Storytelling

In Zeiten steigender Komplexität und zunehmender Sparmassnahmen stellt sich vielen Organisationen die Frage, wie sie Silos aufbrechen, Transparenz schaffen und ihre Wertschöpfung erhöhen können. Die Landesgeologie bei swisstopo hat diesen Wandel angestossen und zeigt als Praxisbeispiel aus der Bundesverwaltung, wie agile Strukturen auch in einem regulierten Umfeld funktionieren und eine Organisation gezielt auf kommende Herausforderungen vorbereiten können. Im Zentrum stehen Lean Portfolio Management, OKRs und PI Planning als Werkzeuge, die auf die Organisationsgrösse runterskaliert wurden. Dies um Fokus, gemeinsame Prioritäten und nachvollziehbare Entscheidungen zu ermöglichen und flexibel auf neue Anforderungen zu reagieren. Der Vortrag zeigt, wie eine lernende Organisation entsteht, die kontinuierliche Verbesserung verankert und Zusammenarbeit nachhaltig stärkt, ohne Stabilität einzubüssen. Eine Einladung an alle, die Agilität in komplexen Strukturen zum Leben erwecken wollen und konkrete Erfahrungen jenseits der Theorie suchen. **BIO** Michael Gysi arbeitet seit vier Jahren bei swisstopo und verantwortet als Prozessleiter Data Management sowie stellvertretender Bereichsleiter die fachliche, strategische und organisatorische Weiterentwicklung der Landesgeologie. Zu seinen Schwerpunkten gehören der Aufbau einer cloudbasierten Datenplattform, die Entwicklung KI-gestützter Automatisierungen und die Etablierung von Governance- und Qualitätsprozessen. Zudem prägt er die Transformation des Bereichs durch die Einführung agiler Strukturen. Bevor er zur Bundesverwaltung wechselte, war Michael neun Jahre international tätig. Als Country Manager in Malaysia und Ägypten baute er regionale Consulting-Standorte auf und leitete Explorationsprojekte in MENA und Südostasien. Später führte er bei der nagra ein geologisches Explorationsprogramm im Rahmen der Standortsuche für ein Tiefenlager für radioaktive Abfälle. Insgesamt bringt er 14 Jahre Erfahrung in strategischer Steuerung, datengetriebenen Transformationsprozessen und interdisziplinärer Teamführung in Europa, Afrika, dem Nahen Osten und Südostasien ein.

This is the first Chair in the Middle writing session. Bring something you're working on and get to know fellow writers living in/around Zürich. Spots will always be limited to ten, so book a place early. If you aren't coming, please cancel your booking here to allow others a chance to book your spot.

“Connecting people through outdoor adventures”, and sometimes those connections happen best around a beer. Join us for a Monkeys Connect apéro at **Les Halles in Zurich**, a casual get-together for outdoorsy people who enjoy good conversation and a drink after a day at work! Come chat about adventures, mountains, life, and anything else that comes up! There is no agenda, just good company. This is a get-your-own-drinks evening, so grab what you like and connect with the international Monkeys Connect community! Everyone is welcome.

Welcome to the Winterthur Badminton Meetup! 🏸👊😉🍻 We’re an international group created for badminton fans in and around Winterthur. Open to Expats and Swiss folks who want to train and socialise with fellow ‘badmintonists’. Or perhaps you’d like to learn the sport and meet new people? Whether doing it for fun or fitness, the idea is to enjoy and have a great (kickass) midweek. And everyone is welcome to join us for a postgame drink or two! See yah! 😊 Important: We ask everyone to respect others who wish to play. That means dropping out if you won’t make it to the game by updating your RSVP. Keep in mind: RSVPs close at 21:00 two days before the event to give others enough time to plan. Anyone on the RSVP list who did not show up at the event is considered a "no-show". No-shows will still have to pay the shared cost of the court and shuttles. We keep track of no-shows and deprioritise them in future games. Please try your best to pay on the same day by Twint or in cash. With Twint, write in the comment the date and your name for reference. Cost will be around 12-20 CHF, depending on the amount of players joining and if we have to rent 1 or 2 courts. Note: If it's your first time joining, please send me a message for more details and to confirm your spot in the game. Otherwise, regular players will be given priority. Cheers, Elias

🎟️ **Get your seat at the Table for Six** 🎟️ ✨Six strangers. One table. Depth.✨ An evening of meaningful dialogue and curated guests. 🧧 **HOW TO JOIN?** All seats go via a waiting list. Spots are intentionally limited. To be considered, reply with a short note: ✨ *Why do you want to come?* ✨ *What kind of connection are you seeking?* We’re not looking for perfect answers — just honest ones. 📦 **WHAT’S THIS ABOUT?** **The Stories We Carry** is not a dinner party. It’s a pause. An invitation to slow down, to listen, and to be heard. We gather not to impress, but to express. Not to network, but to connect. If you’re tired of surface-level chatter and crave conversations that leave a mark — this is for you. 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** * One table. Six seats. * A guided evening of storytelling, reflection, and presence. * No phones. No bios. No small talk. * Just humans, stories, and the space between them. 🕰️ **WHEN & WHERE?** 🗓️Thursday, 08 of Jan 🕢 7:00 PM 📍 Zug (Park Hotel Zug - Industriestrasse 14) 💛 **WHAT TO EXPECT** 🪑 A seat at a table where presence matters more than polish 🗣️ A chance to share your story — or simply listen 🌌 A few hours of being fully, beautifully human ✨ This is a no-phone experience. Minds awake, hearts open 💛

