At SXSW, Voltage Control explored the intersection of human connection and AI. Through our meetup and workshop, we created spaces for meaningful interactions, tackled loneliness and vulnerability, reimagined meetings, and highlighted the potential of AI as a dynamic team player. Learn how intentional facilitation can drive innovation, transform team dynamics, and foster genuine connections. Explore these insights and more from our SXSW experiences in this blog post.
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.
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.
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.
Discover how alignment can transform your personal, professional, and organizational growth in Finding Alignment – A Blueprint for Success. Explore the power of reflection, roadmaps, and prioritization to turn fleeting resolutions into sustainable progress. Learn how tools like the Focus Finder help clarify goals, reduce friction, and foster harmony across aspirations, resources, and actions. Start 2025 with a clear vision and practical strategies to create momentum, celebrate milestones, and achieve extraordinary results. Read the full post for actionable insights and tools!
In this episode of the Facilitation Lab podcast, host Douglas Ferguson converses with Lipika Grover, a consultant, executive coach, and facilitator. They explore Lipi's career journey, starting from her early experiences at Accenture, where she observed effective facilitation during high-profile client sessions. Lipi emphasizes the importance of preparation, follow-up, and creating safe spaces for dialogue. She discusses managing group dynamics, particularly with chatty executives, and highlights the value of diverse voices in discussions. The episode underscores the transformative potential of effective facilitation in driving meaningful group interactions and fostering collaboration.
Discover how psychological safety fosters innovation by creating an environment where teams feel safe to take risks, share ideas, and embrace failure as a learning opportunity. This blog explores actionable strategies for leaders and facilitators to build trust, handle conflict constructively, and ensure every voice is heard, driving creativity and collaboration. Learn to cultivate a culture where openness and resilience thrive, empowering your team to innovate and succeed in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Discover how leaders can turn change into an opportunity for growth and innovation. This blog explores the balance of empathy and action, the power of co-creating a shared vision, and the importance of breaking transformations into small, actionable steps. Learn how to address identity fears, leverage effective communication, and inspire teams to embrace change with confidence and clarity. Equip yourself with tools to lead transitions successfully while fostering resilience and alignment within your organization.
Transform your meetings with effective facilitation techniques that drive collaboration, decision-making, and positive organizational culture. This blog explores five essential qualities—purposed, inclusive, crafted, clear, and adaptive—to elevate your meeting outcomes. Learn how to set a positive tone, balance participation, maintain focus, and close with clarity. Discover strategies to turn meetings into impactful tools that shape organizational culture and align with strategic goals. Create purposeful, engaging, and productive meetings that leave participants inspired and aligned.
Master the art of navigating difficult conversations in facilitation and leadership. This blog explores strategies for mental and emotional preparation, using context to manage tension, and de-escalating conflicts to foster constructive discussions. Learn techniques to ensure meetings end with clarity and positivity, transforming challenges into growth opportunities. Enhance your facilitation skills and leadership effectiveness by turning potential roadblocks into pathways for collaboration, understanding, and progress.
