CEO Roundtables Near Me

Data & Analytics Wednesday - Fighting Hunger with Data

**Beyond the Numbers: How Mid-Ohio Food Collective Combines Data, Customer Insights, and Human-Centered Design to Fight Hunger** Data tells us what is happening. Customer stories help us understand why. So, what happens when dashboards and lived experience are brought together? In this session, [Mid-Ohio Food Collective](https://mofc.org/)'s Data & Insights team will share how quantitative analytics, qualitative research, and human-centered design are combined to make more informed decisions, improve programs, and better serve our customers and partners. Attendees will learn how a mission-driven organization is building a culture where data and lived experience work together to drive impact. **About Our Speakers** [Kevin W. Jolly](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwjolly/) is Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s Sr. Manager of Data and Analytics, having joined the organization in February 2026. He earned his PhD in General Psychology from the University of Texas at El Paso after attending Iowa State University and like anyone who has studied human behavior, he remains fascinated by the stories that people tell through their data. Kevin has served in data and data leadership roles in a career that spans the education and energy sectors, and he takes the greatest joy in visualizing information for others. He lives in Columbus with his wife, two dogs, and a handful of chickens. [Nicole DeLozier](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-delozier-157483162/) is the Strategy & Insights Manager at Mid-Ohio Food Collective, where she leads customer insights, qualitative research, and human-centered design initiatives that help shape organizational decision-making. Throughout her career, she has been driven by the belief that the strongest insights emerge when data and human experiences are understood together. Nicole is passionate about helping organizations combine data, lived experience, and curiosity to better understand the communities they serve. When she’s not facilitating conversations or designing research projects, she’s often exploring new ways to bring people together through learning, creativity, and shared experiences. **Thanks to our 2026 sponsors:** [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com/), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com/), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com/), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro/) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com/)

The Obsidian Lantern Society: Meet & Greet Around the Fire

On select Saturday nights, **we gather after dark around a spooky outdoor campfire** at **[The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/)**. Lanterns glow in the darkness, the fire crackles, drinks are poured, and the conversation turns toward the strange, macabre, forgotten, and unexplained. Think of it as an old-fashioned fireside gathering for modern curious minds. There is no classroom. No presentation. No designated speaker. And nobody is expected to be an expert. **Just pull up a chair around the fire and join the conversation.** **What Happens Around the Campfire?** Each gathering revolves around a loose theme, but the conversation is allowed to wander. One subject might lead us into another, someone might bring up a strange piece of history they've discovered, or a discussion about a horror novel might somehow end with everyone debating medieval folklore two hours later. That's part of the experience. **Grimdark, Gothic & Cosmic Horror** From Gothic castles and haunted villages to dying empires and unknowable cosmic entities, we explore what makes dark fiction work. Expect conversations about Gothic horror, Lovecraftian horror, cosmic horror, grimdark fantasy, weird fiction, dark fantasy, horror movies, novels, games and fictional universes. Writers and worldbuilders are encouraged to bring their own ideas as well. Sometimes the best way to solve a problem with your fictional world is to throw it into the fire, figuratively speaking, and see where the conversation takes it. **Folklore, Ghost Stories & Monsters** Campfires and monster stories belong together. We explore legends of ghosts, vampires, witches, demons, cryptids, faeries, revenants, strange creatures and things supposedly lurking in the wilderness after dark. Some discussions might venture into European folklore. Others might explore Asian mythology, Appalachian legends, Ohio ghost stories, local urban legends or strange traditions from cultures around the world. Whether you believe any of it isn't particularly important. The stories themselves are fascinating. **Strange History & Historical Esoterica** Real history can be considerably stranger than fiction. Around the fire we might discuss ancient superstitions, alchemy, occult societies, forgotten religions, unusual historical events, bizarre inventions, archaeological mysteries, obsolete sciences and beliefs that once shaped entire civilizations. The objective isn't to convince anyone that an old belief was true. The interesting question is often why people believed it in the first place. **Worldbuilding & Storytelling** Writers, game masters, miniature hobbyists and obsessive worldbuilders are especially welcome around the fire. Bring your fictional civilizations, monsters, religions, characters, military campaigns, magic systems, alternate histories or that strange setting you've been quietly constructing for years. The Society is a place where you can say, "I've been working on something weird..." And everyone around the fire actually wants to hear about it. **The Weird & Unexplained** Eventually, most campfire conversations wander somewhere strange. Ghost encounters. UFO folklore. Cryptids. Forteana. Lost civilizations. Paranormal stories. Unexplained historical events. Strange coincidences. Unusual archaeological claims. Weird things someone discovered while disappearing down an internet rabbit hole at two in the morning. Bring your curiosity and your skepticism. **You don't have to believe something to enjoy discussing it.** **Come Sit Around the Fire** The Obsidian Lantern Society isn't a lecture series, networking event or traditional club meeting. It's something much simpler. A group of curious people sitting around a fire after dark, illuminated by flames and lantern light, talking about things that are strange, frightening, imaginative, historical, mysterious or simply fascinating. Bring a drink. Bring a story. Bring an idea you've been thinking about. Or just bring yourself and listen. As the evening grows darker, the fire burns lower and the conversation inevitably becomes stranger. Pull up a chair. The lantern is lit.

