The world of facilitation is evolving.
Are your workshops keeping up?
In this special crossover episode of Another Day, Another Workshop and There’s a Workshop for That, I’m joined by fellow facilitator Nathy to dive into the art and chaos of workshop design.
We unpack the biggest mistakes facilitators make when planning sessions and how to avoid them.
You’ll learn the essential ingredients every workshop needs to be effective, how to manage client expectations, and the logic behind The Workshop Deck, a tool I created to make workshop design easier, faster, and more impactful.
We also share practical tips on reading the room, setting the vibe with music, and adapting in real time, even when a session goes sideways.
In this episode:
✅ The 3 biggest workshop design mistakes (and how to avoid them)
✅ The 4 key ingredients that make every session work
✅ How to choose the right activity for your goal
✅ The 6C framework and why it helps you create flow
✅ Tips on using music to create workshop energy
✅ A behind-the-scenes look at The Workshop Deck
✅ What to do when you need to pivot mid-session
✅ Real talk on working with clients and staying flexible
🎁 Join my free live event on Oct 23 to celebrate the launch of The Workshop Deck!You’ll learn my full design process and get a gift I usually sell for €299.Sign up here → https://facilitators-corner.com/launch
📌 Chapters
00:00 Why Most Workshops Miss the Mark
01:16 Meet Nathy & Mehdi: Crossover Time
02:42 Mehdi's Path to Facilitation
04:27 The Ownership Effect in Workshops
06:12 Mistake 1: Not Enough Information
07:27 Why You Must Ask More Questions
08:50 Helping Clients Clarify What They Really Want
09:36 Mistake 2: Too Many Goals, Not Enough Time
11:14 Mistake 3: Overstuffed Agendas = Shallow Results
13:21 The 4 Ingredients of a Great Workshop (Pizza Metaphor)
16:13 Music in Workshops: Mood, Energy, Flow
19:24 Playlist Tips and Patterns That Work20:11 What’s Inside The Workshop Deck
22:46 How the Cards Are Designed to Help You Choose
26:05 The 6C Framework Explained
30:02 Reverse Engineering Your Agenda
33:01 A Peek Inside the Cards: Layout and Logic
35:14 The What–Why–How Instruction Formula
38:10 The Secret Behind the Launch
40:27 Free Gift and What You’ll Get at the Event
42:00 Wrap-Up and How to Get the Deck
🛠️ Resources and Links
🎟️ Join the free live launch event → https://facilitators-corner.com/launch
📥 Get free preview cards and Miro templates → https://facilitators-corner.com/deck
🎵 Spotify Playlist: I’ve Never Workshopped This Way Before →https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1XMdNZRpPWYrNfRyb3SG1D?si=f529f69865544813Follow Nathy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathyravez/
📺 Subscribe to Nathy's Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laworkshoppeuse/videos
The world of facilitation is evolving, are you keeping up?
In this episode, I’m joined by Rebecca Courtney, facilitation coach at AJ&Smart to talk about what it really takes to be a great facilitator in 2025.
We dive into the essential skills facilitators need today, how to embrace your own authentic facilitation style, and why mindset matters more than methods.We also discuss how AI is changing workshop design and why the best facilitators won’t be replaced, but amplified.
In this episode:
✅ From teaching kids to facilitating teams: Rebecca’s bold career shift
✅ The #1 skill facilitators need today (hint: it’s not a method)
✅ Why “emergent facilitation” is the future
✅ How to deal with tough workshop moments & go off-script with confidence
✅ The truth about using AI in workshops — what works and what doesn’t
✅ How to find your facilitation voice
🎁 Join my free live event on Oct 23 to celebrate the launch of The Workshop Deck.
