Blogs

“How to Listen to Stories”, Chapter 11 in Narrative Coaching by David Drake This chapter provides a very narrative-focused take on listening to people. It’s quite different to the usual “active listening” approach. Drake describes four dimensions of listening: What is happening between the two of you, What is happening in the room, What is

“The lost art of listening”, by Michael Nichols and Marta Straus (2021) This book, now in its third edition, provides a practical and entertaining guide to improve our relationships by learning to listen. It includes four main parts: The yearning to be understood; The real reasons people don’t listen; Getting through to each other; and

“You’re not listening: What you’re missing and why it matters” by Kate Murphy Another must read book for conflict professionals, and everyone else! Kate Murphy, a NYTimes journalist, explores listening, why it is so important, and why we are so bad at it! Drawing on insights from neuroscience, psychology, and interviews with people from all

Dr Pippa Grange is an Australian Sports psychologist and culture coach who has worked with a diverse group of clients; from the English football team preparing for the World Cup in 2018, to Australian Rules Football clubs, to professional musicians and leaders in the business world. In this book she explores how fear underlies many

Stephen Burt “The art of listening in coaching and mentoring” (2019) This book is essential reading for anyone who coaches, and is also very useful for anyone working in a context in which listening to others is important. If you want to become a better listener in any situation, you will find this book helpful.

Leadership on the line by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky Real leadership surfaces conflict … and causes pain. This book starts with that premise and then suggests strategies for personal survival as a leader. Strategies include some common conflict management techniques (such as going to the balcony to get a big picture about what is