Workshop #1

Whether discussing politics, diversity, or the best way to approach your next work project, people in your office are bound to have different opinions. Is it a good idea to lean into these conversations or is it better to “keep the peace?” What are the pros and cons of directly talking about our different points of view? When, if ever, should we avoid these conversations or give in to them?

We each have learned to handle conflict that can accompany difficult conversations, in ways that may or may not be productive.  Come, learn about, and practice the Better Arguments process—discover ways to more effectively have these conversations for the benefit of yourself and your organization. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Know at least 3 benefits of engaging in healthy arguments
• Be able to prevent difficult conversations from becoming polarized
• Understand the 3 dimensions and 5 principles of the Better Arguments Project
• Feel more prepared and confident to have difficult conversations

Presenter:

Mike Reszler, Citizenship and American Identity Program Director at The Aspen Institute

Michael Reszler is an experienced executive with over two decades of experience in the media sector, specializing in digital innovation, community engagement, and exploring the intersection of technology and democracy. He is an innovative leader at the intersection of digital media, community interaction, and diversity.

At the Aspen Institute, he oversees the Citizenship and American Identity Program, which explores what it means to be American as well as how to develop and promote a shared sense of national identity and strengthen democracy in an age of demographic flux, extreme partisanship, and severe inequality.

Before joining the Institute, he was the Chief Strategy Officer, Chief Digital Officer, and SVP of Innovation and Experimentation at American Public Media Group. During his tenure, he steered a strategic pivot that expanded the audience and diversified the team through, among other efforts, a “Changing Racial Narratives” project to advance diversity in media leadership and storytelling.