Discover how to rethink AI as a collaborative teammate, not just a tool. In this post, we explore an innovative workshop where AI plays a key role in team problem-solving, using personas and iterative prompts. Learn how this mindset shift can transform your approach to AI, fostering deeper collaboration, enhancing group sensemaking, and enabling richer insights. Embrace the future of AI as a dynamic team member and unlock its full potential in real-time, collaborative settings.
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson converses with Jake Knapp, co-founder and general partner at Character Capital, and a former Google employee instrumental in developing Gmail and Google Meet. The episode delves into Jake's extensive experience in product development, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs and market differentiation. Jake shares insights from his early coding and game development days, highlighting the value of iterative testing and customer feedback. They discuss the "foundation sprint" and "magic lenses" techniques for refining product ideas and making informed decisions. The episode underscores the necessity of clarity and alignment in successful product development.
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson converses with Caterina Rodriguez (Cat), a facilitator consultant and strategic leader at ADL. Cat shares her journey from anti-bias education to organizational effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections in facilitation. She discusses the challenges of adopting a new facilitation style and highlights the transformative power of collaborative group experiences. Kat stresses the need for facilitators to embrace uncertainty and model genuine engagement, advocating for a method-agnostic approach. The episode underscores the value of building trust and fostering inclusive, change-ready cultures within organizations.
The Facilitation Lab Summit 2025 brought together facilitators from around the world for a transformative two-day experience filled with inspiring sessions, interactive workshops, and a celebration of award-winning facilitators. Highlights included sessions on psychological safety, storytelling for change, and nonverbal communication. Attendees gained valuable tools for enhancing their facilitation practice and fostering meaningful transformations. Stay connected through our Community Hub and get early bird tickets for next year's summit!
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson converses with Dr. Karyn Edwards, an organizational psychologist and executive coach. Dr. Edwards shares her journey into facilitation and leadership, starting at Carlson Wagonlit Travel. She highlights the influence of her mentor, Julianne Weiss, and discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and challenges in leadership roles. The episode delves into the importance of "power skills" like emotional intelligence and adaptability. Dr. Edwards also talks about her current work, including writing for the Association for Training and Development and exploring organizational culture change programs. The episode underscores the transformative power of coaching.
Our facilitation certification bridges the gap between the powerful insights of Dare to Lead and practical leadership actions. By combining heart-centered approaches with structured facilitation methods, we help you create safe, collaborative spaces that drive team success. Master skills like active listening, conflict resolution, and strategic planning to enhance communication, foster innovation, and lead with authenticity. Transform your leadership style and empower your team with actionable frameworks that inspire lasting change.
Building meaningful relationships is at the heart of effective facilitation. In this post, explore how intentional connection-building, trust, and shared rituals enhance collaboration, even in remote and hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies to foster trust, manage conflict, and create environments where participants feel heard and valued. Discover how facilitators can cultivate lasting relationships that extend beyond the session, influencing team dynamics and organizational culture.
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson converses with Alyssa Coughlin, Chief of Staff Director for the Data and AI Platform Organization at Autodesk. Alyssa shares her journey into facilitation and leadership, emphasizing the importance of patience, active listening, and storytelling in effective facilitation. She discusses leading through influence rather than positional power, empowering team members, and creating a collaborative environment. Alyssa also highlights techniques for engaging quieter participants and the significance of addressing underlying tensions in group dynamics. The episode concludes with a focus on fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.
Explore the top 10 coaching certifications, including the benefits of combining coaching with facilitation skills. Discover how programs like ICF, iPEC, and Voltage Control’s Facilitation Certification can enhance your practice, equip you to lead group dynamics, and help you drive collective breakthroughs. Whether you're just starting or expanding your coaching expertise, these certifications will refine your skills, boost credibility, and prepare you to meet the evolving needs of leaders and teams in today's fast-paced world.
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson interviews Dan Walker from Collective Imagination Consulting. They discuss Dan's journey from the legal field to the outdoor industry, driven by his deep curiosity and evolving understanding of justice. Dan shares how his formative experiences shaped his perspectives and how he now helps organizations create pathways toward a more just and joyful society. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity in both personal and professional contexts, the complexities of justice, and the pivotal role businesses can play in fostering social change. The episode emphasizes a method-agnostic approach to facilitation.
