The Empathy Circle's combination of simplicity, effectiveness, and focus on deep listening and understanding makes it a powerful tool for cultivating empathy on both individual and societal levels. Its ability to serve as a foundation for more advanced empathy practices and its adaptability to various contexts solidify its position as the cornerstone of the empathy movement.

In these transformative Summits, seasoned practitioners and thought leaders converge to explore the profound impact and potential of the Empathy Circle practice. These gatherings serve as a crucible for understanding and advancing the Empathy Movement, with the Empathy Circle at its core.

Key Summit Highlights:

1. Personal Narratives: Participants share compelling stories of how the Empathy Circle practice has influenced their lives and work, offering real-world examples of its transformative power.

2. Mechanics and Efficacy: Experts dissect the inner workings of the practice, explaining why and how it fosters genuine connection and understanding among participants.

3. Benefits and Challenges: A balanced exploration of the positive outcomes and potential hurdles encountered in implementing Empathy Circles, providing a comprehensive view of the practice.

4. Empathic Consciousness: Delve into the profound shift in perspective and being that emerges through regular engagement with Empathy Circles.

5. Innovation and Evolution: Discover how the core Empathy Circle practice has inspired new methodologies and applications across various fields.

6. Future Horizons: Engage in stimulating discussions about the future potential of Empathy Circles and their role in shaping a more compassionate society.

7. Community Connection: The Summit serves as a reunion for facilitators, practitioners, trainees, and supporters, fostering a vibrant community of practice.

Join Our Thriving Community

Immerse yourself in this unique gathering of empathy enthusiasts and professionals. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the concept, the Empathy Circle Summit offers unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and connection.

Be part of the movement that's reshaping human interaction and understanding. Together, we'll explore the boundless potential of empathy in creating a more harmonious world. 

Register Now

Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025

Time: 9 am PT to 12:30 pm PT  - World Times

Location: Zoom https://zoom.us/j/9896109339  
RECORDING:   Part of the event will be recorded and posted to social media for educational and promotional purposes. You have an option of being in a non recorded breakout group. 

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PARTNERS AND SPONSORS LIST
Become a summit partner, sponsor or volunteer.

Be a Speaker
Speakers will have 5 to 15 minutes to speak on some aspect of the Empathy Circle Practice. Send a one sentence bio, the title of your proposed talk, a 2 or 3 sentence abstract for consideration. If you would like to be a speaker, see these instructions.  

Speakers and Hosting Team

Program: Saturday, April 5

All times are Pacific Time

9:00 am PT  Introduction  (5 min)
Host:  Janna Weiss 

Defining Empathy in the Context of the Empathy Circle.
9:05 am - Speaker: Edwin Rutsch (15 min)

• Bio: Edwin Rutsch is Founding Director of The Empathy Center, developer and long term "evangelist" of the Empathy Circle practice.

• Topic: Defining Empathy in the Context and Structure of the Empathy Circle.

• Abstract:  To build and grow the Empathy Movement, we need a clear and practical definition of empathy. In this presentation, I will provide a foundational and practical definition within the context and structure of the Empathy Circle. 

Balancing with the Empathy Circle 

9:20 am - Speaker: Katrin Valentin  (10 min)

• Bio: Prof. Dr. Katrin Valentin works at the Lutheran University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg in Germany.

• Topic: Balancing with the Empathy Circle 

• Abstract: This contribution presents some observations and experiences made during the implementation of various empathy circles. These relate primarily to situations in the field of climate protection, but also in organizational development and in a church context. The aim is to show the extent to which balancing processes take place at various levels, including in relation to emotions, content, power relations and self-relationships.

Opening Minds and Hearts: OMAH, Empathy Circles and Dynamic Facilitation.

9:30 am Speaker: Rosa Zubizarreta-Ada, Ph.D.  (15 min)

• Bio:  Rosa Zubizarreta has a background as a practitioner in organization development and expertise in empathy-based collaborative sense-making practices, Rosa's research focuses on the facilitation of democratic innovations.

• Topic:  Opening Minds and Hearts: OMAH, Empathy Circles and Dynamic Facilitation.

