Empathy Circles: A Practical Method for Exiting the Drama Triangle
Speaker: Edwin Rutsch (10 min)
To Video, Summary, AI, Outline, Full Transcripts
Bio: Edwin Rutsch, Founding Director of The Empathy Center, is a passionate activist for the global empathy movement, a creative developer of empathy-based practices, and a tireless developer and champion of the Empathy Circle. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Empathy Circles: A Practical Method for Exiting the Drama Triangle
Abstract: Many of the criticisms of empathy say it leads us into the Drama Triangle of Persecutor, Victim, and Rescuer roles. They have it all wrong. In this talk, I’ll share how Wholistic Empathy — and the Empathy Circle process — actually help us step out of the drama and into genuine connection.
How Empathy and the Empathy Circle practice changed my life.
Speaker: Alissa Stover (15 min)
Bio: Alissa Stover is a Product Manager on social impact tech, with a circuitous route via professional dance and data science but always guided by empathy.
Topic: How Empathy and the Empathy Circle practice changed my life.
Abstract: Empathy can seem like a small act in the day to day, but when practiced over time snowballs into major impact on one’s life and those connected to you through family, work, and other ways. I will share how I first became fascinated with empathy and Empathy Circle and how this practice has changed my life, from pivoting career paths to the right fit for me to breaking patterns of intergenerational trauma as a parent.
Article: How a simple concept changed my life: Why empathy is a core skill that comes with incredible benefits
Empathy Circle Online Training: Providing Relief and Hope Around the World
Speaker: Bill Filler (15 min)
Bio: Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages of rover 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Empathy Circle Online Training: Providing Relief and Hope Around the World
Abstract: The Participants in our July 2025 online training were from around the world. It included people from Pakistan, India, Turkey, Sweden, and different parts of the United States. These were men and women, people of different ages, religions and spiritual beliefs, and differently abled people. What we learned was that no matter these differences, everyone benefits from being heard and understood.
Exploring Self-Empathy in Empathy Circles
Speaker: Tina Jones (15 min)
Bio: Tina Jones is a highly skilled professional in conflict resolution, holding a master's degree in Conflict Analysis and Dispute Resolution. She specializes in training and facilitating Empathy Circles. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Exploring Self-empathy in Empathy Circles
Abstract: Navigating the intersection of self-empathy, intrapersonal conflict, and nonviolent communication (NVC) in the Empathy Circle process. My journey highlights the importance of being gentle with ourselves and listening to our inner voices. The Empathy Circle process allows us to reconnect with any emotional detachment we may experience. By embracing the principles of NVC in our thoughts and feelings, we create pathways for understanding and healing. The compassionate dialogue found in Empathy Circles helps us clarify our emotions and fosters a deeper connection with ourselves.
Empathy Cafes at Petaluma Conversations
Speaker: Lou Zweier (15 min)
Bio: Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership Center. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Crossing Social and Political Divides with Empathy Circle Practice
Abstract: Petaluma Conversations is a public listening project that uses Empathy Circle practice to support bridging social and political divides and building capacity in the community to listen to difference. Learn about how it began, how it works, and what the benefits have been.
Chapter Organizations + Empathy Circles
Speaker: Zak Wear (15 min)
Bio: Zak Wear is an Empathy Circle Facilitator Trainer and Founder of PotluckAction.com, the Empathy Circle app. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Chapter Organizations + Empathy Circles
Abstract: Empathy Circles are revolutionizing how people can organize change together. With Empathy Circles, you don't need to be a politician, nor an expert, to comfortably negotiate with people who have different opinions or political views. We'll explore how any local chapter organization can take advantage of Empathy Circles.
Extending Empathy Circles with NVC and IFS
Speaker: Veronica Wolfe (15 min)
Bio: As an experienced coach and a seasoned corporate and community leader, Veronica specializes in the areas of emotional intelligence (EQ), change, and transitions, and is on a mission to empower individuals, groups, and teams to foster resilience and empathy while effectively taking action in the face of personal and professional changes and challenges. Professional training and certifications in executive, life, and grief coaching, combined with her profound personal journey as a bereaved mom, enable her to empathetically and productively support others in the areas of leadership, EQ, and emotional regulation. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: Extending Empathy Circles with NVC and IFS
Abstract: In our rapidly changing world, the power of empathy has never been more essential. In empathy circles we engage in structured, respectful dialogues, creating a safe space for participants to share their stories, listen deeply, and develop a sense of mutual empathy. Together we’ll explore how to extend the foundational power of empathy circles by including the ‘feelings and needs’ element of nonviolent communication, NVC, and the ‘parts’ aspect of Internal Family Systems, IFS.
