Facilitating on Purpose
Facilitating on Purpose is a podcast about designing and leading workshops, courses and group learning experiences that people genuinely want to attend and engage with. Host Beth Cougler Blom, a facilitator and learning designer, talks with guests about what great facilitation looks like, why it matters, and how to approach it with intention. Episodes cover practical topics such as planning sessions effectively, building connection with participants, and choosing meaningful activities. It serves as a resource for anyone who facilitates learning, whether in workplaces, education or community settings.
Episodes
Learning to Facilitate When No One Taught You How with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 80
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks about how many people become facilitators of meetings or learning events by accident and what it takes to keep building facilitation skills with intention. She shares some of her own path into facilitation and offers practical ways to notice, learn, practice, and grow over time. Beth also talks about: Why many people start to do facilitation work with
Leading Meditations and Mindfulness Practices When You're Not an Expert with Claire Schneeberger - EP 79
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Claire Schneeberger about her book, Holding Space, and how meditation and mindfulness practices can support more grounded, focused, and intentional learning experiences. They explore how simple practices can help participants slow down, arrive, and feel more present in workshops, meetings, and group settings. Beth and Claire also talk about: Choo
Facilitating Conversations With Ourselves with Erica Barnhart - EP 78
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Erica Barnhart about the conversations we have with ourselves and how our internal dialogue shapes the way we show up as facilitators and whole human beings. Erica shares a simple framework for noticing negative self-talk and gently shifting it toward something more useful. Beth and Erica also talk about: Why our self-talk is often more negative
Teaching Art to Many Kinds of Learners with Linda M. Anderson
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Linda M. Anderson about teaching art to many different kinds of learners in community, school, social service, and personal settings. Linda shares stories from her lifelong journey as an artist and educator, including how she builds confidence, adapts her teaching, and helps people keep creating through challenge and change. Beth and Linda also ta
Teaching Coding to Kids with Eric Wang - EP 76
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Eric Wang about his experience building Algorithm Alchemists, a student-led nonprofit that teaches coding and computational thinking to elementary and high school students through interactive online classes. Special guest Kevin Cougler, Founder and Executive Director of STEM Camp and Camp STEAM Canada, joins the conversation as the trio talk about
What Does Facilitation Feel Like Right Now? with the IAF Future Now community
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom shares a conversation with members of the IAF Future Now community about what facilitation feels like right now. With Beth intentionally stepping out of the discussion, this group of younger facilitators reflects on authenticity, emotional depth, trust, and how facilitation can feel both challenging and deeply rewarding in a noisy, fast-changing world. The F
Comics as a Tool for Learning with Alina Pete - EP 74
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Alina Pete about the power of comics to teach, connect, and tell stories. They explore how comics can invite people into learning through joy, creativity, and representation, and how Alina's community-engaged work supports storytelling, language, and cultural connection in Indigenous contexts. Beth and Alina also talk about: Alina's journey into
Engaging with Visual Facilitation with Nora Sheffe - EP 73
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Nora Sheffe about using visuals in facilitation to create more engaging, inclusive, and participatory learning experiences. They explore how visuals can support connection and clarity in both in-person and virtual settings, even for facilitators who do not see themselves as artists. Beth and Nora also talk about: Expanding visual facilitation bey
Everyday Acts of Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom interviewed by Joseph Diaz - EP 72
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom is interviewed by Joseph Diaz about Beth's upcoming second book, Everyday Acts of Facilitation, and how facilitation shows up far beyond workshops and meeting rooms. Together they explore Beth's story-driven approach to writing a guidebook-memoir that helps readers notice the facilitation happening in life's ordinary moments—and use that noticing to learn fa
Making Early Connections with Participants with Nathy Ravez - EP 71
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Nathy Ravez about making connections with participants—both early in our interactions with them and ongoing through the workshop—and why what happens before the workshop often matters just as much as what happens during it. Beth and Nathy explore simple, practical ways to build trust and collaboration from the very first moments, so people arrive
Self-Directed Learning and the Meaningful Togetherness Framework with Letícia (Schuli) Schuelter - EP 70
