Vox.com prepares to host its first conference, Vox Conversations

When Vox.com imagined its first conference, it started with two unconventional ground rules: no panels and no pre-set schedule. To create an environment conducive to real conversations about big ideas that would shape our futures, they instead called for a small, diverse group of thinkers and the freedom for any participant to raise a topic for serious discussion.

Next week, 150 invited researchers, policy experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders will do just that: enjoy intimate, solutions-focused discussions on topics such as healthcare, congressional gridlock, and universal basic income.

At Vox Conversations, everyone is a participant and the conversations will be created and led by the group. Notable attendees include Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, the White House Office of Science and Technology's Chief Data Scientist DJ Patil, Director of the Women & Politics Institute Jennifer Lawless, President Emeritus of the Service Employees International Union Andy Stern, and, of course, Vox.com's journalists and reporters, including editor-in-chief Ezra Klein.

Vox Conversations will take place on September 21 and 22 in Washington, DC, and is presented with partners AARP, AFT, and the Glen Echo Group.

Follow @voxmediainc and @voxdotcom throughout the event for behind-the-scenes looks and news from Vox Conversations.