From Reflection to Transformation: Empathy Circles and Their Role in Cultivating Change
Speaker: Maša Blaznik (15 min)
Bio: Masha is a psychologist, independent researcher, and founder of the Empathy-Based Society Institute, an initiative dedicated to promoting the purposeful development of empathy at both individual and systemic levels for people, animals, and the planet. (LinkedIn) (Facebook)
Topic: From Reflection to Transformation: Empathy Circles and Their Role in Cultivating Change
Abstract: In the first part, I will share my experience facilitating weekly empathy circles over the course of a year with the same group and explore how the debriefing stage evolved into an essential component for integrating the inner processes and realizations that emerged during these circles.
In the second part, I will explore the role of empathy circles within the Empathy-Based Society Institute (EBSI)'s programs. EBSI is an initiative dedicated to promoting the purposeful development of empathy at both individual and systemic levels with a mission to raise awareness about the connection between empathy and violence and provide practical tools for cultivating empathy not only in interpersonal relationships but also towards animals, nature, and the planet.
The History of the Empathy Circles Development.
Speaker: Edwin Rutsch
Abstract: An overview of the various influences of the practice, how it was conceived and developed, possibilities for the future.
Bio: Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.
Defining Empathy in the Context of the Empathy Circle #2.
Speaker: Edwin Rutsch
Bio: Edwin Rutsch is Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.
Topic: Defining Empathy in the Context and Structure of the Empathy Circle #2.
Abstract: To build and grow the Empathy Movement, we need a clear and practical definition of empathy. In this presentation, I will provide a foundational and practical definition within the context and structure of the Empathy Circle.
Abstract: The Empathy Circle is a simple but very powerful practice for creating mutual understanding and connection; sometimes even healing and conflict resolution. Understanding the role and importance of each of piece of its structure contributes to the effectiveness of the circle, and in encouraging participants to stay in the practice.
Bio: Empathy Circle Facilitation Trainer and developer of the Empathy Circle Facilitation. Lou Zweier has been holding Empathy Circles, training Empathy Circle Facilitators, and working with Edwin Rutsch since 2016; he is a former executive of the California State University System, a current member of the Empathy Center Board of Directors, and a Principal Partner at the Authentic Leadership Center.
You Can’t Understand the Empathy Circle Unless You Experience it.
Speaker: Bill Filler
Abstract: The structure of the Empathy Circle creates a mutually empathic atmosphere where one can be heard and understood and provide that experience to others. The rules are in place to provide that empathic experience, but that is not enough. At its core, The Empathy Circle is experiential.
Bio: : Bill Filler is retired special education teacher who has worked with at-risk children of all ages of rover 30 years. He has been involved in the Empathy Circle since 2017. He co-created the Empathy Circle Facilitator training with Lou Zweier and Edwin Rutsch, and has been holding trainings since March 2020. He is a member of the Empathy Center Board of Director
Opening Minds and Hearts: OMAH, Empathy Circles and Dynamic Facilitation.
Speaker: Rosa Zubizarreta-Ada, Ph.D.
Bio: Rosa Zubizarreta has a background as a practitioner in organization development and expertise in empathy-based collaborative sense-making practices, Rosa's research focuses on the facilitation of democratic innovations.
Topic: Opening Minds and Hearts: OMAH, Empathy Circles and Dynamic Facilitation.
Abstract: As a practitioner, active listening / reflection are at the heart of my group facilitation and coaching work; as a researcher, I incorporate these practices into my interviews. As a concept-weaver linking the worlds of theory and practice, I value the ”micro-moments of connection” that Dr. Barbara Fredrickson writes about, and the "social engagement system” described by Dr. Stephen Porges: the state of relaxed alertness where we can more easily engage with complex thinking, and respond to difference with curiosity rather than as a threat. Last but by no means least, as an imperfect human being, I cherish how Empathy Circles develop our muscle memory for reflecting back what another person is saying; otherwise, it can be hard to remember to do so, when we start to feel triggered — which is when we need it the most!
Bio: Kathleen’s work is focused on helping communities, organizations, and individuals become empowered to fulfill their greatest potential through dialogue, negotiation, and collaboration.
