A-Z
Individual Guides
Abortion is one of the most deeply personal and polarizing issues of our time. For many, it is a subject tied to our most deeply held beliefs about autonomy,...
Affordable housing is a critical issue affecting millions of individuals and families across the country. As housing costs continue to rise, finding safe...
As soon as we are born, we begin aging. At times in our lives, we automatically seem to be more valuable to society. As we grow older, especially after...
Alcohol is an important part of many cultures. Some of us enjoy drinking alcohol. Others don’t. Some of us are sober-curious. We may feel one way about...
Our social nature is part of our humanity. People tend to like being with other people, and most of us need good connections with other people in order...
When the Declaration of Independence was written, not everyone was included in the famous statement about “pursuit of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
American political leaders of all kinds throughout history have pointed out that American identity revolves around a set of ideals – life, liberty...
The American Melting Pot is a metaphor used since the 1780s to describe diverse cultures “melting” into one common American culture. As more and more people...
Therapist and author Steven Stosny, coined the phrase “election stress disorder,” He defined it as “stress and anxiety triggered by...
Artificial Intelligence or AI has rapidly emerged as a powerful new technology. Its ability to perform tasks requiring human intelligence has led to its...
The expressed American ideal is the creation of a society that is fair and has opportunity for all, regardless of individual or group identity. Where do...
Being Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) is an experience that can be hard to define given the more than 19 origin groups that make up people of Asian...
The threat of violence, and even death, for being perceived as a threat (and as not fully human) as a Black person in this country is a heavy burden to...
Terms like white fragility, white guilt, white privilege, and white ally have been inundating the media as the unrest in response to the death of George...
Belonging is a basic human need. Human beings are happier and healthier when they feel they belong and when that belonging lacks, it affects their self...
One form of Bias is allowing your personal opinion to influence your judgment causing you to support or oppose a person, idea, or thing in a way often...
What are you doing for self-care? How are your sleep patterns, exercise, eating, relating, intimacy, connection, spiritual practices? This guide was made...
Regardless of where we come from, what we believe, or which groups we belong to, every one of us holds a personal vision for a better future—for our families,...
We hear stories about people who are self-censoring because they fear their viewpoints are unwelcome and they fear being “called out” —...
With the advance of technology, it’s easy to broadcast our thoughts and feelings and connect with both friends and strangers online. With the rise...
Civic life encompasses the infinite ways that people may connect and contribute to their community and society: from voting in an election or organizing...
It’s time to change the climate of our climate conversations by not huddling under our umbrellas with only those that think what we believe is true! Let’s...
We all want to live in a healthy environment, yet most of us make compromises to enjoy the benefits of modern society. And some forms of pollution we have...
We may want to communicate with others in such a way that we gain knowledge and bridge divides, but those conversations don’t always come naturally. Most...
The idea of conservatism evokes a spectrum of ideas, values and political positions. This conversation is designed to take a closer look at one point along...
Great conversations begin with good questions. Make your next gathering more memorable by sprinkling in some of our favorite questions from the Conversation...
Disruption, tragedy and conflict are part of our human story. Whether in our own backyard or internationally, deep histories of trauma and loss can make...
Humans create communities for so many reasons: safety, belonging, shared interests and values, and as an extension of identity. The fiber arts community...
Cronyism is a term describing an economy in which success in business depends on close relationships between business people and government officials....
Our nation had its start with a declaration of independence from taxation without representation and a statement of unalienable rights. Across the globe,...
We all share a common inheritance– living will end with death. Yet, cultures around the world vary widely in their relationship, traditions, and...
Under democratic governance structures, people enjoy freedom to believe as they choose, speak freely and advocate for their beliefs. Individuals like Susan...
In the United States, one in four adults have some type of disability. Even though a quarter of the population is included, this issue can be difficult...
Voting is one of the most powerful ways individuals can shape the future of their communities, states, and nations. It represents both a right and a responsibility,...
Empathy goes beyond concern or sympathy. Empathy is stepping into the shoes of another with the intention to better understand and feel what they are experiencing....
Students attend college for many reasons, including to learn about the world, to develop critical thinking, and to hone employable skills. In recent years,...
We all use energy– to heat our homes, drive our cars, power our computers, and so much more. All of this energy has to come from somewhere and those sources...
Entertainment, media, and popular culture shape how we understand the world and how we connect with each other. They influence trends, reflect societal...
We all want to live in a healthy environment, yet most of us make compromises to enjoy the benefits of modern society. And some forms of pollution we have...
Views and conversations around homosexuality and gender identity have always been charged and particularly challenging within faith communities. At our...
Transitional times in faith communities may be accompanied by divisiveness about which changes are most urgent, how to achieve them, and the roles and...
For many, faith serves as a guiding force in their values, decisions, and perspectives on political issues. At the same time, the role of faith in politics...
