Bio: Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.

Abstract: In this presentation for the Empathy Summit, Edwin Rutsch chronicles the origin, philosophical foundations, cross-disciplinary influences, and evolution of the Empathy Circle practice.  Edwin frames mutual active listening not merely as a therapeutic or conflict-resolution technique, or way-of-being, but as the foundational gateway practice required to construct a global "culture of empathy". 

Bio: Edwin Rutsch is Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.

Topic: A Clearer Definition of Empathy: The Wholistic Empathy Model. Defining Empathy in the Context of the Empathy Circle Version #3

Description: This presentation outlines Edwin Rutsch's Wholistic Empathy Model, a comprehensive framework for defining and practicing empathy. We explore its core components and contrast it with traditional definitions to highlight its unique advantages.

The Defining Empathy Project aims to establish a clear, consistent, and practical definition of empathy grounded in the foundational empathy work of Carl Rogers. Given the varied interpretations of the term, a unified model is essential for both academic clarity,  real-world application and a foundation of the Empathy Movement. 

Bio:  Alissa Stover is a Product Manager on social impact tech, with a circuitous route via professional dance and data science but always guided by empathy.

Topic:  How Empathy and the Empathy Circle practice changed my life.

Abstract: Empathy can seem like a small act in the day to day, but when practiced over time snowballs into major impact on one’s life and those connected to you through family, work, and other ways. I will share how I first became fascinated with empathy and Empathy Circle and how this practice has changed my life, from pivoting career paths to the right fit for me to breaking patterns of intergenerational trauma as a parent.  

Article: How a simple concept changed my life: Why empathy is a core skill that comes with incredible benefits

• Bio: Edwin Rutsch is Founding Director of The Empathy Center, and a leading organizer in the global Empathy Movement. He is the creator and long-time advocate of the Empathy Circle practice—a simple yet powerful tool for personal growth, building understanding and bridging divides.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook) (Website)

• Topic:  The Empathy Circle: The Foundational Practice for Experiential Empathy Training 

• Abstract: Empathy cannot be mastered merely as an intellectual concept—it must be directly felt, embodied and practiced. The Empathy Circle offers a simple, highly structured, and accessible practice that provides an immediate, experiential entry point into empathy training. In this talk, Edwin introduces how the Empathy Circle serves as the foundational, practical gateway for cultivating mutual active listening and deep understanding, and how it anchors the broader vision of the open-source Empathy Movement Training Curriculum.

• Bio: Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages for over 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook)   

• Topic: The Empathy Circle Training, an Experiential First Step On Your Empathic Journey 

• Abstract:   The purpose of this talk is to describe how the Empathy Circle Facilitator Training gives people the tools to spread empathic listening and supports our larger vision. We feel that providing these skills while being guided by our values of Empathy, Care, Mutuality, and Openness, gives our participants an experiential understanding of what we mean by supporting the Empathy Movement and building a Culture of Empathy.

Bio: Empathy Facilitator, Executive Coach with Taking CARA Business, and creator of The CARA Method for neurospicy inclusiviTEA.

Topic: Using Empathy Circle Reflection @ Home & Work

Abstract: I use the empathetic reflection tool/skill from empathy circles EVERY DAY.  From with my child as a way to help him articulate the world, to my family as a tool for starting family meetings, and in my work as an executive coach as a way to support leaders in a session and as a trainable tool for them to use with their teams. 

• Bio: I’m a Director of a local Community Charity and I work part time as a volunteer in a local community kitchen for the homeless and disadvantaged  (Website) (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
  
  

• Topic: The Use of Empathy Circles in Family Dynamics.
  
  

• Abstract: How the use of this process enabled me to reach out to my self harming daughter and establish a line of communications that was safe for all of us. The power of my daughter being given full attention from both of her parents at once ensured she was fully understood and felt she had a safe vessel to open up into. I do a 15min talk about how it was established and the power that I gave her to feel fully heard. 

Bio:  Jodie is an empathy researcher at Brigham Young University.   (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic: Empathy Circles in Families

Abstract:   Jodie will talk about various aspects of holistic empathy and how they map onto her experience in the facilitator training and sharing the empathy circle with her family. 

