The Philosophers House

Chess Club
2026-03-25 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-18 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-11 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Halifax)
Make new friends and play chess! This group meets weekly in the main room. All levels welcome.
Materials Required: None
Location: Living room/Fireplace area, 1st floor
Cost: Food and drink purchases encouraged to support nonprofit
How to register:Drop-in.
Instructor Contact Information: Joegumina@hotmail.com

Live Music: Some Old Friends
2026-03-24 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Halifax)
Some Old Friends are a local band from Carter County travelling the region entertaining with covers of many genres covering many decades of music. Their original music is highlighted throughout their sets, some already published on Spotify.
Country, rock, and blues drive our sound but we have leaned into the eclectic as well. They are currently a duet but have added friends in the past to give larger shows for larger venues but definitely shine in smaller interactive environments.
Join us for this amazing musical duo for Tuesday Tunes!
Location: Fireplace/living room area, first floor
Cost: Food/Beverage purchases encouraged to support teahouse nonprofit, Tips for musician encouraged

Mandarin Language Class
2026-03-24 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-17 18:00 - 19:00 UTC
Description: Mandarin Chinese is the single largest first language in the world, with over 941 million native speakers, and has become an invaluable language for anyone to learn, whether they’re interested in engaging with Chinese business, learning more about Chinese politics, wanting to study deeper into Chinese culture, or just fascinated by language! This course will function as an absolute beginner course in Mandarin Chinese. Learning objectives will be to be able to read and pronounce pinyin, to learn very basic grammatical structures, very basic day-to-day vocabulary, begin to recognize and reproduce some characters, and be able to hold simple, introductory conversations. No prior Mandarin knowledge is necessary. If there are more advanced learners who would be interested in more advanced material, please contact the instructor.
Instructor Steven Jenkins: I have studied Mandarin Chinese at several universities in China and lived and worked in China for a number of years. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to help people start their journey in learning Mandarin Chinese!
How to register: Advanced registration is greatly preferred as class does have limited seating. See instructor contact for registration.
Cost: Food and drink purchases encouraged OR 5.00 donation at tea counter to support our nonprofit.
Location: Parlor, 2nd floor
Materials needed: A notetaking device (laptop, tablet, notebook, etc.) . We will be using Integrated Chinese Level 1; Part 1, 4th edition, which is available in print and eBook formats from several sources. You can also use a previous edition, as those are readily available and less expensive. We will use Simplified characters in the class, as that is used in Mainland China and elsewhere. As that series has both textbooks and workbooks, be sure to select the textbook. If you have questions about the suitability of a version, feel free to contact the instructor.
Instructor Contact Information: Heather at (208)215-6738 or Steven Jenkins (steven.jenkins@gmail.com)

Steeped in Stories Author Meetup
2026-03-24 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Halifax) | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Monthly meet up for local authors on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays: The goal is to be in community and encourage fellow authors on their current projects. We’ll do group feedback, discuss local events and collaborations, and have various discussion topics on the craft of writing, and the business of selling, books.
Feel free to drop in, but if you’d like to get on the email list to request feedback on a project or hear specifics about each month’s topic, email Marvin.
The suggested payment for this event is a $5 donation to Philosopher’s House or the purchase of food or drink.
How to register: Drop-in OR email Marvin: marvin@marvinlchoffman.com
Location: 2nd floor, drawing room
Cost: 5.00 donation at tea counter or food/drink purchases encouraged.

*SOLD OUT* Children's Beginning Japanese Language Class (registration required)
2026-03-24 16:30 - 17:30, 2026-03-17 16:30 - 17:30 UTC | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
*This class is currently full but we encourage you to reach out to Junko Arnold to get on the wait list or to be informed of future offerings.*
Join Junko Arnold for a wonderful 6-week series designed to introduce young people to the Japanese Language. Learning another language helps children make new neural connections, increases empathy, and enhances cultural understanding. This low cost series is designed to reduce barriers to learning Japanese and also supports the teahouse nonprofit.
For young people age 6-10 years of age (parent welcome to attend with child). If you are unsure about whether your child might be able to attend outside of that age range, please email instructor.
Please contact Junko if you have any questions about this class. Reserve your space soon as there is limited seating.
Cost: 40.00 for entire 6 week series starting March 3rd.
How to register: Sold out
Materials needed: Please bring a blank notebook and pencils or a pen to write.
Instructor: Junko Arnold TEZUKA@mail.etsu.edu
Junko was born and raised in Japan and is the Master Lecturer of Japanese/ Program Leader of Japanese Major & Minor and Adviser of Japanese Cultural Society at ETSU. She is a PhD candidate at ETSU, currently researching the cognitive benefits of second language education. Junko also leads the ETSU Japanese Language Table here at The Philosopher’s House monthly.