Topic: The Impact of Empathy and Empathy Circles on Conflict
Abstract: One of the root causes of conflict in every context is the absence of empathy. One of the most powerful tools for resolving conflict and healing relationships is empathy. The empathy that is evoked in Empathy Circles restores our recognition of our shared humanity and inspires a sense of common ground that helps us to find our way to win/win agreements.
Using Empathy Circles in Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Speaker: Hilleary Zarate
Bio: My training as an Empathy Circle Facilitator in 2024 along with my certification in California as a state mediator, has had an impact in the global empathy movement.
Topic: Using Empathy Circles in Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Abstract: Learn how to use Empathy Circles in conflict resolution and mediation to support your relationships. The principles of Empathy Circles and conflict resolution and mediation overlap in having a structured dialogue process that is based on mutual active listening. Empathy Circles as part of mediation are the fastest, most economical and lowest risk way to resolve differences, keep yourself moving forward, and heal your relationships.
Balancing with the Empathy Circle
Speaker: Katrin Valentin
(10 min) To Video, Summary, AI, Outline, Full Transcripts
Bio: Prof. Dr. Katrin Valentin works at the Lutheran University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg in Germany.
Topic: Balancing with the Empathy Circle
Abstract: This contribution presents some observations and experiences made during the implementation of various empathy circles. These relate primarily to situations in the field of climate protection, but also in organizational development and in a church context. The aim is to show the extent to which balancing processes take place at various levels, including in relation to emotions, content, power relations and self-relationships.
Three Years of Weekly Empathy Circles - Reflections and Learnings.
Speaker: Rasha Kutty
(10 min) To Video, Summary, AI, Outline, Full Transcripts
Abstract: Over the past three years, our weekly empathy circles have profoundly inspired participants across the globe to become better listeners and more reflective thinkers. In this talk, I will share key reflections and learnings gathered during this period, demonstrating how consistent participation in empathy circles leads to deeper connections and enhanced well-being.
Bio: Rasha Kutty is the Founder and Chief Facilitator at Empathy Matters Private Limited, with master’s degrees in Management and Psychology, and certifications as an Instructional Designer, Empathic Intervision Facilitation, and Empathy Circles Facilitation.
Building Empathic Community: An Empathy Circle Superpower
Speaker: Janna Weiss
(15 min) To Video, Summary, AI, Outline, Full Transcripts
Abstract: Empathy Circles are a fast track for building empathic community and realizing Martin Luther King's vision and dream for a peaceful society and world. We'll share joy in the Empathy Center's creative collaborations and partnerships, and in the versatility of the Empathy Circle.
Bio: is an Empathy Circle Facilitator and Trainer, and a Foundation for Developing Wisdom and Compassion 16 Guidelines accredited facilitator. Janna has a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin in Biological Sciences—Botany (ethnobotany). Janna is also a human rights activist and advocate for peace.
Empathic Listening for Inner Development and Outer Impact
Speaker: Anita Nowak
Abstract: As Bayo Akomolafe put it: "The times are urgent: Let us slow down.” We need to listen deeply to one another to heal our wounds and overcome the othering that divides us. Empathic listening is a practice that can help us reach higher levels of consciousness - perhaps even in time to save the world.
Bio: Anita Nowak is a faculty member at the McGill Executive Institute, multiple TEDx Speaker, podcaster and author of Purposeful Empathy: Tapping Our hidden Superpower for Personal, Organizational, and Social Change
What Role Can Empathy Circles Play in a Corporate Environment?
Speaker: Maria Ross
Abstract: How can we remain human-focused and inclusive, and still maintain high performance, personal boundaries, and our own mental health, without being treated like villains? And what role can empathy circles play in a corporate environment? Maria will help you balance between empathy AND accountability and where Empathy Circles, along with other modalities can work well to support teams.
Bio: Maria Ross is a speaker, author, leadership trainer, podcaster, and empathy advocate who has spent decades helping forward-thinking teams connect and engage through empathy to accelerate growth. Her newest book is The Empathy Dilemma: How Successful Leaders Balance Performance, People, and Personal Boundaries.
The Importance of Listening in the 5 Steps to Empathy
Speaker: Rob Volpe
Abstract: It doesn't matter how curious and open we are. If we aren't listening, empathy will remain out of reach. Rob explains where Active Listening fits on the way to reaching empathy and how the Empathy Circle skills can help you get there.