Evolve Synergy: Westerville Chapter

At Evolve Synergy Sessions, you'll be part of a supportive mastermind where we share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and inspire one another to take bold steps in our businesses. Grow your network, gain fresh perspectives, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who are committed to success. Whether you’re looking to move the needle in your business or simply need a space to connect and recharge, this is the perfect place to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. [Add Event to Calendar](https://evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com/) \*\* Please note, we will be arriving around 8:15a for open networking! Get there early and get connected! Contact Alexis Morley at [alexis.morley@edwardjones.com](mailto:alexis.morley@edwardjones.com) or Terri Lawson at [terri.lawson@e-merge.com](mailto:terri.lawson@e-merge.com) for more information.

Casual Hobby Night at The Arcane Foundry: Drinks & More

Come hang out at **The Arcane Foundry** for a casual evening of miniature painting, terrain building, drinks, and conversation. I’m working on putting together a gaming room and have plenty of unpainted miniatures and terrain that could use some attention, so bring your own project or **help me work through mine**. This is **NOT** a class or structured event. It’s really just an excuse to get some creative people together, paint some minis, have a few drinks, put on some music, and shoot the shit. Beginners are completely welcome. I’m also into **woodworking**, **plant propagation**, **gardening**, **axe and knife throwing**, and other maker hobbies, so there will probably be plenty of other projects and future hangouts if people click. I have an axe/knife throwing area, a blacksmithing forge and a woodworking station outside for future events. **Bring a drink if you'd like, bring a project if you have one, and come hang out. No real agenda, just paint, create, and meet some people.** Yes, The Arcane Foundry is my hobby-based business, but no, I will not be working and you do not need to buy anything. The only thing I ask is that you clean up after yourself. This is strictly a casual hangout and I'm just opening up the space so we can paint, work on projects, have some drinks, and enjoy each other's company. This is BYOB. So, bring whatever you want (soda, beer, wine, kava, whataver). I will have my own stash here. [https://thearcanefoundry.com/](https://thearcanefoundry.com/)

IxDA Chat ‘n Pancakes

Join the local UX and Design community for our casual monthly breakfast meetup. The [food menu](https://www.metsisitalian.com/park-service-coffee-breakfast) is a little limited this time, but we're all going to want the [little ricotta donut balls](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/696965720cb6ff5c10d9d304/1789418540860-2FODO7BMQZ12XDW3YEFG/PS_Metsis-03breaky.jpg?format=1000w) anyway. Thanks to the team at Nationwide for supporting the community.