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Letícia (Schuli) Schuelter, a Brazilian experience designer and community builder, about her framework for meaningful togetherness and how self-directed learning shaped her career path. Beth and Letícia also talk about: Saying yes to unexpected opportunities as a path into facilitation work Lessons from self-directed learning communities The evol
Facilitators as Conscious Leaders with Chanchal Garg - EP 69
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Chanchal Garg about what it means to facilitate as a conscious leader and how truth-telling, vulnerability, and intention shape the way we work with groups. Beth and Chanchal also talk about: How inner safety and self-soothing help facilitators take interpersonal risks Why truth-telling is a leadership act and a personal practice The balance betw
How to Convince People to Lecture Less and Engage More with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 68
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom answers a listener's question about how to help people shift from lecture-style delivery to a more engaging, participatory approach to facilitating learning. Drawing from years of experience supporting faculty and facilitators, Beth shares practical strategies for supporting others in embracing active learning methods. Beth also talks about: Establishing a
Exceptional Online Experiences with Gwyn Wansbrough - EP 67
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Gwyn Wansbrough about how to design and facilitate online sessions that are energizing rather than exhausting. Gwyn shares strategies for crafting engaging virtual learning environments and explains the importance of preparation, intentionality, and creating space for connection. Beth and Gwyn also talk about: Why online sessions often feel drain
Designing Meaningful Experiences with Andy Sontag - EP 66
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Andy Sontag about what experience design really means and how it connects to facilitation and learning. Beth and Andy explore how designing with emotion, meaning, and intention can create transformative learning experiences that go far beyond content delivery. Beth and Andy also talk about: Why experience design is about designing for feelings, n
Designing Workshops with Intentionality with Tolu Noah - EP 65
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Tolulope (Tolu) Noah about designing and facilitating workshops with intentionality. Tolu, an educational developer and author, shares insights from her new book of the same name, which offers a comprehensive and accessible framework for workshop planning across many learning contexts. Beth and Tolu also talk about: Applying the Workshop Wheel fr
The Sound of Silence in Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 64
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom explores the role of silence in facilitation and how it can be a powerful and intentional tool. Beth shares personal reflections, practical tips, and cultural considerations around silence, encouraging facilitators to embrace it as part of creating thoughtful and inclusive learning spaces. Beth also talks about: How to normalize silence as part of participa
Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices in Facilitation with Marie Dubost - EP 63
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Marie Dubost about neurodivergent-affirming practices in facilitation and learning design. Marie shares insights from her work as an accessibility consultant, facilitator, and trainer, drawing on both professional and personal experience to highlight why inclusive practices matter more than ever. Beth and Marie also talk about: Creating learning
Designing Learning for Behaviour Change with Julie Dirksen - EP 62
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Julie Dirksen about designing learning experiences that support real behaviour change. Julie shares insights from her latest book, Talk to the Elephant, and offers practical ways to go beyond knowledge transfer to create meaningful impact. Beth and Julie also talk about: The difference between knowledge gaps and behaviour gaps The rider and eleph
Accessibility in Learning and Beyond with Nora Loyst - EP 61
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with accessibility consultant Nora Loyst about designing learning experiences that truly welcome everyone. Nora shares how personal experiences led her to this work and explores the shift from a medical model to a social model of disability. Beth and Nora also talk about: Expecting and planning for learner diversity from the start Naming what you know
Learning That Lasts with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 60
In this solo episode, host Beth Cougler Blom reflects on how to create learning that truly lasts. Beth shares thoughts about how we can shift from simply delivering content to designing experiences that drive behaviour change and embed meaningful memories for learners. She also shares: Why behaviour change is the heart of lasting learning How relevance and meaning move ideas into long-term memory
Storytelling to Drive Impact with Sumesh Khatua and Simrat Pahwa - EP 59
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Sumesh Khatua and Simrat Pahwa about the power of storytelling to create lasting impact in learning experiences. They explore how stories help drive clarity, build emotional connection, and support learning transfer both during and beyond structured learning sessions. Beth, Sumesh, and Simrat also talk about: Designing learning with the end impac
