Jess wrote a book!

I’ve spent nine years examining the roadblocks that keep us from—and the pathways that lead us to—connecting with each other and allowing ourselves to be truly known.

Funny, heartbreaking, and deeply human,The Table Where We Meet shares stories from having dinner with 1,000 strangers, revealing how we might see ourselves in each other, and leave our time together feeling nourished.

Pre-orders are available now (and they shape a book’s future more than you’d ever know!)

Pre-order here

We create events that cultivate presence with a purpose.

Join an experience.

PULL UP A SEAT.

At its core, With Strangers is a practice in presence; a reminder that connection is still possible between strangers, between ideas, and between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming.

  • Gather with an intimate group of strangers for a four-course, family style dinner! With the only rule being no work talk, guests will be guided through questions that get us talking about where we’re from, what we’re learning, and what we care about, based on a unique theme for each event.

  • COMING SOON - Talking With Strangers will be a monthly series that brings together local dreamers, makers, and doers who are boldly pursuing a more connected world. We’ll highlight monthly speakers, and get the whole room connecting through breakout small group conversations.

  • COMING SOON - Join In-person meetups, workshops, and community classes that further the ethos of presence and participation.

See our upcoming experiences.

BRING THE WITH STRANGERS EXPERIENCE
TO YOU.

  • Jess Janz is available as a lead facilitator for events already in motion, particularly where her gift for conversation and depth of presence can transform the experience.

  • These aren’t events — they’re experiences that feel like a deep exhale.


    Jess Janz and the With Strangers team curate gatherings that are equal parts soulful and strategic: rooted in storytelling, guided conversation, and community-building. Whether for a team off-site, brand gathering, or public-facing experience, every detail is designed to foster real connection — not just pretty tablescapes.

  • Custom workshops and off-site programming that build trust, spark meaningful conversation, and strengthen team culture.

  • Story-first campaigns that start at the table.


    With Strangers partners with brands to create conversation-led influencer dinners and experiences that build community around your message. Hosted by Jess Janz, these gatherings go beyond content and into connection — offering guests a moment to slow down, engage deeply, and walk away with more than just a gift bag.

See our services.

SKIP THE SMALL TALK. GET TO THE GOOD STUFF.

SKIP THE SMALL TALK. GET TO THE GOOD STUFF.

Hey Stranger,

With Strangers invites you to connect through shared experiences - each one intentionally curated to inspire conversation, spark curiosity, and nurture deep community.

From intimate dinners to experimental art workshops to slumber party movie nights, every With Strangers experience is a new opportunity to ditch the chit-chat and tell each other our real stories.

Founded by Jess Janz in 2017, With Strangers started as monthly dinners in her friend Ryan’s hair studio in Toronto. Since then, Jess has hosted over 50 sold out dinners, connecting more than 1000 people across Canada and the US.

Now, With Strangers invites you to discover the richness of shared experiences.

LET’S BE FRIENDS.