• Attention

    Attention

    Self-awareness as the master key We must imagine clearly and in detail where a conversation could go, and then be aware of where it actually goes. Intention is about having some reason for a conversation. If we want intentional conversations, then we must spend some time in self-reflection to discover those reasons. If we want…

  • How do you end?

    How do you end?

    Understand the balance between leaving a conversation fulfilled and seeking more. This article is based on an episode from the Open + Curious podcast. To listen, please read more about how to purchase the podcast episodes. Craig and Jesse discuss the complexities of ending conversations, beginning with the idea that most conversations naturally conclude due to…

  • Once awakened

    Once awakened

    Can dialogue itself be more important than the decisions it leads to? This article is based on an episode from the Open + Curious podcast. To listen, please read more about how to purchase the podcast episodes. In this conversation, Craig and Jesse explore the concept of dialogue and its transformative power within communities. They begin…

  • Imagine

    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.…

  • Depth versus aliveness

    Depth versus aliveness

    Is the depth of a conversation defined by content or the experience? This article is based on an episode from the Open + Curious podcast. To listen, please read more about how to purchase the podcast episodes. I feel like it only can be deep if it if it was deep for both of us. Like…

  • Enough studying

    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…

  • Why do we keep talking?

    Why do we keep talking?

    Join Craig and Jesse as they challenge the urge to keep talking and explore the value of silence. This article is based on an episode from the Open + Curious podcast. To listen, please read more about how to purchase the podcast episodes. I find that when I can’t shut up, it’s usually because […] I’m…

  • Diving deep

    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…

  • Hearing multiple things

    Hearing multiple things

    Craig Constantine and Jesse Danger explore navigating multiple topics gracefully, leveraging listening as a tool, and the nuanced dance of giving and receiving information. This article is based on an episode from the Open + Curious podcast. To listen, please read more about how to purchase the podcast episodes. Craig and Jesse discuss the intricacies of…

  • Take that back

    Take that back

    Don’t give the impression you want an answer Revealing your questions in such a way points to the shape of the knowledge you are seeking. It’s important to imagine how what we say will be interpreted. Our conversations are able to move to a deeper level once you see how to reveal a question, without…