Teahouse volunteer beautification day
2026-03-23 16:00 - 19:00 UTC | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Calling all volunteers willing to help us out with some teahouse spring cleaning and maintenance!

Join us for a fun, productive group effort to touch up paint indoors and out, deep clean, and organize closets. Whether you can come the entire time or just for an hour or two, we would love to have you!

Pizza and drinks provided for everyone volunteering. Please RSVP your availability to thephilosophershouse@gmail.com

Thank you in advance for your help and for being part of the vibrant and compassionate community here at The Philosopher’s House!

Intro to Storytelling (registration required, 4-week series)
2026-03-22 14:00 - 15:30, 2026-03-15 14:00 - 15:30 UTC
Intro to Storytelling (4-Week Series)
Whether you tell stories on stage, on the page, or somewhere in between, this four-week introductory storytelling series offers a welcoming space to develop your voice and craft. Designed for oral storytellers and writers alike, the class explores storytelling as both an art and a practice. While this class is introductory, it is open to all levels and can be scaled to offer more challenge for experienced story crafters.
Each week focuses on a core element of storytelling: plot structure, smooth and meaningful transitions, generating compelling story ideas, and identifying the stories that only youare meant to tell. Through guided exercises and writing prompts, group discussion, and low-pressure sharing, participants will build tools they can return to again and again—no memorization or performance experience required.
Come with a notebook, your favorite writing utensil, and curiosity.
You are already a storyteller, let’s explore and expand our voices together!
Cost: $40 (for 4-week series)
How to register: email Vianna Isbister at isbisterv13@gmail.com to reserve your spot
Location: Drawing Room, second floor
About the organizer:
Vianna Isbister is a dynamic multi-hyphenate performer and teacher with a B.A. in Theatre and an M.A. in Communication and Storytelling Studies. In addition to teaching at various universities, Vianna has taught over 1000 movement and aerial classes over the course of 4 years. Her work bridges the gap between the spoken and the unspoken, blending performance art with academic insights to craft narratives that resonate. Her work has been featured at the 2025 National Storytelling Network Conference and as author of a book chapter in Memorial Art in Rhetorical Discourse in 2026. She has performed with Night Owl Circus Arts (NOCA), East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Jonesborough Storytellers Guild (JSG), and online with Artists Standing Strong Together (ASST) to name a few. She is passionate about supporting people in aligning with their bodies and uncovering practical and creative ways to deepen their connection to self.

Drawing and Tea Social
2026-03-21 16:30 - 17:30, 2026-03-14 16:30 - 17:30 (America/Halifax) | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Drawing and Tea Social: We support and appreciate each other’s artistic journeys. We have weekly challenges, sketchbook tours, art mentoring and more.
When: Saturdays at 4:30 – 5-30p
Location: Tea Table, 1st floor
Organizer contact: Benjamin Abbott with The FADE Initiative. Email: benjaminabbott3@gmail.com or Laura Carlson at Laura@fadeinit.org
What to bring: any dry art and dry materials you would like to work on (Pencil, charcoal, pastel are ok. Please refrain from bringing any glitter or wet medias such as ink or paint.)
Seating is limited, and dependent on which room we will occupy: 10 people maximum can attend.
Learn more and RSVP at https://fadeinit.org/events

Toxic People and Boundaries: A Buddhist Perspective
2026-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 UTC | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Toxic People and Boundaries: A Buddhist Perspective
March 21 | 1-4pm, Half-Day Meditation Course What is the best method for establishing boundaries? How can we skillfully navigate those we find toxic? Is there a way to not be triggered?
We can find answers to these big questions in Buddha’s ancient wisdom, as well as special methods to diffuse these common difficulties and bring the best possible outcomes. Learn how to manage even the most challenging relationships calmly and wisely. Includes guided meditation, talks, Q&A and a tea break.
Cost: 30.00 per person
How to register:
https://www.meditationinasheville.org/toxic-people-and-boundaries-a-buddhist-perspective/
Location: Classroom/Meditation space, 2nd floor