• Bio: I’m a psychologist, meditation teacher, and former lawyer dedicated to helping people feel more connected — to themselves, to their partners, and to something deeper.   (Website) (LinkedIn)
  
  

• Topic: Empathy Circles as a Core Intervention in Couples Therapy   
  
  

• Abstract: Empathy circles in couples therapy teach partners to listen deeply, reflect accurately, and understand the underlying emotions and intentions behind each other’s experiences. This structured practice fosters emotional safety, clearer communication, and stronger connection, helping couples move beyond reactive patterns toward more conscious and compassionate relating. When integrated into daily life, it not only improves relationship stability and satisfaction but also creates a healthier emotional environment that positively shapes children’s development.  

Bio: Edwin Rutsch is Founding Director of The Empathy Center, and a leading organizer in the global Empathy Movement. He is a creator and long-time advocate of the Empathy Circle practice—a simple yet powerful tool for building understanding and bridging divides.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook) (Website)

Topic: Why The Empathy Circle is the Foundational Practice of the Empathy Movement.

Abstract:   Empathy is often discussed as an abstract feeling, but to become a social reality, it requires a practical, scalable application. In this presentation, I will demonstrate why the Empathy Circle is the essential 'operating system' for this shift. 

As the definitive 'gateway practice,' the Circle provides a structured and replicable framework for mutual active listening. It is more than just a tool; it is the primary training ground for the mindset and skills required to scale the Empathy Movement globally.

Bio: Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership Center.

Topic:   Why the Empathy Circle Works

Abstract:  An explanation of why the Empathy Circle practice has the effect that it does and how the structural elements of the circle contribute to the results.  The empathy circle works effectively due to its structured approach, which enhances mutuality, tolerance, and open communication. Key elements include equal speaking turns, which ensure everyone has a fair chance to speak and be heard, and the three to five-minute time limit per turn, which helps listeners tolerate potentially uncomfortable content. 

• Bio: Lou Zweier:  Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership 

• Topic:   Ongoing Learning and Capacity Building for Empathy Circle Facilitators: the Empathy Circle Facilitator’s Support Group

• Abstract:  Skillfully facilitating Empathy Circles is an ongoing learning and personal development process. Learn how you can continue to develop the depth of your skills and personal capacity for holding circles and coping with difficulty in Empathy Circles.
  
  

Bio: Edwin Rutsch, Founding Director of The Empathy Center, is a passionate activist for the global empathy movement, a creative developer of empathy-based practices, and a tireless developer and champion of the Empathy Circle.   (LinkedIn)  (Facebook)

Topic:  Empathy Circles: A Practical Method for Exiting the Drama Triangle

Abstract: Many of the criticisms of empathy say it leads us into the Drama Triangle of Persecutor, Victim, and Rescuer roles. They have it all wrong.  In this talk, I’ll share how Wholistic Empathy — and the Empathy Circle process — actually help us step out of the drama and into genuine connection. 

Bio: Arno Jaffe has lived in Santa Barbara 47 years and is an Empathy Circle Trainer

Abstract: Empathy Circles allow through reflected listening the speaker to go deeper than seemed possible.  By sharing what is alive for them and hearing it reflected back they see things in a different way and clear light.

Bio:  Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages for over 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic:   The Empathy Circle in the context of the Empathy Movement

Abstract:  Bill Filler will talk about the Empathy Circle experience, how the spirit of the Empathy Circle is expressed in our training, and how we’re trying to expand our numbers while maintaining that spirit. Core to our training philosophy is that Empathy is innate in us, and the Empathy Circle is a wonderful tool to help us realize what’s already within. When we do, we don’t see devils or monsters from the Id, but well-meaning, imperfect people, who experience better lives when they try to understand each other.

Bio:  Daniel Hirtz is a musician, teacher, and workshop leader. He focuses on fostering wholeness, connection, and peace through music, breath, and energy work. He produced the "Breathe for Peace" album, produces conscious breathing and drumming courses online and in-person, and developed "Holistic Tuning."  (LinkedIn)  (Facebook) (Website)

Topic:  The Music of Empathy Circles.

Abstract:   Empathy Circles are like drum circles, a form of regulated, structured communication. The felt-sense outcome of both is very similar. Daniel's talk focuses on understanding empathy through the lens of communal music making. 

Abstract:  The Empathy Circle is a simple but very powerful practice for creating mutual understanding and connection; sometimes even healing and conflict resolution.  Understanding the role and importance of each of piece of its structure contributes to the effectiveness of the circle, and in encouraging participants to stay in the practice.  

