Learning Through Experience

Leadership isn’t just what you know—it’s how you show up. Learning Through Experience is a Yale School of Management podcast hosted by Dr. Heidi Brooks. Each episode explores how leaders learn through the moments that matter: meetings, relationships, decisions, and dilemmas. Drawing on guests’ wisdom and questions from listeners, the show turns insight into practice and transforms life into a learning laboratory.

The Everyday Leadership of Coaching with Zoe Chance 04/17/2026

The Everyday Leadership of Coaching with Zoe Chance In this episode, Heidi Brooks and Zoe Chance invite you to step out of the transactional pursuit of influence and into the relational, visceral reality of self-influence through coaching. Through their conversation, Heidi and Zoe take you on a journey to reframe coaching not as a corrective tool for fixing what is broken, but as an enlivening stance for everyday leadership and human connection. You’ll get a sneak peak into the big ideas guiding the and why the cohort model is an important element of the program. They deconstruct traditional ideas of interpersonal influence, putting them back together as an inside-out process where changing our relationships requires us to first renegotiate our relationship with ourselves. Ultimately, Heidi and Zoe invite you to take a coaching stance to stretch beyond your comfort zone and expand your capacity to thrive. Connect with Zoe Chance at and check out . Learn more about the . New! Turn a challenge you are facing into a “Learning through experience” moment with Heidi Brooks. Leave a voice note and we may bring your voice to the show. . Note: 00:00 - Introduction Heidi opens the show with a short vignette into her day of teaching and invites you to shift the energy with her in real time. 03:20 - Knowing Isn't Enough Zoe shares the vulnerable, embarrassing story of her time with a Mayan shaman in the rainforest. Heidi and Zoe explore the deep friction between having conceptual information and the visceral, embodied reality of an experience. 08:00 - The Trojan Horse of Influence Heidi and Zoe wrestle with traditional, transactional ideas of influence and how Zoe's course often acts as a Trojan horse for personal transformation. The conversation highlights the inside-out approach of becoming someone others naturally want to say yes to. 13:20 - Co-Creating a New Experience: Coaching at Yale The hosts dream in public about their and the intentional design of a cohort-based experience. They look at how learning to coach in a group setting acts as a micro-society for humanizing the workplace. 18:20 - The Messy Work of Being Coachable Heidi shares a grainy moment from her early days coaching "perfect" executives to surface an inconvenient tension: being coachable requires a person to be influenceable. They invite the audience to ask if they are willing to stretch beyond the safety of their expertise. 25:20 - System 1 “Soup” and The Logic of Commitment The two dive into the intuitive, habitual "emotional soup" of System 1, which . Heidi introduces to ask how leaders can anchor their work in the enlivening "logic of commitment" rather than the transactional "logic of consequence". 36:20 - The Ultimate Challenge: Influencing the Self The conversation lands on the profound realization that the hardest person in the world to influence is the self. Heidi and Zoe explore how adopting a coaching stance helps individuals renegotiate their relationship with themselves and expand their capacity to thrive. 42:20 - A Genuine Invitation The episode concludes with an invitation to the listener to pay attention to their own possible transformations. Heidi shares a new way for the audience to leave a voice note via so the community can co-create this learning experience together. /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/40869125

The Beautiful Problem with Gianpiero Petriglieri 02/05/2026

The Beautiful Problem with Gianpiero Petriglieri In this episode, Heidi Brooks and Gianpiero Petriglieri invite you to step out of the mechanical pursuit of efficiency and into the “beautiful problem” of being human in a professional world. Through their conversation, Heidi and GP take you on a journey to reframe your everyday experiences as moments of learning, curiosity, and choice. They guide you through the essential tension between convergence, the practice of meeting a standard, and divergence, the freedom to ask “what else?” as you build a more spacious relationship with your experiences. They deconstruct and put back together the tensions between our goals of work and life. Ultimately, Heidi challenges you to reclaim your agency through what GP calls “The Work”: the intentional use of your attention and relationships with others to resist seductive shortcuts (including AI) that undermine the learning lab that is your life. Connect with Gianpiero Petriglieri’s work at . Notes [00:00] — Finding Agency in the Mystery of Life In this opening segment, Heidi Brooks invites you to view your life not just as something to survive, but as an adventure in learning through experience. [02:15] — From Childhood Curiosity to Professional Pursuit You will hear Gianpiero Petriglieri (GP) reflect on his upbringing as an only child in Southern Italy, a background that forced him to "decode" the mystery of adults and navigate enmeshed family boundaries. He shares his five-year transition from psychiatry to management education, during which he immersed himself in intense experiential social systems. This journey allowed him to turn what was once a personal struggle with group dynamics into a professional blessing that both soothes him and makes him useful to others. [05:45] — Sensitivity as Your Greatest Professional Asset GP challenges the common idea that being sensitive is a liability in a professional setting. He explains that in today’s overstimulating and anxiety-provoking work environments, sensitivity is a sociological skill that helps you parse what belongs to you versus what is happening in the system. By establishing boundaries—which GP describes as a "skin" rather than a wall—you gain the ability to "touch" and engage with others without feeling burdened by the interaction. [11:00] — Moving Beyond the Logic of Tools and Efficiency The conversation shifts to why many people find experiential learning "mysterious" compared to the instrumental logic of getting from point A to point B. You will learn that the goal here is not just to acquire tools, but to build "spacious selves" with wider emotional registers. This humanizing approach creates a space where you can think more thoughts, speak more freely, and feel more deeply in the presence of others, rather than acting like a mechanical bioengineering machine. [16:45] — The Two Paths of Learning: Convergence and Divergence GP explains that learning is not a single process; it involves both convergence (deliberate practice to meet a standard) anda divergence (exploring "what else" and "what next"). You might find yourself seeking education because you need instruction and feedback to reach a goal, or because you are in an exploratory phase questioning your own motives. This segment ends with an intentional pause and call to reflection from Heidi Brooks. [24:00] — Doing "The Work" (Big W and Small W) In one of the most profound parts of the episode, GP defines "The Work" as the effort to develop integrated selves within democratic institutions. On a micro level, this means reclaiming your attention and conversation—the two fundamental capacities of leadership. Because attention is the beginning of strategy and conversation is the beginning of culture, choosing where you focus and what you talk about is your most powerful tool for reclaiming freedom from systems that try to control you. [29:30] — Reclaiming Humanity in the Age of AI You will hear a cautionary take on AI, which GP describes as a "seductive psychopath" that promises to relieve you of the "work" of thinking and relating. He argues that automating micro-interactions, like writing an email, strips away layers of your humanity. The challenge for you in a technological world is the "old problem": how to hold onto your own mind and maintain real connections despite the temptation to be relieved of the effort. [34:45] — Turning Sorrow into Connection As the episode concludes, GP identifies three modern sorrows: distraction, distress, and disconnection. He suggests that the reason you seek learning is to find their inverses: direction, hope, and connection. The final "beautiful problem" of being alive is the tension between wanting to be guided and wanting to discover for yourself—a paradox that Heidi Brooks encourages you to embrace as an ongoing journey rather than a task to be mastered. /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/39967310

