Think and Drink: Tips & Tricks for Those Saddled by Midwest Nice
August 20 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm CDT
In this sharp, soulful, and unfiltered follow-up to Pimps & Preachers, Dr. Nicole Price—aka the original Holy, Educated Muthaf*cka—calls in the over-functioners, the peacemakers, and the brilliant-but-exhausted humans who are tired of being “nice” when what’s needed is real. Rooted in radical empathy, this session explores how to stay spiritually grounded, emotionally clear, and intellectually sharp—even when you’re surrounded by noise, nonsense, or outright foolishness. Because real empathy isn’t about absorbing every emotion in the room—it’s about knowing where to focus your energy.
This free Think & Drink lecture is open to all ESU members and the public, but RSVP is required. You will also receive at least one reminder email about the event when you RSVP.
When: Thursday, August 20, 2026, 6:00 pm
Location: Casual Animal Brewing, 1725 McGee Street Kansas City, MO
Tickets: Free admission but RSVP is required. Click here and scroll down to August 20 to RSVP.
Parking: Street parking available but arrive early for best choices and for best non-reserved open seating.
About Think & Drink Lecture Series:
Think & Drink is an exciting new kind of event that combines educational topics with social gatherings. This one-hour lecture program was launched in July of 2025 by Casual Animal Brewing Company, a microbrewery in the East Crossroads area, south of downtown Kansas City. The lectures are held on the first and third Thursday of every month and bring together experts, academics, and curious minds for evening talks on topics that generate fresh perspectives, ideas, and discussion. No topic is off the table.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Nicole Price
Dr. Price is an engineer-turned-leadership strategist and CEO of Lively Paradox. A leading voice in empathy-driven leadership, she equips professionals to build trust, lead strategically, and grow intentionally. Her keynotes and programs help leaders turn empathy into their competitive edge—measurable, actionable, and built, not born.