How often have you heard people bemoan the obvious potential that lies within a person, group or system that seems stagnant or stuck? Often those with the most potential find it easy to coach and support others, but seem blind to their own gifts and talents.
Yikes! That statement feels too close...
Just this morning I was speaking with a fellow facilitator and circle host who had taken part in BEYOND FACILITATION and found herself excited by new learning edges in her practice. She joined us because she senses she wants to strengthen her internal core to be able to host more challenging...
Yesterday I had the great pleasure to check in with a group of storymakers I haven't seen in a long time. Most of them are part of Beyond Storytelling, a network of story people which hosts an annual "Story Camp", this year taking place in Austria.
The theme for this year is "Beginnings...
Today I was listening to Henri Lipmanowicsz and Keith McCandless tell part of the origin story of Liberating Structures. Henri made a compelling point that concepts are all very well and good, but for change to come, people need structures. So many people are not poor leaders by choice, but...
This morning I was up before the sun and sitting in front of the computer ready to deliver a "Dialogue with Masters" session for the CP Yen Foundation. The Foundation focuses on encouraging a culture of respect and participation through offering, training and providing information...

If you ask me one of the most important things I've learned in becoming a host of conversations that matter -- and especially in facing crisis -- I'd say it is REMEMBER TO BREATHE.
Now that may sound strange, but there are some key skills to uncover here.
First, of course, is that breath is...
As a leader, facilitator, process improvement manager, host of group meetings -- even as a colleague, friend or partner -- stories and storytelling are some of the most powerful partners you can have on your team.
During the first session of "BEYOND FACILITATION: Secrets of Extraordinary...
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Is there enough love in the world?
People often ask me why I chose the title "Story Activist." Years ago I found a small clip of New Zealand actor Cliff Curtis talking about the power of story.
Somehow the way he spoke about stories making you want to take action caused a lightening spike in my brain. "That's it!" I said...
- The spirit of story is change, emotional connection, the arc of meaning, and resonance
- Sharing our stories to promote connection and touch our hearts
- ...