Co-Creating the Conditions for Learning 06/06/2025

Co-Creating the Conditions for Learning In this season finale, we do something a little different. Instead of featuring an outside guest, we bring you behind the scenes—with the voices and minds who help design and deliver the very work this podcast explores. Dr. Heidi Brooks is joined by her colleagues David Tate and Stacey Casamassima for a candid, deeply human conversation that essentially doubles as a real team meeting. This is the team that teaches and leads “Everyday Leadership” at Yale and facilitates high-touch programs like Interpersonal and Group Dynamics, Holding Space, and more. And this time, they're turning the mic inward. Together, they reflect on the life experiences that drew them to this work, the evolution of their own learning journeys, and the frameworks and practices they use to create conditions for meaningful growth—within themselves, their students and each other. They discuss what it means to “stay” in difficult moments, how trust and ambiguity support learning, and why the ability to be present—with curiosity and care—is at the heart of human development. If you’ve ever wondered how transformational learning environments are built, or who’s behind the scenes making them possible, this conversation is for you. Listen in as we lift the veil, share the practice, and reflect on what it really takes to co-create the conditions for learning—with integrity, intention and hope. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Show Notes & Key Moments 00:06 – Opening the Circle: Why This Episode, Why This TeamDr. Heidi Brooks frames the episode as a rare look behind the scenes of the work and the people who create the conditions for learning. 03:02 – Disillusionment, Discovery and Stacey’s Path to the Work"My graduate degree rescued me from the cynicism I found in the working world... It shaped fundamentally how I move through the world." 06:50 – The Early Seeds of David’s WorkDavid Tate traces his call to group work back to junior high: "I wasn’t doing much—just listening. But that act of holding space was more powerful than I realized." 16:46 – Doing Nothing—or Everything? Heidi’s Story of Early Impact"They asked me to stop bringing research and just ask questions. I thought I was doing nothing—but something powerful was happening in that space." 28:06 – What Creates the Conditions for Learning?Stacey and David explore the inner and outer structures that make learning possible—from psychological safety to intentional ambiguity and trust. 40:19 – Against Individualism: Learning as a Shared, Social Experience"Can we meditate out loud—together?" Stacey reframes learning as a relational practice that counters dominant culture’s emphasis on the individual. 46:32 – Stay or Cancel? Trust, Reaction, and the Practice of Presence"Stay is not the same as tolerate." The team discusses cancel culture, self-protection, and the challenge of staying present through discomfort and difference. 53:10 – The Power of Discussability and Repair"Not only are we noticing, but we’re going to talk about it—and recover." Stacey reflects on what makes it possible to risk and trust in community. 57:01 – Hope for Humanity: What This Work Makes Possible"Our students go out and ripple this work into the world. That gives me hope." David and Stacey share final reflections on why this work matters. Resources: Yale Courses in Organizational Behavior: David C. Tate: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/36870710

Invisible No More: Art as a Tool for Agency 05/23/2025

Invisible No More: Art as a Tool for Agency What does it mean to create something that didn’t exist before—and to do so with a sense of possibility, even in the face of constraint? In this episode, artist Mario Moore joins Dr. Heidi Brooks to reflect on art as agency, the power of process, and the untold stories behind his Yale-commissioned painting Black Governors. Together, they explore the tension between presence and invisibility, and what it means to embed stories within stories—without always offering a central gaze or a single interpretation. This is a conversation about creativity as resistance, about learning through making, and about honoring what came before—while imagining what’s still possible. Whether you're an artist, educator, student, or leader, Mario Moore’s perspective offers a powerful lens on agency in the face of constraint—and how storytelling, through image or action, can challenge assumptions, spark dialogue, and expand what feels possible. If you’ve ever wondered how art intersects with justice or how process itself can be a form of wisdom, this episode is for you. “Paintings tend to grow—and you need to follow along and let it do its thing.” — Mario Moore Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Show Notes & Key Moments 03:00 – Art, Activism and Early ImmersionHis mom was an artist; his grandmother, an activist. That legacy shaped Mario’s worldview—and his work. “We’d go from studios to marches. I didn’t separate creativity from protest.” 06:30 – Detroit, Imagination and Possibility in the Face of ScarcityThe collapse of the city where he was born and raised helped Mario Moore ask what might be rebuilt. “If everything’s been taken away—why not imagine something new?” 11:30 – From Hollywood Backdrops to His Own VisionAfter working as a set sculptor on major films, Mario Moore realized he needed to reclaim time and space for his own creative voice. “I was building other people’s stories. But I had something to say.” 20:50 – The Process: Sketches, Research and Listening to the WorkMario doesn’t just paint—he excavates. Through sketches, archival research and revision, he lets each piece grow into what it needs to be. “I never want to force a painting into a plan. I follow where it leads.” 24:30 – Finding the Black Governors: History Hidden in Plain SightThe title “Black Governors” is significant to Connecticut, referencing the way enslaved and free African Americans would elect leaders to mediate the community’s needs to power structure. “This history wasn’t in textbooks. But it shaped everything.” 26:00 – The Layers of Black GovernorsMario Moore walks us through the visual and historical components of the painting. “Every corner of this painting has a story—and most have been forgotten.” 35:20 – Why the Top Hat MattersA nod to period fashion? Sure. A playful defiance of expectations? Absolutely. “Fun is part of the work. That’s how I keep creating.” 37:10 – Composition, Centering and the Power of Visual FramingMario explains why placement matters—from the buttons on a coat to who gets to face the viewer. “This figure doesn’t face you on purpose. It’s not about one man—it’s about many.” 39:00 – Final Reflections: Legacy, Leadership, and What EnduresFor Mario Moore, art is both an offering and an invitation. For Heidi, the piece is now part of her everyday experience—and a prompt for future leaders. “This painting lives here now. And it’s asking all of us to see differently.” Resources Mario Moore’s website: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/36688910

Facing Uncertainty as a Practice: Freedom, Presence and the Patterns We Inherit 05/09/2025

