More Praise for The Art of Convening
“Patricia and Craig’s book will bring a deeper level of joy and meaning into your conversations, your gatherings, and your life.”
—Dr. Mark Albion, author of Making a Life, Making a Living and former Harvard Business School professor
“As a longtime ‘meeting hater,’ I found the Neals’ book a mind-opener.”
—Peter Barnes, cofounder, Working Assets, and author of Capitalism 3.0
“Simple and yet profound. A book that gets to the heart of what it means to be an authentic leader.”
—Richard Barrett, author of Building a Values-Driven Organization
“This book is a clear way forward for leaders—not only to great meetings but into solid relationships, big solutions, and meaningful work.”
—Elizabeth Becker, President and CEO, Professional BusinessWomen of California
“This book is timely, practical, and filled with wisdom.”
—Alan Briskin, coauthor of The Power of Collective Wisdom
“Incorporate the principles and practices of this book knowing happiness is a measurable indicator of smart business and good living.”
—Chip Conley, Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, Joie de Vivre
“This book offers us an indispensable tool, like a flashlight or Swiss Army knife on a camping trip, to take everywhere.”
—Aryae Coopersmith, founder and CEO, HR Forums
“An inspiring and practical book to show us the way.”
—Bruce Cryer, CEO, HeartMath
“An elegant, practical guide on how to create and hold space for people in a manner that ignites deep engagement and exploration.”
—Mary Jo Kreitzer PhD, founder and Director, Center for Spirituality and Healing, University of Minnesota
“If you want to learn how to lead successful gatherings, skim The Art of Convening. If you want to learn how to lead transformational gatherings, read it from cover to cover.”
—Deb Nelson, Executive Director, Social Venture Network
“Turn ‘meetings’ of the sort we complain about into the live and engaging encounters that real living requires.”
—Parker J. Palmer, author of A Hidden Wholeness and Let Your Life Speak
“The Neals bring groups, even contentious ones, to deep truths and positive commitment in relatively short times.”
—Michael Ray, Professor of Creativity and Innovation, Emeritus, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and author of The Highest Goal
“The nuggets of wisdom will stay with you for a long time as you practice its art form in creating meaningful and profound conversations.”
—Ann Schrader, Chief Operating Officer, HealthEast Care System
“This book is a trustworthy guide for anyone who wishes to serve powerful gatherings and the emergence of true community.”
—David Sibbet, founder, The Grove Consultants International, and author of Visual Meetings
“The clear, articulation of the ‘technology of relationships’ in this book opens the door for authentic engagement in any encounter.”
—Lynne Twist, author of The Soul of Money and President, Soul of Money Institute
“The authors have done for convening what Julia Child did for the art of French cooking—they have created the definitive and authoritative guide for mastering the art of convening. Bon appétit!”
—Eric Utne, founder, Utne Reader
“The Art of Convening outlines, in detail, the principles and practical application of convening we used on our road to success.”
—David Wagner, Owner and Daymaker, Juut Salonspa, and author of Life as a Daymaker
“Seldom have I encountered such depth of wisdom and clarity of process presented with such a gentle, inviting spirit.”
—Margaret J. Wheatley, author of Leadership and the New Science
Full versions of these endorsements and additional endorsements can be found at http://heartlandcircle.com/aocendorsements.htm.