Indigenous Pedagogies in Practice with Leanne Joe and Amea Wilbur - EP 58
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Leanne Joe and Amea Wilbur about how they designed a course on Indigenous pedagogies for adult educators at the University of the Fraser Valley. Their conversation offers insights that can inspire all of us, wherever we work, to thoughtfully incorporate Indigenous voices and ways of knowing into our learning environments, enriching the experience
Lessons From a Therapeutic Clown with Guillaume Vermette - EP 57
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Guillaume Vermette about his work as a therapeutic clown, using theatre, emotion, and deep listening to build human connection in long-term care homes. While the conversation doesn't focus directly on facilitation, the skills Guillaume shares are highly relevant to facilitation practice. Beth and Guillaume also talk about: Listening beyond words
Using Poetry and Expressive Writing with Marisa Gelfusa - EP 56
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Marisa Gelfusa about how poetry and expressive writing can become powerful tools for facilitators to connect with themselves and with others. Beth and Marisa also talk about: Using poetry as a reflexive practice in facilitation Breaking through the inner critic with playful, accessible prompts Creating safe spaces where participants share their w
Podcasting as Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 55
In this solo episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks about how podcasting is an act of facilitation and the many behind-the-scenes ways she brings facilitation skills into each episode. Beth reflects on how she approaches podcast conversations with intention, clarity, and care—just like she would in a learning experience. Beth also talks about: Building trust quickly with podcast guests Balancing s
Fostering Social Connection with Pete Bombaci - EP 54
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Pete Bombaci, founder of the Genwell Project, about the power of human connection and Canada's newly announced social connection guidelines. They explore why social well-being is crucial for our health, happiness, and longevity—and what facilitators can do to foster connection in their workshops, meetings, and daily lives. Beth and Pete also talk
Trauma, Learning, and Social Change with Theresa Southam - EP 53
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Theresa Southam about her book Transforming Trauma Through Social Change: A Guide for Educators. Theresa shares how educators, facilitators, and leaders—whether in post-secondary, corporate, or nonprofit settings—can play a role in driving social change and supporting healing through the learning experiences they create inside and outside the clas
Letting Go and Saying Yes with Myriam Hadnes - EP 52
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with facilitator and business owner Myriam Hadnes about making bold decisions in business, setting boundaries, and the power of saying no. Myriam shares her journey from academia to facilitation, the evolution of her NeverDoneBefore community, and why she ultimately chose to close it in favour of new opportunities. Beth and Myriam also talk about: Rec
Keeping Burnout at Bay with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 51
In this solo episode, host Beth Cougler Blom explores some of the risks, signs, and symptoms of burnout, particularly for people involved in facilitation or entrepreneurial work. Beth shares some of her personal struggles of 2024, discussing why setting boundaries, creating support systems, and saying the "right yesses" matters. She also offers some practical strategies to help people take care of
Using Our Voice in Facilitation with Mary Chan - EP 50
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Mary Chan, audio engineer, podcast strategist, and voice coach, about the power of voice in facilitation and beyond. Mary shares her personal journey from being behind the mic in radio to empowering others to embrace their unique voices. This engaging conversation will leave you inspired to experiment with your own voice and connect more meaningfu
Book Circles for Deeper Learning with Theresa Destrebecq - EP 49
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Theresa Destrebecq about her work facilitating book circles and how she creates deeper learning experiences for people through these book-based communities. Beth and Theresa also discuss: Theresa's career shift from teaching to coaching to facilitating Why her company's motto is "read deeper, not faster" Balancing experiential learning and person
Designing Museum Learning with Jessica Lane and Jacob McMurray - EP 48
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Jessica Lane and Jacob McMurray from the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle, Washington, about how they create engaging learning experiences through exhibits and programs. Jacob, the Chief Collections and Exhibitions Officer, and Jessica, the Director of Education and Programs, share their perspectives on the museum's unique approach to pop
The Pivotal Role of Learning Outcomes with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 47