Instructor contact: Sharon Lovich sharonlovich@hotmail.com

Resident Teacher of the Je Tsongkhapa Kadampa Buddhist Center in Asheville

Poetry Writer's Workshop #2
2026-03-21 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
*New group is FULL! Please email Kayla at nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com to get on waitlist.*
This monthly sharing circle is open to poets of all levels. Participants are encouraged to share their poetry in a friendly, constructive, and welcoming atmosphere. Attendees often discuss poetic themes, share resources and book recommendations, and discuss local poetry-related events. Occasionally, the group will offer a prompt for inspiration or have free writing time together. Contact facilitator for more information.
How to register: Advance registration required. See instructor contact below for registration.
Location: Drawing room, 2nd floor (through Parlor and down hall)

Materials Required: Writing notebook or laptop/tablet.

Cost: 5.00 donation to teahouse at tea counter OR drink/food purchases encouraged.
Instructor contact information: Kayla Nichols at 423-571-2949, nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com

¿Hablas Español? Spanish Language Club
2026-03-20 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-03-13 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Halifax)
*NOTE: First Fridays will be at a local restaurant outside the teahouse.* Please check here or text instructor for location the week of First Fridays.
Conversational Spanish with Laura and friends. This is an opportunity to practice Spanish with several native Spanish speaking people, and form a community with activities like potlucks, game nights, etc… while speaking/learning Espańol.
All levels welcome, even if you speak no Spanish!
How to register: Drop-in
Location: Drawing room, 2nd floor (except First Fridays which are rotating on location)
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged.
Materials required: Notebook if you prefer. No materials needed.
Organizer: Text Laura Lopez at 423-383-6547

Poetry Writer's Workshop
2026-03-20 15:20 - 17:20 UTC
*This group is currently full, but if you would like to be added to the waitlist please email Kayla at nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com *
This bi-weekly sharing circle is open to poets of all levels. Participants are encouraged to share their poetry in a friendly, constructive, and welcoming atmosphere. Attendees often discuss poetic themes, share resources and book recommendations, and discuss local poetry-related events. Occasionally, the group will offer a prompt for inspiration or have free writing time together. Contact facilitator for more information.
How to register :Advance registration required. See instructor contact below for registration.
Location: Drawing room, 2nd floor (through Parlor and down hall)

Materials Required: Writing notebook or laptop/tablet.

Cost: 5.00 donation to teahouse at tea counter OR drink/food purchases encouraged.
Instructor contact information: Kayla Nichols at 423-571-2949, nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com

Fireside Chat: Historian Luke Peace on Fascism and its effects on the world
2026-03-19 18:30 - 19:30 UTC
Sponsored by Carson and Paige McSailor

What is Fascism and Why Should it Matter to Americans?

Fascism is a phrase commonly used in today’s tense political atmosphere, but what does it mean exactly? Who were the real fascists and what effects did they have on the world? As Americans, we should be keenly familiar with this historical political movement and understand its possible implications for us as citizens today.

How to register: Drop-in
Cost: Food/beverage purchases encouraged to support teahouse nonprofit.
Location: Fireplace/Living Room, 1st floor

Bio:
Luke Peace, historian: focus in European and American history. Instructor of collegiate courses in world and US history.

Dungeons and Dragons (Group 1)
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Join us as we explore the wonderful world of tabletop adventure games, Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition. Beginner focused, no pressure gaming for ages 18+. Contact instructor for more information.
Materials Needed: None to start, see instructor for details
Where: Parlor space 2nd floor
Cost: 0-5.00 sliding scale suggested donation to support the space, OR food/drink purchase appreciated.
How to register: Drop-in permitted, first come-first serve so advance registration preferred. See instructor contact info below for registration. 8 person max
Instructor contact information: Sam at msixteenatoo@gmail.com

Dungeons and Dragons (Group 2)
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Join us as we explore the wonderful world of tabletop adventure games, Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition. Beginner focused, no pressure gaming for ages 18+. Contact instructor for more information.
Materials Needed: None to start, see instructor for details
Where: Drawing room space 2nd floor (walk through Parlor and down hall)
Cost: 5.00-8.00 sliding scale suggested donation to support the space, OR food/drink purchase appreciated.
How to register: Drop-in permitted, first come-first serve so advance registration preferred. See instructor contact info below for registration. 8 person max
Instructor contact information: Anthony at gudguygoku@gmail.com

