As facilitators, we often step into rooms where people don’t know each other or have a shared history we may not fully understand. There’s pressure to get people talking, build trust, and get things done... fast. Setting the right emotional tone early on can make all the difference.

This workshop introduces the Emotional Culture Deck (ECD) as a simple, visual tool that helps people connect quickly and honestly without forcing anything too personal or uncomfortable. It’s an easy way to bring emotion into the room in a way that feels natural, inclusive, and useful for the work ahead.

Together, we’ll explore using the deck to: • Open sessions with intention, curiosity, and care • Help participants name what helps (and hinders) focus, creativity, and connection • Create quick shared agreements around how people want to feel during the time together • Wrap up with more meaning and intention

You don’t need to be a therapist to talk about feelings; you just need the right tool. The ECD gives you a way to invite honest conversation and build a sense of safety. Whether you lead workshops, retreats, sprints, or team meetings, you’ll leave with practical ways to bring emotional insight into the room, no matter how short your time with the group.

Takeaways:

Participants will: • Learn how to use the Emotional Culture Deck to quickly build trust and connection in short-term or one-off sessions • Practice 2–3 adaptable activities for opening, guiding, and closing with intention • Take home ready-to-use prompts and tips for inviting emotion in a way that feels safe and natural • Explore simple ways to set emotional tone and create space for honest engagement