Facing Uncertainty as a Practice: Freedom, Presence and the Patterns We Inherit In a time marked by anxiety, division and disconnection, the path forward lies not in fixing the past but in expanding our freedom to imagine what’s next. In this episode of Learning Through Experience, Dr. Heidi Brooks is joined by Suzi Tucker, a writer, teacher and pioneer of Family Constellations work. Together, they explore how our personal and ancestral stories shape the patterns we repeat—and how stepping into those patterns with curiosity can help us reorient toward hope. With warmth, wisdom and respect for the unknown, Suzi shares how facing uncertainty isn’t about certainty at all—it’s about accompaniment. It’s about standing on the shoulders of those who came before us and choosing, even in fear, to take one generative step toward something more. Through stories of lineage, loss, and liberation, Heidi and Suzi offer listeners an invitation to slow down, pay attention and let learning emerge. “When I plant a seed, that's really all I have to do. I don't know what's going to come. That one generative step is enough.” —Suzi Tucker Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Show Notes & Key Moments 03:00 – A Brother Remembered, a Path Revealed Suzi recalls how the absence of her institutionalized brother shaped her and how an encounter with Bert Hellinger—founder of Family Constellations—marked a turning point. “I decided I had a freedom my mother didn’t have, and I used it. I went to meet my brother—not for him to know me, but for me to know him.” 10:16 – The Work of Freedom vs. HealingSuzi explains that her work isn’t about fixing the past—it’s about freeing people to move forward. “Healing is personal and beautiful, but not necessarily connected to something in the future. Freedom is.” 13:36 – Patterns, Habit and the Energy of StucknessHeidi and Suzi discuss how we get trapped in cycles inherited from our family systems—and how awareness opens space for choice. “Those places where I’ve done the same thing over and over again—and then I defend it, and get angry at the defense—that’s when spirit gets siphoned off.” 18:00 – Group Work, Lineage and AccompanimentSuzi reflects on what emerges in her constellation workshops—and why showing up in community can be a pathway to hope. “When I look at a group of 40, I see 4 million. I’m working not just with people, but with the lineages sitting beside them.” 24:45 – Facing Uncertainty with Ancestral SupportSuzi names the emotional reality of living in uncertain times and how drawing from lineage can be a grounding force. “I call it the lethargy of despair. But then I feel my predecessors stepping in and saying, we’ve seen this before.” 27:29 – Writing as a Practice of PossibilityFor Suzi, writing becomes a tool to move beyond fear and uncertainty. “I’m writing my path beyond the threshold of fear.” 43:23 – Constellations and a Shift in PerspectiveConstellations offer a way to step outside the chaos and view one’s story with new eyes. Heidi and Suzi discuss why representing others in a group can be transformative. “It’s not about understanding the system, but knowing there is a system—and it looks different depending on where you stand.” 48:22 – Generative Endings and Ongoing UnfoldingSuzi explains that constellations don’t end with solutions, but with new images that change the structure of how people move through life. “I picture my parents behind me, my brother beside me, and I walk forward. And I imagine them saying, We’re so glad they didn’t stay trapped in our fear.” 53:55 – Something to Sit WithHeidi closes by highlighting the invitation at the heart of this episode: not to solve uncertainty, but to meet it. “Fear is familiar. Possibility is harder to trust—but it’s there. And we can take one generative step toward it.” Resources : Explore Suzi Tucker’s website to learn about her upcoming retreats, workshops, and sign up for her newsletter. : Paradigm-shifting life prompts through the unique lens of Systemic Constellations, by Suzi Tucker. : In this thought-provoking series of dialogues, Bert Hellinger—the originator of the Family Constellation method—offers profound insights into the unseen dynamics that shape family systems. Through real-life examples and practical reflections, he explores how acknowledging hidden entanglements can unlock the path to personal and generational healing. : Drawn from a live seminar in San Francisco in 1999, this comprehensive three-part resource offers an in-depth look at applying Family Constellations in therapeutic settings. Hellinger guides viewers through the subtle patterns influencing love and relationships, illustrating how the method can reveal underlying forces at play in couples and family work. /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/36492250

America Unfiltered: Can Empathy Bridge Our Greatest Divides? 04/25/2025

America Unfiltered: Can Empathy Bridge Our Greatest Divides? How can storytelling deepen our understanding of emotional connection in turbulent times? Join Heidi Brooks for a powerful and special episode of Learning Through Experience featuring returning guest Marc Brackett, along with filmmakers Horacio Marquínez and Kirill Myltsev. Together, they explore the extraordinary journey behind their documentary, America Unfiltered: Portraits and Voices of a Nation, a film born out of curiosity, human connection and the transformative power of experience. Listen (and watch!) as they share deeply moving stories, from unexpected moments of vulnerability to profound encounters that challenge assumptions about identity, belonging, and resilience. This conversation beautifully demonstrates how art and genuine interpersonal connection serve as tools for learning, understanding and bridging divides. Don't miss this inspiring dialogue that invites us all to witness the intimate storytelling behind America Unfiltered and to see each other—and ourselves—with greater empathy, curiosity and compassion. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Show Notes & Key Moments 00:00 – Opening ReflectionDr. Heidi Brooks sets the stage by sharing how art and interpersonal dynamics help us learn deeply through experience. “Art opens us up and helps us see the world through a more expansive lens… interpersonal dynamics between us are eternally fascinating.” 03:40 – Driven by Curiosity and Need for ConnectionHoracio Marquinez shares the deep personal calling that led him to start this ambitious project during the isolation of the pandemic. “This film was driven by our heart and by our guts…I needed to see what other people were experiencing.” 05:16 – An Immigrant’s Lens: America Through Fresh EyesKirill Myltsev shares how being new to America heightened his curiosity and compelled him to explore its complexities firsthand.“You think you know the U.S., but then realize you’re in a bubble. The pandemic made me curious.” 14:04 – Moments of Unexpected VulnerabilityThe filmmakers recall a transformative encounter with a gun shop owner in Arizona, whose emotional openness set the film’s tone. “Within 15 minutes, Chris broke into tears. It solidified that this project was bigger than us.” 16:36 – America’s Emotional UnderbellyHoracio describes the raw emotional openness of the people they met. “We weren’t fishing for tears—they just came. Tears, laughter, stories about love.” 23:25 – Shattering Stereotypes, One Story at a TimeMarc Brackett emphasizes how the film breaks down stereotypes and assumptions, inviting viewers to pause and reconsider what they think they know. “All people aren’t the same. The film makes you question your assumptions.” 30:00 – A Powerful Partnership: Creative Tension as a CatalystHeidi highlights the unique partnership and chemistry between Horacio and Kirill that became integral to the film’s story. “Transparency actually brings us closer. Their relationship became its own story.” 43:22 – Portraits of AuthenticityHoracio describes the intentionality behind his powerful portraits. “I wanted people to present themselves as they wanted me to see them.” Resources Watch on , and beginning April 25 Experience more than 100 powerful portraits captured by Horacio Marquínez during their journey in the book Deepen your emotional intelligence with Marc Brackett and (re)watch/listen to his first Learning Through Experience episode: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/36299555