In our current environment of miscommunication, misunderstanding and mistrust, what can we learn from the Rotary International principles and approach...
Food is life itself. Food is sensual. Food can be used to manipulate. Food can be used to shame. Food can be used to show love. Food can be a sign of status....
This is one part of a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
When are limitations on free speech justified in America? With the advance of technology, it is easy to connect with our friends, blast our thoughts and...
How do we protect free speech and ensure public safety despite ongoing threats of violence? Some Americans feel violated by flag burning; some by racist...
When are limitations on free speech justified in America? With the advance of technology, it is easy to connect with our friends, blast our thoughts and...
Freedom is a key concept in America’s founding documents. We are proud to be a free people. This said, there are legitimate differing interpretations of...
Get your code when you donate HERE! “What do you want to be talking about and who do you want to talk to?” A lot of times, the answer is friends...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Gender shapes our experiences, identities, and interactions in profound ways. It influences how we see ourselves and how society perceives us, often intersecting...
The intersection of gender and power shapes nearly every aspect of our lives — from personal relationships to professional opportunities, from cultural...
If you were offered a simple way to improve your mental health, tap into happiness, and better your relationships, would you do it? Gratitude is a simple...
Guns, the second amendment, and gun control are topics that often bring forth strong passions and opinions. They are repeatedly used to put people into...
This one part is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
Healthcare can affect many aspects of our lives, from our physical and mental well-being to our financial security and sense of community. The U.S. spends...
Fight, flight and freeze are classic primal responses to danger and conflict. But these are not our only options. Human relationships benefit from more caring,...
History is not a fixed truth, but a tapestry of stories– each shaped by the storyteller’s viewpoint. What happens to our understanding of the historical...
‘Tis the season where people start to put up lights and decorate their homes, where shopping centers sell seasonal adornments and ornaments, and we can...
Lack of affordable housing and addiction support, changes in employment, unexpected medical emergencies, mental health, gender based violence, trauma,...
This is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred Gifts,...
Humor is an ancient force for collective well-being – and in modern times often under-appreciated in its transformative power. Humor helps humans...
Food and health are deeply interconnected, shaping the well-being of individuals, families, and communities worldwide. In the United States alone, millions...
Immigration is one of the most complex and deeply personal issues of our time, intertwining questions of identity, opportunity, and belonging. For many,...
We are in constant relationship with each other in all aspects of our lives. In this conversation we explore the elements that enrich our lives and look...
Independent candidates for the presidency cause a great deal of debate in political circles. Independents are excited for a different approach to elections....
Race and ethnicity shape many aspects of our lived experiences, personal identities, and societal interactions. The ability to have meaningful conversations...
Participation in local clubs, teams, faith communities, and civic life has steadily declined in recent decades. These are places people build ties with...
Where do you see people struggle to implement kindness? What gets in your own way of extending kindness? Kindness is simple, powerful, and contagious....
Over the years, we have seen increasing attention and understanding toward the LGBTQ+ community. For many, this is cause for celebration while others may...
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community means many different things to many different people. It can be a blessing to be a part of this community, and also...
Whether you’re an individual looking to enhance your dialogue skills or an organization aiming to implement meaningful conversations on a larger...
Listening is a foundational skill for building understanding and connection. But what does it mean to truly listen to someone? What does it feel like to...
Courage is the most important of all virtues, because without courage you cannot practice any of the other virtues consistently,” Dr. Maya Angelou said....
This is a six-part series. Grief happens when people experience death or other significant losses. Decades ago, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described five responses...
Media shapes how we see the world, understand each other, and engage as citizens. While it has the power to inform, connect, and inspire, it also has the...
Most people agree that we want to reduce the stigma around mental health issues so that individuals and families are more inclined to seek help. Many people...
We do not exist in this life without our bodies, it is our one constant relationship. Because we are inseparable, our bodies have a real impact on and...
Schools and educators are under increasing pressure ranging from staffing shortages and budget constraints to rising school safety concerns and higher...
As youth, our daily life mainly revolves around growing our mind- be it through school or from our relationships- in preparation for adulthood. However,...
There is growing awareness and concern around the intersection of mental health, addiction, and incarceration. Many incarcerated individuals struggle with...
How we earn, spend and invest our money impacts individuals, communities, the environment, and the world. Some people say that how we use our money shows...
Money plays a pivotal role in shaping our political landscape– influencing elections, electeds, legislation, and governance. While financial contributions...
Many media and culture sources promote the idea that we should view those who disagree with us as enemies. This approach limits our ability to solve the...
News and an independent press are a crucial part of a healthy democracy. The electorate needs accurate and complete information to make informed decisions....
Since the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, nuclear weapons have been a focal point in the discussion of international security. The number of nuclear...
The opioid epidemic is in the news and in our communities. Addiction to opioids seems different from others and has destroyed many lives and families....
For the past few generations, Americans have been told to worry about “Stranger Danger,” the idea that mean people are roaming the streets, the malls,...
The US has, in many ways, always been a divided society. But what is causing fierce political, social and ethnic divides in the United States today? Hate...
Every day we are both being persuaded and attempting to persuade– from what to have for dinner to how to vote, when to recycle, or where to worship. We...
Polarization has become a defining feature of our time, fracturing relationships, communities, and our nation. While disagreements and differing perspectives...
We all love our children and want our community to be safe. We have seen tragedy in our communities and want that to end. We all want law enforcement to...
Political dysfunction and the need for reform are topics that affect all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. Many express growing concern about...
In an era of increasing political polarization, the art of peace building within our own communities may be more crucial than ever. Political divisions...
It can be tempting to dismiss the concerns and opinions of the people around us or to make assumptions about their motives, especially within the current...
Peaceful communities depend on our ability to hold strong convictions while respecting those who see the world differently. Disagreement in itself is not...
“Political correctness” has become a charged topic in our public discourse. Some view it as a necessary evolution of language that promotes...
Headlines, news broadcasts, and social media present conflicting reports on the validity of the election results as well as issues like economic impacts...
How can we better maintain and create relationships in spite of political differences? Many people report losing friendships over political differences,...
In this conversation, we explore how we talk about politics and our hopes for improving how we do that. We share stories about what has happened around...
Once all the campaigning and voting is over, we are left to process the results (and in recent elections their validity) and resulting transfer of power....
In our increasingly digital world, the balance between privacy and security has become difficult for many of us. From smartphone tracking and social media...
The role of public health is to take action to improve the health of populations and groups. Most people would agree that a healthy population is a shared...
In order to have a healthy democracy, we need good people to run. Public officials, whether elected or appointed, make decisions and are able to influence...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Were conversations about race a part of your upbringing? If so, how was the subject approached? How did the people around you talk about other races? Race...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Race and religion have a long and complicated history. From the crusades to the use of religion to uphold and justify enslavement, faith has been used...
Increasing attention has been given to the disproportionate numbers of people of color in American prisons, especially African American detainees. A growing...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Most of us want the healthiest democracy we can design. Are our current voting systems producing the best outcomes for citizens? Some people believe that...
As we travel around the country, we experience the blessing of a robust infrastructure that was largely built during the Great Depression as public works...
What does it mean to be an advocate? A community leader? Civic engagement can help us feel less discouraged and more joyful about the state of our community,...
The journey of returning to society after incarceration represents one of the most challenging transitions a person can face. Reentry encompasses everything...
The journey of returning to society after incarceration represents one of the most challenging transitions a person can face. Reentry encompasses everything...
The quality of our relationships fundamentally shapes our well-being, success, and sense of purpose. Healthy relationships can thrive amidst differences...
Our constitution guarantees our freedom to practice our religion as a fundamental human right. It also upholds the principle of non-discrimination and...
Much of the media coverage about our schools today talks about America’s failing education system and how the United States is slipping in global rankings...
We all want to be treated with respect. Respect itself is foundational to Living Room Conversations as our second conversation agreement: “Show respect...
Many people are curious about the status and consequences of the current U.S. criminal justice system. Topics like mass incarceration, the School to Prison...
The motto of the United States is e pluribus unum– out of many, one. Our nation has blended cultures, beliefs, and people from across the world to...
Racist, sexist, homophobe, even nazi: these words have lost their power for many conservatives. They don’t believe that these words describe them. They...
– This guide was created for youth by youth – Safety in educational environments includes a wide range of challenges from concerns about guns...
Have you ever felt like, no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough? We often extend more compassion and understanding to our friends during their difficult...
Our entire lives are a combination of silence and sound. We often associate silence with the absence of noise, but silence is far more complex (and interesting)...
Are there “social equity” concerns in your community? If so, what are they? If not, should there be? The Declaration of Independence declares “all men...
Social identity is the part of our self-concept, or how we understand ourselves, based on our membership in different groups.These groups may reflect parts...
Our social, emotional, and spiritual life is tied to how we understand ourselves, relate to others, and experience belonging and purpose. It is about our...
When we talk about renewing our social, emotional and spiritual life, we are really talking about our mental health. Our mental health is tied to what...
We joke about “keeping up with the Joneses” — but there’s real competition in our society for status and the accompanying privilege. How do we decide what...
Stewardship is the practice of caring for all that God has given us. Our sense of stewardship is usually directed toward the environment and nature, finances,...
College students leave school with more debt today than any previous generation. With the increasing costs of both public and private colleges and universities,...
A growing number of studies from Toronto to Turkey have found that when people do make an effort to talk to strangers, it usually goes far better than...
We are in an age of wonder and amazement with technology. It can go anywhere with us and we can be reachable at any time. We use technology to order our...
Since early in America’s history, the American Dream has included the belief that anyone in this country (including immigrants) could make it if they worked...
We aspire to a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. We want to feel represented by our elected leaders and that’s where the census,...
This is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred Gifts,...
For huge numbers of people jobs provide income and a sense of purpose. We are fast approaching a time when artificial intelligence and robots will be trusted...
People with a variety of theological and political views are coming together to express concern about the polarization and hostility that is tearing our...
Generally speaking, opportunity gap refers to inputs (the unequal or inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities), while achievement gap refers...
What are the “deal-breakers” that keep Congress from fixing our immigration system? And who decides how to enforce laws while still treating people humanely?...
In our current economy, our value is often based on earning power or visible signs of success. In our interactions with each other, we transact our business,...
It is a human tendency to think our own perception is the truth. So how do we navigate a world where each of us may have a different understanding of what...
People on the left and right may disagree on many things, but they generally agree that prejudicial treatment or animosity based upon group differences...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. This trust is built over time and...
The 2024 election year was a turning point for conversations about faith in our voting systems. While many felt uncertain about the process, our work revealed...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. What happens when it starts to dwindle...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. What happens when it starts to dwindle...
Nelson Mandela said, “In the end, reconciliation is a spiritual process, which requires more than just a legal framework. It has to happen in the hearts...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Political and philosophical differences are normal in a healthy and free society. No citizen should be expected to violate his or her own conscience or...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
This is one part of a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
The concept of “unity,” what a “united nation” looks like and how we get there means different things to many of us. This conversation...
The idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) or National Guaranteed Income has been around for decades. Successful pilots and proposed programs in Spain,...
This guide was made by Media Done Responsibly. This is an emergency, trauma-based conversation intended to address local, national, and global incidents...
In the United States, the concept of redemption, as it applies to voting rights, can be a distant dream for those who have been incarcerated for offenses...
In the United States, millions of individuals lose their right to vote due to felony disenfranchisement laws that affect marginalized communities at a...
Water is an essential part of all our lives and the lives of all living things, yet the quality and access to water varies around the world and in the...
Many people sense that something is broken in society. Surveys show about half of young adult Americans are lonely. Opioid addiction, suicide, gun violence,...
If you were describing American values to someone, what would you say? The current polarized climate might suggest we have deep disagreements about American...
Travel near and far is part of many people’s lives. What is essential travel for you? Essential workers, essential services, essential travel. The global...
How have you or women in your life faced challenges in accessing political power and/or holding political office? What are some of the factors involved?...
How has your relationship with your body changed over time? What brought on those changes? The only relationship that lasts a lifetime is the one we have...
To what extent do you believe women are given the same rights, opportunities and privileges as men? What does this look like? The role of women in society...
What obstacles to power have you experienced or witnessed? Was gender a factor? Societies and systems are directed by those with the most power and influence....
Have you or someone you know been impacted by a zero-tolerance policy? What happened? Zero Tolerance is a policy that has been used by schools (and other...
Licensed Guides
Abortion is one of the most deeply personal and polarizing issues of our time. For many, it is a subject tied to our most deeply held beliefs about autonomy,...
Affordable housing is a critical issue affecting millions of individuals and families across the country. As housing costs continue to rise, finding safe...
As soon as we are born, we begin aging. At times in our lives, we automatically seem to be more valuable to society. As we grow older, especially after...
Alcohol is an important part of many cultures. Some of us enjoy drinking alcohol. Others don’t. Some of us are sober-curious. We may feel one way about...
Our social nature is part of our humanity. People tend to like being with other people, and most of us need good connections with other people in order...
When the Declaration of Independence was written, not everyone was included in the famous statement about “pursuit of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
American political leaders of all kinds throughout history have pointed out that American identity revolves around a set of ideals – life, liberty...
The American Melting Pot is a metaphor used since the 1780s to describe diverse cultures “melting” into one common American culture. As more and more people...
Therapist and author Steven Stosny, coined the phrase “election stress disorder,” He defined it as “stress and anxiety triggered by...
Artificial Intelligence or AI has rapidly emerged as a powerful new technology. Its ability to perform tasks requiring human intelligence has led to its...
The expressed American ideal is the creation of a society that is fair and has opportunity for all, regardless of individual or group identity. Where do...
Being Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) is an experience that can be hard to define given the more than 19 origin groups that make up people of Asian...
The threat of violence, and even death, for being perceived as a threat (and as not fully human) as a Black person in this country is a heavy burden to...
Terms like white fragility, white guilt, white privilege, and white ally have been inundating the media as the unrest in response to the death of George...
Belonging is a basic human need. Human beings are happier and healthier when they feel they belong and when that belonging lacks, it affects their self...
