Public Speaking

**💕 Introvert-Friendly Speed Dating – Find Real Connections from Home!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Shy or introverted singles looking for romance - Professionals who prefer meaningful dialogue - Those tired of superficial dating scenes - People who want genuine connections without pressure **Event Details** - **Format:** Online via Zoom – comfortable, low-pressure setting - **Location:** Your comfort zone (meet from home!) - **Host:** Experienced host who understands introvert needs - **Pressure-free:** Genuine chats with like-minded Melbourne singles – no pressure, just possibilities **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Register for Your Age Group - Choose and register for the speed dating session that matches your age range above. 2. Fill out a Personality Quiz - Fast and simple! We'll match you with compatible singles. 3. Speed Dating Rounds - Quick, fun conversations with potential matches. 4. Find Your Match - Connect with someone special from Melbourne, no awkward bar scenes required. --- ✨ Love shouldn't require you to be someone you're not. Join us today! ✨

**💕 Speed Dating Reimagined for Introverts – Quality Over Crowds!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who want to meet someone special - Shy individuals dreading traditional dating scenes - Anyone who prefers genuine conversations over small talk - Those who want meaningful connections from home **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom-based experience – designed with introverts in mind - **Location:** Anywhere you feel comfortable (home, café, etc.) - **Host:** Friendly & understanding host who gets the introvert experience - **Pressure-free:** Quality conversations with compatible North Melbourne singles in a relaxed environment **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Choose Your Age Group - Pick the session tailored to your age range. 2. Take a Brief Personality Assessment - We'll use it to optimize your matches. 3. Participate in Speed Dating Rounds - Engaging one-on-one conversations. 4. Spark a Real Connection - Meet someone amazing from North Melbourne naturally. --- ✨ Real connections await. Be yourself and find someone who appreciates you. ✨

**💕 Virtual Speed Dating for Introverts – Genuine Connections Without the Noise!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who want to meet someone special - Shy individuals dreading traditional dating scenes - Anyone who prefers genuine conversations over small talk - Those who want meaningful connections from home **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – introvert-friendly & intimate - **Location:** Your comfort zone (meet from home!) - **Host:** Experienced host who understands introvert needs - **Pressure-free:** Meaningful dialogue with Melbourne singles in a pressure-free zone **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=lifepair-long-term-relations&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=lifepair-long-term-relations&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=lifepair-long-term-relations&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=lifepair-long-term-relations&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Register for Your Age Group - Choose and register for the speed dating session that matches your age range above. 2. Fill out a Personality Quiz - Fast and simple! We'll match you with compatible singles. 3. Speed Dating Rounds - Quick, fun conversations with potential matches. 4. Find Your Match - Connect with someone special from Melbourne, no awkward bar scenes required. --- ✨ Your ideal partner is waiting. Join us for authentic introvert-friendly dating. ✨

Fed Square is doing another FREE outdoor cinema! This time it’s one of my favourite film series Lord Of The Rings 🧝‍♀️ I absolutely love these films and they have inspired many of my artworks 🎨✨ This is more of a social hangout event but bring your art supplies along if you feel like sketching, i’ll be bringing my sketchbook ✏️ Invite your friends along too, everyone is welcome to join this event! 🍿For food and drinks in the area there will be a food truck called Bilbo Snaggins and ACMI will have a snack bar open around the upper square entrance serving choc tops, popcorn and other treats🥤 It will be the full extended versions of the films and they will be showing over the course of 3 days 🎥✨ Saturday 27th 6pm - The Fellowship Of The Ring Sunday 28th 6pm - The Two Towers Monday 29th 6pm - The Return Of The King Here’s the link to the event on Fed Squares website to see more info https://fedsquare.com/events/outdoor-cinema-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy

Looking to get outside, clear your head, and connect with good people? Join us for a relaxed walk around the promenade of Port Melbourne during the golden hour. The route will start at the meeting point and heading towards St. Kilda. After 40m aprox we will turn around and back to the meeting point. This is a casual meetup, no pressure. Just a friendly stroll, good conversation, and a reason to step away from screens and into the fresh air. Whether you’re new in town, working from home, or just want a social reason to walk, you’re very welcome. Come as you are. Comfy shoes, water bottle, and curiosity are all you need. **Optional:** After the walk, some of us might grab a coffee nearby — feel free to join if you’re up for it!

**💕 Virtual Speed Dating for Introverts – Genuine Connections Without the Noise!** 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts seeking meaningful relationships - People who dread loud, crowded dating venues - Conversation enthusiasts who value quality over quantity - Anyone wanting to find love from their comfort zone **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – introvert-friendly & intimate - **Location:** Your ideal space – wherever you feel most at ease - **Host:** Friendly & understanding host who gets the introvert experience - **Pressure-free:** Quality conversations with compatible East Melbourne singles in a relaxed environment **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://luv2.ybevents.com/event?eventId=318.0&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=starlume-single-professionals&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Select Your Age Range - Register for the session perfect for you. 2. Complete a Quick Compatibility Quiz - Help us find your ideal matches. 3. Enjoy Speed Dating Conversations - Meet compatible singles in 5-minute rounds. 4. Make a Connection - Discover someone special from East Melbourne in a judgment-free zone. --- ✨ Real connections await. Be yourself and find someone who appreciates you. ✨