Joy is an Inside Job: Art, Gratitude and Cultivating Resilience 04/18/2025

Joy is an Inside Job: Art, Gratitude and Cultivating Resilience What does it take to cultivate joy—not as a fleeting feeling, but as a steady presence—even in times of deep uncertainty? In this luminous conversation, Dr. Heidi Brooks is joined by psychologist and author Emma Seppälä and artist Clara Nartey to explore the resilient, regenerative power of joy. With insights drawn from neuroscience, personal experience and artistic practice, Emma and Clara reflect on how inner sovereignty—the ability to return to center amid chaos—can help us meet the world with greater creativity, calm, and connection. From Clara’s practice of beginning each day in prayerful gratitude to Emma’s decades of meditation and breathwork, Heidi and her guests share how joy can be cultivated as a discipline of attention and care, and reflect on joy as an “inside job”—one that begins with how we treat ourselves and ripples outward in our relationships, our work and our communities. Together, they invite us to consider: What might it look like to build a “circle of delight” around ourselves and others—a nest of safety, authenticity and beauty? This episode is for anyone seeking a more rooted, soulfully sustainable way to face uncertainty—and to offer something healing to the world in return. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Resources Read "" by Emma Seppälä See Clara Nartey’s , including her “Joy of Living” installation at Yale School of Management’s Evans Hall Follow Emma’s Psychology Today blog series, “” Listen to Clara’s first Learning Through Experience conversation with Dr. Heidi Brooks: “” Show Notes & Key Moments 00:00 – Welcome Back to JoyHeidi sets the stage for a conversation about joy as a practice of resilience during uncertain times–and a shared realization that joy often appears where you least expect it. 02:14 – Boarding School, Pandemic, and the Birth of JoyClara shares how hardship shaped her commitment to joy: “You either succumb to the situation—or find a way out using joy.” 03:42 – Inner Wealth, Outer PovertyEmma reflects on cultures where joy thrives in the absence of material wealth: “You can’t put the human spirit down.” 08:45 – Training the Mind for TurbulenceEmma offers practices like breathwork and meditation as tools to cultivate resilience and unlock creativity: “The quality of your life depends on the state of your mind.” 14:35 – Art as Emotional TranslationClara describes how her joy—or pain—flows directly into her textile work, regardless of what’s visible on the surface. Both Clara and Emma speak to the mystery of creativity: “It’s like the work is asking to be made—and I’m just the channel.” 23:19 – The Trouble With Toxic PositivityThey explore the power of authenticity over forced optimism: “Sometimes the most uplifting thing is just being present through the hard stuff.” 33:37 – What Is Sovereignty?Emma defines it as reclaiming our inner space from inherited self-criticism: “You can’t unsee what you’ve seen.” 37:23 – Joy Begins With You Clara reminds us: “You can’t give joy to others from a place of emptiness.” And something to sit with: Something to sit with: “Gratitude will float you through the rushing waters.” /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/36218670

What Might Be: Navigating Paradox in Creating Microspaces of Justice 03/28/2025

What Might Be: Navigating Paradox in Creating Microspaces of Justice What if the institutions we rely on—our workplaces, schools, and legal systems—aren’t built for full participation? And what if real change starts not from the top, but in small, intentional spaces we create ourselves? In this episode Heidi Brooks and legal scholar and change-maker Susan Sturm explore the paradoxes of institutional transformation, and how facing uncertainty–rather than seeking to eliminate it–can create new possibilities for participation, collaboration and justice. Drawing from her new book, What Might Be: How Universities and Other Institutions Can Change, Susan shares how we can confront the tensions within our systems—between power and powerlessness, justice and exclusion, certainty and humility—without rushing to resolve them. Through personal stories and deep insights, she introduces the concept of micro spaces of justice—small but intentional environments where people model the institutional change they wish to see. These spaces, she argues, offer a path forward amid today’s polarization and institutional inertia. This episode invites listeners to rethink their role in shaping institutions, reimagining power, and embracing paradox as a source of transformation. Listen now and join the conversation on what might be possible. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about episode topics and questions to ponder. Resources 📘 Susan Sturm’s book: (Princeton University Press, 2025). Explore Susan’s vision for full participation and the paradoxes at the heart of institutional change. 🎭 Based on a methodology developed by Susan Sturm, Theater of Change is a collaboration between the Broadway Advocacy Coalition and Columbia Law School, bringing together law students, artists, and directly impacted individuals to co-create justice through performance and policy. 📝 Essay: “” A compelling companion essay to What Might Be, Susan Sturm offers further insight into navigating paradox in the pursuit of justice. Show Notes & Key Moments 2:15 – Holding Contradictions: Beauty, Tragedy and Institutional Change A photograph of 9/11 memorial candles sparks a key theme: learning to sit with paradox. “I find myself in spaces of contradiction all the time. The challenge is learning how to be in both places at once.” 3:24 – Three Defining ExperiencesSusan shares what led her to this work: a complex family upbringing, navigating power and powerlessness in the legal system, and a transformational collaboration with Lani Guinier. 6:13 – Why Institutions Struggle with Full ParticipationNo institution gets it right—but that doesn’t mean change isn’t possible. “The work is in moving closer, not waiting for perfection.” 9:01 – The Role of Everyday LeadershipReal change isn’t just top-down. Susan challenges listeners: What’s your role in making your workplace or community more participatory? 14:57 – Micro Spaces of Justice: Change Starts SmallInspired by Adrienne Maree Brown’s idea of fractals, these intentional spaces allow us to practice the world we want to see. “They show us what’s possible—even before the larger institution is ready.” 14:41 – Why Change Requires Practice–and Why Lawyers Struggle with this WorkTransformation isn’t a quick fix. “It takes practice, patience, and a willingness to fail forward.”Legal training reinforces certainty and authority—often at the cost of flexibility and relational intelligence. “The best lawyers, and the best leaders, learn to hold complexity.” 27:23 – The Power of Paradox: Making Sense of the Messy Middle Creating just institutions means navigating tensions that don’t have easy answers. Susan explores three key paradoxes—about power, identity, and the institutions themselves—that must be understood to drive meaningful change. 34:44 – What Can We Do? Moving from Awareness to Action Understanding these paradoxes is one thing—acting on them is another. Susan and Heidi explore concrete ways to make change, from shifting mindsets to building micro spaces of justice. 39:21 – Vulnerability as LeadershipReal growth begins when we stop fearing mistakes. “Transformation happens when people are allowed to fail safely.” 41:45 – Learning in PublicHeidi shares how she’s experimenting with vulnerability and growth in her own teaching spaces. “There’s so much here between us. We’re walking the path in real time.” /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/35908810

The Growth Curriculum: How Everyday Struggles Shape Us 03/14/2025

The Growth Curriculum: How Everyday Struggles Shape Us What if the challenges you’re facing aren’t obstacles—but invitations to grow? In this episode, Heidi Brooks and leadership expert Jennifer Garvey Berger explore how we grow through uncertainty, not just survive it. They also discuss why change is essential for leaders, how to turn everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and why embracing imperfection might be the key to thriving in an anxious world. Sharing insights from her book Changing on the Job, Jennifer talks about the power of character development, the conditions that make learning possible and the small but profound shifts that help us navigate complexity. She and Heidi unpack a paradox of leadership today—where we admire vulnerability in others but still strive for perfection ourselves. Together, they ask: What if the difficulties we encounter are actually the curriculum for our growth? Whether you're a leader facing high-stakes decisions or simply looking to approach change with more courage and curiosity, this conversation will challenge the way you think about learning, leading and transformation. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . And for additional insights and reflections about the episode topics and takeaways. Show Notes & Key Moments 2:40 – From Teaching English to Coaching LeadersJennifer shares how her early love of storytelling and character development led her to leadership coaching: "I’ve always been fascinated by how people grow and change. Now, instead of just reading stories, I get to help co-author them in real time." 5:00 – When Change Becomes UnavoidableThe most meaningful transformations happen when people recognize that their old ways of thinking no longer serve them: “My favorite experiences are when people say, ‘Hey, me—I need to be different.’” 11:30 – Work as a School for AdulthoodJennifer challenges the assumption that personal growth stops after childhood: “We hit 20, and suddenly there’s no more context for growth. But workplaces should be the schools of adulthood.” 22:00 – The Conditions That Make Learning PossibleInstead of resisting difficulties, what if we saw them as part of our learning curriculum? Growth requires both challenge and support: “Organizations know how to push people, but they often forget to create the scaffolding that helps people rise to the challenge.” 35:00 – Noticing the Invisible Forces That Shape UsThe first step in transformation isn’t action—it’s awareness: “Can I begin to notice more? The assumptions I carry? The way I react? The invisible currents shaping me?” 39:00 – Experimenting with New Ways of BeingJennifer encourages small, intentional experiments in daily leadership: “Could this meeting be a learning event? Could I approach this conversation differently?” 42:00 – The Surprising Lesson of AI & Human ConnectionHeidi and Jennifer discuss why some people find AI more “empathetic” than humans—and what that tells us about the way we show up for each other. 45:00 – The Lifelong Practice of Growth Something to sit with: “Getting behind our growth can be painful, but it’s also the greatest relief.” /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/35684570

