One thing that many alumni and students will say upon reflecting on the merits of their Veritas education is: "I learned how to carry on a good conversation."

It's true that the art of conversing may be dwindling in our culture. Being able to relate to others well in a variety of situations - and engage on a breath of topics - is a skill that is deeply appreciated by others, and beneficial for ourselves, too.

Especially now, coming into the holidays when we find ourselves in an array of social settings with family, friends, and even strangers, being equipped with the mindset and skills for good conversation will make Christmas gatherings all the more pleasant for everyone.

Our host, Head of School Ty Fischer, is joined in this episode of Veritas alumni Jesse Brooks and Dean of Students and Omnibus/Rhetoric teacher Graham Dennis to talk about what makes for a good conversation, and how we can help cultivate in ourselves and our children the desire and skill to carry on good conversation.

After all, that a big part of what we're doing at Veritas – fostering students who can listen well and speak thoughtfully on topics that truly matter, and who excel at relating with one another in Christ because they've been trained regularly in talking around the table.

This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers, a wealth management firm located at North Pointe Blvd. in Lancaster, PA, leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.