One form of Bias is allowing your personal opinion to influence your judgment causing you to support or oppose a person, idea, or thing in a way often...
This guide was made by Media Done Responsibly. This is an emergency, trauma-based conversation intended to address local, national, and global incidents...
Regardless of where we come from, what we believe, or which groups we belong to, every one of us holds a personal vision for a better future—for our families,...
We hear stories about people who are self-censoring because they fear their viewpoints are unwelcome and they fear being “called out” —...
With the advance of technology, it’s easy to broadcast our thoughts and feelings and connect with both friends and strangers online. With the rise...
Civic life encompasses the infinite ways that people may connect and contribute to their community and society: from voting in an election or organizing...
It’s time to change the climate of our climate conversations by not huddling under our umbrellas with only those that think what we believe is true! Let’s...
We all want to live in a healthy environment, yet most of us make compromises to enjoy the benefits of modern society. And some forms of pollution we have...
We may want to communicate with others in such a way that we gain knowledge and bridge divides, but those conversations don’t always come naturally. Most...
The idea of conservatism evokes a spectrum of ideas, values and political positions. This conversation is designed to take a closer look at one point along...
Great conversations begin with good questions. Make your next gathering more memorable by sprinkling in some of our favorite questions from the Conversation...
Disruption, tragedy and conflict are part of our human story. Whether in our own backyard or internationally, deep histories of trauma and loss can make...
Humans create communities for so many reasons: safety, belonging, shared interests and values, and as an extension of identity. The fiber arts community...
Cronyism is a term describing an economy in which success in business depends on close relationships between business people and government officials....
Our nation had its start with a declaration of independence from taxation without representation and a statement of unalienable rights. Across the globe,...
We all share a common inheritance– living will end with death. Yet, cultures around the world vary widely in their relationship, traditions, and...
Under democratic governance structures, people enjoy freedom to believe as they choose, speak freely and advocate for their beliefs. Individuals like Susan...
In the United States, one in four adults have some type of disability. Even though a quarter of the population is included, this issue can be difficult...
Voting is one of the most powerful ways individuals can shape the future of their communities, states, and nations. It represents both a right and a responsibility,...
Empathy goes beyond concern or sympathy. Empathy is stepping into the shoes of another with the intention to better understand and feel what they are experiencing....
Students attend college for many reasons, including to learn about the world, to develop critical thinking, and to hone employable skills. In recent years,...
We all use energy– to heat our homes, drive our cars, power our computers, and so much more. All of this energy has to come from somewhere and those sources...
Entertainment, media, and popular culture shape how we understand the world and how we connect with each other. They influence trends, reflect societal...
We all want to live in a healthy environment, yet most of us make compromises to enjoy the benefits of modern society. And some forms of pollution we have...
Views and conversations around homosexuality and gender identity have always been charged and particularly challenging within faith communities. At our...
Transitional times in faith communities may be accompanied by divisiveness about which changes are most urgent, how to achieve them, and the roles and...
For many, faith serves as a guiding force in their values, decisions, and perspectives on political issues. At the same time, the role of faith in politics...
In our current environment of miscommunication, misunderstanding and mistrust, what can we learn from the Rotary International principles and approach...
Food is life itself. Food is sensual. Food can be used to manipulate. Food can be used to shame. Food can be used to show love. Food can be a sign of status....
This one part of is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
When are limitations on free speech justified in America? With the advance of technology, it is easy to connect with our friends, blast our thoughts and...
How do we protect free speech and ensure public safety despite ongoing threats of violence? Some Americans feel violated by flag burning; some by racist...
When are limitations on free speech justified in America? With the advance of technology, it is easy to connect with our friends, blast our thoughts and...
Freedom is a key concept in America’s founding documents. We are proud to be a free people. This said, there are legitimate differing interpretations of...
Get your code when you donate HERE! “What do you want to be talking about and who do you want to talk to?” A lot of times, the answer is friends...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Gender shapes our experiences, identities, and interactions in profound ways. It influences how we see ourselves and how society perceives us, often intersecting...
The intersection of gender and power shapes nearly every aspect of our lives — from personal relationships to professional opportunities, from cultural...
If you were offered a simple way to improve your mental health, tap into happiness, and better your relationships, would you do it? Gratitude is a simple...
Guns, the second amendment, and gun control are topics that often bring forth strong passions and opinions. They are repeatedly used to put people into...
This one part is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
Healthcare can affect many aspects of our lives, from our physical and mental well-being to our financial security and sense of community. The U.S. spends...
Fight, flight and freeze are classic primal responses to danger and conflict. But these are not our only options. Human relationships benefit from more caring,...
History is not a fixed truth, but a tapestry of stories– each shaped by the storyteller’s viewpoint. What happens to our understanding of the historical...
