“Gong Show” 3-Minute Tech Talks (SF)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

What the f*** is a Gong Show?

Presenters who work in science, tech, or another “it’s hard to explain” field get 3 minutes to explain their work without confusing the audience. If the audience hears a word they don’t understand, they ring a bell (*gong*). Presenters must pause, clarify, and keep going.

Because this is a COY event, we also ask playful questions to humanize our smart friends.

Why Come?

For Presenters:

• Practice explaining your work clearly.
• Get instant feedback from a friendly audience.
• What else are you doing on a Friday night?

For Audience:

• Interrupt your smart friends.
• You might learn something new. You might not. Take the risk.
• Someone may talk about AI. Riveting stuff.

Event Rules:

1. Presentations are 3 mins. Pretend the audience has a small attention span (because they do).
2. No jargon. Bell = “I don’t get it”
3. Presenters must clarify before moving on.
4. Safe space! Don’t just nod politely and stay confused. Ring your bell!
5. No questions that begin with “Well I think….”

Support the Event

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Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.