Topic: Why the Deceptively Simple Structure of the Empathy Circle is So Effective.

Bio: Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership Center.

• Bio: Selene’s goal in life has been to bring a little peace to the world through mediation and the practice of fostering collaborative, empathic communication. Selene is an Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer.  (LinkedIn)
  
  

• Topic: How to Integrate the Skills of the Empathy Circle in Business and Government Meetings
  
  

• Abstract: Empathy Circle Skills can help even in formal meetings. When participants experience being heard, they relax and more easily collaborate.   

• Bio:  Janna Weiss, PhD, is an Empathy Circle Facilitator and Trainer, accredited facilitator for the Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom's 16 Guidelines international flagship program, acupuncturist, herbalist, ethnobotanist, and advocate for the human rights of the Tibetan people, people with psychosocial disabilities or those perceived to be so, and the real rights of children and families.  (Website) (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
  
  

• Bio: Maria Trottmann is an economist interested in building institutions and social systems that foster human flourishing and social harmony. She is an Empathy Circle Facilitator who has participated in and facilitated numerous Empathy Circles on the 16 Guidelines. 
  
  

• Topic: Embodying Virtue: Combining the Classic Empathy Circle with Universal Human Values
  
  

• Abstract:  The classic Empathy Circle always includes the option to speak about whatever is in your heart and mind, and will usually also include a suggested topic. Along with the "free speech" option, a community of Empathy Circle practitioners combines the Empathy Circle practice with the 16 Guidelines. The 16 Guidelines are a set of universal human values based on a short 7th century classic Tibetan text that helped transform Tibet from a violent society to a compassionate society. Values or virtues such as humility, gratitude, forgiveness, and courage have known benefits for human flourishing and wellbeing. 

• Bio: Daniel Hirtz is a breathwork educator, drum circle facilitator, and empathy circle co-host whose 40 years of group practice have taught him to recognize the living energy that moves through people when they truly listen to each other.  (LinkedIn)  (Facebook) (Website)
  
  

• Topic: The Living Energy of Empathy Circles — Naming What's Already Happening
  
  

• Abstract: Something powerful moves through an empathy circle when it's working — a tangible, living energy that most participants feel but few have language for. After 40 years of facilitating breathwork and drum circles, I've come to recognize this as the same energy: the field that emerges whenever human beings enter genuine mutual contact. Naming this energy — making it visible — is how we build a movement that people don't just understand intellectually but feel in their bodies and carry with them. 

• Bio: Kevin Waldman is a clinical researcher, mental health professional, and founder of psychFORM Research Lab, focusing on developmental psychology, identity formation, and the psychological effects of performative behavior. (Website) (LinkedIn)
  
  

• Topic: Empathy Circles Restore Genuine Connection in an Age of Performative Empathy
  
  

• Abstract:  This presentation explores how performative empathy - shaped by social signaling and external validation - can distance young people from genuine emotional connection. It introduces the empathy circle as a practice that centers active listening, emotional attunement, and mutual understanding. By contrasting performative empathy with the lived experience of an empathy circle, this work argues that empathy circles offer a direct way to reconnect individuals with authentic human understanding and presence.

• Bio: Larry Lawhorn is a long term host of a weekly Empathy Circle series at EmpathyMatters.org  :-)    (Website) (Facebook) (LinkedIn)
  
  

• Topic: Active Listening in Empathy Circles 
  
  

• Abstract:   Our thoughts are like seeds, and we are the gardeners of our own self-care... and our own planet's self-care. Perhaps listening is not just waiting for our turn to speak. Perhaps listening is the willingness to make room for what is already waiting to be heard. 

• Bio: Teri McGovern-Nintzel is a vagal toning and empathy circle facilitator, writer, poet, and intuitive composer who creates spaces that support connection, resilience, and embodied presence.   (Website) (Facebook)
  
  

• Topic: The Synergy of Empathy Circles and Vagal Toning 
  
  

• Abstract: Empathy circles offer a predictable, supportive structure that helps our nervous systems relax into a shared intention for connection. This strengthens the social engagement system and builds resilience in returning to collaboration after stress. Vagal toning practices further support this capacity, helping participants shift into presence and out of defensive states. 