Art as Experience: How Aesthetic Experience Fuels Creativity, Collaboration, and Wellbeing 02/28/2025

Art as Experience: How Aesthetic Experience Fuels Creativity, Collaboration, and Wellbeing Creative expression is essential for everyone—to think differently, connect deeply and thrive through uncertainty. In the Season 4 premiere of Learning Through Experience, Heidi Brooks welcomes Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen, co-authors of Your Brain on Art, for a thought-provoking conversation about how engaging with art can help shape the way we learn, collaborate and navigate life’s complexities. Ivy and Susan share their personal journeys into the worlds of art and neuroscience, revealing how aesthetic experiences, whether through music, visual art or movement, can rewire the brain, strengthen emotional wellbeing and foster connection. They explore the science behind neuroplasticity and the role of sensory engagement in daily life. This episode is an invitation to reimagine learning and leadership, inspiring listeners to embrace art—not just as a form of expression but as a tool for building resilience, expanding perspective and finding wonder in the everyday. Learning Through Experience is produced through the Yale School of Management. For deeper insights and reflections about each episode, . What resonates with you about this conversation? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to . Show Notes & Key Moments 00:00 | Welcome to Season 4: How Art Helps Us Face UncertaintyHeidi Brooks introduces the season’s theme of “facing uncertainty” and why experiences with art are essential in uncertain times. Ivy and Susan reflect on the growing impact of Your Brain on Art and the movement it has sparked. 01:54 | The Unexpected Paths to Creative ExpressionSusan shares how her twin sister's health journey inspired faith in art's healing powerand sparked her lifelong interest in art and neuroscience. Ivy recalls how growing up in a maker’s home led her to a career at the intersection of creativity, business and human potential. 08:41 | Why Experiencing Art Matters—-Even If You’re Not an ArtistSimply listening to music, viewing a painting or standing in awe of architecture can spark emotional and neurological shifts that help us feel more connected, grounded and resilient. Heidi shares her experience bringing art into leadership education at Yale. 12:22 | Unlocking Your Brain Through Sensory Experiences Susan explains how sensory experiences activate neural pathways that support memory, learning and improved mental health. The arts, she argues, are essential for cognitive and emotional well-being. 19:09 | Relearning How to Feel, Not Just ThinkIvy challenges the common belief that learning happens only through thinking, emphasizing that we are feeling beings first. They discuss why the arts should be central—not optional—in education. 30:02 | Can Art Make Us Better Collaborators? Yes.Ivy shares how incorporating art and creative exercises helped her build high-performing teams at Mattel and Google. The secret? Trust, play and shared sensory experiences. 35:56 | The Science of Group Flow: Why Shared Experiences MatterSusan and Ivy explore how teams can synchronize at a deep level. Ivy describes her experiment using sound frequencies to enhance brainstorming sessions. 43:30 | From Coping to Thriving: The Keys to FlourishingSusan breaks down what it takes to truly thrive—curiosity, awe, enriched environments and play—and how interfaces with art helps us build a capacity to thrive.. 46:52 | A Final Invitation to Notice MoreIvy offers a simple but profound takeaway: “Pay attention to what gets your attention.” Noticing what moves you is the first step toward living a more enriched and connected life. Additional Resources Your Brain on Art website: What is neuroarts? Aesthetic Mindset Index Blend of science and art improving neurological health: How the Arts Can Benefit Your Mental Health: How music and dance affect your brain and body: ‘Your Brain on Art’ explore how even bad art makes for good health: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/35472735

Introducing Season 4 of Learning Through Experience 02/26/2025

Reflecting on Season 3 of Learning Through Experience 12/23/2024

Writing For Yourself and Writing to be Read 12/20/2024

Writing For Yourself and Writing to be Read Writing has the power to transport us to the depths of the human experience – to illuminate the joys, sorrows and complexities that make us who we are. In this captivating final episode of Learning Through Experience Season Three, Amy Bloom and I explore the transformative power of the written word. Amy, an acclaimed writer and psychotherapist, shares a poignant reading from her memoir "In Love," which provides a deeply personal window into her journey with her late husband's early-onset Alzheimer's. The conversation takes us into the nuanced relationship between writing for oneself and writing for an audience, as Amy offers her thought-provoking perspective on the importance of reading diverse perspectives to enrich one's creative voice. Join us as we ponder the art of revision, strategies for creating a safe and supportive environment for student writers, and all the profound ways in which reflective writing can shape our understanding of ourselves and the human experience. Key Topics 4:16 Reading Aloud: “In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss” Amy reads a powerful excerpt from her memoir "In Love" about her husband's early-onset Alzheimer's. 9:21 The Importance of Reading Diverse Perspectives Amy discusses how reading widely, beyond one’s own experiences, has shaped her as a writer, and emphasizes the value of understanding complex human emotions and motivations to create compelling characters. 13:18 Writing for Yourself vs. Writing for Others Amy draws from insights on her process of transitioning from private writing to crafting an engaging narrative for readers. 17:36 The Art of Revision and Refinement Amy describes her approach to the writing process, including the importance of starting with a vivid moment and building from there. She also emphasizes the need for constant revision and refinement to make the writing more compelling and accessible for readers. 24:53 Creating a Safe Space for Student Writers Writing can be a struggle and failure is inherent. Amy shares her experience teaching writing and the strategies she uses to foster a supportive, yet provocative, environment for students. 32:28 The Transformative Power of Reflective Writing There can be many sides, or perspectives, to any individual story. Amy explores the value of engaging deeply with one’s own stories and examining stories from multiple perspectives, while not shying away from the less heroic or pretty aspects of personal narratives. Additional Resources : Amy turns the lens inwards in In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss, a courageous memoir that challenges: what are you willing to do for the one you love? And what is our own right to die? - NY Times NY Times - ’: For 12 years, Yiyun Li taught her writing students a story by Amy Bloom about the power, and limitations, of love. Confronting unbearable grief, she returned to it. /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/34533425