Guided Ana Pana Breathwork Meditation
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax)
Guided group meditation Thursdays at 12. Open space for anyone looking to practice silent or guided meditation. Open to all. Beginners welcome. We will be focusing on ana pana/natural respiration/nostril breathing. Lots of silence, but some gentle guidance into the practice
How to register: Register through this donation button, or drop-in. https://square.link/u/rsQey2gI
Cost: Sliding scale donation to support teahouse nonprofit (2.00-8.00) OR food/drink purchases encouraged.all are welcome regardless of ability to pay https://square.link/u/rsQey2gI
Location: Classroom/meditation space, 2nd level
Organizer Bradley Dargan:
“I am a Yoga practitioner and instructor with over 15 years of meditation experience. Breath and mindfulness meditations have been an integral part of my wellness over the years, and I would love to share practice with anyone interested in meditation.”

Knitting Meetup
2026-03-17 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax)
Knitting Circle: Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting to learn the craft, this gathering is the perfect place to indulge in your love for knitting.
We welcome knitters of all levels to come together for two hours of knitting and conversation. It’s a relaxed and open event, and the tea house generously provides the space.
While there’s no admission fee, we encourage you to support the tea room by enjoying their delightful teas and treats. Mark your calendar for this monthly meetup and let’s knit and chat over a cup of tea!
Location: Game room, 1st floor

Materials Required: Bring your own project

Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged.
How to register: Drop-in
Instructor contact information: Melissa Emmel at mjemmel@icloud.com

*CANCELED* Live Music: Singer/Songwriter Tim Husk (Founder of Awen Family Band)
2026-03-15 17:30 - 19:00 UTC | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Tim had a conflict in schedule that will prevent him from joining us on Sunday. Be sure to check out his tour schedule to catch him live sometime!
Tim Husk is a Virginia-based singer-songwriter (originally from Durham, NC), multi-instrumentalist, and founder of the Awen Family Band, a nationally touring world boogie collective that has featured members of Toubab Krewe, Big Something, FRUTE, Dr. Bacon and many other acts across the country since 2019.
Tim blends folk, Celtic, bluegrass, old time, West and North African, and funk influences on acoustic guitar and tenor banjo to create his own unique original sound and landscape for the songs to come through on. He tours nationally and performs solo, featuring “stripped-down” Awen classics and tunes not heard within the Awen Family catalogue, including some of Tim’s favorite covers, taking the listener on a soundtrack through his Life in song.
How to register: Drop-in
Cost: Tips to musicians and beverage/food purchases encouraged.
Location: Fireplace/Living Room, 1st floor
Come help support live music and touring musicians at this special live music event!!
Learn more about Awen Family Band: awenfamily.net

Sunpod Sundays (Mobile Sauna)
2026-03-15 13:00 - 18:00 UTC
We’re so excited to offer another Community Sesh at the teahouse! Come in from the cold and get HOT in the sauna!
We’ll be set up at the teahouse (tea break, anyone?) from 1pm-5:30pm. Book a spot before they’re gone!
What is a Community Sesh?
It’s where we set up our mobile wood-stove sauna as a shared space for like-minded people (warmth lovers).

How to register: Reserve your space and time directly at our website https://sunpodsauna.com/#Menu (please choose your date and session length)
Location: Outdoor/courtyard
Cost: 20.00-30.00, choose your date and session length at website link above.
What to bring: Bring your own refillable water bottle (filtered water available inside), a bathing suit and robe, slip-on shoes for moving between indoor/outdoor space.
NOTE: If you’d like the sauna all to yourself, we are happy to bring it to you for rental!

PoetTEA; Open Mic Poetry
2026-03-13 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | The Philosopher’s House, 117 W Fairview Ave., Johnson City, 37604
Join members of the Poetry Society of Tennessee and the Philosopher’s House Writer’s Workshop for an evening of poetry and community at this monthly open mic night.
Second Fridays of each month from 6:00-7:30PM, with open mic sign-ups starting at 5:45PM. Spots are limited to 4 minutes per poet.
Co-hosted by various members of the Poetry Society of Tennessee.
Also be sure to check out our Poetry Writer’s Workshop held every other Friday at 3:30 PM at the Philosopher’s House if you would enjoy the opportunity to share your poetry in a more intimate setting and receive feedback. For more information about the Poetry Society of Tennessee, check out their website.
How to register: Drop-in
Location: Fireplace/living room, 1st floor
Cost: Free. Food and drink purchases encouraged to support teahouse nonprofit
Organizer contact: Contact Kayla Nichols with any questions: nichols.kmichelle@gmail.com / 423-571-2949.
