We Made Something

Nine months ago it was just an idea to create a new way for people to find meaningful and moving connection. We believed it had the power to benefit business teams, friends and families, or unite any group of individuals over a guided meal experience they co-create together.

Thanks to the amazing people we shared our idea with along the way—and a lot of feedback that was good, harsh and surprising—it has taken shape and now lives in true form.

The good feedback encouraged us that we were on to something universally resonant. Almost everyone we spoke to saw value in our promise to surface connections that move people in unified spirit. We also heard that no one had ever heard of a format that wove together principles of mindfulness, co-creation, and a guided narrative brought to life through a meal. Even those who shared the harshest feedback, said they could see the potential in our idea to spark meaningful progress in some capacity.

The harsh feedback was actually the most helpful. "You don't have business model." "You don't have a business model." "You don't have a business model." After three pretty blunt and uncomfortable conversations of that nature, we realized maybe we don't have a business model. And maybe, that was okay. What seemed to be our biggest source of angst released us from the confines of force fitting into profit and instead helped us focus on the impact of the experience. Whether it ultimately lived as a social movement, a purely charitable exercise or something else entirely, the importance was to create it and then decide what to do with it.

The best advice, "Just book the first meal and see how it goes." So, we did. The result was the first foundational narrative for Meshin Movement meals. With that development came a realization that we have four core principles of creating connection. All of which can be beautifully brought to life through the simple act of gathering around a table for meal time.

With a handful of our consulting clients, partners and people who had been key influences in our start, the first Meshin Movement meal was our hypothesis test that uniting people around a table through this format could create progressive movement and connection. And it was magic.

Then the most surprising feedback, "I ripped off your idea for my own clients."

Two of our 20 guests told us they recreated a version of the experience for their own business and volunteer needs. And another guest has asked us to create a bespoke version for his board of directors.

Beyond the overwhelming positive feedback to the experience and the potential people saw for it to move their own partnerships and relationships, there was also tangible ROI for those who attended. Business connections and opportunities were made in that single night that have already amounted to four new business collaborations and partnerships.

We made something. A first proof point that coming together with intentional presence in the moment, an open mind, proactive inclusion and a practice of gratitude can foster a deep connection between people over a meal. And while we can't say where we go from here, we now know that so long as we stay true to our purpose and let go of limitations, what to do with this special thing will continue to reveal itself.