(English after the German text) **Achtsame Fotografie - Geschichten erzählen** *Treffpunkt: Auf der alten Bahnhofterrasse (siehe Eventfoto)* In diesem Mindful Photowalk werden wir der Limmat entlang wandern und zwei verlassene Orte besuchen. Die Gründe, warum diese verlassen sind, sind unterschiedlich. Beim alten Lettenbahnhof fahren heute keine Züge mehr, und die zweite Station ist die Lettenbadi, welche im Winter einsam und verlassen auf den nächsten Sommer wartet. Beide Plätze bieten eine tolle Gelegenheit für unseren achtsamen Fotowalk mit dem Ziel, mit wenigen, sehr bewusst geschossenen Fotos die Geschichte dieser Orte fotografisch zu dokumentieren. Du brauchst keine Vorkenntnisse, nur die Freude am Experimentieren, deine Kamera oder dein Smartphone und die Bereitschaft, dich auf das Neue einzulassen. Ich freue mich sehr darauf, mit euch bei dieser kleinen Stadtwanderung diese spannenden Orte zu erkunden. \-\-\- English \-\-\- **Mindful Photography Telling Stories** *Meeting point: On the old train station terrace (see event photo)* On this mindful photowalk, we will wander along the Limmat and visit two abandoned places. The reasons why these places are abandoned are different. No trains run at the old Letten station anymore, and the second location is the Lettenbadi, which waits quietly and deserted through the winter for the next summer. Both locations offer a great opportunity for our mindful photowalk, with the goal of documenting the story of these places through a few mindfully taken photos. You don't need any prior knowledge just a joy for experimenting, your camera or smartphone, and the willingness to embrace something new. I’m really looking forward to exploring these exciting places with you on this small city walk.

Let's talk about unusual genres, the kinds of games that aren't often covered, that don't top the sales charts, but that have a devoted fan community. Come and bring some examples! Plus, as always, meeting and chatting with other game developers.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up here to attend**. The event is free. [https://forms.gle/1QXkm9QKy2kwySEUA](https://forms.gle/1QXkm9QKy2kwySEUA) We’ll host a small, cozy meetup with 6 to 8 people. Participants will be randomly selected, and we’ll make sure the group has a balanced gender mix. The exact location will be shared via WhatsApp the evening before the event. It’s a relaxed evening to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy good conversation. Come with an open mind and your best smile! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- For general updates on all events, follow our WhatsApp news channel: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Jt3QaW2ojoYEl3zIPZieQ6](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Jt3QaW2ojoYEl3zIPZieQ6)

**before ice skating:** let's meet in Buchegg bus stop at 8:10. Then we continue to Dolder, here is the path: [von Wipkingen nach Fluntern | Wanderung | Komoot](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2696002482?share_token=aFSI7pDBykdywjMwEE3KGIQIK241gy3UitU92IGFLT9fDv5lOh&ref=wtd) here is how you can join the train station by train from Zürich: [Das Online-Portal der SBB für Fahrplan, Zug und ÖV](https://www.sbb.ch/de?stops=[{%22value%22:%228503000%22,%22type%22:%22ID%22,%22label%22:%22Z%C3%BCrich+HB%22},{%22value%22:%228591101%22,%22type%22:%22ID%22,%22label%22:%22Z%C3%BCrich,+Bucheggplatz%22}]&date=%222026-01-11%22&time=%2207:45%22&moment=%22DEPARTURE%22&selected_trip=2) **description:** Exceptionally you can ice skate for free. More information here: [Gratis aufs Glatteis | Stadt Zürich](https://www.stadt-zuerich.ch/de/stadtleben/sport-und-erholung/sport-und-badeanlagen/kunsteisbahnen/gratis-aufs-glatteis.html) Last year, there was a long queue, and the doors opened before the official start. Therefore, I am aiming to reach it for 9:30 am. **dedicated whatapp group** [WhatsApp-Gruppeneinladung](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J0roEUHt0ZMI3n3nHytmLW) **Registration:** To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity: [🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V) If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group) If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group). Please sign up only when you are certain! You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.

Apéro Mensuel - lieu à convenir

The topic for January is "Chemistry" 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 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 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!

The topic for February is "Transitions" 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 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 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!

Try new games, meet new people, and find out what story games are all about! Explore the reaches of space! Witness kingdoms rise and fall! Create and explore tragedies! All within a single game night. We play story games like Fiasco, Kingdom, Polaris and Microscope that encourage everyone at the table to participate creatively. We also have one-shots of indie, OSR, and narrative-focused RPGs such as Apocalypse World, Dread, Lady Blackbird, and Old School Essentials! Everybody's welcome! It doesn't matter if you've never tried story games before or never played roleplaying games at all! Just bring your brain and a good attitude and come try it out! *** **IMPORTANT** * When you arrive look for the marked Story Games Columbus Tables. Each table will have a separate game. Seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis. * If all tables are full, look for a Facilitator. We will find a way to get you into a game! * There is a flat $3 cover charge for events at Tabletop. *** **Facilitators!!** Please arrive early so that we can get you set up with a table. Please reach out to me ASAP if you would be willing to help facilitate. You can reach me on the SGC Discord here - https://discord.gg/jUTvWUu

[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).

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**