Q: What are salons?

A: An Interintellect salon is a conversation (typically one to two hours) around a specific topic, carrying the atmosphere of a cozy, living room gathering.

Our signature salon format is an in-depth, open-ended conversation on a specific topic, but events also come in the form of creative workshops, art performances, discussions with special guests, and more.

Q: What can I expect if I host a salon?

A: You can expect in-depth, thoughtful conversation from salon attendees. Everyone who comes is ready to discuss what intrigues them and your topic, bringing their own, unique perspective.

Hosting a salon will let you facilitate this dynamic discussion. Anyone who seeks to have deep, inclusive conversations about their areas of interest and research with a thoughtful audience makes for a great Interintellect host.

Hosting is also a great way to promote your podcast, newsletter, or video channel; brainstorm your next book or article; develop your conversational and public speaking skills; make friends with people passionate about similar topics; explore something completely new; and make an income.

Q: Is this like a formal TED Talk or presentation?

A: We emphasize that Interintellect hosts don’t have to be experts or content creators. While experts do thrive on our platform, someone who is genuinely interested in a topic and wants to learn more alongside salon attendees can also be a successful host. Non-expert hosts create live, engaging, exploratory events where the audience is just as much a part of the experience as the host.

As opposed to being seen as a “presenter,” a host can be seen as the catalyst for the salon conversation, keeping engagement up and making sure the discussion flows smoothly. A host will do things like ask thoughtful questions and share personal reflections to make for an interactive event experience.

Q: Who comes to salons?

A: Most of our salons are open to the general public — anyone can purchase a ticket. Your attendees might be established experts in your chosen topic, passionate students and practitioners, or curious hobbyists with backgrounds in other disciplines. Usually, it’s a mix of all of the above.

Many of your attendees will also be paying members of the Interintellect community.

We promote salons among our public audience and Interintellect community members through our social media, our newsletter, and word of mouth—we strongly encourage the hosts to do the same.

Q: How do I know if my idea will make a good salon topic?

A: Almost every idea can become a great salon topic, and your success depends in a large part on framing. To prepare, ask yourself questions like: What are the most pressing questions, the ones that get at the topic’s core? What different points of view should be balanced and considered?

The best salon listings contain questions or observations that provoke curiosity or reveal a paradox that intrigue potential attendees (who will want to come to your event to further explore!).

Q: How far in advance should I list?

A: We recommend listing at least 4-6 weeks before an event or series starts. This will allow ample time for review and promotion.

Q: What can I charge for an in person event? How do I manage attendance?