Cultivating Wonderment in Teaching and Learning 12/06/2024

Cultivating Wonderment in Teaching and Learning Imagine a world where education isn't just about information but about inspiring awe—a spark that transforms learning into discovery. This episode of Learning Through Experience envisions this future where teaching and learning are more collaborative, experiential and empowering, for instructors and students alike. As my guest Jenny Frederick, director of Yale's Center for Teaching and Learning, emphasized in our conversation: “When experiences bring the conceptual to life—like, wow, I get it now—it can be a moment of wonder." Join us as we discuss the value of embracing ambiguity and equipping students with the skills to navigate uncertainty—a crucial capacity in our rapidly changing world. Beyond theory, we explore how disciplines bring unique strengths and shadows to the learning experience. When classrooms become spaces where curiosity sparks discovery and uncertainty fuels growth, we unlock the potential for truly transformative learning. Wonder isn’t just a feeling; it’s a force that drives connection, resilience, and creativity in education and beyond. Key Topics 7:51 Broad Horizons: The Value of Diverse Education and Career Exploration Heidi and Jenny explore the value of a broad education and exploring different career paths and discuss the metaphor of structure and function in chemistry and its relevance to teaching. 14:06 Normalizing the Learning Journey: The Mission of the Center for Teaching and Learning Jenny describes the Center for Teaching and Learning's mission to connect learning support and teaching support, and its efforts to encourage help-seeking behavior and normalize the struggle of learning. 21:05 The Student-Centered Shift: Instructors as Guides in the Learning Process Heidi and Jenny discuss the shift towards more student-centered approaches in teaching, and the role of the instructor as a facilitator or guide. 28:04 Cultivating Wonderment: Designing Relevant and Shared Learning Experiences They explore the importance of creating experiences that foster relevance, interest, and room for wonder, as well as the power of shared experiences in a co-created learning environment. 36:03 Interdisciplinary Insights: Equipping Students to Handle Ambiguity Jenny highlights the benefits of interdisciplinary programs and richer conversations, and they discuss helping students develop skills for navigating uncertainty and ambiguity. 45:04 Wrestling with Complexity: Naming Conventions and Tackling Hard Questions Heidi and Jenny explore the desire for quick answers and the value of wrestling with hard questions, as well as the importance of naming and taming disciplinary conventions to create more open learning. 54:01 A Vision for Experiential and Collaborative Education They envision a future where education is more experiential and collaborative, with the goal of making centers like Yale's obsolete by empowering the community. Additional Resources /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/34317110

What If Listening Could Change Everything? 11/22/2024

What If Listening Could Change Everything? What if listening could change everything? This raw and captivating episode with guest Avi Kluger reveals how listening and the “space between” people can unlock new ways of seeing, feeling and transforming, and profoundly reshape how we lead, connect and grow. A pioneering researcher in feedback and organizational behavior, Avi shares his personal journey to understand the power of listening and its potential to unlock unexpected depths in ourselves and others. Beyond theory, he shows us the real-world stakes of genuine human connection. In a world where productivity often overshadows humanity, this conversation is a call to reimagine our workspaces and relationships as places of connection, resilience and hope. Key Topics 02:56 A Personal Journey: Growing Through Feedback Avi reflects on his early life and how the intense feedback he received from his father shaped his career and lifelong dedication to understanding the impact of feedback. 08:06 Limitations of Traditional Psychology and Statistics in Understanding Interpersonal Dynamics Avi discusses how his personal experiences led him to realize the limitations of traditional psychology and statistics in understanding interpersonal dynamics. 13:54 Creating Space for Change: Transformation Through Connection Heidi and Avi discuss the “invisible space” between people during meaningful interaction—a dynamic that invites growth, fosters transformation, and becomes a unique shared experience. 22:43 The “Togetherness” That Opens Us Avi introduces concepts like “positivity resonance” and “togetherness,” suggesting that growth occurs in a mutual space of connection, though such intimacy can be short-lived. 28:13 Feedforward vs. Feedback: A New Approach to Growth Avi describes “feedforward” as a process focused on growth and exploration rather than judgment, contrasting it with traditional feedback that often triggers defensiveness. 33:42 Listening as Developmental: The Art of Being Present Exploring methods for effective listening, Avi highlights the importance of being present and co-exploring with the other person, using specific questioning techniques to guide them in self-discovery. Additional Resources /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/34107576

Movement, Not Stasis: The Art and Journey of Kim Weston 11/01/2024

Movement, Not Stasis: The Art and Journey of Kim Weston Learning through experience is dynamic, not static. As you’ll hear in this episode with artist Kim Weston, her photography is a way of deepening understanding of ourselves and the world around us, seen and unseen. Through compelling story and image, Kim takes us on a journey where each photograph tells a story of heritage, community and spirit. As she says, “Our ancestors are with us; the people we loved in the past are still beside us, even though we can’t see them with the naked eye.” Tune in to discover how Kim’s evocative work is transforming spaces and touching lives, inviting each of us to engage, reflect and experience life through the lens of art. Key Topics 03:37 Finding Art: From the Bronx to the Museum Early experiences shape lifelong learning and creativity. Kim reflects on her childhood exposure to art in New York—immersive experiences that informed her sense of self and future as an artist. 06:25 Identity Through Art Representation in art can challenge societal norms and expand our understanding of beauty and identity. Kim describes her early fascination with the strength and diversity in Renaissance paintings. 09:31 The Power of Mentorship and Community Mentorship serves as a relational experience, shaping identity and purpose. Kim recalls formative years at Jamaica Arts Center, where mentors like Thelma Golden helped her realize the potential of her work. 10:37 A Path to Spirit Photography Personal challenges can reshape our life’s work. Kim shares the transformative impact of a health crisis, leading her to capture “spirit” and energy in her photography. 20:52 Art as Community Experience at Yale Discussion about Kim’s art installation at Yale School of Management, in a shared space where students can encounter Native American cultural expressions through the images. These works invite connection and reflection, bridging personal identity with shared experience. 27:12 Movement in Stillness: Capturing the Essence of Life Heidi reflects on the “kinetic stillness” of Kim’s photographs, which capture multiple moments in one image, creating a sensation of life in motion. Kim shares the intentional artistry behind her technique, which aims to convey both presence and spirit. 30:52 Connection, Heritage and Earth Stewardship Reflect on the spiritual, experiential aspects of learning. Kim’s art is a reminder of our collective journey. Additional Resources + + (Arts Council Greater New Haven—2022) /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/33734232

