Nerd Nite Pittsburgh is a lecture series that’s a mix between a TED talk, a comedy show, and a social mixer! Speakers present for 15 minutes on a variety of topics related to science and technology, popular culture, history, and other nerdery with a vibe that’s as entertaining as it is academic! Audience members can ask questions, and beforehand there is an entirely optional social game. If you like live comedy, learning about random and interesting things, and meeting other nerds this is for you! Social game starts at 7:00, Doors open for the show at 8:15, show starts at 8:30. If you have a topic you are passionate about and you’d like to be a speaker at a later event get in touch at !
This event will be a fundraiser for the Cystic FIbrosis Foundation! Cystic fibrosis is a devastating genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. 100% of the ticket sales will go to support the foundation. Learn more or donate at the fundraising page for Nerd Nite MC Rorry!
July 29th will show the following presentations:
I’m Dying Up Here: The Science of Comedy from A Terminally Ill Girl with Nothing to Lose
What makes a joke funny? Like, funny funny. Is it well written, is it about sex, or did Will Ferrell just say it in a funny voice? Who’s to say for certain… but professional standup comic, writer, and actor Kirsten Michelle Cills has some theories she’d like to share.
Discovering the Algorithm
In an age where there is no rule book we need to discover how something works through research and failure. We will discuss social media content algorithms and dive deep on meta reels, tik toks, and YouTube shorts.
Mark Shimkets is a Comedian from Pittsburgh PA. He has performed on stages from across the country such as Cobbs in San Fransisco to the Wilbur in Boston opening for nationally touring comedian Steve Hofstetter. Catch him hosting the comedy night @ 565 speakeasy and stage and Willow Station Bar and Grille.
CFF: started from the bottom now we’re HERE
Justin Davis is a real estate professional, actor and recreational athlete who defines the word “BASIC.” Years ago, after careful reflection and painful self analysis, Justin decided that it was time stop being a selfish dickhead and all around “f***boy.” In an effort to not burn in hell one day, Justin sought volunteer opportunities, to help others in need. After researching MANY organizations and causes and whoring himself out to any volunteer ask in town, Justin discovered that not all non-profits are created equally. Justin’s research to find an organization that was efficient and effective led him to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and a program called “Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest.” Justin now sits on the board of directors of the local chapter of CFF, chairs Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest, in addition to his national roles as a member of the Leadership Council, co-chair of the National Volunteer Leadership Initiative and chair of the State Advocacy Team, which sends Justin to Harrisburg and Washington DC annually, to meet with Senators and Representatives to fight for vital funding. This talk will be about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s story and accomplishments through the years, including revolutionizing the rare disease non-profit with venture philanthropy and how CFF’s model is helping other common diseases.
Social game:
Our social game will take place before the show from 7-8:15. Similar to ‘Speed Dating’ or ‘Speed Networking’ our game is ‘Speed Friending’! Whether you are new to the city and hoping to make friends, trying to expand your professional network with other nerds, or are single and looking to mingle, the game is just about meeting new people! We have a system in place to rotate everyone around to meet someone new every 5 minutes, then you can fill out an online form with which conversations you enjoyed and we’ll email you your matches! You are welcome to join late, but if you want to get the most of it arrive at 7:00 to register and the first round will start at 7:15.
If you haven’t been here before, check what this is about with videos from our youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flOg5cRkceg&list=PLcx6pXs_8CRUItElXY8Cvs5vhXtZN_j9w
This event is 21+ and requires ID. The venue has limited space and there will not be door sales. Be sure to get a ticket before heading over.