Bio: Rob is an Empathy Activist and author of the award-winning book Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time
Why Empathy Circles Are So Effective
Speaker: Bob Brown
Abstract: Being in an empathy circle fosters healthy brain chemistry. It affirms my dignity as a human being. It gives me the confidence to take my rightful place in the human adventure.
Bio: Bob Brown is a pilgrim on the spiritual journey. For years, he hosted an Empathy Tent in Thousand Oaks, California and offered empathic listening.
Defining Empathy in the Context and Structure of the Empathy Circle #1.
Speaker: Edwin Rutsch
Bio: Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.
Abstract: To build and grow the Empathy Movement, we need a clear and practical definition of empathy. In this presentation, I will provide a foundational and practical definition within the context and structure of the Empathy Circle.
Bio: Minter Dial is a professional speaker, award-winning author (books include "Heartificial Empathy" and "Making Empathy Count") and documentary filmmaker.
Abstract: In business, one of the biggest issues is poor communications, which tends to be exacerbated by time pressures. Over the last several years, I've been using Empathy Circles with executives within the context of a seminar or training to show the power of active listening. In this session, I'll present how I use the EC in my training and specifically how to integrate the learnings into the business.
Bio: Yehuda Tagar is an Australian, South African, Central European counsellor, psychotherapist, psychosomatic therapist, organisational development consultant and international trainer of the above. He is the founder of Psychophonetics and Methodical Empathy, director of Psychophonetics Institute International, a co-director & dean of studies of School of Empathy in Slovakia (Skola Empatie), UK, Czech Republic and China, and of ‘7 Conditions Consultancy’.
Abstract: To offer empathic responses requires a 'tuning in' - a conscious departure from our normal chats. In 'methodical empathy' we have a process called 'parallel-processing', enabling the clearing of our lenses apparatus in order to hear what is actually being said, not what we think is being said.
Equity and Inclusion-Focused Empathy Circles Help Create a Culture of Empathy and Belonging at Our Organizations.
Speaker: Felicia Darling
Bio: Dr. Felicia Darling promotes inclusion and empathy in math classrooms, meetings, campuses, the world.
Abstract: Equity- and Inclusion-Focused Empathy Circles Help Create a Culture of Empathy and Belonging at Our Organizations. Circles that focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility (DEIA) topics bring colleagues together and help everyone feel like they belong. DEIA-focused Empathy Circle participants have said, "After what we have experienced in this Empathy Circle... We are all brothers and sisters now (smile)" and "This is the first time I have felt completely heard [at work]."
Using Empathy Reflection @ Home & Work
Speaker: Cara Jean Wilson
(15 min) To Video, Summary, AI, Outline, Full Transcripts
Bio: Empathy Facilitator, Executive Coach with Taking CARA Business, and creator of The CARA Method for neurospicy inclusiviTEA.
Abstract: I use the empathetic reflection tool/skill from empathy circles EVERY DAY. From with my child as a way to help him articulate the world, to my family as a tool for starting family meetings, and in my work as an executive coach as a way to support leaders in a session and as a trainable tool for them to use with their teams.
"Listening, hearing and speaking from honesty, experience and acute awareness." Sharing my personal impacts of the Empathy Circle.
Speaker: Ruth Cook
Bio: Ruth was drawn to becoming an Empathy Circle Trainer and Facilitator, by listening to the courage shared of hardships lived through and are still being living through, via the Empathy Summit of July 2023.
Abstract: Hearing authentic stories of people who had experienced personal, community and nationwide atrocities, and then entering into an empathy circle for the first time to articulate from my heart with strangers, what I heard, had a big impact on how I began to hear and interpret what others were saying with my friends, colleagues, my own community and strangers.
Grassroots Politics and Game Nights: Hosting an Empathy Circle House Party
Speaker: Zak Wear
Bio: Zak Wear is an Empathy Circle Facilitator Trainer and Founder of PotluckAction.com, the Empathy Circle app.
Abstract: House parties are a great way to invite friends, family, and neighbors to empathy circles. Whether you just want to introduce the empathy circle, play the Empathy Circle Game, or organize an opportunity to discuss and plug into important social or political issues, we'll discuss details on how to host your first house parties. A free guide will be included for attendees.
Bio: Arno Jaffe has lived in Santa Barbara 47 years and is an Empathy Circle Trainer
Abstract: Empathy Circles allow through reflected listening the speaker to go deeper than seemed possible. By sharing what is alive for them and hearing it reflected back they see things in a different way and clear light.