Bio:  Sylvia Haskvitz, MA, RDN, trainer/facilitator/assessor and author has been sharing NVC worldwide since 1989 and was a student of Marshall Rosenberg, the founder of Nonviolent Communication.   (LinkedIn) (Facebook) (Website)

Topic:   Empathic Listening in an Empathy Circle — A profound process of healing and connection

Abstract:   Empathic listening in an Empathy Circle is a powerful process which supports people to open up to their vulnerability which stimulates self-connection and connection with others. Empathy can heal old wounds and supports the person receiving empathy to unravel what is in their hearts and the core of their emotions and what is important to them. 

Bio:  Sri Ram Timilsina is an NVC/NLP/CBT practitioner and trainer in Neuroscience and Motivational Interviewing, dedicated to cultivating Emotional Intelligence with empathy as its foundation.   (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic:  Empathy Circles: Building Emotional Intelligence Through Deep Listening

Abstract:   Empathy is the heart of Emotional Intelligence, and Empathy Circles provide a powerful practice to strengthen this capacity. In this talk, I will share how Empathy Circles foster self-awareness, self-regulation, and authentic connection—key pillars of EI. Drawing from my background in NVC, NLP, CBT, and Neuroscience, I will explore how this practice helps individuals and communities grow resilience, compassion, and collective intelligence 

Bio: I am a consultant, coach and facilitator working to spread compassion and empathy in the world    (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic: What is happening to the silent listeners in an Empathy Circle. The Benefits of silent listening

Abstract:   Silent listening is very powerful both for the speaker and listener. I connect the dots with my own experience in empathy circles and silent listening from research on the benefits of it.

Bio:  Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages of rover 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic:  Empathy Circle Online Training: Providing Relief and Hope Around the World

Abstract: The Participants in our July 2025 online training were from around the world. It included people from Pakistan, India, Turkey, Sweden, and different parts of the United States. These were men and women, people of different ages, religions and spiritual beliefs, and differently abled people. What we learned was that no matter these differences, everyone benefits from being heard and understood.

Bio: Bob Brown is a pilgrim on the spiritual journey. For years, he hosted an Empathy Tent in Thousand Oaks, California and offered empathic listening. Life has improved immeasurably since connecting with Edwin Rutsch and the Empathy Tent in 2017.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic:  Empathy Circles and Consciousness

Abstract:  Participating in Empathy Circles is a great help in expanding consciousness.  By listening for understanding rather than listening to reply, a person can feel more at home in the universe.  The Empathy Circle experience can strengthen one's relationships with more and more of our human family. 

Bio:  Tina Jones is a highly skilled professional in conflict resolution, holding a master's degree in Conflict Analysis and Dispute Resolution. She specializes in training and facilitating Empathy Circles.   (LinkedIn)  (Facebook)

Topic:  Exploring Self-empathy in Empathy Circles

Abstract:  Navigating the intersection of self-empathy, intrapersonal conflict, and nonviolent communication (NVC) in the Empathy Circle process. My journey highlights the importance of being gentle with ourselves and listening to our inner voices. The Empathy Circle process allows us to reconnect with any emotional detachment we may experience. By embracing the principles of NVC in our thoughts and feelings, we create pathways for understanding and healing. The compassionate dialogue found in Empathy Circles helps us clarify our emotions and fosters a deeper connection with ourselves. 

Bio: Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership Center. (LinkedIn)  (Facebook)

Topic:   Empathy Cafes at Petaluma Conversations: Crossing Social and Political Divides

Abstract:   Petaluma Conversations is a public listening project that uses Empathy Circle practice to support bridging social and political divides and building capacity in the community to listen to difference.  Learn about how it began, how it works, and what the benefits have been.

Bio:  Zak Wear is an Empathy Circle Facilitator Trainer and  Founder of PotluckAction.com, the Empathy Circle app.    (LinkedIn)  (Facebook)

Topic:  Chapter Organizations + Empathy Circles

Abstract:   Empathy Circles are revolutionizing how people can organize change together. With Empathy Circles, you don't need to be a politician, nor an expert, to comfortably negotiate with people who have different opinions or political views. We'll explore how any local chapter organization can take advantage of Empathy Circles. 

