Let's get set to start 2026 off with a plan... which might include a few gadgets, or new ways to use things you already have.
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First talk: "Designing Your Life in the Age of Algorithms" by Jessica Lowry
This talk explores how social media algorithms quietly shape our habits, identities, and sense of self—and how Life Design offers a way to take that power back. Jessica Lowry shares a simple framework anyone can use to build a life aligned with their values, not their feed.
Jessica Lowry is a design strategist who teaches people how to reclaim agency from algorithms and build a life shaped by intention, not influence.
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Second talk: "Wearables: Fashion Victim? Tech Victim? Both?" by Andrew Donoho
Tech Wearables, long associated with nerd culture, used to lead to arrests by the Fashion Police. That has changed; celebrities wear Oura rings on Colbert. Are they useful? Can you have fun with them? Come for the practical advice, stay to see the effect a couple of Butterfingers have on the speakers' blood sugar!
Andrew Donoho has been building data acquisition systems for over 50 years. 5 years pre COVID, he discovered fasting and started fixing his health. Fitness trackers and wearables are part of his path to better health and aging.
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The Boilerplate:
You can join us live and in person, or watch the show stream on Twitch.
We're delighted to be bringing you the show from Barrel O' Fun in the Alamo Drafthouse Mueller. Menu, map, parking info and more on the Barrel website at
https://drafthouse.com/austin/theater-bar/mueller. The venue is open from 4:00 pm to 10:30 pm. As always, Nerd Nite Austin is free, so arrive early to get a good seat. Grab a drink, order some food, tip your servers, and enjoy the show!
Talks may not be given in the order listed. There will be an intermission between the speakers.
There will be volunteer trainee ASL interpreters at the show.
If you want to, you can RSVP to our Facebook event, just show up, or watch on our Twitch stream... which will eventually end up posted on our YouTube! Keep an eye on our website and our Facebook, Bluesky, Threads, and Instagram accounts, too.
Since COVID-19 hasn't gone away (and getting the cold/flu/crud/measles isn't fun, either), we ask that you stay home and watch the stream if you aren't feeling well or have had a known exposure. We also encourage vaccination and frequent testing. Mask-wearing nerds are welcome.
Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Austin, Nonprofit events in Austin, Arts events in Austin.
