​🌊 The ocean gives us life—but it’s also one of the least understood places on Earth.

​We often hear about plastic pollution, overfishing, and dying coral reefs. But what’s actually happening in our oceans right now—and what stories are missing from the conversation?

​In this timely talk, marine conservationist Lindsay Gordon takes us inside the hidden realities of our big blue: where our seafood really comes from, what life looks like for modern industrial fishermen, and what’s unfolding in the mysterious and deeply threatened deep sea.

​Drawing on years of work with coastal and island communities around the world, Lindsay reveals how ocean health, human livelihoods, and climate futures are deeply intertwined. She offers a grounded, human-centered view of the ocean—not just as a place in crisis, but as a space of possibility.

​This talk offers a grounded, hopeful look at the state of our big blue, and explores how each of us can play a role in shaping a healthier future for the ocean—and for humanity alongside it 🐠🌍

​​📵 A No-Phone Lecture 📵

​​​​This event is a special one: we are asking attendees not to use their phones during the duration of the event (7-9pm). After you check in, we will ask you to turn your phone off and slip it into an envelope provided at the door. We won’t take your phone or lock it away, but the goal is to create a space where we can all be present together, listening and thinking without distractions.

​​​If you’d like to take notes, please make sure to bring a journal. If you forget, we will have journals and pens available for purchase at the event. This is your chance to experience ideas and conversation the old-fashioned way, fully in the moment.

​🕰 Event Details

​​​​What should I expect?

​​7:00-7:40 --> arrival & chats

​​​​​7:40-8:20 --> lecture

​​​​​8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting

​​​​Who's invited?

​​​​Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!

​​​​What about parking?

​​​​There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.

​​Do I have to be 21+?

​​​No :) This venue is open to all ages. If you'd like to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present a valid ID.

​​Will this event be photographed or recorded?

​​Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.

​​🔔 Stay in the Loop

​​​​​​I can't make it to this event. How do I stay updated for future events?

• ​​​​📧 Join our mailing list

• ​​​​📸 Follow our Instagram

​​​​​​How do I become a speaker?

​​​​Fill out this form and we'll reach out to you if we think your lecture is a good fit! 👉 Speaker form

​​🧾 Policies

​​​The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?

​​​Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event! Attendees are likely to drop out.

​​​​What about refunds?

​​You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)

​​What about accessibility?

​​​​We want our lectures to be as accessible as possible. Accessibility can vary depending on the space, so please research our specific venue to learn more about things like wheelchair access and service animal policies. If you have any accessibility needs not covered here, please email us at [email protected] and we’ll do our best to support you.

​​​What about the ticket structure?

​​​Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing [email protected].​

​​What about email updates?

​​By registering for this event, you’ll be added to the Big Brain mailing list and receive occasional updates about future lectures and events. You can unsubscribe at any time.

​​🧠 Community Guidelines

​​Big Brain events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.

​​By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.

​​Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.

​​🍸 Alcohol & Safety

​​Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.

​​​Thanks for supporting our growing mission! 🧠✨

​​​​*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email [email protected].