Haunted Hike Through Walhalla Ravine

**Dare to Enter Walhalla Ravine?** There are places in Columbus where the city seems to disappear. Walk far enough into **Walhalla Ravine**, beneath the old trees and steep wooded hillsides, and the traffic grows distant. The houses above become harder to see. The path narrows, shadows gather beneath the canopy, and suddenly it becomes very easy to understand why people have been telling strange stories about this place for generations. Stories of **murder, apparitions beneath the bridge, unexplained lights, and the thing once whispered about as the Walhalla Witch** have become part of Clintonville folklore. Most have been embellished over the years. Some can be debunked. Others are simply stories with no way left to determine where the truth ended and the legend began. We’re going in anyway. **Disclaimer:** This is **NOT a scripted ghost tour**, and **I’m NOT a professional storyteller. I'm not here to entertain.** **Think of it more as a group adventure**: we’ll hike, explore, discuss the legends and history, and see some of the locations that inspired the stories for ourselves. Come prepared to walk, explore, and get a little off the beaten path. **Click Here: [Read about the ghosts and legends of Walhalla Ravine](https://thearcanefoundry.com/daclaud-lee/haunted-columbus/walhalla-ravine-the-ghosts-witch-legends-of-columbus-ohio/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)** This is a FREE event. Tips are appreciated (but never required) for showing you the hidden paths and lesser-known parts of the ravine. Just a reminder: **if you RSVP, please make every effort to attend.** This is going to be a 3-mile hike, so please make sure you can do this. There may also be some slightly rugged terrain (nothing too crazy) but depending on where we end up, there might be some light climbing. **OPTIONAL:** Afterward, anyone who wants to keep the evening going can join us nearby for drinks at Derive Brewing Company or pizza and drinks at Hounddog’s.

Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Beyond Basic Text-to-SQL:Enterprise-Grade Conversational AI w/Databricks Genie

**Beyond Basic Text-to-SQL: Building Enterprise-Grade Conversational AI with Databricks Genie** Conversational AI is transforming how business leaders and data teams interact with enterprise knowledge, but translating natural language into reliable, enterprise-grade business intelligence requires far more than standard Text-to-SQL capabilities. In this session, we explore how **Databricks Genie** delivers accurate, context-aware, and secure conversational analytics across the lakehouse platform. How does it all come together? You'll learn about: * **Unity Catalog as the Foundation:** Discover why conversational AI is only as good as its underlying governance and metadata. Learn how Unity Catalog provides the granular access controls, lineage, unified metadata, and rich semantic context essential for generating trustworthy, safe, and compliant analytical insights. * **Genie Agents:** Go beyond single-prompt queries to explore how autonomous Genie Agents handle complex multi-turn reasoning, iterative problem-solving, and workflow orchestration across complex datasets. * **Genie One:** Experience how Genie One unifies natural language interaction, visualization, and deep enterprise analytics into a seamless, high-performance platform experience. Whether you are a data leader aiming to democratize self-service analytics or an architect building next-generation AI workflows, this talk will provide actionable insights and practical patterns for leveraging Databricks Genie to make data accessible to everyone across your organization.

Evolve Elevate (Virtual)

Evolve is all about creating an Authentic Community, Deeper Connections, and Confident Growth. We are a group of entrepreneurial women who connect personally and professionally. We welcome every guest to experience our authentic community with no cliques and no judgment. Come as you are! There's a seat waiting for you. Elevate is an action-oriented connection experience designed to help women entrepreneurs move beyond surface-level networking and into meaningful growth, collaboration, and courageous action. Each session centers around a focused business or personal development topic, followed by intentional breakout discussions that encourage deeper conversations, real relationship-building, and practical next steps. Unlike traditional networking events, Elevate is designed to create momentum. Women are encouraged not only to share ideas, but to actively support one another through accountability, collaboration, brainstorming, and action-based growth. Every meeting is an opportunity to build authentic connections, gain fresh perspective, and leave with a clear action step to implement before the next session. This is a space where women rise together — not through competition or hustle culture, but through encouragement, courage, consistency, and intentional community. \*\*Evolve Women's Collective is a membership based professional women's group. You can find more information at [www.EvolveWomensCollective.com](https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.EvolveWomensNetwork.com&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw0UekYvD4PoVa7WUlFFVHyp). Feel welcome to be our guest anytime! [Join the Call](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://zoom.us/j/7894682064&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw127u1EMKvrsjTOPRaLUJ51)

September Board Meeting

Escape to Italy! Women's Networking Social

Fun Networking Lunch with other female entrepreneurs and businesswomen! Bring a friend or two who would like to mix, mingle, and meet like minded women. Lunch orders placed at 12:30 (please arrive in time to be seated with the group). At 2 PM, enjoy shopping at this unique market. *Ladies are responsible for their own meal and shopping expenses.* Questions? Susan Z - 937-409-0554 • [zmusique@sbcglobal.net](mailto:zmusique@sbcglobal.net)

Dublin, OH