F*** the Small Talk

FTST is a community for building authentic connections, across boundaries and deeper than surface-level conversations or fleeting interactions. We’re here to genuinely be ourselves with new friends. The basic question we start with is, “What's on your mind today?"

Deep, mature, in-the-moment discussion is at the heart of our humanity. By sharing our thoughts and listening to others we create authenticity which soothes our soul, relieves stresses, and connects us on a human level. We won't have any agenda or bias regarding gender, politics, or religion (except to avoid where they may be offensive, of course). FTST is made up of people from all walks of life, different cultures, beliefs, and experiences. We all crave meaningful conversations and genuine interactions.

At our events, we jump right in and engage each other in thought-provoking discussions about topics and questions we all bring up. Everyone gets a chance to speak, and discussions can go in different directions, and at different depths, depending on everyone's interests and experiences. In some cases, such as a really big turnout, we might break into smaller groups to make things more manageable, but generally we like to stay together in one group.

Remember:

• DRESS FOR THE WEATHER AND BE COMFORTABLE
• PARKING IS AVAILABLE IN SEVERAL AREAS
• PLEASE LEAVE YOUR PETS AT HOME SO WE CAN FOCUS ON IDEAS
• BRING A SNACK IF DESIRED FOR OUTDOOR EVENTS

For great discussions:

• BE OPEN-MINDED ABOUT TOPICS, BUT LET US KNOW ABOUT PROBLEMS
• EXPRESS YOURSELF AMONG NEW FRIENDS WHO ARE LISTENING
• HELP OTHERS DO THE SAME

Also, while it should go without saying:

• STRONG FACTUAL VIEWS ARE FINE, BUT THIS GROUP IS NOT WELCOME TO MISOGYNY, BIGOTRY, RACISM, HATE, TERROR, OR DISINFORMATION
• WE HAVE ZERO-TOLERANCE FOR EXCLUSION, BULLYING, DISCRIMINATION, OR HARASSMENT OF ANY KIND AT EVENTS OR ONLINE IN THIS MEETUP GROUP

So, if you’re tired of "small talk" in social situations and crave genuine connections, join us at a discussion event when we "eff" the small talk :) FTST is a safe intellectual discussion where you can be authentic, vulnerable, curious, and just exactly who you are.

Note: Our events have an emphasis on philosophical diversity and inclusion. We will continue to have various types of events, hang outs, discussion circles, nature walks, to provide opportunities for everyone to connect and explore. Stay tuned, and we hope you'll come out and participate!