‘Tis the season where people start to put up lights and decorate their homes, where shopping centers sell seasonal adornments and ornaments, and we can...
Lack of affordable housing and addiction support, changes in employment, unexpected medical emergencies, mental health, gender based violence, trauma,...
This one part of is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
Humor is an ancient force for collective well-being – and in modern times often under-appreciated in its transformative power. Humor helps humans...
Food and health are deeply interconnected, shaping the well-being of individuals, families, and communities worldwide. In the United States alone, millions...
Immigration is one of the most complex and deeply personal issues of our time, intertwining questions of identity, opportunity, and belonging. For many,...
We are in constant relationship with each other in all aspects of our lives. In this conversation we explore the elements that enrich our lives and look...
Independent candidates for the presidency cause a great deal of debate in political circles. Independents are excited for a different approach to elections....
Race and ethnicity shape many aspects of our lived experiences, personal identities, and societal interactions. The ability to have meaningful conversations...
Participation in local clubs, teams, faith communities, and civic life has steadily declined in recent decades. These are places people build ties with...
Where do you see people struggle to implement kindness? What gets in your own way of extending kindness? Kindness is simple, powerful, and contagious....
Over the years, we have seen increasing attention and understanding toward the LGBTQ+ community. For many, this is cause for celebration while others may...
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community means many different things to many different people. It can be a blessing to be a part of this community, and also...
Whether you’re an individual looking to enhance your dialogue skills or an organization aiming to implement meaningful conversations on a larger...
Listening is a foundational skill for building understanding and connection. But what does it mean to truly listen to someone? What does it feel like to...
Courage is the most important of all virtues, because without courage you cannot practice any of the other virtues consistently,” Dr. Maya Angelou said....
This is a six-part series. Grief happens when people experience death or other significant losses. Decades ago, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described five responses...
Media shapes how we see the world, understand each other, and engage as citizens. While it has the power to inform, connect, and inspire, it also has the...
Most people agree that we want to reduce the stigma around mental health issues so that individuals and families are more inclined to seek help. Many people...
We do not exist in this life without our bodies, it is our one constant relationship. Because we are inseparable, our bodies have a real impact on and...
Schools and educators are under increasing pressure ranging from staffing shortages and budget constraints to rising school safety concerns and higher...
As youth, our daily life mainly revolves around growing our mind- be it through school or from our relationships- in preparation for adulthood. However,...
There is growing awareness and concern around the intersection of mental health, addiction, and incarceration. Many incarcerated individuals struggle with...
How we earn, spend and invest our money impacts individuals, communities, the environment, and the world. Some people say that how we use our money shows...
Money plays a pivotal role in shaping our political landscape– influencing elections, electeds, legislation, and governance. While financial contributions...
Many media and culture sources promote the idea that we should view those who disagree with us as enemies. This approach limits our ability to solve the...
News and an independent press are a crucial part of a healthy democracy. The electorate needs accurate and complete information to make informed decisions....
Since the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, nuclear weapons have been a focal point in the discussion of international security. The number of nuclear...
The opioid epidemic is in the news and in our communities. Addiction to opioids seems different from others and has destroyed many lives and families....
For the past few generations, Americans have been told to worry about “Stranger Danger,” the idea that mean people are roaming the streets, the malls,...
The US has, in many ways, always been a divided society. But what is causing fierce political, social and ethnic divides in the United States today? Hate...
Every day we are both being persuaded and attempting to persuade– from what to have for dinner to how to vote, when to recycle, or where to worship. We...
What do you see as your responsibility to hear a different side? Polarization has become a defining feature of our time, fracturing relationships, communities,...
We all love our children and want our community to be safe. We have seen tragedy in our communities and want that to end. We all want law enforcement to...
Political dysfunction and the need for reform are topics that affect all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. Many express growing concern about...
In an era of increasing political polarization, the art of peace building within our own communities may be more crucial than ever. Political divisions...
It can be tempting to dismiss the concerns and opinions of the people around us or to make assumptions about their motives, especially within the current...
Peaceful communities depend on our ability to hold strong convictions while respecting those who see the world differently. Disagreement in itself is not...
“Political correctness” has become a charged topic in our public discourse. Some view it as a necessary evolution of language that promotes...
Headlines, news broadcasts, and social media present conflicting reports on the validity of the election results as well as issues like economic impacts...
How can we better maintain and create relationships in spite of political differences? Many people report losing friendships over political differences,...
In this conversation, we explore how we talk about politics and our hopes for improving how we do that. We share stories about what has happened around...
Once all the campaigning and voting is over, we are left to process the results (and in recent elections their validity) and resulting transfer of power....
In our increasingly digital world, the balance between privacy and security has become difficult for many of us. From smartphone tracking and social media...
