I have always thought we needed a better local talk show and this looks like just the solution. TalkPGH is hitting the streets on April 6, 2013 one their first of many neighborhood tours.
They are looking to find folks in the following neighborhoods to help us find interviewees and shooting locations, as well as interviewees to be on the show. If you are interested contact Nina info@talkpgh.com or 517.420.6715.
One of the questions that keeps coming up at many of the entrepreneurship related events around town – “Are you going to SXSW this year?” There are lots of great Pittsburgh companies that are headed to SXSW and I know there are some Pittsburgh events planned in Austin.
But it occurred to me: why should those who cannot get to Austin miss out on all the fun. So I would like to throw an idea out and see what you think: Northeast x Midwest (NExMW), a series of events here in Pittsburgh highlighting some of the great businesses, projects, and partnerships happening right here in the 412.
The name: NExMW – Last month I made a stop in St. Louis to have lunch with Jeff and Randy Vines – they are the owners of STLstyle (and basically the IheartPGH of St. Louis). Over lunch they asked me if I considered Pittsburgh to be in the North East or Midwest – I replied both. Pittsburgh is a great balance of lots of things North East and lots of things Midwest.
The Format: A Series of Events – Other the past I’ve had a bunch of other conversations with other folks about what makes a good networking event and how to meet other Pittsburghers to work with. There are lots of happy hours, open coffees, and general networking events, but it can be hard to get past the small talk. Rather than have one big event – I am thinking it makes sense to have NExMW be a series of smaller, structured events – panel discussions, small networking meals and hands-on workshops. I have already reached out to the folks at GrubWithUs and they are ready to have us their platform to plan some meals.
The Theme: Collaboration – exploring and celebrating the intersection of community and commerce in Pittsburgh. There are so many interesting collaborations that are driving change in this city, especially between the arts and business. NExMW is an opportunity to learn more about and see firsthand how these collaborations evolve and function, and how they are contributing to making Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh. IheartPGH exists to share the stories of individuals, businesses, projects, are organizations in Pittsburgh that are, in a small and not-s0-small ways, making this a great place to live. Yesterday, NPR re-aired this interview with Dan Buettner, author of the book Thrive. Listening to Buettner talk about how where you live can impact your happiness is one of the reasons I decided to move this idea for NExMW from my “wouldn’t it be nice if” list to my “this needs to happen” list. I envision NExMW as an opportunity to really explore what makes Pittsburgh so livable.
Events We’re Planning:
What do you think?
Feedback please!
Stay Tuned for More
Next month – the newest location of TechShop will open right here in Pittsburgh. This is a big deal….
I was just asking some of my coworkers if their kids were excited for Valentine’s day. In grade school I loved any holiday (it meant that I would get to eat candy) and woodshop day. I was lucky enough to attend a school that had a pretty nice woodshop and someone thought it was a good idea to teach a bunch of kids how to use band saws, lathes and drill presses. And I loved it – there is something about making things.
So what is TechShop – its kind of like a coworking space meets a workshop. Think a giant woodshop, add in some more cool stuff like lazer cutters, 3d printers and even more tools that are super cool and you probably wouldn’t buy for your house. TechShop has all of this stuff and more – rather than buying these things (if you could afford them) and keeping them in your garage (if you have one) – you can join TechShop and as a member you get access to the workshop and you can take classes.
Here is some more information about TechShop from their website:
TechShop is a playground for creativity. Part fabrication and prototyping studio, parthackerspace and part learning center, TechShop provides access to over $1 million worth of professional equipment and software. We offer comprehensive instruction and expert staff to ensure you have a safe, meaningful and rewarding experience. Most importantly, at TechShop you can explore the world of making in a collaborative and creative environment.
As I mentioned above – TechShop setting up shop in Pittsburgh highlights and adds to some of the great stuff already happening around town. If you are a regular reader of IheartPGH or happen to catch me waxing poetic about what Pittsburgh needs (or doesn’t need) – it usually has something to do with…
Now take a look at the floor plan for TechShop Pittsburgh
This is more than a workshop – it is a place to make things, learn things, collaborate with people and have meetings.
If you would like to check out the space they are hosting a pizza preview party this weekend – all are welcome to attend.
TechShop Pittsburgh Preview Party
Saturday, February 16, 2013
6-8pm
TechShop – Bakery Square
Facebook Event Link
After a week off, here’s your list of things to do this week. My calendar is a little thin at the moment, but feel free to post a comment and I’ll update the post!
Shift Change
Wednesday 6p, Free
Big Idea Bookstore, Bloomfield
This 2012 documentary film tells the little known stories of employee-owned businesses that compete successfully in today’s economy while providing secure, dignified jobs in democratic workplaces. After the movie, there will be informal discussion about the movie and cooperative owned businesses.
More information: (412) 687-4323
Pitts-burrrrgh Drowned Hog Swim
Saturday 11a, Charity Event
South Side Trail
Join the Pitts-burrrrrgh Drowned Hogs at the 18th Street Boat Ramp for a dip in the river to celebrate Groundhog Day — when, according to folklore, a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil determines whether we will enjoy an early spring. Begun in 2006, the Pitts-burrrrrgh Drowned Hogs is an informal group of adventurous people who plunge into the chilly Monongahela River on Groundhog Day. Challenge co-workers and other teams to see who can raise the most money or wear the goofiest outfits. Proceeds benefit Circle C, a private, nonprofit agency serving troubled and disadvantaged youth throughout the greater Pittsburgh area since 1967.
More information: (412) 937-1605 ext 227
Some content provided by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
This week: Oscar season kicks off and one of the best musicals of all time visits Pittsburgh!
Steel City Poetry Slam
Tuesday, ~9:30p, $5
Shadow Lounge, Shadyside
The Steel City Poetry Slam is held on the third Tuesday of every month at the Shadow Lounge on Baum Blvd. Sign up sheet goes out usually between 9:15 and 9:30pm, and the slam starts shortly thereafter.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/steelcityslam
Pittsburgh Job Fair
Monday, 11a
Holiday Inn, North Hills
All job seekers are encouraged to network, submit resumes and connect with hiring managers from some of the area’s top local employers.
Les Miserables
Tuesday 1/15 Sunday 1/27
Benedum Center For The Performing Arts
Based on Victor Hugo’s classic 1862 French novel, this stage musical has touched lives around the world with the powerful story of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his life-long struggle for redemption during the French Revolution. See the musical behind the movie that’s nominated for a Best Picture Oscar, among other awards.
Tickets: http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/32852/les-miserables#tab=buy_tickets
Manor At Midnight: Oscar Classics
Every Saturday through 2/23
The Manor, Squirrel Hill
My favorite local theater is showing classic Oscar films, leading up to the big event every Saturday at midnight. This week: the beautiful One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
More info: http://www.manorpgh.com/img/ManoratMIdnightOscar.pdf
