Adobe
Ever wanted to enjoy deep conversations with strangers? Conversation Cafe has what you need.
John Hartmann started his first cafe in 2003 and would have at times 35 attendees. The new Conversation Cafe has its first meet-up on Thursday, Mar. 13 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Old Louisville Coffee Co-op (316 W. Ormsby Ave.)
Salon-style conversation gatherings aren’t a new concept but an art practiced less and less as we grow inseparable from our devices.
According to Hartmann, his original Conversation Cafe met at Heine Bros. on Chenoweth Ln.
“We hardly missed a Wednesday conversation, and we continued this for over 12 years,” said Hartmann. “That was a lot of conversation and people said they really enjoyed them. I would choose the topic and make up a flyer and post it in libraries, coffee shops. bookstores, restaurants, and also sent email to regulars who came to the cafe.”
Topics of the cafe range from specific political fare to more broad topics about philosophy and politics.
“We would use a “talking object” like a small vase or a salt shaker that you had to hold onto while you spoke for up to 90 seconds. Then someone else could grab the talking object and they would speak. It worked out very well as someone volunteered to keep time.”
Hartmann feels the Conversation Cafe made him a better communicator and listener.
At the event, Hartmann encourages attendees to purchase drinks or snacks to support the venue. The events will be scheduled to meet each 2nd Thursday of the month. Hartmann will be joined by his co-host and friend Edward Burns.
