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Odyssey is a private, invitation-only series that brings together global leaders and thinkers for bold, interdisciplinary discourse and facilitated experiences.

Odyssey was founded in 2025 by Kevin Ryan, a leading figure in New York tech and engaged in many projects across government, hospitality, the arts, and science.

In practice, Odyssey feels like a well curated dinner party with guests of varied backgrounds, combined with an engaged alumni community sustained through intentionally designed experiences.

At the heart of Odyssey is our annual forum, bringing some of the world’s most curious, thoughtful minds into the same room—without scripts, stages, or speakers. The format centers on moderated roundtable sessions (seminar style, approx. 15 guests) emphasizing equal participation and open exchange under Chatham House Rules. Discussions span the defining issues of our time to deep, evergreen topics—from technology, geopolitics, health, and climate; to philosophy, legacy, and love.

Throughout the year, Odyssey extends to regional gatherings and experiences like ski, art or history-related trips. In each setting, we invite high-impact individuals to step beyond their traditional circles and roles, into experiences of deep listening and discovery. More than any single experience, Odyssey is a living, evolving set of conversations and connections. 

The next forum will take place at Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay outside of Paris from May 3–6, 2026.

Our global community is carefully selected through nomination and vetting, led by a team of advisors and past participants. We bring together globally-minded leaders, industry pioneers, and rising changemakers across disciplines—spanning entrepreneurship, investing, policy, science, the arts, and beyond—with a commitment to comprehensive representation.

What set's Odyssey apart?

• Participants defined by who they are, not what they do: High curiosity, low ego, no promotion
• Intellectual stimulation: Place of nourishment, ideas, and resonance
• High engagement and connection: private settings and discourse fueled by substance, not schmoozing/networking
• Comprehensive representation of leading minds from across backgrounds and geographies: builders and creators, leaders in policy, science, culture, and beyond
• Co-creation: Programming developed with participants in mind; amplification of participant-led initiatives
• Balance of tone and trust: Intellectually rigorous yet relaxed and human; space to connections between disparate chapters of life

Is Odyssey for you?

We appeal to those who are endlessly curious and energized by ideas. Our community is made up of people who:

• Hold a deep appreciation for learning and discovery
• Find joy in dialogue with those whose backgrounds/worldviews differ from their own
• Seek conversations that challenge as much as they affirm
• Willing to trade certainty for curiosity and expertise for exploration 
• Bold thinkers, creators, builders, and operators — united by a desire to explore questions, solutions, and new ideas

Please reach out to team@odyssey.global for any questions around participation.