The Art of Asking Questions: International Listening Association Members Explore Listening's Transformative Power

​The International Listening Association (ILA), a valued NCDD Network Partner, emphasizes the transformative power of listening through thoughtful questions and deep engagement. In a recent podcast, ILA members Raquel Ark and Dr. Michael W. Purdy explore how conscious listening fosters connection, community building, and democratic discourse. Their conversation offers valuable insights into improving communication and promoting empathy, especially in polarized times. Read the blog post below to learn more.

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Dr. Purdy, co-editor of "Listening in Everyday Life: A Personal and Professional Approach" and contributor to the International Journal of Listening, brings decades of expertise to this enlightening conversation. His journey through the landscape of listening began with practical training at a phone health care call center, where he first encountered the fundamental principles of attentive communication.
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His academic path led him to doctoral work on philosopher Merleau-Ponty, whose ideas on receptivity and embodied experience continue to influence Purdy's understanding of the speaker-listener relationship. These early experiences, combined with insights gained from teaching interpersonal communication and engaging with pioneering listening scholars at Ohio University, have shaped his unique perspective on listening as both an art and a science.

Listening as Community Building

"People do want to come together. They want to connect. They want to build relationships. They want to be seen. They want to be valued," Purdy observes in the podcast. This simple yet profound statement underscores his belief that genuine listening serves as a critical catalyst for community building.
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The conversation reveals how attentive listening creates meaningful connections and fosters belonging. As communities face increasing polarization, Purdy's insight that "democracy dies if people won't or can't or don't know how to listen" takes on particular urgency. The ability to hear diverse perspectives with openness and respect forms the bedrock of democratic discourse.

The Three Dimensions of Conscious Listening

One of the most valuable aspects of the interview is Purdy's exploration of "conscious listening" as a sophisticated, three-dimensional skill. Far from passive hearing, this approach encompasses careful observation, strategic conversation management, and the ability to flow naturally within dialogue.
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"Conscious listening is the process of working at being a listener," Purdy explains, acknowledging that developing this skill requires time and practice. This more active conceptualization challenges listeners to move beyond simply absorbing information to engaging in a dynamic, responsive process.

The Alchemy of Questions

Perhaps most relevant to dialogue practitioners is the discussion of what Ark calls "the alchemy of questions." The podcast explores practical strategies for elevating communication through thoughtfully crafted inquiries. Open-ended questions, Purdy suggests, serve as keys that unlock deeper, more meaningful exchanges.
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This section offers valuable insights for facilitators and community leaders looking to foster more productive conversations across difference. By asking questions that invite exploration rather than simple yes/no responses, we create space for nuanced understanding and genuine connection.

Empathy in Action

The conversation also distinguishes between sympathy and empathy, highlighting how true listening creates authentic and supportive connections. "If we don't listen, we don't know how to respond," Purdy notes, emphasizing that effective response begins with understanding rather than assumption.
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His advice to "relax and listen" might seem simple, but it acknowledges the tension and anxiety that often accompany difficult conversations. By approaching listening with openness and calm, we create conditions where genuine dialogue can flourish.

Resources for Deeper Exploration

The podcast references several thought leaders whose work complements the discussion, including Yuval Harari, Brené Brown, Dick Halley, and philosophers Heidegger and Merleau-Ponty. Listeners interested in further exploration of these topics might look to these resources for additional insights.
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For those engaged in dialogue and deliberation work, this conversation between two experienced ILA members offers valuable perspectives on how thoughtful listening practices can transform our communities and strengthen democratic engagement.

Connect and Learn More

The International Listening Association continues to be a vital resource for understanding and promoting effective listening practices. To learn more about their work or connect with experts like Purdy and Ark, visit the Global Listening Centre or explore ILA's resources on listening research and practice.

For the full podcast episode, visit Listening Alchemy.

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This blog post is shared by the National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) as part of our commitment to highlighting valuable resources from our Network Partners. The International Listening Association (ILA) is a Network Partner of NCDD dedicated to advancing the practice, teaching, and research of listening throughout the world.