Gist IRL Social

4.6•449 ratings

San Francisco, CA, US

4,209 members · Public group

What we’re about

Gist is a guided experience designed to make it simpler for humans to connect — intentionally, meaningfully, and without the noise.

Each mixer has a unique theme. Through a series of one-on-one 8-minute rounds, you get to meet everyone in the room. You show up as you are — no bios, no algorithms, no judgment. Just real people meeting in real life, with structure that makes it efficient, non-awkward, and unexpectedly joyful.

Whether you're here for new friendships, collaborators, or a deeper sense of presence, Gist creates space for mutual discovery — of others and of self.

We’re not building another networking tool — we’re restoring what it means to truly connect, and inviting you to try it for yourself.

Upcoming events

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Thu, Jan 8, 2026 · 6:30 PM PST
Creative Minds Speed-Friending [Oakland]
Oakland United Beerworks, 262 2nd Street, Oakland, CA, US
🎟️ Join and Check-In

Creative Minds Speed-Friending: Find Your Collaboration Crew

Are you tired of the isolation that often comes with creative work? Do you struggle to find like-minded collaborators? We know the feeling. That's why we created Creative Minds Speed-Friending. This evening is specifically designed to unite passionate creative professionals, artists, designers, and innovators to share ideas, swap tips, and spark new collaborations or friendships.
Format

6:15 pm: Doors open, grab your first round.
6:30 pm: Speed-friending rotations begin (8 min each)
7:30 pm: Free-flow mingling – stay as long as you want.

What to Expect Typical mixers or social gatherings can feel overwhelming, daunting, or just plain awkward. We've crafted a format for genuine connection, designed specifically to take the pressure off. The core of the evening is a series of rotating, one-on-one conversations. This structure is intentionally designed to reduce social anxiety, letting you relax, be yourself, and focus on one person at a time. Think of each brief chat as a chance for sparking inspiration. You'll move through several quick Speed-friending rounds. In each round, you might find the start of a Creative collaboration, a valuable Professional networking connection, or a lasting Friendship.

Want to connect with someone? Use the app! It lets you stay in touch without ever revealing your phone number.

PS: Please support the venue by getting an item off their menu.
35 attendees