Appreciative Inquiry: Unlocking Growth Through Positive Questions with Suzanne Quinney

In this episode of the Thrive with Cate Podcast, Suzanne Quinney, co-founder of Appreciating People, shares the transformative power of Appreciative Inquiry and how it can shape personal growth, teamwork, and organizational success. Suzanne’s journey into this innovative approach began with her passion for highlighting strengths over problems, leading her to co-develop a range of resources and training tools. Together, Cate and Suzanne explore how intentional questions can create connection, resilience, and positive transformation in any setting. 

What You’ll Get Out of Tuning In

1. The Power of Positive Questions (00:03:46)
   Learn how Appreciative Inquiry reframes conversations to focus on strengths and opportunities, shifting away from problem-based thinking.

2. Reframing Experiences Using Appreciative Inquiry (00:07:18)
   Discover how this approach transforms healthcare, team dynamics, and even personal reflection.

3. Appreciative Journaling and Muscle Building (00:15:21)
   Uncover how cultivating an "appreciative muscle" through journaling can lead to enhanced well-being and resilience.

4. The Five Ds Framework (00:33:53)
   Explore the core stages of Appreciative Inquiry: Define, Discover, Dream, Design, and Destiny, and their practical uses.

5. Resources for Appreciative Inquiry (00:35:53)

Explore the resources available on AppreciatingPeople.co.uk to help make positive change happen in your life and communities. Use these resources to focus on strengths rather than weaknesses, and create sustainable change in your life.

Highlights

1. Appreciative Inquiry in Action (00:03:51)
   Suzanne shares powerful examples of using Appreciative Inquiry in healthcare and community settings, highlighting how this framework enhances team cohesion and patient outcomes.
   
   

2. From Chaos to Resilience (00:21:38)
   Suzanne emphasizes how Appreciative Inquiry builds resilience by focusing on what’s working, rather than getting stuck in chaos or negativity.
   
   

3. The Role of Deep Listening (00:32:19)
   The discussion dives into how intentional, curious listening creates profound connections and unlocks shared wisdom.
   
   

Notable Quotes

1. "Appreciative Inquiry is about finding and amplifying what works—not fixing what’s broken." — Suzanne Quinney 

2. "Good questions spark curiosity and create space for wonder. They open doors to new possibilities." — Suzanne Quinney 

3. "We’re constantly shaping our reality. Appreciative Inquiry helps us make it intentional, relational, and growth-focused." — Cate Stillman 

4. "When we cultivate gratitude and appreciation, we build a muscle that sustains us even in tough times." — Suzanne Quinney 

Links 

Suzanne Quinney

Suzanne has offered Cate’s listeners a discount for her eBooks Appreciating Health and Care Interactive and Appreciating Health and Care: AI in Practice!

Use the code WWL40 to receive a 40% discount! Thank you Suzanne!

Additional Resources:

• Appreciating People Website: appreciatingpeople.co.uk

• Recommended Books:

• Conversations Worth Having by Jackie Stavros 

• Speak Green by Dr. Claudia Gross 

• Free Resources: Explore downloadable tools and templates at Appreciating People Resources. 

• Explore Appreciative Inquiry through S.O.A.R. (PDF)

 

Cate Stillman

• Explore Wellness Pro Academy

• Discover wellness in 2025 through Thrive with Cate

• Founder of Yogahealer, ClubThrive.Global, and Wellness Pro Academy

• Author of PRIMAL HABITS, Uninflamed,  Body Thrive, Master of YOU, and more!

 

This episode offers a fresh perspective on how shifting our focus from problems to strengths can transform relationships, teams, and personal growth. By asking intentional questions and embracing deep listening, we can create meaningful connections and foster resilience in every area of life. 

If you’re ready to bring more appreciation and connection into your life, visit Suzanne’s website for tools, resources, and training programs. Don’t forget to share your biggest takeaway or question from the episode—we’d love to hear from you!

Stay tuned for Appreciative Inquiry with Suzanne Quinney Part 2, where Suzanne and Cate dive deeper into the practice of Appreciative Inquiry through a live demonstration. 

About Suzanne Quinney

Suzanne Quinney is an expert in Appreciative Inquiry (AI) and strength-based approaches to change, with over 25 years of experience in the UK public sector and a career that began in Africa. She is a skilled facilitator, trainer, and author of nine AI-related materials, including Reflections: An Appreciative Journal and Practical Resource Book. Suzanne’s work focuses on quality improvement, reflective practice, and creating meaningful change through innovative methods like World Café and Open Space Technology. Based in NE Scotland, she combines her passion for AI with her love of sci-fi, yoga, and being part of the Findhorn community.

About Cate Stillman

Cate Stillman, founder of Wellness Pro Academy and Thrive with Cate, has been empowering individuals and wellness professionals since 2001 to elevate their health, careers, and lives. Through her transformative books and  Ayurveda courses, Cate has helped thousands create healthier habits and thrive in their communities. She mentors wellness pros to expand their impact, grow their income, and live purpose-driven lives, blending ancient wisdom with modern strategies for lasting success.