Sublime

the pregame should sow in guests any special behaviors you want to blossom right at the outset.

Many so-called “unconferences,” at which attendees improvise the agenda, are designed for 100 people.

When we gather, we often make the mistake of conflating category with purpose.

CONNECT YOUR GUESTS

first step in convening people meaningfully: committing to a bold, sharp purpose.

letting people ask each other questions, having partners introduce each other, asking each person to answer one fun question. But

When she gathers a large group of people who are sitting at separate tables, she assigns roles to a guest at each table, which gives them something to do and an excuse to talk to the others around them. A “Water Minister” ensures that everyone has full glasses of water. A “Wine Minister” keeps the wine flowing.

She defines risk as “a threat to one’s current state that could destabilize the way things are.” The risk is what allows for the possibility of the gift.