would like to buy a set we have a materials list we can recommend- and we encourage you to bring your materials along! Pastels vary wildly in quality and temperament so this is a great class to get a sense of how materials work and how to get the best out of them. **Saturday 6 June 2026** **10-4pm** **£110** **All basic materials included –** Bringing your own materials is encouraged- materials list info below Suitable for all levels of ability [MORE INFO & BOOKING](https://londondrawing.com/product/life-drawing-coloured-pastels-with-frank-gambino-6-june-2026/) Venue: Artizan St Library, 1 Artizan St London E1 7AF Materials we provide: Chalk pastels/ tonal conte/ coloured sugar paper/ erasers If you are bringing your own materials: Any chalk pastels and pencils/ conte/ putty rubber/ coloured pastel paper/ \* Daler Rowney fixative- \* please note due to ventilation issues in the space and security issues with access to the studio we wont be able to use fixative during the class Materials frank uses and recommends if you are investing in materials: Rembrandt chalk pastels. Stabilo chalk pastel pencils Daler Rowney (kneadable) putty eraser

We love a good chat. Come and join us at Table 45

**A gem of a life drawing session in our secret hideaway - a good vibes intimate sit down drawing session with wonderful models and lighting** Vaulty Towers really is a very special venue with a wonderful atmosphere- walk through the main bar with its glittery décor and down the little staircase into the twinkly hideaway downstairs where the life drawing magic happens! As with all our drop in classes – expect professional tutors and models in an inspiring and unique space. With poses from 30 seconds to one hour – there is something for everyone. This is a general life drawing class with tuition for beginners and advice for those who are more experienced, all designed to encourage you to develop your own style and approach. **Please don’t come to class if you feel ill- you can rebook to another date- just email info@londondrawing.com** **Classes can be booked ahead via tickets below** Secret Sketch is a sit down sketch class- drawing boards provided Materials available to buy, or bring your own- Paper 20p per sheet, charcoal 25p per stick Every Saturday 11-1pm £15/ £10 students and under 25's **Or you can drop in and pay cash or paypal on the door** **PayPal link:** **[PayPal.Me](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/LondonDrawing)** Or buy tickets here: [BUY TICKETS HERE](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/saturday-secret-sketch-weekly-drop-in-life-drawing-waterloo-tickets-426760932437)

**A gem of a life drawing session in our secret hideaway - a good vibes intimate sit down drawing session with wonderful models and lighting** Vaulty Towers really is a very special venue with a wonderful atmosphere- walk through the main bar with its glittery décor and down the little staircase into the twinkly hideaway downstairs where the life drawing magic happens! As with all our drop in classes- expect professional tutors and models in an inspiring and unique space. With poses from 30 seconds to one hour- there is something for everyone. This is a general life drawing class with tuition for beginners and advice for those who are more experienced, all designed to encourage you to develop your own style and approach. **Please don’t come to class if you feel ill- you can rebook to another date- just email info@londondrawing.com** Materials available to buy, or bring your own- Paper 20p per sheet, charcoal 25p per stick **Sunday Secret Sketch** **Every Sunday** **3.30-5.30pm** **£15 / £10 students and under 25's** **We also run [Saturday Secret Sketch session](https://londondrawing.com/buy-tickets-for-saturday-secret-sketch-including-session-information/)** **11-1pm Every Saturday** **And a second Sunday Secret Sketch** **1-3pm every Sunday** **Drop in and pay cash or paypal on the door** **PayPal link:** **[PayPal.Me](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/LondonDrawing)** Or buy tickets here: [BUY TICKETS HERE](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sunday-secret-sketch-weekly-drop-in-life-drawing-waterloo-tickets-426778555147) **Venue:** **Vaulty Towers** **34 Lower Marsh** **London** **SE1 7RG**

**🌤 Fancy a Saturday Morning Walk?** Start your weekend with some fresh air, good company, and great conversations! We’re running a **Saturday Morning Walking Group** right here in the **City of London** — the perfect way to relax, explore, and meet new friends. 🌿 **When:** Every Saturday at **11:00 AM** 📍 **Meeting point:** *All Hallows Building Church* Whether you’re new to the city or just love a gentle weekend stroll, come and join us for a friendly, easy-going walk. Bring your good vibes and comfy shoes. Let’s make Saturdays something to look forward to! Any questions, contact Glauce +44 7852 223881

The topic for June is "Roadtrip" 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!

Do you want more Self Confidence, less Self Doubt, more Happiness, less Anxiety, and more Love? This event is an introduction to how to handle irrational emotion. How often are yours or another's emotions out of control? What is that about??? I have asked these questions and after much search have found answers and am sharing. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? After that, you try to move on but you just can't. Possibly you have a thought or emotion that hangs around for days and you just can't shake it. What is all this stress, anxiety, depression, and self doubt? It's just crazy! It's not the real you. You can find out what is at the root of all this. This is a local event. Areas you can change with the right information: * Control of unwanted emotions * Lack of confidence * Grief * Anxiety * Anger management * Creating ideal relationships * Memory * and more... This is a local meeting that can start you on the way to a better life, more confidence and less negativity. All the happiness you have lies within you. Let's find it! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

[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).

Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. 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 sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.

**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.