​​​Join us for A²: Authentic Austin's Conscious Connection series- SXSW Edition!

​Authentic Austin is a community for builders and visionaries who want depth, not just hustle.

​Our gatherings invite a different kind of connection.
Part networking, part reflection, part spiritual practice — woven together into something with more room to breathe than a typical evening out.

​Instead of surface-level introductions, we create space for real conversation, thoughtful dialogue, and the kinds of insights that only emerge when curious and passionate people slow down together.

​And during SXSW, moments like that can feel especially valuable.

​The week is full of ideas, new perspectives, and conversations that spark possibility.

​As the conference begins to wind down, this gathering creates space to pause, reflect, and integrate the experience together.

​A place to exchange insights sparked by SXSW, share what stayed with you, and meet other thoughtful humans exploring the intersection of business, creativity, and personal growth.

​You could think of it as a place where the most interesting SXSW conversations continue — and deepen.

​This is a room where both the market-focused builder and the spiritual seeker are welcome at the same table.

​💬 What attendees are saying:

• ​"LOVED it. There's nothing else like this in Austin. This is something magical." 🤯

• ​"As a founder, I’m finding the people that I LOVE here. They’re spiritual people that happen to be in business of some sort." 🔥

​👯‍♂️ ​This is for you if:

​• Your mind is buzzing with ideas from SXSW, and you’re curious what they might mean
• You’ve had fascinating conversations and want to explore them more deeply
• You enjoy meeting thoughtful people who care about both business and depth
• You’re a founder, builder, or creative exploring work that feels aligned with your values
• You’re an introvert who still enjoys being around curious, interesting humans
• You’re interested in the insights that emerge when people slow down together

​🤔 ​What to expect:

• ​​Guided meditation to settle and arrive

• ​Facilitated connection circle to share vulnerably with fellow authentic Austinites

• ​Group connection time

• ​Excellent vibes

​ ​👥 Who you might meet:

• ​A finance professor who writes about emotion in money

• ​A startup founder who is committed to building their business in a conscious manner

• ​A product executive-turned-consultant who is as much a therapist as a consultant

• ​A sales director who meditates every day and wants to master the spiritual game of chess

• ​A software engineer whose passion lies in creating IRL communities

• ​A former management consultant turned swim director and volunteer at the YMCA

• ​A therapist turned conscious community builder

​Whether you're a startup founder, seasoned executive, emerging leader, or simply curious about developing a more authentic approach to life and work, we invite you to bring your whole self to the table and connect deeply with others.

​🧳 What to bring:

• ​Presence and an open mind

• ​Your amazing & authentic self!

​🧘 Location and Parking:

​Casa de Luz is located at 1701 Toomey Rd, Austin, TX 78704 near Zilker Park.

​Parking around the village is a mix of street parking and paid city lots.

​Best options:

​• Paid parking lot directly across from Casa de Luz
Metered parking is typically about $2/hour and can be paid via meter or the Park ATX app.

​• Street parking nearby
Look along:
– Toomey Rd
– Jessie St
– Josephine St
– Sterzing St

​• Free 2-hour street parking
Some sections near Riverside Dr / trail-side areas offer free 2-hour parking depending on signage.

​• Garage option
There is a parking garage near the corner of S Lamar & Toomey within walking distance if street parking is full.

​Note:
Parking in this area can fill up during SXSW and other city events, so it’s best to arrive a little early and allow a few extra minutes to park and walk over.

​About the facilitator:

​​Sandra Bershad: I’m a Brand Therapist and Organizational Consultant. I work with visionary founders and entrepreneurs to help them realign their businesses with purpose, authenticity, and soulful impact. My approach blends somatic psychology, trauma-informed coaching, and storytelling to create scalable brand ecosystems that not only grow businesses but also nourish the people behind them.

​​I help individuals and teams transform from the inside out, ensuring your brand, strategy, and systems are deeply aligned with your values and vision. Whether it’s building a strong foundation, mapping your MVP ecosystem, or creating human-centered strategies, I guide you through the process of designing businesses that leave a lasting legacy.

​​I’d love to connect with you on Instagram @sandrabershad or LinkedIn.