Nerd Nite St. Pete - June 2024

We all know that learning is more fun when you’re drinking with friends. Nerd Nite operates in over a hundred cities around the globe including our city - St. Pete! This lecture event strives for an inebriated, salacious, yet deeply academic vibe. Several presenters totally geek out for 20 minutes each while guests drink and socialize. It’s like Ted Talk– with beer! Drink, learn, connect, and talk about fun, interesting stuff!

Doors open at 6:30pm. Presentations begin promptly at 7pm. 

Tickets are $6.91 in advance.  All tickets will be sold online.  And we always sell out! 

Show your ticket on your phone and we will scan it (we are so fancy)

Angela Blesener presents:
Unlocking the Benefits of Neuroplasticity: Your Starter Kit to Ketamine-Assisted Therapy

Stepping into the world of Psychedelics: The intricacies of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy! Join us for a talk where we explore the art and science of harnessing neuroplasticity with intentional Ketamine use. Get ready to explore the journey from preparation to post-session integration with practical insights, science-backed research, and creative arts.

Angela Blesener is a certified trauma and psychedelic therapist based out of St Petersburg, FL. For a decade, she has been facilitating transformation and self-awakening through a variety of settings, including leading DBT and mindfulness classes, running private trauma & PTSD retreats, guiding psychedelic journeys, and trauma-informed ecotherapy.

Mark Aeling presents:
Problem Solving for Design and Fabrication of Monumental Sculpture

Thinking big is fun and exciting but making big is full of complications. Mark will share insights into the creative and technical processes behind manifesting large scale concepts. Inevitably, the talk will get into the weeds regarding materials and techniques that allow for ideas to become reality and discuss how to rely on the known to resolve the unknown in the creative process.

Sculptor Mark Aeling earned his Master of Fine Arts in Sculpture at Washington University, St Louis in 1993. Mark opened MGA Sculpture Studio, LLC in St Louis, MO in 1996 and relocated to St. Petersburg, FL in 2005. MGA has focused on Public Art and Private Development Commissions that are located throughout the United States. Mark’s sculpture is inspired by the inherent mathematical forms that are found in nature. He works in a variety of materials and uses many techniques for his creative process. Mark is also an arts advocate and the Board President for the Warehouse Arts District Association, a not for profit organization in St Petersburg, FL.

Norah Mendoza presents:
Sharks and Scholars: The Power of Diversity in our Oceans and Science

Join me for an insightful presentation on sharks and the critical role of biodiversity in maintaining healthy oceans. As the Program Coordinator for Minorities in Shark Science, I will discuss the importance of diversity both in our marine ecosystems and within the scientific community. Learn how fostering a variety of species, as well as inclusive representation in research, leads to stronger, more resilient oceans and innovative scientific discoveries.

Norah's journey in marine conservation has spanned various roles, with a particular focus on coral reef restoration and the global impact of reefs on shark species. Her extensive field experience includes coral restoration internships, research focused on quantifying microplastics, and leading conservation efforts in locations ranging from Florida to Sicily. As a proud member of Minorities in Shark Sciences, and as a Diversifying Ocean Sciences Fellow, she has flourished through workshops and guidance from passionate mentors. Now as the Program Coordinator for MISS, she eagerly looks forward to organizing programming, a fostering an inclusive environment, and empowering other MISS members.