An invite-only IRL event series that combines incredible learning opportunities and the unstoppable power of relationships for ambitious founders.
Ugly Talk Website Video Jun 16 2025 (1).mp4
Most events celebrate polished wins, Ugly Talk brings founders together to dissect what didn’t work and the real decisions, tradeoffs, and recoveries behind growth. As soon as a panel speaker opens up about what didn’t work and what they learned, the magic happens. Everybody is in a safe space that lets them share comfortably, absorb information, and build connections like never before.
Each Ugly Talk combines two high-impact components: the Panel, where we invite proven founders to the hot seat to learn from their mistakes, and the Mixer, where you can build meaningful collaborations and alliances. (UglyTalk.com)
Say the quiet parts out loud and turn hard-earned lessons into momentum.
Compare notes with friends, shake hands with frenemies, and open doors.
Founders Behind Breakout Brands
Real operators with scars, not talking heads. They share specific wins, misses, and takeaways you can use tomorrow.
Field-tested insights with real numbers.
No fluff. Field-tested playbooks with real numbers, what to copy, and what to avoid.
Ask, challenge, and get answers
Your questions drive the conversation. Tap their knowledge on the spot and get practical help tailored to your situation.
Meet founders who move fast — like you.
Connect with ambitious peers who match your pace so relationships form quickly and stick.
Compare notes with industry peers
Benchmark your strategies, and learn where others have stumbled so you do not.
Spark partnerships and collaborations
Build momentum with operators who can open doors, make intros, and help you move faster.
Ugly Talk: Marketing Leadership in West Loop Chicago
Ugly Talks come in three sizes, each built for a different level of reach and audience depth.
Ugly Talk Independent
Community‑organized
Ugly Talk Signature
City-based Ugly Talk
Ugly Talk Main Stage
Large Ugly Talk
Mute UT Ecomm Shopify May 2025.mp4
Since launch, Ugly Talk has become a national series from coast to coast, with more cities coming online. Current chapters include:
From Fortune 100 giants to fast-scaling startups, leading brands trust Ugly Talk to stay close to founders and builders.
Last updated November 10, 2025