What If Art Could Transform How You Learn and Experience Life? 10/18/2024

What If Art Could Transform How You Learn and Experience Life? Learning through experience requires us to shift from the purely intellectual to a more holistic engagement. I try to create that shift by opening each of my leadership classes with some form of art—a poem, a piece of music or a visual work. It’s a way of helping my students, many of whom are management or law students, executives, or leaders in their fields, step out of their typical "brain-bound" mindset and into a space where they can let their thoughts, emotions and values guide their learning. For many, it’s an inconvenient and unfamiliar approach, but it’s exactly what I believe opens their minds and hearts to walking an unconventional path toward growth. Dr. Liliana Milkova and I share a passion for this type of experiential learning. The Nolan Curator of Education at Yale University Art Gallery, Liliana uses art to foster reflective, perspective-shifting experiences to encourage people to slow down and engage deeply with what they see and feel. Drawing on her upbringing in Bulgaria and her extensive work in art education, she shares how object-based learning can transform the way we think and connect with others. I encourage you to experience this episode by watching, versus just listening. Join us as we explore how art can shift the way we think, learn, connect and grow. Key Topics 02:19 Learning from Cultural Heritage – Growing up in Bulgaria, surrounded by historical objects, fostered Liliana’s deep connection to experiential learning, teaching her to engage with the world through observation, curiosity and reflection. 09:38 Teaching Through Art – "Teaching through art" rather than "teaching about art" catalyzes deeper, shared learning experiences—making abstract concepts more tangible through observation and personal interpretation. 14:37 Object-Based Learning – Through careful observation and multisensory experiences, learners develop critical thinking skills and form deeper connections with content. 18:00 Collaborative Learning and Perspective-Taking – Exercises like "Back-to-Back Drawing" improve communication and empathy by describing and interpreting objects from different angles. 32:39 Learning How to Learn – Developing individual strategies for processing information and engaging with experiences helps to build confidence and adapt to new situations by embracing diverse ways of thinking. 42:43 Reflection and Slowing Down – Slow down to fully engage with an object and allow time for deeper reflection. Creating space for shared insights and dialogue enhances the learning experience. Resources Object-based learning resources /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/33513422

Emotional Wisdom and the Permission to Feel 10/04/2024

Emotional Wisdom and the Permission to Feel How do different emotions impact everyday life? And what are the kinds of experiences we want and need—in the classroom, at work, and in our own developmental trajectories—to be able to deepen our emotional wisdom so we can make better decisions and have healthier relationships? In this episode of Learning Through Experience, we dig deep into feelings with Dr. Marc Brackett. As he underscored during our conversation, “We all have emotions, whether we want them or not, and they can either help us achieve our goals or derail us.” The founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and professor in the Child Study Center at Yale, Marc is on a mission to ensure everyone gets an education in emotion and learns to navigate emotion effectively. After all, emotions are not going away; we have to learn to work with them wisely. Key Topics 2:54 An Emotional Journey – Marc reflects on his childhood experiences, including bullying and abuse, and an uncle who came into his life “at the right time, at the right place, with the right context,” greatly impacting his professional trajectory. 5:55 Learning Emotion Across the Lifespan – There’s a need for emotional education at every stage of life. 9:47 Emotions in the Workplace: A New Perspective – Organizations can create spaces for emotional expression. And they must; emotions influence performance and satisfaction at work. 20:51 The RULER Framework for Emotional Intelligence – Helping people develop emotional intelligence and fosters healthier emotional interactions in relationships and workplaces 32:29 Building Connection Through Listening – Getting to know people's stories to build true emotional understanding is paramount. 34:05 Cultivating Emotional Well-being – Practical strategies for enhancing emotional well-being at work, including intentional scheduling and creating spaces where people feel appreciated and heard. 39:45 The Future of Tech and Emotional Intelligence: There’s an app for that. AI can help us track our emotions and receive personalized suggestions for emotional regulation. Additional Resources from Marc app webcast Selected /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/33328162

Learning to Learn 09/20/2024

Learning to Learn How can we overcome change and learn to create a better experience at work—for ourselves and our teams? To launch us into Season Three of Learning Through Experience, my first guest explores with me the pedagogy of hope and transformation, focusing on interpersonal and group dynamics. As Dr. Lisa Lahey aptly put it during our conversation, “When we invest in our relationships and our own development, we pave the way for a more hopeful and transformative future.” A renowned author on adult education and development, Lisa specializes in identifying personal and organizational impediments to change, and helping them unpack and understand these insights to ultimately break free of unproductive habits in order to achieve their goals. Key Topics 05:34 Formative experiences – Lisa shares two personal experiences that shaped her commitment to (and emphasized the importance of) listening and understanding group dynamics 08:06 Adult development theory – Introduction to adult development theory and its impact on personal growth 09:11 Navigating personal relationships – The challenges of balancing personal relationships and self-identity 12:13 The role of development – Emphasis on the necessity of personal development to navigate workplace challenges 16:09 Distinguishing learning and development – The difference between learning and deeper personal development 19:09 The role of others in development – How interpersonal relationships can support or hinder personal growth 30:50 Immunity to Change approach – How the immunity to change approach can help individuals and groups overcome barriers to personal and professional growth; applying the framework in the workplace 35:00 Future of work – How the evolving nature of work requires a shift in mindset toward collaboration and shared leadership Additional Resources from Lisa Vox— Brené Brown podcast episodes—Immunity to Change, and —a substantive piece linking adult development with ITC /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/33139022

Introducing Season 3 of Learning Through Experience 09/19/2024

The Need for Mindfulness, Reflection, and Inquiry in Our Busy World 07/03/2024

Learning Is A Superpower When Change Is Constant 06/19/2024

Learning Is A Superpower When Change Is Constant How can we change and transform the education system through leadership? The fosters the ideas, policies, and leadership to help all students in K-12 public schools — particularly those from underserved communities — to learn and thrive. Broad is a stellar example of the unique mission of Yale SOM: educating leaders for business and society. Since I feel connected and inspired by the mission, I appreciate how much the presence of Broad in my experience at Yale keeps me particularly connected and inspired by the noble and meaningful work of transforming the school system. In March of 2024, the Broad Fellows were part of an immersion learning experience with me. I love Broad and was inspired by the way they engaged in learning through an immersion intensive. This episode is a window into their learning experience in the interpersonal and group dynamics course. Hanseul Kang, the executive director of the Broad Center, began her journey as a Broad Fellow. The Fellowship for Public Education Leadership is a program for public education leaders dedicated to strengthening public school systems and the communities they serve. In this episode, we also hear from current : Xiomara Herman, Andrew McRae, and Jorge Robles. Key Topics: 01:48 Challenging our understanding of leadership: How the current definition of leadership is too narrow to change and transform the education system; 03:21 The limitations of defensive interpersonal dynamics: Managing complex interpersonal dynamics from a place of defensiveness or self-protection can limit leadership effectiveness; 04:49 Why the education system needs to be transformed: In addition to individual agency, there are structural forces that play a large part in the reality of many learners; 09:59 Building range and expanding leadership capacity: The hope and challenge of learning through experience; 13:30 Directing your learning as a leader: When you need to change and transform people, systems, and possibilities, it's not just about pedagogy, transaction, or expertise- it’s also about your aspirations and how you show up; 20:35 Transforming the education sector: Reflecting and inquiring about the education sector and ways of learning that hold individuals as capable of growing as human beings. Additional Resources /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/31807857

