Episode 51 - Unpacking the true complexity of facilitation with Thomas Lahnthaler

In this episode, I welcome Gwyn Wansbrough, a facilitator and trainer on a mission to help professionals design and lead exceptional online sessions that deliver better results for groups. Together, we explore the nuances of virtual facilitation, focusing on the transition from in-person to online workshops, the importance of designing engaging virtual sessions, and strategies to enhance interaction and connection among participants. **Tune in to discover:** - Gwyn’s background and her journey into virtual facilitation - Why virtual sessions require different engagement strategies than in-person workshops - The importance of the first five minutes in setting the tone for online sessions - A live movement activity to combat remote fatigue during workshops - How using prompts can deepen participant connection and engagement - A sneak peek into Gwyn’s video course “Breakthrough Facilitation” **Quotation:** *"You can't create the same kind of meaningful engagement online as you do in person."* – Gwyn Wansbrough --- **📮 Sign up for our Workshoppeuse [Newsletter](https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast)** 🤗 [HEY NATHY](https://forms.gle/B1XU76R8KmunizZb7): Fill out the form to ask questions or suggest future podcast topics!

In this episode, I sit down with Iwona Fluda, founder of the Ministry of Creativity, LLC. We dive deep into the world of creativity and innovation, discussing Iwona's fascinating journey from Poland to Switzerland, and her distinctive approach to facilitating workshops that prioritize co-creation and human connection. **Tune in to discover:** - Iwona's personal journey and background. - Insights into building effective creative and innovation workshops. - The golden rules for fostering creativity. - All about her upcoming "Innovate Together" unconference in Bali. - A special glimpse into her project, 'Send Your Wish to the Moon'—a global symbol of hope and unity. **Quotation:** *“Innovation doesn’t happen without creativity.”* - Iwona Fluda --- **PARTICIPATE IN THE STATE OF FACILITATION SURVEY** 🔗 [Survey](https://stateoffacilitation.typeform.com/SoFSurvey2024/?utm_campaign=sof&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=Nathy) by SessionLab **📮 Sign up for our Workshoppeuse [Newsletter](https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast)** 🤗 [HEY NATHY](https://forms.gle/B1XU76R8KmunizZb7): Fill in the form to ask questions or suggest future podcast topics!

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Alex Eisenchteter, an innovative facilitator and founder of Stormz, also an AI expert, founder of the AI Tinkerer community with a passion for designing and leading large group workshops. Alexandre's journey began at a sticky note manufacturer, and before he knew it, aside his engineer role, he found himself facilitating workshops on the shop floor. Over the years, his creativity has led him to develop tools and approaches that make large group workshops not only possible but highly engaging and productive. **Tune in to:** - Discover the essential skills and strategies for facilitating large group workshops. - Learn how Alex developed his tool, Stormz, to enhance participation and collaboration. - Explore the intersection of technology and facilitation and how it can elevate your workshops. - Get insights into the value of high-quality facilitation resources for aspiring facilitators. **Quotations:** *"Facilitating large groups isn't just about getting people in the room—it's about creating experiences that connect, engage, and inspire."* – Alexandre Eisenchteter ******************************************************************* PARTICIPATE TO THE STATE OF FACILITATION SURVEY 🔗 [Survey](https://stateoffacilitation.typeform.com/SoFSurvey2024/?utm_campaign=sof&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=Nathy) Sessionlab 🤗 [HEY NATHY](https://forms.gle/B1XU76R8KmunizZb7) : Fill the form to ask questions and give me great suggestions for the podcast **📮Sign up for our Workshoppeuse [Newsletter](https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast)**

Today, I welcome Lisa Partridge, Founder of SIXCOMMS and the beautiful mind behind the Walk and Talk community in Singapore. The community brings together entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals looking for meaningful connections. Its purpose is to foster curiosity and connection, allowing participants to come as they are and engage in walking conversations. The community has grown to over 100 members in just 18 months, and it has led to collaborations, workshops, and podcast episodes. “Come curious, leave connected” - Lisa Partridge **Tune in to discover:** - Lisa’s amazing background and journey - The birth of Walk & Talk - How to creating Meaningful Connections through Walking Conversations - How to Building an Organic and Aligned Business ******************************************************************* 🤗 [HEY NATHY](https://forms.gle/B1XU76R8KmunizZb7) : Send me your questions, comments and suggestions **📮Sign up for our Workshoppeuse [Newsletter](https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast)**

Today, I welcome Daniela Ruiz, a workshop facilitator and creative coach from Argentina. We delve into how Daniela's artistic background has shaped her unique facilitation style and discuss the challenges and opportunities for facilitators around the world, particularly in regions with limited access to resources due to financial constraints. **Tune in to:** - Explore Daniela's nonlinear journey that led her to a career in facilitation. - Understand how her artistic life has deeply influenced her approach to facilitation. - Learn about the facilitation communities in Argentina. - Get aware about the limited access to facilitation courses and retreats for facilitators from regions with weaker currencies. - Reflect on what can be done to create more accessibility and equity for facilitators globally. **Quotation:** "I enjoy commanding attention and getting people on board.” - Daniela Ruiz **Email your questions to** : [email protected] **Sign up for our Newsletter** “La Workshoppeuse-Gazette” here : https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of freelance facilitation with the inspiring Kirsty Lewis, founder of the School of Facilitation. Kirsty brings over a decade of experience and a wealth of knowledge about the facilitation field. She shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and the reality of leaving a corporate career to pursue a passion for facilitation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career shift to freelancing or looking to deepen their understanding of facilitation. Tune in to: - Discover the key differences between trainers and facilitators. - Understand the importance of building a network and finding support when transitioning to freelancing. - Listen to real talk about the challenging and rewarding sides of becoming a freelance facilitator. - Discover why facilitators are more needed than ever to support corporate teams in decision-making and collaboration. - Gain insights into the supportive and collaborative nature of the facilitation community. **Quotation:** *"Making the decision to quit and become a freelancer is a big step, and it's not for everyone."* – Kirsty Lewis **GUEST: | Kirsty Lewis** 🔔 Follow her on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsty-schooloffacilitation/) 🤗 Join the [School of facilitation](https://www.notion.so/de9787581a2d428abf3578e9d45bdc02?pvs=21) community **HOST**: **Nathy Ravez** | La Workshoppeuse ✨ [Connect with me](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathyravez) [☎ Get support on your freelance facilitator path](https://calendly.com/la-workshoppeuse/20-min-free-call) 📧 [Subscribe our Workshoppeuse Newsletter](https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast)

Today I welcome Jan Keck, a trainer, facilitator, and experience designer, who shares his expertise on connecting and engaging people in workshops and meetings. Jan emphasizes the importance of building trust and fostering meaningful connections, rather than relying on superficial icebreakers. In this episode: - Discover why building trust and meaningful connections is crucial in workshops. - Explore strategies for designing experiences that gradually build trust and engagement. - Learn how setting the right expectations and sequencing activities enhances connection. - Find out how Jan's card deck, Deep Questions, facilitates meaningfull conversations. - Get a sneak peek into Jan's upcoming book, Ice Melters, and his new course. "Real deep connection beats small talk every single time." - Jan Keck ******************************************************************* **Email your questions to** : [email protected] 📧 Subscribe our Workshoppeuse Newsletter

Today I welcome Lucia Agolini, **Designer of high impact visual design and online experiences,** passionate about crafting elegant solutions that gives the content of workshops a exciting visual environment your participants will love to explore. In this episode: - Explore how visual design spices up your workshops and enhances participant engagement. - Learn why integrating a visual story and theme throughout your workshops creates a cohesive and immersive experience. - Discover how using templates and consistent visual elements in Miro boards saves time and enhances workshop appeal. - Find out why Lucie's CNVS illustrations are invaluable for customizing your workshops. "When we make it visual, we enhance the experience because people are more engaged.” *Lucie Agolini* ******************************************************************* **Email your questions to** : [email protected] Take- Off Bootcamp | Cohort Fall 2024: https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/take-off-bootcamp-october2024 *******************************************************************

Welcome to a vibrant discussion with Thomas Lahnthaler, a master facilitator who skillfully blends human behavior, social dynamics, and transformation to help companies steer through uncertain waters. Today, Thomas joins us to unravel some common misconceptions about facilitation. He challenges the often oversimplified view that facilitation is just about ticking boxes and offers a richer, more nuanced perspective. What we’ll explore: 👉 **Thomas's Background :** from crisis management in Africa to leading workshops globally 👉 **The Art of Great Facilitation:** What does it really take to excel in this field? 👉 **Beyond the Basics:** Why is there no straightforward answer to 'What is facilitation?' 👉 **Crafting Your Style:** Learn how to develop and refine your own facilitation style, turning your personal strengths into professional superpowers. ******************************************************************* **Email your questions to** : [email protected] **Sign up for our Newsletter** “La Workshoppeuse-Gazette” here : https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast

Today I welcome the amazing Kerri Price, an enthusiastic facilitator with over 1,800 workshops to her name. Kerri is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of facilitation and a key influencer in different communities. As the founder of “The Facilitators Network” community and the driving force behind the "Facilitation Matters Festival," Kerri brings a wealth of experience and positivity. Tune in to discover: 👉🏻 Her journey into the world of facilitation and the inspiration behind it 👉🏻 The current state of facilitation in New Zealand 👉🏻 Her thoughts on how facilitation can change the world 👉🏻 Insights into the facilitators Network community and the upcoming Facilitation Matters Festival in July in New Zealand Get ready to be inspired by Kerri's energy and her dedication to making a difference through facilitation! ******************************************************************* **Your questions to my next guests**: https://forms.gle/2gD1jrbvRDbNxxLQ8 **Sign up for our Newsletter** “La Workshoppeuse-Gazette” here : https://laworkshoppeuse.ck.page/gazette-signup-from-podcast