Back in August 2015 I discovered Unhurried Conversations in Cambridge UK.  It’s an experiment in hosting conversations designed to have a gentler pace, no interruptions and a more reflective nature. I was so intrigued by the concept that I contacted the founders, Johnnie Moore & Antony Quinn, to learn more about their desire to create enough space for connection to happen. I took a creative risk and asked if I could start an Unhurried Santa Cruz Meetup and they graciously offered their support and enthusiasm. I’m honored that Unhurried Santa Cruz is the first Unhurried Conversation Meetup in the United States.

I’d be delighted to facilitate an Unhurried Conversation for your friends, group or organization. You can contact me HERE!

There are multiple reasons I am drawn to facilitating & participating in Unhurried Conversations.  

Often conversations in our society include talking over others, ignoring people, and dominating conversation — where people are more interested in being right than listening and learning about other perspectives. Many times there’s not even a space, a pause between sentences, where others may join in. By holding a talking piece, it helps create that space – – a conducive and creative environment allowing people to listen rather than quickly formulate a response, connect to ideas and others, and to go deeper when they do speak. People are seen, heard and felt at an Unhurried Conversation.

What I also find so exciting about the Unhurried process is that individuals may offer any topic of interest; talk about a hobby, a statement about the news, ask a question…anything, AND THEN, we see what unfolds! I am often struck with awe as one topic sparks another and then surprises us with a never-before-imagined story, memory, idea or solution! I believe these moments of awe and this process offer therapeutic and unique health benefits, foster curiosity, kindness and connection and enable us to thrive!

I have met the most creative and compassionate humans at the Unhurried Santa Cruz Meetup.  I have made new friends and have had my heart and mind opened wide over and over again.  I look forward to more AWEsome conversations!

A heartfelt thank you to Johnnie Moore, Antony Quinn & Viv Waters.  Also, special thanks to Lisa & the Cafe Iveta crew for supporting community & donating space for many of our Unhurried Conversations. 

Photo Credit: Ally Finkel. 2015.