The idea of a conversation lab came from working with community groups, not for profits and change makers across Canada and learning about their meaning and purpose. With a career in media and as a life long learner, I've been encouraged by the amazing stories they have shared and in awe of the work they do helping to build bridges into different communities. These conversations may offer many possible approaches that encompass gendered social realities about science, reason, progress, and truth. The purpose of this project is to examine those things which have exerted a strong influence on our thinking and to find meaning in the way that we treat each other and how to change.

Language is a powerful tool when we're not arguing and actually listening to each other as it allows us to influence, regulate, persuade, and learn how to trust each other. The ability to listen and to ask generous questions brings out the best in those asking, as well as those answering. As we learn to get out of the way, we  may begin to trust each other and move beyond a public discourse of certainty or absolutism. Achieving common ground doesn't necessarily have to be the goal. By letting go of the smaller questions and enlarging our language by going deeper, and becoming more vulnerable, conversations warm and open as they go below the surface. Like a key to a lock, or finding the combination to the tumbler that opens that secret room, a beautiful question  is an ambitious yet actionable question that can begin to shift the way we feel, perceive, or think about something or someone.

I am hoping that beyond interesting and entertaining story telling, The Conversation Lab will be reflected in my academic, on-air, and online work. This legacy project also intersects with my PhD program with the Social Justice Institute at UBC.  Giving community organizations a voice to talk about those things that are most important to them, learning how to deconstruct our bias's, and building bridges into different communities seems critical as we explore the uneven development of colonialism and global capitalism in our community. I hope to research and study the science, psychology, cultural, and emotional components of conversation, and what they have in common to gain insight and improve on existing knowledge of how we engage with each other whether about climate, race, gender, culture, politics, or social justice issues.  I believe this work can contribute to positive social change.

The Conversation Lab is produced by CFRO FM (Co-op Radio) in Vancouver's downtown east side on the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-waututh) Nations. Our gratitude and thanks to them, and the many not for profit organizations and community groups  for their support for this radio program and podcast. 

If you think this project has merit please consider becoming a member of Co-op Radio and support community radio. Don't take it for granted and need our support. Also, if you know anyone or an organisation with a story to share, please let them know about us. We can be found at coopradio.org  or contact me directly don@theconversationlab.ca.