Now, I don’t often quote my own research, but in this case, I feel compelled—because it speaks directly to the heart of this conversation. My research relied on The World Café methodology, a technique designed to cultivate relationships while participants co-create new knowledge by sharing their lived experiences.
This statement summarizes one of my most profound discoveries: “This study demonstrated that people who feel connected through joint dialogue are more willing to embark on a path of joint discovery that facilitates the revelation of deep patterns, beliefs, and perhaps action.” Joint dialogue is necessary for joint discovery that reveals deep patterns and beliefs, which may result in attitudes, behaviors, and conversations that lead to more inclusive actions. In my practice, that’s the goal: accelerating awareness and changing culture.
Retiring outdated methods isn’t about walking away from the work—it’s about rewiring our approach. It’s about shifting from mandates to meaning, from compliance to connection, and from rigid frameworks to real conversations. Through joint dialogue, we unlock joint discovery. And through joint discovery, we move from division to transformation.
This work matters too much to get wrong. So let’s get it right—together.
Check out this month's podcast series of Real Conversations from the C-Suite with my guests Mr. Todd Levinson and Mr. Andre Thomas, founders and co-hosts of The Healing Race Show podcast as we talk about total diversity and making room at the table for everyone, including those who have been skeptical or outright opposed to past diversity approaches: Getting Real About Race and Having Real Conversations.