In this episode, host Beth Cougler Blom talks with Gwyn Wansbrough about how to design and facilitate online sessions that are energizing rather than exhausting. Gwyn shares strategies for crafting engaging virtual learning environments and explains the importance of preparation, intentionality, and creating space for connection.

Beth and Gwyn also talk about:

• Why online sessions often feel draining and how to shift that experience
• The power of designing for every moment, from the waiting room to the closing
• Using music, prompts, and personal greetings to build early connection
• Gwyn's Breakthrough Arc framework for session design
• How embracing uncertainty creates the conditions for magic

Engage with Gwyn Wansbrough

• Website: https://www.gwynwansbrough.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwynwansbrough/
• Gwyn's Breakthrough Arc
• Gwyn's Online Engagement Scorecard

Links From the Episode

• Priya Parker
• Partners for Youth Empowerment
• Cam Houser
• Brett Macdonald
• Dream a Dream
• EP 13 Experimenting with Experiential Learning with Romy Alexandra
• Wayi Wah! Indigenous Pedagogies by Jo Chrona
• Kelly Terbasket, IndigenEYEZ
• Royal Roads University, Centre for Teaching and Educational Technologies
• Instructional Skills Workshop
• BOPPPS Model (as described by the University of Saskatchewan)
• Beth's upcoming book, Everyday Acts of Facilitation
• Michael Bungay Stanier
• StreamAlive
• OBS
• Said Saddouk
• Jan Keck

Connect with the Facilitating on Purpose podcast:

• Follow Facilitating on Purpose on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube
• Show notes available at facilitatingonpurpose.ca

Connect with Host Beth Cougler Blom:

• Give feedback or suggest upcoming show topics or guests at [email protected]
• Visit bcblearning.com to explore Beth's company's services in facilitation and learning design
• Purchase a copy of Beth's book, Design to Engage
• Follow Beth on Instagram or LinkedIn

Podcast production services by Mary Chan of Organized Sound Productions