Nerd Nite Louisville
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Ends somewhere around 9
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
“Lex Luthor Was Right – In Defence of Superman’s Arch Enemy” by Bentley McBentleson
Description: While the rest of humanity has grown to rely this “Superman”, Lex Luthor understands that the world has been invaded by an alien being with super strength, flight, and x-ray vision. For 20 minutes we’ll explore the motivations behind one of the most well known arch nemesis and you will leave questioning who the real man of steel is.
Bio: Bentley is an avid reader of comicbooks and has way too much time on his hands.
*Presentation #2
“Look Good Naked” by Dan Elby Bounnavong
Description: Why do we workout? Answering that question and touching base about some juicy topics with a local fitness professional.
Bio: Dan Bounnavong is an ex-UK Cheerleader, Army Veteran, Coach and Co-Owner of CrossFit Covalence.
*Presentation #3
“Math as Art and Art as Math” by Professor Jake Wildstrom
Description: Mathematics has served as a tool for representational art and even as a subject of art, featured by visionaries ranging from M.C. Escher to Jorge Luis Borges. Art can also inform the way we view mathematics, with aesthetic considerations making math more comprehensible. Artists, mathematicians, and educators have devoted significant effort to exploring the boundaries between these disciplines, with promising and often beautiful results.
Bio: Jake Wildstrom has been a mathematics professor at the University of Louisville since 2007, studying mathematical properties of communication and transportation systems. In his free time he plays board games, crochets, brews beer, and repairs mechanical calculators
Nerd Nite Louisville
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Ends somewhere around 9
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
“The Science of Getting Knocked Up” by Dr. Miriam Krause
Description: We all know that sperm + egg = baby, but that’s an oversimplification of a very complex biological process. In her presentation, “The Science of Getting Knocked Up,” fertility expert Dr. Miriam Krause will talk about how the sperm and egg function, and how they come together (literally) to make a tiny human. She’ll also share myths and facts about pregnancy, and talk about what help is available (like IVF) if it turns out you can’t get knocked up naturally.
Bio: Dr. Miriam Krause is a board-certified OB/GYN as well as board-certified reproductive endocrinologist. She completed her fellowship training at the University of Louisville and currently works at a private practice here in Louisville called “Fertility and Endocrine Associates”.
*Presentation #2
“The Cult of Cross-fit: How to Lift Heavy Stuff Real Fast and Real Good”” by Madison Kleinhenz
Description: An inside look into the community and culture surrounding what it means to “Run faster than a lifter, and lift heavier than a runner”. Also, how to be prepared for Life’s moments of action, like lifting a keg.
Bio: Madison love solving problems. Examples: Growing a small retail company into a storefront and nationally recognized brand, organizing and executing a $400k+ net event in less than 2 mos., and planning over 25 regional retail market plans. As a 2x Cross-fit Games coach, I take pride in my interpersonal skills and ability to lead others in the pursuit of excellence.
*Presentation #3
“What billion$, blood flow, and blind mice can tell you about the brain” by Dr. Aaron McGee
Description: The human brain is special but not unique. Here’s a quick peak into some of the weirdness of how neuroscience research works. Added bonus : reasons not to believe everything you read.
Bio: Aaron is an Asst Prof at UofL with a PhD in Neuroscience. He works with mice, builds microscopes, and shoots lasers when not drinking beer.
Nerd Nite Louisville
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Ends around 9
Usually there is an awesome beer special
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
“The Dark Side of the Universe” by Joanna Bridge
Description: How did the universe go from the Big Bang to having stars and galaxies? And what’s up with all this dark matter and dark energy? Learn about what we think we know about the early universe, and what we still have left discover.
Bio: Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Louisville in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, studying the first observable galaxies. Did PhD at Pennsylvania State University, likes to travel and do karaoke.
*Presentation #2
“Target: Zero Suicides in Louisville” by Dr. Val Slayton
Description: The Louisville Health Advisory Board is a cross sector group of community organizations working to improve physical, mental, and social well being in Kentuckiana. It’s Behavioral Health Committee has a mission to implement a community wide, evidence based, and data driven program to eliminate suicides in Louisville. A major initiative will occur in September during National Suicide Prevention Week.
Bio: Dr. Val Slayton is a active participant in the Louisville Health Advisory Board. He has an interest in behavioral health issues, and is an active participant in efforts to establish the Zero Suicide framework.
*Presentation #3
“The Real Guide to Networking and Getting What You Want” by Alexandra Martindale
Description: Ever see those people guiding effortlessly through crowds meeting new people and expertly leaving conversations before they get weird? Ever hear the phrase, “It’s all in who you know?” Learn how to network effectively to get what you want in the end using proven strategies and key phrases.
Bio: Alex loves the art of social interaction. She goes to at least four networking events per week and is an active member of seven organizations locally. Her nickname is The Paris Hilton of Louisville – interpret that as you may.
Nerd Nite Louisville May 31st 2018
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
“Breaking Down BTS – The KPOP Sensation Taking Over the World” by Kara Delost
Description: Taking you beyond PSY’s Gangnam Style, to break down the current Kpop sensation, BTS. Find out who they are, the records they’re breaking, determining your “bias”, and just a taste of their music and videos. (Disclaimer: may cause obsession YouTube bingeing)
Kara DeLost is Korean American adoptee with a passion for all things Korean culture. Upon BTS Winning top Social Artist at the American Music Awards in 2017, she is now a full time BTS addict and part of the BTSArmy. @kdelost
*Presentation #2
“In Search of A Meaning of ‘Creativity'” by Jody Hurt
Description: Creativity isn’t something only a small group of people have. But in order to see this, we need to call attention to types of creativity. We’ll start with Ken Robinson’s definition of creativity, “The ability to have new ideas that have value”, and work towards a deeper understanding of creativity and the creative process.
Jody is a polymath working primarily in music and entrepreneurship. He’s a graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, and is currently running for Kentucky State Senate to represent the people of KY District 26.
*Presentation #3
“The Challenge of Finding Friends and How to Solve for it in the Modern World” by Pai Charasika
Description: Once upon a time it was far easier to make new friends as a generation of people found entertainment in the pastime of face to face interaction. With the advent of social media, virtual reality, and sooo many things to occupy our time, it has become increasingly more challenging to meet new people in real life where you have a natural synergies and a natural desire to speak. It’s hard out there to meet new people! ???? Either people already have their clique of friends or people rely on relationships that are “environmental”. In this discussion I’ll give you my perspective on this mode of communication and ways to potentially solve for this modern day conundrum.
A native of Louisville, Pai has 17 years in the investment industry as a local finance guy by profession. Who over the last several years has passionate in the entrepreneur/startup space. A divorced father of two who appreciates good people and a good time.
facebook.com/nerdnitelouisville
Nerd Nite Louisville April 26th 2018
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
Barrel Proctology 101 – If you seen one bunghole, you’ve seen them all by Noah Streingraber
Description: Some awesome stuff involving bourbon barrels
Noah hails from the “Mile High City,” AKA Denver, Colorado. And sorry, but no he didn’t bring any “jazz cabbage” or “Devil’s lettuce” with him because that is called “illegal drug trafficking.” He is a self-proclaimed beer connoisseur and barrel expert wannabe. Why did he move from CO to Louisville, KY? (Everyone asks this in a concerned, sad tone for some reason) — Bourbon brought him here. Noah slings barrels for Kentucky Bourbon Barrel, a full-service, used barrel cooperage here in Louisville, KY. He is a trader of sorts, but instead of investment stocks Noah deals in bourbon barrels. Like a nice, altruistic version of Gordon Gecko (ie “Wall Street” reference) that partners with and supports global beverage producers.
*Presentation #2
Why I Love Climbing by Reese Garza
Description: Realizing what you love by minimizing
Reese is a 22 year old traveler, writer, climber, and (to fund all of that) server/bartender.
*Presentation #3
The Science of Shooting the $h17 by Dave Bell
Description: We are often put in social situations either for business or pleasure, and forced into the realm of small talk. we will look at tips to make these situations a more pleasant and useful experience for you and those you come in contact with. hear from an introvert on making the most of being social even when you don’t feel like it
Dave is an introvert who plays the part of an extrovert at work on a daily basis. He has a long career in the non-profit world starting as a summer camp counselor. He presently serves as the Senior Manager of Philanthropy with the Kentucky Science Center and gets paid to go to Happy Hours (which he sometimes does not want to attend).
louisville.nerdnite.com
March 29th 2018
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*Presentation #1
Drop The Baseline: Music & Type In Harmony by Cat Braithwaite
Description: Serifs, Dropcaps and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Music has the power to move us – and often inspired great art such as the typeface. Both share similar concepts such as rhythm, syncopation, dissonance and harmony. In this talk, we’ll discuss the psychology behind branding music genres, kinetic typography, and music’s influence in modern design language.
Cat Braithwaite is a musically-trained west Texan, art director, social media manager and photographer at Copper & Kings American Brandy. Cat prides herself on her extensive pun mastery and superhuman abilities of identifying various typefaces.
*Presentation #2
Kids, Trauma, and Mental Health: Nerding out on the welfare of children in our community by Micah Jorrisch
Description: Dude, what’s wrong with kids these days?! What if I could connect the dots between what many consider to be the greatest epidemic impacting American children today and the socioeconomic, health, and general wellbeing of our community? Let’s dive into the data and talk about children and why it should be personally important for all of us to care about their wellbeing.
Micah Jorrisch is the Director of External Relations for Family & Children’s Place, an organization dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing and safety of every child and family in the Louisville community.
*Presentation #3
The Language of Online Dating by Bentley McBentleson
Description: Online dating is the best. And the worst. But why does it have to be that way? Knowing the right words to say in your dating profile—and knowing which words to avoid—can make all the difference and increase your chances of finding that special connection. You may think you know what to say to best represent yourself to the online dating world – but our research reveals a few things you’ll want to consider before hitting that first keystroke.
Bentley McBentleson is a digital marketer, Colonel Sanders historian, and all around alright guy @mcbentleson
March 1st 7-9pm
Gravely Brewing Co
514 Baxter Ave
*free*
Happy hour at 5
Opening ceremony at 7:15
First presentation at 7:30
Nerd Nite Louisville’s February event will be hosted on March 1st. Why, you ask? Well a lot of stuff happens in February and we ran out of Thursdays so we figured March could use a lil more Nerd Nite love.
This month we will be focusing on storytelling, personal branding, and the economic impact of college education.
Lectures For Listening:
*Presentation #1
“Get Outta This World: Using the Sci-Fi Genre to Enhance Your Theme”
by Taj Whitesell
Description: Looking to write a story about political corruption? Destruction of the environment? The dangers of technology? In this lecture, I’ll talk about the elements of the science fiction genre and how you can use those elements in your creative writing to enhance the drama of your work.
Bio: Taj Whitesell is a dramatic writer and general creative person in her spare time. She sold the rest of her time to The Man a few years ago and currently works as a digital strategist for Humana.
*Presentation #2
“Your Story Doesn’t Suck: You Just Don’t Know How to Tell It”
by Brian Eichenberger
Description: The way you talk about yourself, your passions and your business count. Pulling from a history of building narratives in radio, journalism and podcasting, Brian offers a quick and easy guide to figuring out how to find the stories you already own and how to most effectively tell them.
Bio: Brian Eichenberger is a freelance writer, podcaster and consultant and resident creative strategist for Insider Louisville. He is a diehard music fan, film junkie, husband, and dad who tries to read a book a week.
*Presentation #3
“How Your College Degree Raised My Rent”
by Alex Martindale
Description: Some see the rise in college graduates as an indication of a high functioning society, but this isn’t necessarily true. Its impact on the workforce and housing market has been detrimental. Why are so many college grads still working in food and beverage and retail and unable to buy a house? Learn how today’s increase in college grads has led to rising housing costs and a surplus of available jobs – millennials just don’t know about them
Bio: Alex Martindale has worked in the construction industry for the last six years focusing on project and relationship management, workforce development, and fundraising for the BUILD-Political Action Committee (PAC). She is the Director of Workforce Development at the Building Industry Association of Louisville
The Derby City gets a little more knowledgeable and a little more tipsy with the addition of a monthly Nerd Nite Event at Gravely Brewing Co!
We had our first event January 25th featuring…
*Presentation #1
“Pitino, Adidas, and Accreditation – Understanding the UofL Scandals”
by Bentley McBentleson
Description: What did Pitino do on a restaurant table? How did UofL entertain prospective recruits? What happened with the UofL Foundation board? Why is Adidas involved with UofL? Who is responsible for the close call with accreditation? All these questions and more will be answered in this presentation focusing on the drama around the University of Louisville scandals.
Bio: Bentley McBentleson is a digital marketer and grows his own beard. You can follow him @mcbentleson
*Presentation #2
“On Brand: Building the Visual Identity of Louisville’s New Breed”
by Brandon Bass
Description: Mid-sized American cities are growing at an alarming rate thanks to trends in technology, job markets, and the ever-evolving Millennial mindset. With that quick expansion, disparate places are experiencing a “Pinterest Effect” in which design ideas are rampantly shared and stolen– but what does that mean for Louisville and surrounding metro areas?
Bio: Brandon Bass operates a boutique design shop called Automatic Anything (automaticanything.com) and creates fine art as BBASS (bbassart.com). Instagram with him: @thebbass.
*Presentation #3
“Top 20 Mistakes People Make When Starting A Business”
by Zack Pennington
Description: Starting a new business can be a really rewarding experience. It can also be super difficult. Learn some of the most common mistakes people make when they start their new business from someone who has made them all (and more!). Gain inspiration and get past roadblocks by learning what NOT TO do (and subsequently, perhaps what TO do) to make your business move forward and achieve your goals. Maybe you’ll laugh, maybe I’ll cry, maybe both!
Bio: Zack Pennington is a serial entrepreneur, creative, and community builder. He can be found online or anywhere in Louisville that serves good food and bourbon.