Reflective Practice Through Writing 05/29/2024

Find A Way… Letting Life Experience Call You in 05/15/2024

Find A Way… Letting Life Experience Call You in This season we've been taking on HOW to learn through experience which fundamentally challenges the brain-bound assumption that learning starts and stays in the brain. We aren't so great at honoring the wisdom, expertise, and leadership that emerges from lived experience, but our own life may guide us – especially if we tap into learning practices, like reflection and challenging our perspective. My guest on this episode is a shining example of widely acknowledged wisdom and leadership gained primarily through powerful life experience. You will hear how he came to take risks without the fear of failing, and a good dose of learning through reflection in the company of others. Erik Clemons is co-founder of the Connecticut Community Outreach and Revitalization Program (ConnCORP) designed to explore and implement opportunities for economic development and investment in New Haven. In all his work creating systems and community change, he has found that before any transformation of others takes place, you need to be personally transformed. Erik Clemons is a natural storyteller- and his story of transforming himself and creating transformation for and with others is a joy to experience. Key Topics: 03:49 Becoming through experience: Learning the world and teaching yourself – Erik’s story of learning and becoming through experience; 10:56 From mail handler to executive director: Knowing who you are and understanding who you want to be; 15:33 The Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology: How Erik’s lived experience equipped him to understand and serve his community; 18:47 Failure as part of learning: To be truly innovative and able to create change, you need to be willing to take risks; 20:22 Transforming a major artery in New Haven: Listening to community members to create service, beauty, and dignity in a community that deserved it; 27:02 Unconscious competence: Believing in your own capacity and using all of your lived experience to find a way; 29:10 Changing systems and supporting communities: We can’t transform community unless we are willing to be transformed by community; 36:04 The power of hope: Hope is what allows striving to happen. Additional Resources from Erik Podcast episode: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/31305777

Learning through The Extended Mind 04/17/2024

Learning through The Extended Mind Since this season of the podcast is all about the HOW of learning through experience, I wanted to talk to Annie Murphy Paul who basically wrote the book on learning outside the brain. She’s the author of several books, and I love to talk with people after they have had a chance to learn through the experience of their book being out in the world. In this episode, we focus on The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain. Her book challenges the perspective that brain-bound cognition is the best way to learn. There are so many great nuggets in this book and in this conversation with Annie. She adds quite a bit to the conversation about HOW to extend our learning capacity beyond the brain. The brain evolved for survival in a very different era to the one we live in today, and the tasks our brains evolved to solve are so different from the tasks we are expected to do now. To more fully utilize our learning potential, we can extend the mind by utilizing the body, physical spaces, relationships with other people, and material objects. Key Topics: 00:45 Challenging our perspective regarding social and emotional learning: As children, we are encouraged to learn from and through our environment. However, we are expected to put this kind of learning aside as we get older; 07:05 The limitations of the human brain: Understanding that the brain evolved for survival in a different era is crucial to changing the education system and preparing students for the modern world; 09:58 Bringing the body into learning: Moving the body to build range and enhance our cognitive abilities; 17:34 Restoring our attentional resources: We have a finite supply of attention, we can restore this by spending time in outdoor spaces; 24:41 Designing interior spaces to support effective thinking: We can use certain objects, symbols, and signs to extend our thinking, evoke a certain version of ourselves, and direct our learning; 33:34 Extending our thinking through experiencing people: Learning again as adults how to experience people around us as an individual and as a group. Additional Resources from Annie: Book: Website: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/30862978

The Power of Art to Cultivate Joy 03/27/2024

The Power of Art to Cultivate Joy I love how art can take us on a journey to another way of seeing things. And, I don’t think I’m alone in thinking that the human condition is a little rough and rocky these days — so I feel drawn to opportunities to cultivate joy. In my role as Chair of the Art Committee at Yale School of Management, I have the chance to impact the space through the iconography on the walls. I wanted to do something real and uplifting. Then I met Clara Nartey and experienced her work. I am delighted to welcome her to this podcast so others can hear about her perspective and process. In this episode, we speak about art as a reflective practice, the impact of art on education, and the power of art to encourage discussion and change minds. Clara encourages us to explore art as a means of reflection and a way to navigate difficult topics and conversations that we may have otherwise avoided. The Joy of Living Exhibit at the Yale School of Management is a permanent exhibit by artist Clara Nartey. Clara is a textile artist and former management consultant, her exhibit at Yale is a reflection of her experience of the pandemic, and it has become a part of the context and fabric of the experience of this building. Key Topics: 04:10 Finding your way through experience: Challenging our perspective around difficult experiences and allowing them to become learning opportunities that lead us to courageous leaps. 10:02 The journey of becoming an artist: Learning through and from opportunities as they come to you in life, stretching and building range from them. 14:50 Creativity and self-reflection during the pandemic: Reflecting on what life means and creating art and joy from that place of reflection. 17:25 Art as a reflective practice: Being in a relationship with the creative process, directing your learning, and letting the work speak to you and evolve. 19:19 The power of art to change minds: There is a stretching of mind, heart, and spirit that happens through perceiving human issues through the arts. Learn more: /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/30533703

What Legacy Do We Want to Leave Behind? Practices To Access The Best of You 02/28/2024

What Legacy Do We Want to Leave Behind? Practices To Access The Best of You In this first episode of season two, I talk with Tracee Stanley about how to have an experience of yourself through skilled and intentional rest, self-inquiry, and aligned learning. This season is about how we learn through experience using 4 core practices: Challenging your perspective, stretching and building range, directing your learning, and reflection and inquiry. Tracee’s way of working is a deep way to learn through experience—listen to hear how our conversation touches on all four of these practices that might just change your life. Tracee Stanley, a yoga teacher and bestselling author who transitioned from a successful filmmaking career in Hollywood to teaching Yoga Nidra and self-inquiry, challenges conventional ideas surrounding work culture and productivity by emphasizing the need for balance, rest, and reflection so we can leave a greater legacy behind us. Key Topics: 01:24 Learning through experience to honor a less conventional path: From successful Hollywood filmmaker to yoga teacher; 08:03 Experience can offer a thread to yourself: There is a difference between knowing the self and coming into the self. Certain practices can help us peel back the layers of who we are not. 10:17 Experience opens a door: How the experience of rest practice opened new possibilities 16:30 Challenging your perspective: Understanding yourself, experimenting, and learning what you truly want; 19:11 Stretching and building range: Asking questions that allow you to learn through experience and make shifts towards what you want; 25:27 Directing your learning: Using intentional rest and the space of the liminal to capture what you already know; 28:45 Reflecting and inquiring: What legacy do we want to leave behind? How attachment, aversion, and fear are keeping us from intentionally resting and leaving a legacy of exhaustion behind us. 37:09 The group is more powerful than the individual: How community can help support you as you shift old patterns and learn through experience. Additional Resources from Tracee Stanley Practice: Website: Books: | /episode/index/show/c8893ed7-043f-48cc-88c6-814b3c87d7cc/id/30152888

Introducing: Season 2 of Learning Through Experience 02/27/2024

A Reflection on Season 1 01/10/2024

Maybe You Can Go Home Again 12/06/2023

Learning Through Experience

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