In this solo episode, host Beth Cougler Blom explores the critical role that learning outcomes play in designing effective learning experiences. Beth shares practical insights on crafting clear, learner-centred outcomes that form the foundation of any well-designed workshop or course. She explains the difference between learning outcomes and learning objectives, offers guidance on aligning outcome
Creating the Habit of Inclusive Language with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim - EP 46
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim, author of The Inclusive Language Field Guide. They explore how facilitators and educators can develop the habit of using inclusive language and why it's critical to their work. Suzanne shares practical strategies for identifying problematic language, addressing resistance, and shifting perspectives to create more inclusive le
What Great Facilitation Feels Like with Khari McClelland - EP 45
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Khari McClelland about his path to becoming a facilitator and what defines great facilitation. Khari reflects on a transformative camp experience that sparked his passion for this work and shares his thoughts on the power of presence, curiosity, and navigating discomfort. He emphasizes the role of facilitators in setting the tone and creating spaces th
Working for Aliveness Instead of Productivity with Wouter Smeets - EP 44
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Wouter Smeets about shifting the focus from productivity to aliveness at work. Wouter, founder of Life-Centric Work Lab, shares how important it is to challenge accepted norms about work and how our work, if we do facilitation or another role, can support well-being, happiness, and personal growth. Beth and Wouter also discuss: self-awareness and unde
Writing a Book in the Field with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 43
In this solo episode, Beth Cougler Blom shares her journey of writing her book, Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilitate a Great Learning Experience For Any Group. She talks about her research and self-reflection process, using tools like Trello, setting daily writing goals, and taking writing retreats. Beth highlights the value of revisions and working with editors. She also shares insights
Safe Learning Spaces with Fernando Murray and Carolina Almeida - EP 42
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Fernando Murray and Carolina Almeida about strategies they use to create safe learning environments with their groups. Fernando and Carolina share their deep expertise working across cultures, their expertise in Liberating Structures, and more. Beth, Fernando, and Carolina also discuss: fostering an inclusive atmosphere inviting participation avo
Making Caring Learning Environments for People With Disabilities with Yasser Tamer Atef - EP 41
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Yasser Tamer Atef, a disability advocate and facilitator, about strategies to make learning spaces accessible and inclusive. Beth and Yasser also discuss: involving people with disabilities in the learning design process creating accessible documents strategies for facilitating inclusive virtual sessions the importance of asking participants about the
Embracing AI in Learning with Margie Meacham - EP 40
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Margie Meacham about artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications in learning and development. Margie discusses her ongoing journey with AI, sharing valuable insights on how to effectively leverage it to enhance learner engagement and improve knowledge retention. Beth and Margie also discuss: the benefits of using AI as a personalized learning as
How To Keep Learning In Our Field with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 39
In this solo episode, Beth Cougler Blom shares some of her approach to maintaining a learning organization at her learning design and facilitation services company. She also highlights sources for how we can all keep learning in our field, giving examples of communities of practice, podcasts, books, social media, and more. Links From the Episode Liberating Structures User Groups NeverDoneBefore
Break Out of Conventional Thinking with Kerri Price - EP 38
Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom: Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at hello@bcblearning.com Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Kerri Price about the art of creative facilitation an
Facilitate Like an Anthropologist with Dr. Monty Badami - EP 37
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Dr. Monty Badami about how we can use an anthropological lens in facilitation to engage in collective sense-making. If we can think like anthropologists, we will have access to the most valuable resource in understanding complex experiences and diverse groups...and that resource is our humanity. Beth and Monty also talk about: creating safety for part
The State of Facilitation 2024 Report with Deborah Rim Moiso - EP 36
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Deborah Rim Moiso, the editor of SessionLab's State of Facilitation 2024 Report, about data and insights gleaned from the report and what it might mean for facilitators worldwide. Engage with Deborah Rim Moiso and SessionLab: The State of Facilitation 2024 Report from SessionLab Use this link to sign up to SessionLab for a 30-day free trial of the Pro
Think Like a Facilitator with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 35
In this solo episode, Beth Cougler Blom gives listeners a peek into the thought process behind effective facilitation. She discusses some of the key decisions and questions that guide her in managing time, scope, participant involvement, and her own engagement during sessions. Beth also addresses how she maintains focus and clarity, shedding light on the critical, but often invisible, aspects of b
A Career in Facilitation with Barbara Pedersen - EP 34
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with facilitator Barbara Pedersen about her 30-year career (so far!) and what she's learned along the way. Beth and Barbara also talk about: the phases and cycles of a facilitation career confidence, humility, and fear challenging ourselves how to get training in facilitation learning foundational facilitation frameworks 'bread and butter' work and keeping
The True Cost of Holding Non-Participatory Events with Mansi Jasuja - EP 33
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Mansi Jasuja about the many impacts of hosting events which exclude individuals from participating, including social, environmental, psychological, and economic considerations, and how groups can be more intentional to foster inclusivity and invite participation. Beth and Mansi also talk about: the psychological safety needed to engage groups matching
Creating and Communicating Value with Matthew Rempel - EP 32
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Matthew Rempel about how entrepreneurs who own facilitation-related businesses can create and communicate the value we bring to our clients in various ways. Beth and Matthew also talk about: finding our ideal clients dealing with fear around saying no to potential clients rethinking the purpose of "the funnel" becoming a source of influence rather th
Perfecting Timing with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 31
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks about timing considerations when planning and facilitating workshops. Beth explores: Cultural considerations related to time Using a lesson plan template to help with timing How learning outcomes help us make decisions about timing Timekeeping while facilitating Tracking and reflecting on timing-related issues Additional considerations for the virtual
Game-Based Learning for Teams with Alexandra Suchman - EP 30
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Alexandra Suchman about game-based experiential learning and how games can be leveraged to support teams. Beth and Alexandra also talk about: what game-based experiential learning is the levels of depth we can accomplish through games choosing games to meet desired outcomes including reflective elements in games getting confident in facilitating games
Expressing Ourselves Through Photography with Michele Mateus - EP 29
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Michele Mateus about owning who we are, putting ourselves 'out there', and expressing ourselves fully through portrait photography – whether we're facilitators of learning or anyone else who needs or wants to show up in photos. Beth and Michele also talk about: the vulnerability of having our photo taken the importance of evoking emotions through phot
Navigating Conflict with a Generous Approach with Meg Bolger - EP 28
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Meg Bolger about how facilitators can respond effectively to participants when they say something that could or does cause conflict in the group. Beth and Meg also talk about: Giving more space and agency to people to participate Not avoiding conflict when it happens Bringing a curious mindset Noticing and responding to participants' underlying needs
Mindsets of a Learning Entrepreneur with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 27
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks about some of the mindsets that she holds as an entrepreneur, leading a team who engages in learning design and facilitation work. Beth talks about abundance vs. competitive mindsets, navigating uncertainty, considerations around being client-centric, ethical decision-making, and having passion for the work. Links from the Episode EP 15: Dealing with
Tapping into the Mind and Body with Mirjam Leunissen - EP 26
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Mirjam Leunissen about reconnecting to our bodies when working with groups to inspire emergent and serendipitous thinking. Beth and Mirjam also talk about: Playfulness and pushing people out of their comfort zones Practicing sensing what's going on in our bodies Metaphors and analogies as inspiration Building upon the cognitive tasks AI can do with w
Understanding Our Brains with Dr. Marcia Goddard - EP 25
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Dr. Marcia Goddard about how our brains work and some of the things that can happen with our brains - as facilitators or participants - in learning environments. Beth and Marcia also talk about: creating psychological safety neuroscience's alignments with diversity, equity and inclusion recognizing and overcoming different types of biases why our bra
Maintaining Well-Being with Neelu Kaur - EP 24
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Neelu Kaur about how we can maintain our well-being and prevent burnout, particularly as people who do facilitation work. Beth and Neelu also talk about: Mental health, self-advocacy, and cultural identity, particularly for women who identify as Asian and South Asian Finding support in communities of practice Signs of burnout Maintaining well-being in
Building Community Online with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 23
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks about how to build online communities when facilitating in the virtual mode. She discusses the importance of understanding our own values and beliefs as facilitators, knowing our participants, and the need to define the purpose and goals of our sessions. She shares ideas for welcoming participants and setting the stage for online community building as well
Music as a Facilitation Tool with Julias Alego - EP 22
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Julias Alego about how music has been a part of his life in Kenya so far, and how he uses it in his facilitation work. Beth and Julias also talk about: Considerations around choosing music for a facilitated event Potential cautions and pitfalls in choosing music Incorporating music, dancing, and singing in facilitated events Cross-cultural differences
Pronouncing Participants' Names with Mary Houle and Sarra Ismail - EP 21
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Mary Houle and Sarra Ismail about the importance of pronouncing people's names correctly, how to learn how to do it respectfully, and why it's related to inclusive facilitation practices. Beth, Sarra and Mary also talk about: How to respectfully ask someone to pronounce their name Strategies to follow when learning how to pronounce a person's name Our
Improv in Facilitation with Brett Macdonald - EP 20
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Brett Macdonald about learning and using improv skills and techniques in facilitation, and how it may be more available to people who work with groups than they originally might think. Beth and Brett also talk about: The life and work benefits of learning improv How people can get over the fear of learning improv Specific improv elements and technique
Choosing Activities with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 19
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks about some of the things we should think about when we design activities into our workshops and courses. Beth explores concepts such as using learning outcomes to guide activity choice, designing authentic activities, offering choice to learners, and supporting all participants with the activities we choose. Links from the Episode: Design to Engage: How t
Unhurried Facilitation with Johnnie Moore - EP 18
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Johnnie Moore about his book, Unhurried at Work, and how we as facilitators can embrace unhurried conversations and practices. While working this way isn't always easy, it may just be what we need in the world right now. Beth and Johnnie also discuss: learning from improv the tightness or looseness of agendas being clear with clients about our facilit
Reaching Inward and Outward as Facilitators with Kirsty Lewis - EP 17
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks with Kirsty Lewis about how we facilitators need to do our own inner and outer work to be able to take care of and invest in ourselves as well as serve our clients. Beth and Kirsty also discuss: finding people to help us at points of transition in our career the benefit of coaching and supervision for facilitators and trainers how a combo of yin and yang a
Exploring Elasticity in Facilitation with Rebecca Sutherns - EP 16
In this episode, Beth talks with Rebecca Sutherns about her book, ELASTIC: Stretch Without Snapping or Snapping Back, and how its insights can apply to facilitators and their groups. Rebecca uses the metaphor of a rubber band to explain how people can try to find the right amount of stretch - their "zone of optimal elasticity" - while neither understretching or overstretching. She explains some of
Dealing with Self-Doubt with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 15
In this episode, Beth Cougler Blom talks about some of the ways we might experience self-doubt as designers and facilitators of learning and what to do about it. She reveals some of the ways self-doubt has crept up for her and shares some of the things she thinks about and does to deal with it. Links from the Episode Liberating Structures User Groups Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilita
Connection Before Content with Chad Littlefield - EP 14
In this episode, Beth talks with Chad Littlefield about designing group experiences for contribution, not just consumption. They explore Chad's concept of "connection before content" and how to do that particularly at the starts and ends of meetings or learning experiences. Beth and Chad also explore: how an intentional 'uofficial start' helps create real connection with groups connecting with pu
Experimenting with Experiential Learning with Romy Alexandra - EP 13
In this episode, Beth and facilitator Romy Alexandra explore the topic of experiential learning. But they don't just talk about experiential learning, they actually do it! Romy and Beth each facilitate the other through several sense-based activities, then reflect on the experience. No matter where you are when you listen to this episode, you're invited to fully engage in this "experiment" in expe
Stuttering and Facilitation with Maya Chupkov - EP 12
In this episode, Beth chats with Maya Chupkov of the Proud Stutter podcast about facilitators who stutter. They talk about how groups might perceive stuttering and what to do about that, strategies that facilitators who stutter might use when working with groups, and the benefits people might experience when working with a facilitator who stutters. Beth and Maya also explore: different types of s
Bringing "Dry" Content to Life with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 11
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom shares several recommendations about how to work with course content that you might, at first, consider dry or boring and make it come alive for your learners. It's not the content of our sessions that is naturally "dry" - it's how we approach it when we're designing the learning experience! Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilita
Facilitating Connection with Jan Keck - EP 10
In this episode, Beth chats with Jan Keck, an experience designer, facilitator, and trainer whose mission is to help people feel less alone. Jan shares with us some of the ways he intentionally helps people create deeper human connection through facilitation. Beth and Jan also explore: Considering people's senses and feelings when designing experiences Increasing participants' comfort levels - an
Training that Clicks with Hannah Brown - EP 9
In this episode, Beth talked with guest Hannah Brown about her new book, Training that Clicks: Virtual Design Playbook, which is all about designing and facilitating virtual learning. Hannah helps us remember to use technology to our advantage and think both about our participants' experience and how we need to show up as facilitators in virtual spaces. Beth and Hannah also explore: the different
Being Lifelong Learners with The Cougler Family - EP 8
In this episode Beth talks with her parents, Ron and Elaine Cougler, and her brother, Kevin Cougler, about being lifelong learners and how that has presented itself in their family. Listen for ideas to take into your own life and relationships – with family, friends, or colleagues – about how to be and support each other as lifelong learners. The Cougler Family also explore: Learning when we're r
Learning How to Learn with Taruna Goel - EP 7
In this episode, Beth talks with guest Taruna Goel about the facilitator's role in helping participants become expert learners, and how facilitators can strive to become expert learners themselves. Beth and Taruna also explore: Being strategic and taking more active roles as facilitators What it means to be an expert learner How we can use the Universal Design for Learning Guidelines to make lea
Learning From Our Mistakes with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 6
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom shares some mistakes that she has made recently in her facilitation practice and talks about what she's doing about them to keep learning in her work. Beth also explores the following: showing our humanity as facilitators using inclusive language finding the words to speak up against racism the vulnerability and bravery involved in revealing our mistakes O
The Business Side of Facilitation with Tara Jaskowiak - EP 5
In this episode, Beth chats with guest Tara Jaskowiak from Groundwork about the business side of facilitation, focusing on planning and communications strategies that facilitators can use to support their success. This look behind the scenes will be valuable for either people who own a facilitation-related business or who do facilitation work inside an organization. Beth and Tara also explore:
Facilitation is the New Coaching with Moe Poirier - EP 4
In this episode, Beth chats with Moe Poirier of Shift Facilitation about the importance of leaders learning facilitation skills and how the fields of coaching and facilitation are a lot alike. Beth and Moe also explore: the core mindsets and skillsets of facilitators how to deal with their 'fraud voice' as facilitators how organizations can use facilitation skills to support their success Engage
Inclusive Facilitation with Susana Guardado - EP 3
In this episode, Beth and guest Susana Guardado of Bright Light Ideas talk about how facilitators can create inclusive learning spaces and experiences in which people feel valued, respected, and accepted. They also explore: Listening to learners to be able to meaningfully engage them Learning from feedback to continue to grow as facilitators Designing learner-centred sessions Using techniques of
What Does It Mean to Facilitate on Purpose? with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 2
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom shares why she chose the name of the podcast, Facilitating on Purpose. She talks about what that means and why we might want to facilitate learning with our groups on purpose, as well as some initial ideas of how to do that. Listen in to learn more about: bringing intentionality to designing and facilitating learning experiences what it looks like to not be
The Somewhat Accidental Facilitator with Beth Cougler Blom - EP 1
In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom shares a little about who she is, why she started the Facilitating on Purpose podcast, who it's for, and what you can expect from it. Listen in to learn more about: How Beth became somewhat of an accidental facilitator How falling into training and facilitation is often very common for others too (especially if they were trained in another field first) Why
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