Craig Constantine
Imagine
Our common desire for understanding We must bootstrap our self-awareness and use that to work on our humility and curiosity. Everyone wants to be better understood. I know I do. You know you do, and from you and I it’s easy to extrapolate to saying “everyone.” But don’t take my word for it, ask people. More →
Depth versus aliveness
What defines a deep conversation, and how can one recognize or evaluate its depth? Is the depth of a conversation defined by content or the experience? “I feel like it only can be deep if it if it was deep for both of us. Like can you have a conversation— I guess anything’s possible. [But,] More →
Depth versus aliveness
What defines a deep conversation, and how can one recognize or evaluate its depth? Is the depth of a conversation defined by content or the experience? This article is based on the episode Depth versus aliveness from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation alive. I feel like More →
Enough studying
Experimenting, observing, and reflecting on your conversations I believe we must move beyond studying, into active practice. Every time I think perhaps I should begin to work on a book about conversation, I find another book. I’m always waffling between being convinced that I do have something original to contribute, and being convinced that I’ve More →
The Principles of the Art of Conversation
Book The Principles of the Art of Conversation by John Pentland Mahaffy, 1887 — A guide to the art of conversation providing readers with tips and techniques on how to engage in meaningful conversations, how to listen actively, and how to express oneself effectively. Mahaffy discusses the different types of conversations, such as small talk, debates, and More →
The Art of Conversation
Book The Art of Conversation by Milton Wright, c1936 — A practical guide to improving your communication skills. Wright offers straightforward advice and techniques for engaging in meaningful and effective dialogue. This book provides useful strategies for listening actively, expressing your thoughts clearly, and building stronger connections. More →
Why do we keep talking?
Why do we keep talking, and when should we stop? Join Craig and Jesse as they challenge the urge to keep talking and explore the value of silence. “I find that when I can’t shut up, it’s usually because […] I’m trying to provide more and more and more and more and more and more More →
Why do we keep talking?
Why do we keep talking, and when should we stop? Join Craig and Jesse as they challenge the urge to keep talking and explore the value of silence. This article is based on the episode Why do we keep talking? from the Open + Curious podcast as part of a short series on Bringing conversation More →
Diving deep
Preparation and practice before the dive lead to better outcomes Are we envisioning play and the joy of discovery, or work and struggle? Our ability to go deep depends on our preparation. In the moment before the dive, of course, it matters how much energy we are expecting to need. It also matters how and More →
Hearing multiple things
How can we effectively handle conversations where multiple topics or threads are presented simultaneously, ensuring a balance between active listening, addressing key points, and maintaining conversational flow? Craig Constantine and Jesse Danger explore navigating multiple topics gracefully, leveraging listening as a tool, and the nuanced dance of giving and receiving information. “I often signpost. So More →