Why “Hola” is Easy!

In Mexico last week, we “hola”-ed everywhere and conversation flowed. With a friendly “Hola”, interacting with new people became easy. What is it about travelling that opens us to conversing with strangers? How might we incorporate a “traveler” mentality into our daily interactions? Oh, to be on vacation all the time! Yes, time was on … Read more

Key Questions to Paint Reality and Win

Ahead of strategic planning for a new year, we assess last year’s successful or not so fruitful endeavors. We check in with our partners and decide if and how we might move forward. Usually this happens before the year ends. In my case, I’m reviewing partnerships now. The quickest way to start the conversation is … Read more

The Conversation Café Unleashed

Last July my husband and I attended our first TEDxMileHigh conference, “Make + Believe”. The experience was awe-inspiring. The dynamic speakers gave us much to digest and mull over that truly our brains ached. During the breaks Jay and I headed outside for fresh air, Italian sodas (thank you Backyard Soda Company) and, most importantly, … Read more

The Non-Doing of Conversation

My anxiety increases in the morning when I’m late starting my “to do’s”. The business list feels massive. Non-work demands fight for attention as well: book my daughter’s flight home, send the invitation copy for my niece’s wedding lunch, RSVP to the school event whose information is buried somewhere amidst the digital correspondence. No wonder … Read more

Relish: A Mix of Host and Guest

A conversational Relish contains thoughtful interactions between hosts and guests.  Delicious exchanges hinge on how each role is played. As host… it’s important to relish whoever is joining you at the table: co-workers, friends, family, acquaintances, fellow volunteers, loved ones, for example. If you’re entertaining employees, it’s almost more crucial to be fully present. A normally … Read more

Your Favorite “Must Eat Before You Die” Food

Or, Where’s the Dark Chocolate Sea-Salted Caramel?  I found a really good book today and bought it on impulse, 1000 Foods to Eat Before You Die by Mimi Sheraton! What fun to peruse and discover the world through my stomach! I started glancing at some of the suggestions of the “must eat’s”: Boston Baked Beans, … Read more

Will an Appetizer be Enough? Certainly with Conversation

A healthy thought-out menu, one prepared ahead, let’s a host enjoy the guests and be fully present during the meal…no slaving over the stove with guests watching and waiting for your attention!   Asking guests to contribute to the meal is also a helpful option. Tonight I’m bringing some asparagus wrapped in puff pastry, baked and … Read more