The role of public health is to take action to improve the health of populations and groups. Most people would agree that a healthy population is a shared...
In order to have a healthy democracy, we need good people to run. Public officials, whether elected or appointed, make decisions and are able to influence...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Were conversations about race a part of your upbringing? If so, how was the subject approached? How did the people around you talk about other races? Race...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Race and religion have a long and complicated history. From the crusades to the use of religion to uphold and justify enslavement, faith has been used...
Increasing attention has been given to the disproportionate numbers of people of color in American prisons, especially African American detainees. A growing...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Most of us want the healthiest democracy we can design. Are our current voting systems producing the best outcomes for citizens? Some people believe that...
As we travel around the country, we experience the blessing of a robust infrastructure that was largely built during the Great Depression as public works...
What does it mean to be an advocate? A community leader? Civic engagement can help us feel less discouraged and more joyful about the state of our community,...
What is an appropriate “road back to success” in our community for people who have been convicted? The journey of returning to society after incarceration...
The quality of our relationships fundamentally shapes our well-being, success, and sense of purpose. Healthy relationships can thrive amidst differences...
What assumptions do you think those close to you may be making about your political identity? Many of us are finding our closest relationships strained...
Our constitution guarantees our freedom to practice our religion as a fundamental human right. It also upholds the principle of non-discrimination and...
Much of the media coverage about our schools today talks about America’s failing education system and how the United States is slipping in global rankings...
We all want to be treated with respect. Respect itself is foundational to Living Room Conversations as our second conversation agreement: “Show respect...
Many people are curious about the status and consequences of the current U.S. criminal justice system. Topics like mass incarceration, the School to Prison...
The motto of the United States is e pluribus unum– out of many, one. Our nation has blended cultures, beliefs, and people from across the world to...
Racist, sexist, homophobe, even nazi: these words have lost their power for many conservatives. They don’t believe that these words describe them. They...
– This guide was created for youth by youth – Safety in educational environments includes a wide range of challenges from concerns about guns...
Have you ever felt like, no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough? We often extend more compassion and understanding to our friends during their difficult...
Our entire lives are a combination of silence and sound. We often associate silence with the absence of noise, but silence is far more complex (and interesting)...
The Declaration of Independence declares “all men are created equal,” yet throughout our nation’s history, access to rights, education, resources, and...
Social identity is the part of our self-concept, or how we understand ourselves, based on our membership in different groups.These groups may reflect parts...
Our social, emotional, and spiritual life is tied to how we understand ourselves, relate to others, and experience belonging and purpose. It is about our...
When we talk about renewing our social, emotional and spiritual life, we are really talking about our mental health. Our mental health is tied to what...
We joke about “keeping up with the Joneses” — but there’s real competition in our society for status and the accompanying privilege. How do we decide what...
Stewardship is the practice of caring for all that God has given us. Our sense of stewardship is usually directed toward the environment and nature, finances,...
College students leave school with more debt today than any previous generation. With the increasing costs of both public and private colleges and universities,...
A growing number of studies from Toronto to Turkey have found that when people do make an effort to talk to strangers, it usually goes far better than...
We are in an age of wonder and amazement with technology. It can go anywhere with us and we can be reachable at any time. We use technology to order our...
Since early in America’s history, the American Dream has included the belief that anyone in this country (including immigrants) could make it if they worked...
We aspire to a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. We want to feel represented by our elected leaders and that’s where the census,...
This is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred Gifts,...
For huge numbers of people jobs provide income and a sense of purpose. We are fast approaching a time when artificial intelligence and robots will be trusted...
People with a variety of theological and political views are coming together to express concern about the polarization and hostility that is tearing our...
Generally speaking, opportunity gap refers to inputs (the unequal or inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities), while achievement gap refers...
What are the “deal-breakers” that keep Congress from fixing our immigration system? And who decides how to enforce laws while still treating people humanely?...
In our current economy, our value is often based on earning power or visible signs of success. In our interactions with each other, we transact our business,...
It is a human tendency to think our own perception is the truth. So how do we navigate a world where each of us may have a different understanding of what...
People on the left and right may disagree on many things, but they generally agree that prejudicial treatment or animosity based upon group differences...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. This trust is built over time and...
The 2024 election year was a turning point for conversations about faith in our voting systems. While many felt uncertain about the process, our work revealed...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. What happens when it starts to dwindle...
Trust is a critical component of building and maintaining healthy families, communities, institutions and countries. What happens when it starts to dwindle...
Nelson Mandela said, “In the end, reconciliation is a spiritual process, which requires more than just a legal framework. It has to happen in the hearts...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
Political and philosophical differences are normal in a healthy and free society. No citizen should be expected to violate his or her own conscience or...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more...
This is one part a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred...
The concept of “unity,” what a “united nation” looks like and how we get there means different things to many of us. This conversation...
The idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) or National Guaranteed Income has been around for decades. Successful pilots and proposed programs in Spain,...
This guide was made by Media Done Responsibly. This is an emergency, trauma-based conversation intended to address local, national, and global incidents...
In the United States, the concept of redemption, as it applies to voting rights, can be a distant dream for those who have been incarcerated for offenses...
In the United States, millions of individuals lose their right to vote due to felony disenfranchisement laws that affect marginalized communities at a...
Water is an essential part of all our lives and the lives of all living things, yet the quality and access to water varies around the world and in the...
Many people sense that something is broken in society. Surveys show about half of young adult Americans are lonely. Opioid addiction, suicide, gun violence,...
If you were describing American values to someone, what would you say? The current polarized climate might suggest we have deep disagreements about American...
Travel near and far is part of many people’s lives. What is essential travel for you? Essential workers, essential services, essential travel. The global...
How have you or women in your life faced challenges in accessing political power and/or holding political office? What are some of the factors involved?...
How has your relationship with your body changed over time? What brought on those changes? The only relationship that lasts a lifetime is the one we have...
To what extent do you believe women are given the same rights, opportunities and privileges as men? What does this look like? The role of women in society...
What obstacles to power have you experienced or witnessed? Was gender a factor? Societies and systems are directed by those with the most power and influence....
Have you or someone you know been impacted by a zero-tolerance policy? What happened? Zero Tolerance is a policy that has been used by schools (and other...
series
Series for individual use
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. What stories...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. This pathway...
This is a six-part series. Grief happens when people experience death or other significant losses. Decades ago, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described five responses to grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression,...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. As calls for...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Start With:...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. This is a great...
This is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred Gifts, was written by Anita Sanchez. Watch this conversation...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Talking about politics...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Talking about politics...
Series for licensed use
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. What stories...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. This pathway...
This is a six-part series. Grief happens when people experience death or other significant losses. Decades ago, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described five responses to grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression,...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. As calls for racial...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Start With:...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. This is a great...
This is a four-part series that can be completed in any order or used as standalone guides. The book that inspired these guides, The Four Sacred Gifts, was written by Anita Sanchez. Watch this conversation...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Talking about politics...
The conversations are meant to be done in the order they are outlined within the pathways, as they build upon one another, preparing participants for more challenging conversations. Talking about politics...
Translated
Individual
La epidemia de opioides es un tema de actualidad en las noticias y en nuestras comunidades. La adicción a los opioides parece diferente a otras y ha destruido muchas vidas y familias. Los opioides son...
Los cambios, los conflictos y las tragedias son parte de la historia de la humanidad. Ya sea en nuestra propia vecindad o en otra parte del mundo, las duras historias de trauma y duelo provocan que sea...
Desde los orígenes de Estados Unidos, el sueño americano ha representado la creencia de que cualquier persona en este país, incluidos los inmigrantes, podría triunfar si trabajaba lo suficientemente duro....
El coraje es la más importante de todas las virtudes, porque sin coraje no puedes practicar ninguna de las otras virtudes de manera consistente,” dijo la Dra. Maya Angelou. Cuando hablamos de ser valiente,...
A través de los años, hemos presenciado un crecimiento en la atención y el entendimiento hacia la comunidad LGBTQ+. Para muchos, esto es motivo de celebración, aunque otros puedan sentirse confundidos...
Esta es una serie de cuatro partes que puede completarse en cualquier orden o usarse como guías independientes. Traducido con ayuda de la Biblioteca Estatal de CO. El Perdón: El primero de los Cuatro...
Con Licencia
La epidemia de opioides es un tema de actualidad en las noticias y en nuestras comunidades. La adicción a los opioides parece diferente a otras y ha destruido muchas vidas y familias. Los opioides son...
Los cambios, los conflictos y las tragedias son parte de la historia de la humanidad. Ya sea en nuestra propia vecindad o en otra parte del mundo, las duras historias de trauma y duelo provocan que sea...
Desde los orígenes de Estados Unidos, el sueño americano ha representado la creencia de que cualquier persona en este país, incluidos los inmigrantes, podría triunfar si trabajaba lo suficientemente duro....
El coraje es la más importante de todas las virtudes, porque sin coraje no puedes practicar ninguna de las otras virtudes de manera consistente,” dijo la Dra. Maya Angelou. Cuando hablamos de ser valiente,...
A través de los años, hemos presenciado un crecimiento en la atención y el entendimiento hacia la comunidad LGBTQ+. Para muchos, esto es motivo de celebración, aunque otros puedan sentirse confundidos...
Esta es una serie de cuatro partes que puede completarse en cualquier orden o usarse como guías independientes. Traducido con ayuda de la Biblioteca Estatal de CO. El Perdón: El primero de los Cuatro...