Learn my full process for designing workshops that get results and get a secret gift I usually sell for €299
Sign up here → https://facilitators-corner.com/launch
📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀
00:00 – From Primary School Teacher to Facilitation Coach
05:10 – The Overlap Between Teaching and Facilitation
09:20 – Managing Tough Participants (Kids vs. Adults)
13:45 – How AI Can Support — Not Replace — Great Facilitation
20:12 – The IKEA Effect: Why Co-Creation Builds Commitment
26:30 – Emergent Facilitation: Tools, Mindset & Resilience
33:40 – The Training Gap: Why We Need More Real Practice
41:55 – Rebecca’s Authentic Style: Creative Sanctuary + Play
49:20 – The Power of Reflection to Find Your Facilitation Voice
54:05 – Advice for Facilitators Who Want to Grow in 2025
58:30 – Outro + Where to Find Rebecca
🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀
Follow Rebecca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccacourtney
Explore AJ&Smart’s Trainings: https://facilitator.com
AJ&Smart on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AJSmart
“Facilitation is sales, the good kind.”In this ADAW episode, Pedram Parasmand, program design coach and facilitator who has worked with Netflix, Amazon, and Mural, shares how the very skills that make you a great facilitator can also make you a great seller — without ever feeling “salesy.”We dive into:✅ Ped’s journey from teaching physics to designing programs for global brands✅ Why being “good in the room” isn’t enough to build a business✅ The feast or famine trap — and how to escape it✅ The surprising overlap between facilitation and sales✅ Authentic outreach that doesn’t feel pushy✅ Why niching down creates more opportunities, not less✅ And why facilitation can’t just be a hobby if you want to thriveWhether you’re freelancing, building a facilitation business, or simply curious about how to sell your skills with integrity, Ped’s story will help you shift your mindset, sharpen your approach, and design a career that lasts.
Quick heads-up: I’m launching The Workshop Deck — 52 cards to help you design better workshops in less time. Join the free live event on Oct 23 to see how it works. [Sign up here → https://luma.com/go6tr960 ]⸻🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀• Subscribe to Ped’s Newsletter: https://leverageaccelerator.co• Connect with Ped on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedramparasmand/
"Powerful questions don’t take power, they give it.”In this ADAW episode, Chad Littlefield, TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and co-founder of We and Me, shares how the right question, asked with the right intent, can completely transform the impact of your workshop.Quick heads-up: I’m launching The Workshop Deck : 52 cards to help you design better workshops in less time. Join the free live event on Oct 23 to see how it works. [Sign up here → https://luma.com/go6tr960 ]We dive into:✅ Why “icebreakers” should be renamed with connection before content✅ How to ask questions that create psychological safety and trust✅ What makes a question truly powerful — and how it can edit someone’s future✅ How intent and curiosity shape group dynamics✅ Why nailing your delivery is the best marketing✅ And the trap of becoming an “airport speaker” 🤐Whether you’re leading your first session or designing advanced offsites, Chad’s insights will help you ask better questions, build stronger connection, and run more meaningful experiences.⸻📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀00:00 - Meet Chad Littlefield: Connection Expert & Creator of We! Connect Cards06:40 - From Teenagers to Tech Teams: How the Cards Were Born10:05 - What Makes a Question “Powerful”?12:08 - The Problem with Icebreakers (and What to Say Instead)16:30 - The Phrase That Shifts Group Energy Instantly20:15 - Stop Asking “Why?” (And What to Ask Instead)26:10 - Presence Over Process: What Really Matters in Facilitation30:00 - The Marketing Power of a Truly Great Workshop35:30 - Thinking, Selling, Delivering — At the Same Time42:50 - Editing the Future with One Simple Question50:12 - The One Question Every Facilitator Should Ask54:00 - How to End Meetings That Actually Drive Action56:45 - Behind the Scenes: The Connector Summit + Priya Parker Keynote01:00:35 - Chad’s Thought Process: Purpose as a Shortcut to Depth01:05:10 - Boring Is the Enemy of Great Facilitation01:07:40 - Final Thoughts: Questions That Spark Real Change01:10:05 - Outro + Where to Find Chad⸻🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀• Register for the Connector Summit (Dec 10–12): https://weand.me/connectors-summit/• Chad’s Website: https://weand.me• Ask Powerful Questions (Book): [Insert Link]https://shop.weand.me/products/ask-powerful-questions• Register for the Connector Summit (Dec 10–12): https://weand.me/connectors-summit/• Follow Chad on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadlittlefield/• Chad’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@chad.littlefield
“Think of your team like the sun and you, the facilitator, as the magnifying glass.”
In this ADAW episode, Tim Leake, TEDx speaker, creative strategist, and world-class facilitator shares his step-by-step approach to designing high-ROI workshops for executive teams.
We dive into:
✅ The MVC (Most Valuable Challenge) and why it must come first
✅ How to handle executive skepticism and define value in dollars
✅ The dangers of overthinking vs. underthinking
✅ Why alignment beats action plans (and how to make real follow-through happen)
✅ How to sell facilitation more effectively by proving its business valueWhether you’re new to facilitation or have been doing it for years, this episode is full of helpful tips, stories, and clear ways to make your workshops better.
📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀
00:00 - Meet Tim Leake: From Ad Exec to Facilitator
04:57 - Facilitating Leadership Teams: The Real Challenge
06:42 - Why Most Workshops Fail to Deliver Real Impact
09:06 - MVC: The Most Valuable Challenge Explained
13:56 - Estimating ROI with Executive Teams
16:18 - Why Leaders Must Define the MVC Themselves
24:32 - Optimal Thinking: Avoid Overthinking and Underthinking
32:47 - Storytime: The 12-Issue Executive Offsite That Failed
38:15 - Using Lenses and Filters to Prioritize Ideas
42:56 - Creativity, Exercise, and Capturing Aha Moments
46:12 - Facilitation = Stand-Up + Improv
48:20 - 3 Keys to High-ROI Workshops Recap
49:52 - Action Plan vs. Alignment Plan
54:45 - Building Real Follow-Through Into the Workshop
59:10 - Marketing the MVC Internally and Externally
01:01:04 - Why 5 Days? And How to Use the Time
01:05:10 - Executing During the Workshop: Real Outputs
01:07:02 - Pricing and the ROI Argument for Facilitators
01:09:27 - Saying No to the Wrong Clients
01:12:31 - Complex Challenges Need Creative Simplicity
01:23:06 - Wrap-Up: Why Facilitation is a Creative Superpower
01:24:41 - Where to Find Tim Leake & Outro
🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀
• Tim’s Website: https://letslightbulb.com
• High ROI Workshops: https://highroiworkshops.com
• Follow Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timleake/
📬 Subscribe for weekly episodes on better facilitation and impactful workshop design.
Struggling to sell your workshops?
Learn 5 sales mistakes that kill facilitation businesses and the tactics to fix them so you can book more clients and build a sustainable facilitation career.
You’ll discover how to:
✅ Make workshops easy to understand (and relevant to client problems)
✅ Shift the conversation from your offer to their needs
✅ Use niching and packaging to stand out
✅ Keep your sales pipeline full year-round
✅ Turn one-off clients into long-term partners
Whether you’re new to facilitation or already experienced, mastering sales is the key to getting better clients, better projects, and more consistent income.
💡 If you liked this episode:
• Subscribe for more facilitation & workshop design strategies
• Share this with a fellow facilitator who struggles with sales
📩 Want to design and run better workshops?Join Mehdi’s free newsletter for weekly facilitation tips, workshop design tools, and real-life strategies to help you run sessions that deliver results and get booked to do more of them:
https://facilitatorscorner.substack.com/
Or connect with Mehdi on LinkedIn for daily ideas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehdi-en-naizi-75b533116/
Timestamps:
00:00 Why selling workshops is so tricky
02:19 The first challenge: explaining what a workshop is
04:37 Mistake #1: Nobody cares about workshops except you
09:22 Mistake #2: Not niching or packaging your workshops
14:07 Mistake #3: Relying on social media for instant sales
16:33 Mistake #4: Only selling when you have no projects
21:18 Mistake #5: Not leveraging networking & after-workshop moments
28:26 Action steps & wrap-up
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹?Join Dee’s advanced program and community called ‘The Elite Facilitator’:👉 https://www.deescarano.com/elite-facilitator-courseIn this conversation, Dee Scarano, an expert facilitator, shares her insights on effective workshop design, emphasizing the importance of preparation, understanding stakeholders, and creating a psychologically safe environment. With experience running workshops for Google, LEGO, and Microsoft, she discusses common mistakes facilitators make, the role of neuroscience in decision-making, and the significance of asking the right questions. Dee also introduces her course, 'The Elite Facilitator,' aimed at helping facilitators elevate their skills and deliver impactful workshops.🎓 𝗪𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗗𝗲𝗲?Watch her free training: 3 Key Secrets of Expert-Level Facilitation👉 https://elite-facilitator.kit.com/free-training-signup⸻📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀00:00 Preparing for Effective Workshops01:53 Understanding Stakeholders and Their Needs06:20 The Role of Psychological Safety in Workshops12:34 Navigating Trade-offs in Workshop Design16:11 Navigating Workshop Time Constraints17:41 Essential Questions for Effective Workshops24:40 Understanding Participant Dynamics28:53 The Neuroscience of Creativity and Decision-Making39:39 Balancing Workshop Activities44:24 Creating a Psychologically Safe Space52:28 The Importance of Psychological Safety in Workshops54:58 Google’s Research on Team Performance58:29 Positioning Workshops for Business Impact01:00:47 Designing Effective Workshops: A Structured Approach01:11:49 The Role of Expertise in Facilitation01:16:45 Introducing the Elite Facilitator Course⸻🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀👉 Connect with Dee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deescarano/👉 Dee’s website: https://www.deescarano.com/🧠 𝗣𝘀𝘆𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 • https://rework.withgoogle.com/en/guides/understanding-team-effectiveness#introduction • https://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/28/magazine/what-google-learned-from-its-quest-to-build-the-perfect-team.html# • https://psychsafety.com/about-psychological-safety/
🎥 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗜𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁:In this solo episode, I’m sharing my go-to strategies for running effective brainstorming sessions that actually lead to creative, actionable ideas, not just sticky-note chaos.We’ll dive into why structure matters, how to frame the right problem before jumping into ideation, and how to create an environment where everyone feels safe to contribute. Whether you’re leading a workshop, a team offsite, or just trying to get fresh ideas flowing, these techniques will help you get better results with less frustration.I’ll also walk you through some of the principles I use in my own facilitation practice , from time-boxing and anonymized input to the power of quantity over quality. Plus, you’ll learn how small design choices like breaks, space setup, and energizers can have a big impact on creativity.📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:00:00 – Unlocking Creative Brainstorming03:03 – Understanding the Creative Process05:58 – Overcoming Obstacles to Creativity08:55 – Principles for Effective Ideation11:59 – Creating a Supportive Environment15:05 – Maximizing Idea Generation Techniques18:07 – Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:• Why brainstorming needs structure to succeed• The importance of exploring the problem space first• How creativity is like a muscle, and how to build it• Why small steps increase confidence and output• How anonymized input reduces fear of judgment• Why focusing on quantity over quality sparks better ideas• How time-boxing boosts focus and flow• The role of breaks in unlocking new insights• Why the physical setup of your space matters• How icebreakers and energizers can dramatically improve results🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:I’m a workshop facilitator and designer working with NGOs, startups, and global brands to make collaboration more creative and productive. From strategy sprints to big-team events, I bring energy, clarity, and a touch of unexpected magic to every session.📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh👍 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲!Was this helpful? Hit like, drop your favorite brainstorming tip in the comments, and subscribe for more insights on facilitation, creativity, and collaboration.
🎥 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗜𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁:In this episode, I sit down with Jan Keck, facilitator, TEDx speaker, and creator of Ask Deep Questions, to explore how to design workshops that go beyond small talk and build real connection.Jan shares his journey from “recovering shy guy” to becoming a leading voice on creating safe, meaningful group experiences. We dive into why he prefers the term ice melters over icebreakers, how to use connection activities to read the room from the very start, and why the right activity for the right group matters more than checking a box.You’ll learn how to create environments where people feel safe to take risks — whether it’s a group of strangers or a room full of C-suite execs. Expect Jan’s favorite activities, thoughtful metaphors (they make everything easy to visualize and remember), and actionable tips you can bring into your next workshop.📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:00:00 – Introduction02:00 – Why You Should Melt the Ice, not Break It06:30 – Making connection safe, not awkward10:55 – Picking the right activity for the right group14:48 – Spark Activities: Starting strong before the “official” start18:50 – Warm-up examples for virtual & in-person22:50 – Jan’s go-to 3-round connection activity28:50 – Improv, “yes and,” and co-creation31:00 – The power of optionality in engagement33:59 – Should deep questions come early?35:08 – How to prep when you don’t know the group39:03 – Tools Jan uses before the session even begins43:00 – Why Two Truths & A Lie might be doing more harm than good47:16 – High-stakes facilitation: Practicing for real tension49:18 – Trojan horses & connecting with execs51:13 – Why the best facilitators improvise53:04 – Holding yourself accountable (yes, Jan’s book is coming!)✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:• Why you should melt the ice, not break it.• The campfire metaphor for building trust gradually• How to design activities for different risk levels• What to do before a session even begins to build connection• When (and how) to adapt your plan in real time• Tips for engaging C-level leaders and skeptics• Ways to turn your session into a safe space for real sharing🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:👉 Connect with Jan on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehdi-en-naizi-75b533116/👉 Jan's website: https://www.jankeck.com/👉 Jan’s Ice Melters Book Newsletter: https://www.jankeck.com/book/👉 Jan’s Card Deck: https://www.askdeepquestions.com/🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:I’m a workshop facilitator and designer working with NGOs, startups, and global brands to make collaboration more creative and productive. From strategy sprints to big-team events, I bring energy, clarity, and a touch of unexpected magic to every session.📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh👍 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲!Enjoyed the conversation? Hit like, drop a comment with your favorite metaphor or moment, and don’t forget to subscribe for more content on facilitation, connection, and workshop design.
🎥 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗜𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁:In this episode, we talk about how facilitators can make online meetings and workshops more fun and interesting. We share why being yourself, using humor, and showing your personality can help people pay attention and enjoy the experience.We also talk about free tools like OBS Studio and Stream Deck that can help you run better online sessions. You’ll hear simple tips on how to grab people’s attention, make your sessions look great, and learn from people who live stream. If you want to improve your online workshops, this video is a great place to start.📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:00:00 – The Role of a Facilitator and Entertainer02:59 – Creating Engaging Remote Experiences05:50 – Authenticity in Branding08:54 – The Importance of Humor in Learning11:46 – Being Playful in Serious Work15:02 – Tech Tools for Effective Facilitation18:06 – Using OBS Studio for Presentations21:02 – Enhancing Engagement in Virtual Meetings23:49 – Removing Mental Load in Tech Management30:55 – Adapting Tools for Online Facilitation35:00 – The Power of Free Tools39:05 – Engaging Online Audiences43:03 – Dynamic Presentations and Visuals50:02 – Stream Deck: Enhancing Facilitation55:00 – Learning from Live Streamers57:53 – Final Thoughts on Remote Facilitation✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:• Why humor and play matter in virtual facilitation• How to use OBS Studio and Stream Deck to boost engagement• Tips for building an authentic personal brand• Ways to reduce mental load and focus on connection• What facilitators can learn from streamers and entertainers• Why engaging visuals make a big difference• How free tools can elevate your sessions without a big budget🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:👉 Connect with Said on LinkeDin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/said-saddouk/👉 Said's Facilitainment Weekly : Tips, tools & behind-the-scenes from virtual facilitation : https://join.thefacilitainer.com👉 Said's website: https://thefacilitainer.com/👉OBS Studio: https://obsproject.com/👉 Stream Deck: https://www.elgato.com/en/stream-deck🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:I’m a workshop facilitator and designer working with NGOs, startups, and global brands to make collaboration more creative and productive. From strategy sprints to big-team events, I bring energy, clarity, and a touch of unexpected magic to every session.📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh👍 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲!Enjoyed the conversation? Hit like, leave a comment with your thoughts or favorite sound bite, and don’t forget to subscribe for more on facilitation, creativity, and designing better online experiences.
🛠️ Free Resource Guide:
The 10 Levels of Facilitation: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.com/p/facilitatorscorner-resource-guide
🎥 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗜𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁:
In this episode, I dive into what it really takes to level up as a facilitator—from your very first workshop to becoming a seasoned pro. Using the metaphor of a game, I’ll walk you through key stages of the facilitation journey, with tips, mindset shifts, and real talk about what actually works. If you’re a new facilitator or looking to sharpen your craft, this one’s for you.
📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:
00:00 – Introduction to Facilitation Levels
03:08 – Understanding the Game of Facilitation
06:01 – Leveling Up: From Beginner to Expert
08:51 – Real-World Experience in Facilitation
12:06 – Mastering the Mechanics of Facilitation
14:54 – Deepening Connections and Engagement
18:07 – Continuous Learning and Experimentation
20:53 – The Never-Ending Journey of a Facilitator
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:
• How to know if facilitation is right for you
• Smart ways to gain experience fast (even for free)
• Why real-world practice beats theory
• Techniques to build engagement and connection
• Why the best facilitators never stop learning
🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:
Hi, I’m Mehdi En-Naizi. I design and lead workshops for teams and organizations—from strategy and collaboration to creative breakthroughs. I’m passionate about helping facilitators grow their skills, build confidence, and create meaningful experiences. Whether you’re just getting started or already on the path, I’m here to help you level up.
📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh
👍 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 !
If this video sparked any insights, hit that like button, drop your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more content on facilitation, creativity, and workshop design.
In this episode, I sit down with Romi Alexandra—learning experience designer, facilitator, and advocate for participant-centered education—to explore what it takes to create truly transformational learning experiences. Romi shares her approach to intentional design, emphasizing the importance of emotional engagement, experiential learning, and music as a tool to deepen connection and retention.We unpack how debriefing, cultural sensitivity, and reflection anchor learning, and how facilitators can craft environments that center the participant’s lived experience. Romi also shares best practices for designing workshops that don’t just inform, but transform, with practical advice on balancing client needs, fostering accountability, and igniting curiosity through thoughtful questioning.📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:00:00 – Creating Transformational Learning Experiences02:50 – The Role of Facilitation in Learning06:08 – Experiential Learning and Emotional Engagement09:00 – The Power of Music in Learning12:04 – Debriefing and Reflection in Learning14:55 – Asking Questions to Enhance Learning18:00 – Emotional States and Learning Design21:05 – Participant-Centered Learning23:53 – Transformative Learning through Experience27:07 – Connecting Emotions to Learning Outcomes31:09 – Participant-Centered Design Approach32:31 – Balancing Client Needs and Design Constraints33:48 – The Importance of Experiential Learning35:30 – Navigating Client Expectations and Participant Needs37:17 – The Role of Novelty in Learning Experiences40:08 – Designing Peak Moments in Workshops43:10 – Ensuring Post-Workshop Accountability49:05 – Cultural Sensitivity in Facilitation53:38 – Best Practices for Facilitators✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻: • How to design workshops that prioritize transformation over information • Why emotional engagement and reflection are essential to retention • The power of music and novelty in learning environments • Why asking questions first unlocks deeper learning • How to balance client demands with human-centered design • The importance of post-workshop accountability and action • Strategies to honor lived experiences and foster meaningful connection🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:👉 Romy's Website: https://bento.me/romyalexandra 👉 Learning Experience Design training : https://experientiallearninginstitute.org/experiential-learning-trainer/🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:I’m a workshop facilitator and designer working with NGOs, startups, and global brands to make collaboration more creative and productive. From strategy sprints to big-team events, I bring energy, clarity, and a touch of unexpected magic to every session.📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow Romy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romy-alexandra/Follow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh👍𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲!Enjoyed the conversation? Hit like, leave a comment with your thoughts or takeaways, and don’t forget to subscribe for more on workshops, creativity, and the future of facilitation.
In this episode, I share what it was really like to run a workshop with 150 people. I talk about how I prepared, what worked (and what didn’t), and what I learned from the experience. I walk you through some of the creative activities I used to get people talking and working together, along with the behind-the-scenes challenges—like handling logistics and keeping the energy up in a big group.
It’s an honest look at what it takes to lead a large-scale workshop and make it meaningful for everyone involved.
I broke down the full workshop design process in my newsletter, have a look if you’re curious :
👉 https://bit.ly/3RNkts5
Takeaways 🍗
🎬 Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to the Workshop Experience
06:10 – Designing the Event Structure
12:12 – The Creative Video Challenge
18:01 – Facilitating Creativity and Engagement
23:48 – Feedback and Reflections on the Workshop
Get in touch ✌️
https://bit.ly/49clGjh
In this episode, I sit down with Alexandre Eisenchteter, former 3M process engineer turned expert facilitator and founder of Stormz, a collaborative brainstorming platform. We dive into the journey of building Stormz, the art and science of facilitation, and how AI is transforming the way we design and run workshops.
From the principles of diverging and converging to the role of facilitators as creative catalysts, Alexandre shares a wealth of insights drawn from years of hands-on experience. We also explore the evolution of Stormz from software to a full-fledged service, and how COVID-19 pushed innovation in remote collaboration tools.
Plus, we get into the real talk—what works in brainstorming, what doesn’t (looking at you, dot voting), and how to balance AI with human connection to keep workshops impactful, not robotic.
📌 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Alexandre Eisenchteter
01:49 – The Journey from Process Engineer to Facilitator
05:02 – Understanding Diverge and Converge in Problem Solving
08:10 – The Role of the Facilitator in Brainstorming
11:48 – Techniques for Effective Brainstorming
14:47 – Adapting Techniques for Different Audiences
17:46 – The Evolution of Stormz: From Idea to Reality
24:11 – Challenges and Successes in Launching Stormz
29:49 – The Future of Facilitation and Collaboration Tools
35:48 – The Evolution of a Facilitation Agency
39:36 – Transitioning from Workshops to AI Integration
41:50 – The Impact of COVID-19 on Remote Collaboration
44:02 – Redesigning Storms: A New Era for SaaS
47:48 – Innovative Strategies for Idea Generation
50:13 – Leveraging AI in Workshops: Best Practices
54:28 – Balancing Technology and Human Interaction
01:00:24 – The Future of Facilitation: AI Tinkerers Club
01:05:17 – Managing Expectations with AI in Workshops
01:09:19 – The Challenge of Time Constraints in Workshops
01:10:23 – Understanding Methodology and Its Misapplication
01:11:48 – The Importance of Time in Workshops
01:13:43 – Strategies for Effective Workshop Management
01:16:31 – Managing Client Expectations
01:19:08 – The Soufflé Effect: Workshop Enthusiasm vs. Reality
01:21:46 – Rethinking Dot Voting in Workshops
01:30:23 – Integrating AI into Facilitation
01:39:34 – AI as a Tool in the Facilitator’s Toolbox
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:
The facilitator’s role in creative problem-solving
Why “diverge and converge” matters in group work
How to adapt techniques to your audience
Practical workshop tips, including when not to use dot voting
How to integrate AI thoughtfully in facilitation
The challenge of time constraints—and how to push back
Why managing expectations is key to workshop success
🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
👉 Stormz – Collaborative Workshop Tool : https://about.stormz.me/
👉 AI Tinkerers Club : https://join.ai-tinkerers.club/ ai-tinkerers.cards
👉 AI Tinkerers Cards : https://ai-tinkerers.cards
🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:I’m a workshop facilitator and designer working with NGOs, startups, and global brands to make collaboration more creative and productive. From strategy sprints to big-team events, I bring energy, clarity, and a touch of unexpected magic to every session.
📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eisenchteter/Follow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh
In this episode, I share my thoughts on Foundation Sprints, a new workshop format created by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky. I was lucky enough to take part in the first public training, and I’m excited to share what I learned.
This sprint is all about building a solid foundation before jumping into execution. I walk through the key steps: identifying your target audience, defining the core problem, exploring your advantages, analyzing competitors, and finding what makes you stand out.
I also do a deep dive into one decision-making activity from the sprint that I think every facilitator should have in their toolkit.
If you’re looking for a simple, effective way to design better workshops, this episode is full of tips and ideas you can start using right away.
Want to see visuals and more details? Check out my newsletter post:
https://facilitatorscorner.substack.com/p/my-hot-take-on-the-foundation-sprint
📌 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:
00:00 – Introduction to Foundation Sprints
01:00 – Understanding the Foundation Sprint
02:31 – Key Takeaways from the Training
04:59 – The Importance of Alignment and Prioritization
07:22 – Analyzing Competition and Differentiation
09:13 – The Magic Lens Decision-Making Tool
14:45 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻:• What makes Foundation Sprints different (and powerful)
• A step-by-step breakdown of the sprint format
• How to align teams before execution
• One must-know tool for group decision-making
• Real-life takeaways from the first public training
🛠️ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:Check out my full breakdown of the Foundation Sprint in this newsletter post:👉 https://facilitatorscorner.substack.com/p/my-hot-take-on-the-foundation-sprint
🗣️ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:For the past five years, I’ve been crafting and leading workshops with big brands, NGOs, and startups—focusing on strategy, creative problem-solving, concept design, and team alignment. Whether in-person, online, or hybrid, I design experiences that are engaging, impactful, and just the right amount of unexpected.
📬 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱:Subscribe to my newsletter: https://facilitatorscorner.substack.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/49clGjh
