Edmond Town Hall has announced the launch of a new speaker series, “Newtown Talks: Conversations on Culture, Society and Change.”

The series will feature thought-provoking discussions with some of today’s most influential voices, exploring pivotal topics that shape our world. The series will be moderated by Newtown residents own Suzy DeYoung and Lee Shull.

Following 12/14, DeYoung became involved in Newtown’s recovery efforts. Her positions included Community Outreach Director for Sandy Hook Promise, Care Coordinator for The Newtown Recovery and Resiliency Team, Founder and Co-Director of Newtown Yoga Festival, as well as Producer and Co-Host of The Avielle Foundation’s Brainstorm Experience Speaker Series in Newtown, which focused on issues pertaining to mental health.

Shull's leap towards advocacy began with 12/14. He took a two-month pause from the demands of his consulting career and co-founded Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), the first national nonprofit organization stemming from a violent mass casualty event. Shull lobbied Connecticut state lawmakers to pass the strictest firearm safety legislation in the country (CT Bill 1160, An Act Concerning Gun Violence Prevention And Children's Safety).

The lineup for the inaugural series features renowned speakers who have made significant contributions to their fields.

Lectures are Thurdsay evenings at 7 pm. Doors will open at 6. Tickets are $40 general admission, $55 for front row seating and "skip the line" book signing, and available through edmondtownhall.org.

Sebastian Junger will open the series on October 24. Junger will share his insights on community, survival, and the human spirit through his discussion of his book In My Time of Dying. Junger is an acclaimed author and journalist known for works such as The Perfect Storm and Tribe.

Dani Shapiro will speak on November 21 about themes of identity family, and the craft of writing through the discussion of her popular books such as Inheritance and Devotion, as well as her hit podcast Family Secrets.

On December 19, Brian Reed will delve into storytelling, investigative journalism, and the impact of audio media in today’s digital age. Reed is the host and co-creator of the groundbreaking podcasts S-Town and The Trojan Horse Affair.

Actor Anthony Edwards and author Stephen Mills will speak on January 16 about their advocacy for social justice and their personal journeys in making a difference for men who are survivors of sexual abuse.

Each speaking engagement will be followed by a book signing, offering attendees the opportunity to meet the speakers and have their books signed. Copies of each speaker's books will be available in advance and for purchase the night of the event provided by Byrd’s Books in Bethel.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit edmondtownhall.org or contact the box office at 203-270-4285.