Bio:  As an experienced coach and a seasoned corporate and community leader, Veronica specializes in the areas of emotional intelligence (EQ), change, and transitions, and is on a mission to empower individuals, groups, and teams to foster resilience and empathy while effectively taking action in the face of personal and professional changes and challenges.  Professional training and certifications in executive, life, and grief coaching, combined with her profound personal journey as a bereaved mom, enable her to empathetically and productively support others in the areas of leadership, EQ, and emotional regulation. (LinkedIn)  (Facebook)

Topic:  Extending Empathy Circles with NVC and IFS

Abstract:   In our rapidly changing world, the power of empathy has never been more essential. In empathy circles we engage in structured, respectful dialogues, creating a safe space for participants to share their stories, listen deeply, and develop a sense of mutual empathy. Together we’ll explore how to extend the foundational power of empathy circles by including the ‘feelings and needs’ element of nonviolent communication, NVC, and the ‘parts’ aspect of Internal Family Systems, IFS.

Bio:  Masha is a psychologist, independent researcher, and founder of the Empathy-Based Society Institute, an initiative dedicated to promoting the purposeful development of empathy at both individual and systemic levels for people, animals, and the planet.  (LinkedIn) (Facebook)

Topic:  From Reflection to Transformation: Empathy Circles and Their Role in Cultivating Change

Abstract:   In the first part, I will share my experience facilitating weekly empathy circles over the course of a year with the same group and explore how the debriefing stage evolved into an essential component for integrating the inner processes and realizations that emerged during these circles.

In the second part, I will explore the role of empathy circles within the Empathy-Based Society Institute (EBSI)'s programs. EBSI is an initiative dedicated to promoting the purposeful development of empathy at both individual and systemic levels with a mission to raise awareness about the connection between empathy and violence and provide practical tools for cultivating empathy not only in interpersonal relationships but also towards animals, nature, and the planet.

Abstract: The structure of the Empathy Circle creates a mutually empathic atmosphere where one can be heard and understood and provide that experience to others. The rules are in place to provide that empathic experience, but that is not enough. At its core, The Empathy Circle is experiential.

Bio: : Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages of rover 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Director

Bio:  Rosa Zubizarreta has a background as a practitioner in organization development and expertise in empathy-based collaborative sense-making practices, Rosa's research focuses on the facilitation of democratic innovations.

Topic:  Opening Minds and Hearts: OMAH, Empathy Circles and Dynamic Facilitation.

Abstract:  As a practitioner, active listening / reflection are at the heart of my group facilitation and coaching work; as a researcher, I incorporate these practices into my interviews. As a concept-weaver linking the worlds of theory and practice, I value the ”micro-moments of connection” that Dr. Barbara Fredrickson writes about, and the  "social engagement system” described by Dr. Stephen Porges: the state of relaxed alertness where we can more easily engage with complex thinking, and respond to difference with curiosity rather than as a threat. Last but by no means least, as an imperfect human being, I cherish how Empathy Circles develop our muscle memory for reflecting back what another person is saying; otherwise, it can be hard to remember to do so, when we start to feel triggered — which is when we need it the most!

Abstract: Over the past three years, our weekly empathy circles have profoundly inspired participants across the globe to become better listeners and more reflective thinkers. In this talk, I will share key reflections and learnings gathered during this period, demonstrating how consistent participation in empathy circles leads to deeper connections and enhanced well-being. 

Bio: Rasha Kutty is the Founder and Chief Facilitator at Empathy Matters Private Limited, with master’s degrees in Management and Psychology, and certifications as an Instructional Designer, Empathic Intervision Facilitation, and Empathy Circles Facilitation.

Abstract:  Empathy Circles are a fast track for building empathic community and realizing Martin Luther King's vision and dream for a peaceful society and world. We'll share joy in the Empathy Center's creative collaborations and partnerships, and in the versatility of the Empathy Circle.

Bio: is an Empathy Circle Facilitator and Trainer, and a Foundation for Developing Wisdom and Compassion 16 Guidelines accredited facilitator. Janna has a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin in Biological Sciences—Botany (ethnobotany). Janna is also a human rights activist and advocate for peace.

Abstract: As Bayo Akomolafe put it: "The times are urgent: Let us slow down.” We need to listen deeply to one another to heal our wounds and overcome the othering that divides us. Empathic listening is a practice that can help us reach higher levels of consciousness - perhaps even in time to save the world.

Bio:  Anita Nowak is a faculty member at the McGill Executive Institute, multiple TEDx Speaker, podcaster and author of Purposeful Empathy: Tapping Our hidden Superpower for Personal, Organizational, and Social Change  

Abstract: How can we remain human-focused and inclusive, and still maintain high performance, personal boundaries, and our own mental health, without being treated like villains?  And what role can empathy circles play in a corporate environment? Maria will help you balance between empathy AND accountability and where Empathy Circles, along with other modalities can work well to support teams. 

