Facilitator Strategies to Support Complex Discussions

Facilitating challenging discussions starts with empathy—but structure matters too. In this episode of Off Syllabus with Manny, we explore tools like empathy maps and dialogue circles that help faculty create a supportive environment for students. Our guest, Rachel Piontak, shares practical strategies for balancing flexibility with structure so conversations stay productive, even when topics get tough. If you’ve ever wondered how to guide dialogue without losing control—or compassion—this episode offers actionable tips you can use tomorrow.