A Model Conversation
We can disagree—and still get along. This format shows how.
A Model Conversation is a keynote with a twist: it includes a live, facilitated conversation on stage among people with differing views on a topic that matters to your audience.
Rather than talking about how to have difficult conversations, Craig demonstrates what productive disagreement actually looks like—modeling curiosity, listening, respect, and skilled facilitation in real time. It’s a bit like a debate, but without winners and losers. The goal is understanding, not persuasion.
Audiences consistently find this format spontaneous, engaging, and memorable. People love watching their peers on stage—and even more, they appreciate seeing how challenging conversations can be handled well.
This keynote goes beyond theory. Your audience doesn’t just hear about techniques; they watch techniques being used, then reflect on what worked and why. The result is deeper insight, greater confidence, and tools that translate directly into real conversations back home.
What the Experience Looks Like
A 90-minute session that keeps the energy high:
- Audience warm-up and framing
- Stories and practical insights from Craig about disagreement
- A facilitated, in-front-of-the-room conversation among volunteer participants
- Audience questions and reflections
- Clear take-aways and practical guidance, packaged by Craig
Ninety minutes goes by fast, although if you need a shorter session we can make that work.
from John Tzountzouris
from Alicia McIsaac
Conversation Topic Ideas
Which topic would you like discussed on your stage?
You might choose a topic relevant to your audience. Here are some actual questions from Craig’s Model Conversations.
- Is it okay to be typing on a screen in a board meeting?
- How should local government respond when homeless/unhoused people are living in public spaces amid significant complaints?
- Should organic farmers be paid more for their produce?
Alternatively, you might choose a more generic or pop-culture question. Here are some ideas.
- Are pets basically family members now? Should they be — or not?
- Will self-driving cars make life better — or worse?
- Is watching sports best in person — or on TV?
- Is today’s music worse than 20 years ago — or better?
- Is pineapple on pizza acceptable — or unforgivable?
How We Prepare
Topic Selection
- Chosen by the client in advance.
- You might choose from the above list or come up with a new one.
- Topic characteristics:
- Controversial, but not personal.
- Entertaining. Not too heavy. Could even be humorous.
- Strong, opposing viewpoints among the audience.
- Framed in a neutral way, not leading.
Volunteer Selection and Prep
- Four or more volunteers identified in advance; or could be on the spot
- At least one people representing each major perspective
- If you want to identify volunteers in advance, Craig provides guidance on selecting and balancing volunteers and contacts volunteers ahead of time so everyone feels informed and supported.
Advance Promotion
- Craig provides ideas for promotional language.
- Craig will provide a 1-minute video that gives and idea of what to expect and that encourages people to attend the event.
- Craig will provide photos and graphics as needed.
On-Site Logistics
- Sound. Craig will work with you on the ideal type and quantity of microphones, yet is adaptable to working with less-than-ideal set-ups.
- Screen. Craig often shows slides, yet not many and not always. He likes to use his own laptop at the podium, yet can be adaptable. He sometimes requires audio from his laptop.
- Stage. Craig will work with you in advance, perhaps onsite, to decide the placement of the podium, side table, and chairs for the on-stage volunteers.
This preparation ensures a conversation that is authentic, respectful, and engaging—for participants and audience alike.
More About the Format
The model conversation approach builds on a foundation of timeless theory and proven practices, and shows what’s possible. It replaces fear of disagreement with curiosity It replaces tension with understanding. Audiences leave knowing—because they’ve seen it—that we really can disagree and still get along.
I have facilitated many community conversations to help people understand differing views. One advantage of this format is that there’s a sure balance of opinions, due to the pre-screening.
This format can be done on a stage with an audience of hundreds, or in a community room with a couple dozen folks.