Join us for a drink and a meal at Johnny’s Green Room in vibrant Carlton. This rooftop bar has a great vibe with city views. It’s a perfect spot for a chilled Sunday evening meetup. I hear they make great cocktails 🍹 too! This will be our last meetup event for 2025 so come along and let’s toast to new connections and friendships 🤗 As I need to confirm numbers, please RSVP if you’re coming along. Cost: $5 (to cover Organiser Meetup fees) PayID 0417 387 640 Thank you, Andrea

MUST TAP “ATTEND” (PLEASE SPECIFY NUMBER OF GUESTS) AND REGISTER ON Friending-night.eventbrite.com FOR FREE. This is an extremely popular event so please RSVP EARLY to avoid disappointment as PLACES ARE LIMITED. Please arrive on time at 5.30pm as NO ADMISSION WILL GRANTED ONCE THE VENUE REACHES FULL CAPACITY. Please follow instagram.com/eventsinmelb for more FREE events! LAST ENTRY STRICTLY AT 6.30PM

MUST TAP “ATTEND” (PLEASE SPECIFY NUMBER OF GUESTS) AND REGISTER ON introverts.eventbrite.com FOR FREE. Calling all introverts! Meet other introverts in Melbourne and make new friends in a safe environment with board games to help break the ice! Feel free but not obliged to socialise! ALL WELCOME! Please follow Instagram.com/eventsinmelb for more FREE events! LAST ENTRY STRICTLY AT 6.30PM

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your lamp, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Join us for a hands-on workshop where families can learn the art of creating beautiful Turkish lamps together. This unique and engaging class will guide parents and kids through crafting intricate and colorful lamps. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide step-by-step instructions on design, assembly, and decorating techniques. This workshop is perfect for families and friends to bond, unleash their creativity, and take home a stunning handmade craft that can brighten any room. Come discover Turkish lamp-making's magic with your little ones in a fun and supportive environment. In this 2.5-hour workshop, you'll lose track of time and end up with a beautiful lamp to take home!

MUST TAP “ATTEND” (PLEASE SPECIFY NUMBER OF GUESTS). FREE ENTRY if you attend with a friend! Come make new friends from Asia and other countries! This event takes place in a DEDICATED AREA of the venue. LAST ENTRY STRICTLY AT 6.30PM

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your cheeseboard and coaster, use the *MEETAMC10* coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Unleash your creativity at our Resin Art Workshop in the heart of Melbourne! Join us for a fun and interactive session where you'll learn the art of resin pouring from expert instructors. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is perfect for everyone. You'll create stunning, unique pieces to take home and enjoy, all while surrounded by like-minded creatives. Our workshops provide all the tools, materials, and guidance you'll need to bring your vision to life. Discover the mesmerizing flow of resin, explore vibrant pigments, and watch your art evolve into a glossy masterpiece. Each session is designed to be both educational and relaxing, making it the ideal activity to unwind, socialize, and spark inspiration. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and dive into the colorful world of resin art with us!

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your ceramic, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** **Ceramic Paint & Sip Workshop - Melbourne** **Hosted by Art Masterclass** Unleash your creativity at our fun and relaxing Ceramic Paint & Sip Workshop! Whether you're a seasoned artist or have never touched a paintbrush before, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels—no prior knowledge is required. Join us for different sessions every day, where you can personalize your ceramic masterpiece while enjoying a glass of wine in the heart of Melbourne. Book your session today and experience the joy of art in a fun and social setting!

Sunday Evening Meditation 5.30 to 6.30pm Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our activities. Incense and other dharma books and items for sale 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

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!

Step into 2026 with intention, clarity, and a creative practice designed to help you see yourself more clearly. In this special Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore confidence as something you can curate - through the choices you make, the qualities you amplify, and the story you choose to step into. We’ll start with a short guided reflection to surface the traits, habits, and energies you want to nurture in the coming year. Then, using collage materials selected specifically for this workshop, you’ll translate those insights into a visual composition that represents the version of yourself you’re ready to grow toward. This isn’t about resolutions or perfection. It’s about crafting a grounded, imaginative vision of your next chapter - one that feels honest, energizing, and fully yours. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself (and a friend) and a willingness to explore what confidence can look like for you in 2026. **Featured Partner: Columbus Collage Collective** The Columbus Collage Collective was started in August of 2023 by Emily Morgan (aka Lovely But Dead) and Douglas Cuckler (aka Wonder Doug) as a place for collage enthusiasts to gather and create art together. The collective has since become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to hold free or low-cost collage events across central Ohio. The CCC welcomes all artists of all backgrounds and skill levels and encourages folks to take this time to step away from everyday existence and create art with people who share a love for this dynamic art form. All materials—magazines, scissors, craft knives, glue, paper, cardboard, and more—are provided, so there's no need to bring anything at all (though you're welcome to bring a friend or a favorite tool if you'd like!). We also encourage folks to take home magazines and materials from our events to support continued creativity! Find us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/](https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/) Register or sign up for the newsletter at [https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/](https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/) **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

[The 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).

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon