How do you create workshops and courses that people really want to attend, where they're highly engaged and actually learn something? The answer is through facilitation. Facilitators exist wherever learning happens. And great facilitation involves getting clear on what you're doing with your groups, why you're doing it, and how to do it with purpose and intention. Tap into this podcast, "Facilitating on Purpose", as your go-to resource to becoming and being a better facilitator, wherever you work. Join facilitator and learning designer Beth Cougler Blom and her guests to explore ideas about designing and facilitating learning. You'll gain insights such as how to plan more effectively, build connection with participants, and include meaningful activities. Level up your facilitation skills at http://facilitatingonpurpose.ca/.
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 without formal training The risks of teaching the way we were taught How to build awareness by observing other facilitators Why design work matters before stepping into the room Small, regular ways to keep developing facilitation skills Links From the Episode EP 64: The Sound of Silence in Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom EP 47: The Pivotal Role of Learning Outcomes with Beth Cougler Blom EP 19: Choosing Activities with Beth Cougler Blom EP 6: Learning From Our Mistakes with Beth Cougler Blom Liberating Structures International Association of Facilitators Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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: Choosing practices that fit your group and goals Offering options so participants can take care of themselves Using anchors like breath, feet, or physical sensations Practicing by recording yourself and listening back Bringing mindfulness into sessions through breath, movement, listening, nature, and the arts Connect with Claire Schneeberger Holding Space: The Essential Guide to Leading Meditation & Mindfulness Practices Links From the Episode First People's Principles of Learning EP 56: Using Poetry and Expressive Writing with Marisa Gelfusa Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 than we realize Erica's three-step framework of Notice, Nope, and Nudge How words like "should" and "just" can undermine our confidence The connection between self-talk, worthiness, and belonging Practical ways to ground ourselves and stay present while facilitating Connect with Erica Barnhart: Website: EricaBarnhart.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericabarnhart/ Links From the Episode: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Polarity Management video with Barry Johnson Polarity Mapping resources Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 talk about: Learning from mentors and seeking out feedback The importance of answering learners' "why" questions Teaching people who are blind or losing their sight Creating supporting spaces where learners can take risks Using art to build connection, confidence, and meaning Connect with Linda M. Anderson Linda Anderson is a BC artist, educator, and writer with extensive experience teaching art in a wide range of community, school, and social service settings. She has worked with visually impaired artists through CNIB, taught art therapy, led workshops for artist groups across many BC communities, and facilitated her own "Communicating with Colour" sessions for learners of all ages. Linda's work has been featured in prominent shows and in Artists of BC, and she has created murals, commissioned portraits, and paintings for a variety of public and private spaces. In addition to her visual art, she also writes poetry and short prose. Connect with Linda on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.anderson.914828 . She is in the middle of creating a new website. Links From the Episode Bill Alexander, originator of The Magic of Oil Painting Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 peer-to-peer learning, hiring and supporting young instructors, and the facilitation lessons that help make coding engaging and meaningful for kids. Beth, Eric, and Kevin also talk about: Starting a nonprofit as a student Making coding fun, engaging, and accessible Supporting youth interests, passions, and future goals What parents, teachers, and mentors can do to encourage young coders Connect with Eric Wang Website: Algorithm Alchemists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/algorithm.alchemists/ Connect with Kevin Cougler Website: Stemcamp.ca Links From the Episode First Robotics Canada Khan Academy Inquiry-based learning Hello, world Discord Y Combinator Jam Hacks Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 Future Now members also talk about: Dropping professional masks and becoming more authentic Holding space for emotion, tension, and vulnerability Moving from monologue to dialogue by asking better questions Trusting participants and the wisdom already in the group Why facilitation feels especially important amid chaos and change Thank you so much to Bryan Guzmán and the IAF Future Now community for being willing to try something new with this episode! Connect With all the Guests Starling Jaquan - Florida, USA | LinkedIn Lily Asch - Budapest, Hungary | Website | LinkedIn | Instagram Olesia Maibakh - Moscow, Russia | LinkedIn Andrea Bota - Bucharest, Romania | LinkedIn Dr. Felix Wittke - Berlin, Germany | LinkedIn Timothy Gichia - Nairobi, Kenya | LinkedIn Annagrace Rwehumbiza - Dar es Salaam, Tanzania | Website | LinkedIn Elena Zurli - Rome, Italy | LinkedIn Moushumi Dey - Bangalore, India | LinkedIn Links From the Episode Bryan Guzmán, Innovation Facilitator and Future Now Community Lead | LinkedIn IAF Future Now Community Liberating Structures Beth's keyword notes she took while listening to this episode Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 comics, animation, and visual effects Comics as an accessible medium for teaching and sharing knowledge Indigenous representation in modern stories, technology, and pop culture Community collaboration, story stewardship, and cultural responsibility Using drawing to open people up in workshops, gatherings, and hard conversations Connect with Alina Pete Website: alina-pete.com Alina's published books Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alinapete.bsky.social Instagram: @alinapete_art Links From the Episode Scott McCloud Weregeek comics archive Wapos Bay films Can I Pet Your Werewolf Alina's TEDx talk: Using comics and storytelling to engage memory and bring fun back to learning Holmaco First Nation Formline art Woodlands style art The 'Really Strange' Boxset by Steve Haines, art by Sophie Standing Richtung 22 Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 beyond drawing Making workshops more accessible through tactile and visual design Simple ways to use visuals online with everyday tools Helping participants engage through movement, voting, and co-creation Embracing imperfection when building visual skills Connect with Nora Sheffe: Website: https://sheffeconsulting.com/ Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norasheffe/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sheffe-consulting-inc/posts/ Links From the Episode: Manal Sayid Visual Explorer cards Bikablo (incl. Martin Haussmann and Frank Wesseler ) Heather Martinez Ghost Ranch, New Mexico Christina Merkley The Grove Consultants Abby Wilkymacky Universal Design for Learning Lita Currie Rosanna von Sacken Lisa Rothstein Sam Bradd Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 facilitation skills or deepen their practice. Beth and Joseph also talk about: How journaling everyday moments shaped the book's direction The three types of readers the book is written for, from accidental to occasional to experienced facilitators Why inner work and self-care are everyday acts of facilitation What performance, introversion, and authenticity have to do with facilitation style Some of the chapter themes that may matter the most right now Connect with Joseph Diaz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephadiaz/ Talk Learning with Me podcast Join the L&D Collective (including Joseph's book club) Connect with Beth Cougler Blom Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Links From the Episode Beth's book coach, Adrienne Dyer Beth's book cover designer, Emily Johnston at Artio Design Co EP 43 Writing a Book in the Field with Beth Cougler Blom Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 feeling seen, included, and ready to work together. Beth and Nathy also talk about: Using short pre-workshop interviews to learn who's in the room Helping participants understand why they're there and what they bring Building trust even when there's tension, resistance, or hierarchy in the mix Choosing activities strategically to support collaboration, not just fun Engage with Nathy Ravez: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathyravez/ Website: https://laworkshoppeuse.com/ Podcast: There's a Workshop For That! Links From the Episode: EP 10 Facilitating Connection with Jan Keck EP 14 Connection Before Content with Chad Littlefield Said Saddouk on Linkedin EP 36 The State of Facilitation 2024 Report with Deborah Rim Moiso Learn about Jan Keck's upcoming book Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Check out Beth's books , Design to Engage and Everyday Acts of Facilitation Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 evolving role of community building, weaving, and design Four pillars for creating magical and memorable group experiences Putting nature at the centre of our design processes Engage with Letícia (Schuli) Schuelter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leticiaschuli/ A Case for Meaningful Togetherness article by Letícia Schuelter Links From the Episode UDESC - Universidade de Design do Estado de Santa Catarina Alex Bretas Arquiteturas de comunidades de aprendizagem autodirigida , article by Alex Bretas in which Alex describes architectures for a self-directed learning journey and community Alex Bretas on self-directed learning (YouTube video ) Ecoversities Network Book about Black Mountain College Community weaving Terry Irwin TEDx talk: Design a Worldview for Social Impact bell hooks' All About Love book The Bloom Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 between vulnerability and influence in group settings How narratives from childhood shape how we lead The power of naming what's happening in the room Engage with Chanchal Garg Website: https://chanchalgarg.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanchalgarg22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanchal_unearthed Links From the Episode Paul Gilbert's Three System Model Stanford Facilitator Training Program T-groups with Chanchal Garg Self-Compassion by Kristen Neff Conscious Style Guide (Conscious editing/language) EP 46: Creating the Habit of Inclusive Language with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 culture of continuous improvement Using goal setting and debriefing to grow facilitation skills Taking a coach approach to support others Explaining why active learning works using plain language Encouraging facilitators to let go of control and learn alongside their participants Links From the Episode EP 4 Facilitation is the New Coaching with Moe Poirier Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilitate a Great Learning Experience For Any Group with Beth Cougler Blom EP 47 The Pivotal Role of Learning Outcomes with Beth Cougler Blom EP 19 Choosing Activities with Beth Cougler Blom Instructional Skills Workshop Universal Design for Learning Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 draining and how to shift that experience The power of designing for every moment, from the waiting room to the closing Using music, prompts, and personal greetings to build early connection Gwyn's Breakthrough Arc framework for session design How embracing uncertainty creates the conditions for magic Engage with Gwyn Wansbrough Website: https://www.gwynwansbrough.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwynwansbrough/ Gwyn's Breakthrough Arc Gwyn's Online Engagement Scorecard Links From the Episode Priya Parker Partners for Youth Empowerment Cam Houser Brett Macdonald Dream a Dream EP 13 Experimenting with Experiential Learning with Romy Alexandra Wayi Wah! Indigenous Pedagogies by Jo Chrona Kelly Terbasket, IndigenEYEZ Royal Roads University, Centre for Teaching and Educational Technologies Instructional Skills Workshop BOPPPS Model (as described by the University of Saskatchewan) Beth's upcoming book, Everyday Acts of Facilitation Michael Bungay Stanier StreamAlive OBS Said Saddouk Jan Keck Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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, not just thinking or doing The difference between experience design and human-centered design How to design for meaning, even in short or small-scale learning sessions Using the 5E experience design model to shape memorable learning journeys The power of co-creation, trust, and emergence in creating lasting impact Engage with Andy Sontag Experience Design at Kaospilot LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andysontag Links From the Episode Nathan Schedroff SCARF Model for Psychological Safety in Groups Positive Psychology PERMA Model The 5E Experience Design Model EP 60 Learning That Lasts with Beth Cougler Blom Hollyhock Leadership Center Fabulous Learning Nerds Podcast (Episode 43 Learning From a Magician with Danny Whitson) Art of Hosting Kaospilot's Gathering Design Strategies Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 framework and its ten guiding principles Designing for diverse participants with intentional inclusivity Understanding "facilitator zone" versus "participant zone" Using protocols, videos, and tools to foster meaningful connection Designing multidirectional learning Engage with Tolu Noah Website: https://www.tolunoah.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tolu-noah/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/drtolunoah.bsky.social Links From the Episode Tolu Noah, Designing and Facilitating Workshops with Intentionality Beth Cougler Blom, Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilitate a Great Learning Experience for Any Group Leanne Hughes, The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint Rob Fitzpartrick, The Workshop Survival Guide: How to design and teach educational workshops that work every time Sharon Bowman, Training From the Back of the Room!: 65 Ways to Step Aside and Let Them Learn Session Lab Beth's Lesson Plan Template University Design for Learning (CAST) Thomas Tobin and Kirsten Behling, Reach Everyone, Teach Everyone: Universal Design for Learning in Higher Education Tolu Noah, Mistakes I Used to Make in Digital Accessibility—and How to Fix Them WCAG Standards EP 61 Accessibility in Learning and Beyond with Nora Loyst EP 63 Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices in Facilitation with Marie Dubost Center for Leadership and Educational Equity Protocols Liberating Structures 1-2-4-All and TRIZ Padlet Bonni Stachowiak, Teaching in Higher Ed Podcast Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 participatory experiences Why facilitators should plan silence into their agendas Strategies to help facilitators become more comfortable with quiet moments What to do when silence is interrupted How everyday life can teach us about using silence Links From the Episode EP 63 Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices in Facilitation with Marie Dubost Tricia Hersey (Rest is Resistance Book, Rest Deck cards) Learn about Beth's upcoming book, Everyday Acts of Facilitation Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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, 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 menus to support choice and reduce overwhelm Offering silent or low-stimulation options in participatory sessions Understanding identity-first vs. person-first language How inclusive design supports all learners, not just some Why co-designing with participants can strengthen learning outcomes Engage with Marie Dubost: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariedubost/ Links From the Episode: Marie Dubost's accessibility checklists EP 61 Accessibility in Learning and Beyond with Nora Loyst University Design for Learning (CAST) Equity by Design book by Mirko Chardin and Katie Novak Myriam Hadnes' workshops.work podcast Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 elephant metaphor and why it matters for learning design How to identify what really needs fixing—people or systems The importance of pre- and post-learning supports Why designing for managers is just as important as designing for learners Engage with Julie Dirksen Website: Usable Learning LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedirksen/ Facebook: Design for How People Learn group Links From the Episode Allen Interactions Leaving ADDIE for SAM by Michael Allen Telling Ain't Training by Harold D. Stolovitch and Erika J. Keep The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman Will Training Help? flowchart by Cathy Moore Prochaska and Di Clemente's transtheoretical model Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
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 to build trust and inclusion Moving from one-time accommodations to default accessibility practices Designing for all through Universal Design for Learning and beyond Interrupting ableism by listening deeply and acting with intention Engage with Nora Loyst: Nora Loyst on LinkedIn Untapped Accessibility Links From the Episode: Implicit Bias study (dissertation) Implicit Bias study (article) Easy Surf Universal Design for Learning EP 41 Making Caring Learning Environments for People with Disabilities with Yasser Tamer Atef Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast: Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram , LinkedIn , or YouTube Show notes and transcripts available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca 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 Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions
