This is a recording from a recent talk I delivered exploring the concept of communities of practice and their significance in organisations. I draw on personal experiences and key characteristics of communities of practice.

I provide real-world examples, such as the Xerox Project Eureka and the 70-20-10 learning principle, illustrate the power of collective knowledge and social learning.

00:00 Introduction

00:40 Defining Community

01:16 Personal Experiences with Community

05:04 Understanding Communities of Practice

09:33 The Power of Collective Knowledge

16:10 Challenges and Benefits of Communities of Practice

18:06 Stages of Community Development

20:41 The Role of Community Support

21:14 Challenges in Community Engagement

22:03 The 99-9-1 Rule in Communities

24:45 Increasing Community Engagement

25:31 Leveraging Influence in Communities

32:55 Case Studies and Practical Examples

36:16 Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

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We delve into the science of play in facilitation with special guest Brandon Wetzstein. Discover how play, especially through LEGO Serious Play, transforms adult behaviour and enhances creativity, collaboration, and connection in team settings.

Learn about the surprising benefits of incorporating playful elements into serious work environments and how they can lead to better ideas and stronger team dynamics. Brandon shares personal stories of breakthroughs and offers practical advice on making workplaces more engaging and productive through play.

00:00 Introduction

03:05 The Importance of Play in the Workplace

06:59 Exploring LEGO Serious Play

08:31 The Power of Play in Team Building

15:58 The Origins and Impact of LEGO Serious Play

22:46 Virtual LEGO Serious Play: Challenges and Rewards

24:17 The Power of Hands in Communication

25:05 Using Hands to Unlock Subconscious Ideas

26:18 The Magic of LEGO in Workshops

27:10 Adults Are Just Giant Kids

27:58 Favourite Icebreakers and Energisers

30:48 The Importance of Play in Serious Settings

32:57 Transforming Group Dynamics with Play

38:47 The Future of Work: Analogue Tools and Connection

45:47 Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Brandon Wetzstein

Founder and Chief Play Officer (IN8 Create)

Brandon is driven by a passion to reshape the way we collaborate. In a world brimming with digital tools and automation, he's convinced that our real strength lies in how well we work together. With this belief, he founded IN8 Create, aiming to unearth the hidden potential in all of us. Given the right tools, environment, and support, Brandon believes we can reach incredible heights, enriching our lives, relationships, and communities.

Links:

https://in8create.com

https://herdingsqurrels.com

https://linkedin.com/in/brandonwetzstein

Emily Gardner — trainer, speaker, and author of The Path of the Guide — discusses how to unpack what facilitation really means in 2025 and beyond.

00:00 Introduction

02:38 Emily's Journey into Facilitation

05:32 The Importance of Facilitation

14:25 Practical Tips for Aspiring Facilitators

23:24 Favorite Facilitation Techniques

27:31 Handling Conflict in Facilitation

34:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Emily Gardner

Website: https://www.emilyfacilitates.com/

Book: https://amzn.eu/d/9zVN6ny

We explore the power of creating trust in facilitation.

Michelle Tillis Letterman, an expert on workplace communications and relationships, named by Forbes as one of the top 25 networking experts.

Michelle shares key insights on the importance of connection, especially in a tech-driven and post-COVID world. We discuss the concept of 'mood memory,' the challenges of attention span in communication, and strategies to keep audiences engaged during meetings and workshops.

Michelle emphasises the need for trust and vulnerability in leadership and facilitation, and she introduces her 'seven mindsets' to grow influence and impact. Practical tips on small talk, recognition, and effective communication styles for diverse groups are also shared.

00:00 Introduction

02:51 The Power of Connection

03:22 Challenges of Modern Communication

05:01 Strategies for Effective Communication

11:04 Understanding Different Learning Styles

17:17 Building Trust in the Workplace

20:15 Mastering Small Talk

22:13 Connecting Through Animals and News

23:06 Fun Hypotheticals and Advice Questions

24:25 The Power of Mood Memories

27:05 Parenting and Management Parallels

29:32 Authentic Recognition in Workshops

31:33 Transformative Stories of Connection

35:03 The Fascination with Connection

37:58 A Superpower to Improve Workplace Communication

39:32 The Connected Leader Course

42:03 Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Michelle Tillis Letterman

https://michelletillislederman.com/

Jan Keck shares the transformation from traditional icebreakers to the more effective concept of 'ice melting' for fostering genuine connections.

The conversation delves into techniques for initiating meaningful dialogue, the importance of vulnerability in group settings, and the impact of cultural differences on facilitation.

Learn practical tips for enhancing virtual and in-person meetings, the evolving role of AI in facilitation, and how to make networking more impactful.

00:00 Introduction

01:47 The Art of Facilitation

03:19 Journey into Facilitation

05:27 The Power of Vulnerability

11:00 The Impact of Remote Work

13:38 Mastering Small Talk

16:57 Deep Conversations and Meaningful Connections

22:11 The Challenge of Interesting Updates

24:51 Setting the Tone in Conversations

26:32 The Icebreaker Dilemma

28:34 Ice Melting vs. Ice Breaking

30:59 Facilitation Challenges and Cultural Insights

38:18 The Future of Facilitation in the Age of AI

41:11 Final Thoughts and Superpower Wishes

43:59 Connecting and Engaging with Jan

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Jan Keck

Connect with Jan

www.jankeck.com

www.linkedin.com/in/jankeck/

Curious about how a murder mystery can enhance team dynamics and business skills?

Imtiaz and Lewis, creators of the Murder Mystery Experience Workshop, share how they turned a fun idea into a transformative commercial success using gamification.

They explore the nuances of engaging storytelling, real-life scenario simulations, and the power of personalised learning to address modern workplace challenges.

00:00 Introduction

02:23 Favorite Childhood Games

03:18 Imposter Syndrome as a Superpower

04:49 The Murder Mystery Experience

06:49 The Popularity of Murder Mysteries

10:53 Creating Realistic Storylines

16:56 Challenges and Evolution of the Workshop

19:40 The Power of Live Performance

20:21 Exploring Gamification

21:35 The Science Behind Gamification

24:31 Hybrid Work Challenges

27:31 Reconnecting Teams

30:00 Workshop Dynamics

32:06 Creating Immersive Experiences

37:33 Future Plans and Innovations

41:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Want to Bring the Experience to Your Team?

If you’re intrigued by what you’ve heard in this episode, looking to break down team silos, reconnect or re-energise your team, or just have a damn good time. visit the Kilts and Kente website and complete the contact form, or reach out directly to Lewis and Imtiaz on LinkedIn.As a special bonus, use the discount code Anna Litics when booking to unlock an exclusive offer!

https://www.kiltsandkente.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-james-carroll/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/imtiazkaderbhoy2/

Explore unconventional approaches to facilitation and creativity with guest Rach Davis. We discuss the importance of finding inspiration outside traditional fields, the concept of cross pollination, and how it enhances workshop design.

The conversation delves into specific facilitation techniques, the impact of tools like Butter, and the strategic use of AI in workshops.

Rach shares entertaining anecdotes from San Antonio and valuable facilitation tips, such as using Lego Serious Play and the 'full body yes.'

The episode is filled with practical insights for anyone looking to elevate their facilitation skills.

00:00 Introduction

01:14 Meet Rach Davis

01:35 The Creative Weirdo

02:19 Superpower of Cross-Pollination

03:44 San Antonio Stories

08:24 Journey into Facilitation

14:49 Creative Workshop Activities

20:47 Creating a Safe Space for Ideas

21:22 The Power of a Smile in Workshops

23:15 Full Body Yes: Understanding Physical Reactions

24:38 Exploring Tools for Facilitation

27:39 Using AI in Workshops

31:57 Innovative Workshop Techniques

32:47 Abolishing the 'Always Done This Way' Mentality

34:21 Concise Communication with Balance

36:16 Recommended Books and Resources

37:34 Connecting and Upcoming Sessions

39:15 Conclusion and Farewell

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Rach Davis

Meet Rachel, a Workshop Experience Designer and Facilitator who runs her own business as an independent consultant. With almost 20 years of strategy and workshopping experience, she's a firm believer that play is the doorway to our wildest ideas. Coming from an environment where being creative was like pulling teeth, she now helps others move past blockers to creative problem solving by crafting workshop experiences infused with joy and energy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachdavis/

https://www.rachdavis.com/

https://bento.me/rachdavis

We explore the unique intersection of doodling, creativity, and facilitation with artist and coach Karen Light.

Karen shares her experiences on how doodling activates multiple learning centers in the brain and can foster deeper connections in both educational and corporate settings.

We discuss the transformative power of play and creativity, Karen's personal journey with doodling, and practical ways to incorporate doodling into facilitation and coaching sessions.

00:00 Introduction

01:58 Karen Light's Artistic Journey

02:57 The Power of Doodling

05:53 Personal Story: Discovering Doodling

08:40 Incorporating Doodling into Work

10:12 Interactive Doodling Exercise

21:23 Facilitation Techniques and Personal Insights

22:20 Group Doodling Activities

24:03 Doodling for Engagement and Creativity

26:35 Neurodiversity and Executive Function

28:43 Practical Doodling Tips

31:16 The Importance of Creativity in Education

36:41 Transformative Power of Art

39:56 Creating Inspiring Work Environments

43:52 Connecting and Wrapping Up

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Karen Light

Karen Light is a multi-passionate Creative, Artist, and Neurodiversity Advocate dedicated to helping others activate their creativity and embrace their unique minds. As the founder of Studio Light Illustration, she illustrates books for self-publishing authors and creates meaningful, mixed-media art. She also runs HowDoodle, a Creative Productivity Coaching company supporting neurodiverse individuals in harnessing their strengths. With a background in art, education, and executive function coaching, Karen empowers both creatives and non-creatives to unlock their potential. She holds a BFA (Xavier University), an MA in Cultural Management (City University London), and coaching certifications from Transformation Academy and the Academy of Modern Applied Psychology.

https://www.howdoodle.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Dr Tammy Watchorn, a prolific author and former NHS project manager, to discuss her latest book, The Change Ninja Returns. Tammy shares her journey from leading change in the health service to applying change management principles in her personal life.

She highlights the importance of understanding the neuroscience behind change and offers practical tools for effective change management. We explore her unique approach of using humour and gamification in her books to make the concepts more engaging.

Tammy also talks about the impact of AI on the workplace and the importance of focusing on human skills development as technology evolves.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Meet the Author: Tammy's Journey

01:45 The Concept of Change Ninja

02:43 Challenges in the Health Services

04:35 Writing the First Book: The Change Ninja Handbook

08:40 Gamification and Personal Change

09:27 Workplace Innovation Stories

16:31 Personal Life and Change Management

21:46 Neuroscience Behind Change

24:11 Understanding the Brain's Response to Change

26:26 The Role of Data in Decision Making

28:46 Facilitation Tips for Effective Workshops

33:23 The Impact of AI on the Workplace

41:21 Eliminating Time-Wasting Activities

45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Janna Bastow, co-founder of Mind the Product and ProdPad, shares her journey of becoming a product manager, launching the world's largest community for product people, and the challenges of transitioning to entrepreneurship.

From unexpected career paths to understanding key skills for success in product management, Janna provides invaluable insights and practical tips for anyone looking to break into product management.

The conversation delves into product discovery, the impact of AI in product management, and the importance of aligning product goals with business needs. Jana also discusses the unique challenges of curating events and scaling a community from a small gathering to a global phenomenon.

00:00 Introduction to the World's Largest Product Community

01:03 Superpower: Connecting the Dots in Product Management

02:07 Journey into Product Management: Accidental Beginnings

04:51 Defining the Role of a Product Manager

06:03 Skills for Success in Product Management

09:40 Breaking into Product Management: Tips

17:17 Balancing Customer Needs and Business Goals

21:54 The Importance of Product Discovery

25:27 The Birth of Mind the Product

28:20 The Growth of a Product Community

31:02 Building a Community and Selling Out Events

37:30 Founding ProdPad: From Idea to Execution

43:24 Integrating AI in Product Management

48:23 Reflections and Future Outlook

Janna Bastow

Janna Bastow is the inventor of the Now-Next-Later roadmap and is co-founder and CEO of ProdPad, product management and roadmapping software for product people. Janna is also co-founder of ProductTank and Mind the Product, the global community of product managers. She often starts and stops conversations with the question: “What problem are you trying to solve?”

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe