“If you want to get something done in this world that transcends what’s already happening, you have to be willing to listen to the people that are trying to hold dearly to how it has been. Become a master bridge builder. Be committed to asking questions such that you understand where the commonality is. Find the common points.” Jennifer Hough on Electric Ladies Podcast

At the end of a year where every country and neighborhood seems more divided than ever, and many of us feel like we’re walking on eggshells in every conversation, we’ve found ourselves in uncharted terrain. How can we prevent tightly held agendas, biases and self-interests - conscious or unconscious ones - from derailing meaningful interactions, whether at a dinner table or in the workplace?

In my final episode of the year, I’m revisiting a powerful interview with Jennifer Hough, author of “Unstuck,” TEDx speaker and advisor to leaders. In this interview, Jennifer draws on the laws of physics to offer insights into “regenerative conversations” – where we walk away more informed and empowered.  

One key takeaway: asking someone “What is important to you?” helps you understand their deepest values and frame conversations in ways that build bridges, not walls. Whether as a parent preparing for a new school year, a professional leading a team, or simply someone looking to strengthen your personal and professional relationships, this episode is filled with actionable wisdom to help you connect more effectively.

You’ll hear about:

• How to listen differently to the climate deniers and others afraid of (any) change.
• What “cognitive dissonance” is and how to transform it.
• How to talk about climate change in a way that builds bridges.
• How to incentivize people to see solutions differently.

*BONUS* Set yourself up for success in the year ahead

As highlighted in my latest piece in Forbes, 2025 holds tremendous potential for women. To seize these opportunities, it’s essential to own the space you occupy, own your knowledge and own your expertise. 

As we wrap up 2024, I’m leaving you with powerful career advice from Jennifer:

• Be clear about who you are and your purpose.
• Work with a mentor or guide to develop both personal and practical skills.
• Let go of the need to do everything yourself. Accept help at a deeper level than you may be used to, and never stop seeking support.

“‘What’s the greatest thing that you can do with the skill sets you already have that might leave you feeling fulfilled, that you went to bed that night knowing that you did what you came to the planet for and you woke up in the morning excited about getting up?” Jennifer Hough on Electric Ladies Podcast

Read Joan’s Forbes articles here.

You'll also like:

• Jill Tidman, Executive Director of The Redford Center, a nonprofit that produces and support environmentally-focused documentaries and media, on how to talk about climate change.
• Dr. Emma O’Brien, Founder of the Global Scrub Choir and Head of Music Therapy at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, on how music builds bridges and how they use it to communicate about the public health issues related to climate change.
• Ann Friedman, Founder and CEO of Planet Word Museum, about the power of language and how we communicate across various media and formats.
• Paula Glover, President of the Alliance to Save Energy, on how talking about – increasing – energy  efficiency helps build bridges to solutions to mitigating climate change.
• Rachel McCleery, Senior Advisor, Treasury Dept. Inflation Reduction Act Program, on how to leverage the IRA to save money reducing a building or business’s energy use and carbon footprint.

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