Cultivating Dialogue that Transforms Communities: Interactivity Foundation’s Collaborative Discussion Project

This September, the Interactivity Foundation’s Collaborative Discussion Project offers two dynamic workshops designed to strengthen the essential skills of listening and creativity in collaborative settings. Dr. John Igwebuike’s session focuses on turning monologue into meaningful dialogue by equipping participants with strategies for active, inclusive listening. Dr. Don Waisanen’s workshop explores how creativity and improvisation can unlock adaptive thinking and deeper connection in group discussions. Both sessions provide practical tools and exercises that help community leaders, facilitators, and educators foster more inclusive, effective, and engaging dialogue. These workshops exemplify NCDD’s commitment to equity, collaboration, and civic engagement. Read more in the blog post below.

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When we come together as communities, it's our shared capacities to listen meaningfully and create openly that truly anchor connection. This September, the Interactivity Foundation’s Collaborative Discussion Project offers two enriching workshops designed to strengthen these foundational skills—empowering participants to cultivate dialogue that moves beyond monologue and fixed thinking.

Listening to Improve Collaboration with Dr. John Igwebuike

​Date: September 6, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. EDT
Dr. John Igwebuike, founder of The Lead Listening Institute and active listening advocate, guides participants to explore listening not just as a passive act, but as a powerful tool for deeper understanding. Through research-backed strategies and interactive Toolkit activities, attendees will identify and overcome common listening challenges and reflect on personal listening habits. The outcome: more inclusive, effective, and dialogic collaboration for educators, facilitators, and community leaders alike.

Creativity in Collaborative Discussion with Dr. Don Waisanen

Date: September 10, 6–8 p.m. EDT
Dr. Don Waisanen—a professor and the voice behind Improv for Democracy—shows how creativity and improvisation can make space for adaptive, joyful, and insightful conversation. Workshop participants will experience fresh Toolkit activities that encourage open thinking, positive environments, and greater connection. The result is a reimagined approach to collaboration—one that’s imaginative, engaging, and better suited to complex community and workplace conversations.

​Building Stronger, More Inclusive Connections

These workshops embody NCDD’s dedication to fostering dialogue, equity, inclusion, and collaborative civic engagement. By advancing skills in listening and creativity, participants gain new ways to bridge differences, nurture trust, and co-create solutions—strengthening the democratic fabric at all levels.
Whether you’re deepening your facilitation toolkit or simply rooted in community connection, these sessions offer meaningful opportunities for growth.
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Join us—and help turn talk into transformation:

• Register for Creativity in Collaborative Discussion with Dr. Don Waisanen here:
  https://www.interactivityfoundation.org/event/workshop-creativity-in-collaboration-with-dr-don-waisanen/
• Register for Listening to Improve Collaborative Discussion with Dr. John Igwebuike here:
  https://www.interactivityfoundation.org/event/listening-to-improve-collaboration-workshop-2025-09-06/