[nirmel]

I once tried starting something like this. What I found is that people have very little motivation to meet strangers for the purpose of friendship. Another company built a very similar product, but focussed on dating, and they did much better, while my product failed. Not to say that you didn't figure out how to do this, but I think there's wishful thinking among some founders (like me) that people want to make new friends and will use an app to do so.

[jetpm]

When I think about it, it feels like there is some sort of mental barrier that I have to overcome to make plans with strangers. Maybe when the meetups would be less personal like 20 random people going to a bar or club, I'd rather join in on something. Then nobody would realize if I leave, but if I bond with some people its fine.

[degenerate]

When you meet a stranger, the actual purpose of small talk is to try to find some common ground. Some people are better at it than others (I am horrible)... but if some common ground can be established, both people will have an easier time making conversation. That's why so many meetups are centered around an activity/topic. I would much rather attend a group of "20 random people that list kayaking as a sport they enjoy" than "20 random people".

[jetpm]

That's a good point, completely random would be too much, at least the age should be somewhat similar and maybe the place to meet is also a context, e.g. a bar already indicates a form of interest, different than meeting in the water park.

[friendstonight]

Hey nirmel- would love to chat more about your experiences! Please email me at [e-mail]