"Be curious, not judgemental"
Curiosity is a powerful tool when it comes to building connections and having meaningful conversations. Rather than immediately judging or assuming, being curious allows you to learn more about others and their experiences, which leads to a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another.
In this podcast episode, Kerryn Powell, The Network Catalyst speaks with AJ Tennant from Empathy Gym. AJ enjoyed a long career in communications, working in advertising, government and charities. He’s helped brands, politicians and doctors to communicate their message and engage their audiences.
Then he gave it up. For the last four years, AJ has dedicated his time to the human problems of the world. Understanding where people lack connection and how we are destroying the planet. AJ threw himself into environmental activism - dedicated his time to managing media, training activists to become spokespeople and organising protests. AJ now teaches the same skills of communication, listening, empathy and compassion to organisations. He's also taught ethics for over 7 years in primary schools.
Outside of organisational workshops, AJ has built a 1000+ strong community who enjoy free workshops twice a month.
AJ believes that by having conversations of understanding, exploration and empathy, we can start to fix some of the big problems of the world.
This conversation may prompt You to reflect on the way you approach a conversation and learn that when you approach conversations with a curious mindset, you are more likely discover common interests or experiences, build trust, and ultimately form stronger relationships.
While on the other hand, being judgmental can quickly shut down the possibility of building connections, by making assumptions or jumping to conclusions., often missing out on opportunity to learn about others and benefit from their perspectives.
So, if you want to have better conversations and build stronger relationships, you will benefit from this conversation to audit your own approach in creating conversations and connections.
Contact:
Kerryn Powell
https://www.kerryn-powell.com.au
https://www.yourtimematters.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/kerrynpowellytm
https://www.instagram.com/kerryn_powell_network_catalyst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrynpowellyourtimematters/
Download a complimentary Chapter of Kerryn’s book
https://mailchi.mp/7dd4320f9f01/freesamplechapterkerryn
GUEST:
AJ Tennant
Human Communications | Facilitation | Empathy, Humour and Creative Storytelling