Bio: Maria Ross is a speaker, author, leadership trainer, podcaster, and empathy advocate who has spent decades helping forward-thinking teams connect and engage through empathy to accelerate growth. Her newest book is The Empathy Dilemma: How Successful Leaders Balance Performance, People, and Personal Boundaries. 

Abstract:  It doesn't matter how curious and open we are. If we aren't listening, empathy will remain out of reach. Rob explains where Active Listening fits on the way to reaching empathy and how the Empathy Circle skills can help you get there. 

Bio: Rob is an Empathy Activist and author of the award-winning book Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time 

Abstract:   Being in an empathy circle fosters healthy brain chemistry.  It affirms my dignity as a human being.  It gives me the confidence to take my rightful place in the human adventure.

Bio: Bob Brown is a pilgrim on the spiritual journey. For years, he hosted an Empathy Tent in Thousand Oaks, California and offered empathic listening.

Bio: Minter Dial is a professional speaker, award-winning author (books include "Heartificial Empathy" and "Making Empathy Count") and documentary filmmaker. 

Abstract:  In business, one of the biggest issues is poor communications, which tends to be exacerbated by time pressures. Over the last several years, I've been using Empathy Circles with executives within the context of a seminar or training to show the power of active listening. In this session, I'll present how I use the EC in my training and specifically how to integrate the learnings into the business.  

Bio:  Yehuda Tagar is an Australian, South African, Central European counsellor, psychotherapist, psychosomatic therapist, organisational development consultant and international trainer of the above. He is the founder of Psychophonetics and Methodical Empathy, director of Psychophonetics Institute International, a co-director & dean of studies of School of Empathy in Slovakia (Skola Empatie), UK, Czech Republic and China, and of ‘7 Conditions Consultancy’.  

Abstract:  To offer empathic responses requires a 'tuning in' - a conscious departure from our normal chats. In 'methodical empathy' we have a process called 'parallel-processing', enabling the clearing of our lenses apparatus in order to hear what is actually being said, not what we think is being said. 

Bio:  Dr. Felicia Darling promotes inclusion and empathy in math classrooms, meetings, campuses, the world.

Abstract:  Equity- and Inclusion-Focused Empathy Circles Help Create a Culture of Empathy and Belonging at Our Organizations. Circles that focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility (DEIA) topics bring colleagues together and help everyone feel like they belong. DEIA-focused Empathy Circle participants have said, "After what we have experienced in this Empathy Circle... We are all brothers and sisters now (smile)" and "This is the first time I have felt completely heard [at work]."

Bio: Ruth was drawn to becoming an Empathy Circle Trainer and Facilitator, by listening to the courage shared of hardships lived through and are still being living through, via the Empathy Summit of July 2023.

Abstract: Hearing authentic stories of people who had experienced personal, community and nationwide atrocities, and then entering into an empathy circle for the first time to articulate from my heart with strangers, what I heard, had a big impact on how I began to hear and interpret what others were saying with my friends, colleagues, my own community and strangers.

Bio:  Zak Wear is an Empathy Circle Facilitator Trainer and  Founder of PotluckAction.com, the Empathy Circle app. 

Abstract: House parties are a great way to invite friends, family, and neighbors to empathy circles. Whether you just want to introduce the empathy circle, play the Empathy Circle Game, or organize an opportunity to discuss and plug into important social or political issues, we'll discuss details on how to host your first house parties. A free guide will be included for attendees.

Bio:  Jennifer Brummer has spent the past two years working with GROKtheWorld, an organization dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence and connection through interactive tools and games based on Nonviolent Communication. Before joining GROK, she built a career teaching English to global professionals and developing academic curricula for publishers such as Macmillan, National Geographic Learning, and Oxford University Press. She is currently working toward becoming a CNVC Certified Trainer.  (LinkedIn)

Topic:  Using GROKtheWorld Games to Enhance Empathy Circles

Abstract:   This talk highlights how GROKtheWorld games transform Empathy Circles into playful, engaging experiences that deepen understanding of Nonviolent Communication (NVC). By incorporating games like Empathy Poker and activities centered around Feelings and Needs fluency, participants can foster connection, emotional awareness, and collaboration in a low-stakes, joy-filled way.