• Abstract:  As a practitioner, active listening / reflection are at the heart of my group facilitation and coaching work; as a researcher, I incorporate these practices into my interviews. As a concept-weaver linking the worlds of theory and practice, I value the ”micro-moments of connection” that Dr. Barbara Fredrickson writes about, and the  "social engagement system” described by Dr. Stephen Porges: the state of relaxed alertness where we can more easily engage with complex thinking, and respond to difference with curiosity rather than as a threat. Last but by no means least, as an imperfect human being, I cherish how Empathy Circles develop our muscle memory for reflecting back what another person is saying; otherwise, it can be hard to remember to do so, when we start to feel triggered — which is when we need it the most!

Bringing Together Empathy Circles and Mindfulness Meditation.
9:45 am  Speaker: Radhule Weininger   (15 min)

• Bio: Radhule Weininger, M.D., Ph.D., is psychologist, medical doctor, meditation teacher, and facilitates empathy circles.  

• Topic: Bringing Together Empathy Circles and Mindfulness Meditation.

• Abstract:   In this talk we will explore the coming together of Empathy Circles and Mindfulness Meditation.  How inner and outer empathy and inner and other mindfulness complement each other in fear, loneliness, and a sense of meaninglessness.

10:00 am PT
Host:  Cara Jean Wilson

Cultivating the Power of Deep Listening in Empathy Circles 

10:00 am Speaker:  Kathy Kidd    (15 min)

• Bio: Kathy Kidd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Houston Texas and has experienced personal and professional growth over the last 3 1/2 years  through participating in Empathy Circles and as a volunteer with the Culture of Empathy Movement.

• Topic: Cultivating the Power of Deep Listening in Empathy Circles 

• Abstract: Empathy hinges on deep listening, which requires presence, openness, and the suspension of judgment—skills that demand lifelong practice and personal growth.  Empathy Circles and exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives expands our listening ability, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Empathy Circles in Action: Building Bridges for Connection and Innovation 

10:15 am Speaker: Misha Safran  (15 min)

• Bio: Misha Safran (she/they), an award-winning speaker and trilingual ICF Professional Certified Coach, empowers leaders and teams to deepen emotional intelligence, foster empathy-driven connections, and create inclusive spaces that inspire collaboration and resilience. 

• Topic: Empathy Circles in Action: Building Bridges for Connection and Innovation 

• Abstract: Explore the transformative power of Empathy Circles in healthcare through personal stories of seeking connection and understanding from medical practitioners. This talk highlights the profound impact of being heard, the challenges of advocating for empathy, and practical steps to foster compassionate care. Discover how Empathy Circles can bridge gaps and inspire healing. 

Using Empathy Circles in Conflict Resolution and Mediation  
10:30 am  Speaker: Hilleary Zarate   (15 min)

• Bio: My training as an Empathy Circle Facilitator in 2024 along with my certification in California as a state mediator, has had an impact in the global empathy movement. 

• Topic: Using Empathy Circles in Conflict Resolution and Mediation  

• Abstract:  Learn how to use Empathy Circles in conflict resolution and mediation to support your relationships. The principles of Empathy Circles and conflict resolution and mediation overlap in having a structured dialogue process that is based on mutual active listening. Empathy Circles as part of mediation are the fastest, most economical and lowest risk way to resolve differences, keep yourself moving forward, and heal your relationships.

The Impact of Empathy and Empathy Circles on Conflict
10:45 am  

• Speaker: Kathleen Oweegon  (15 min)

• Bio: Kathleen’s work is focused on helping communities, organizations, and individuals become empowered to fulfill their greatest potential through dialogue, negotiation, and collaboration. 

• Topic: The Impact of Empathy and Empathy Circles on Conflict

• Abstract: One of the root causes of conflict in every context is the absence of empathy. One of the most powerful tools for resolving conflict and healing relationships is empathy. The empathy that is evoked in Empathy Circles restores our recognition of our shared humanity and inspires a sense of common ground that helps us to find our way to win/win agreements. 

11 am PT:  Empathy Circle - 90 min
A 90 min participatory dialogue using the Empathy Circle process.
Host: Jonathan Gordon
Main Room Host: Janna Weiss

How to Empathy Circle   (10 min)

Empathy Circle (1:00 hr) 

Debrief (15 min) 

Next Steps: (2 min)

Empathy Summit: Links April 5 

Website:    http://EmpathySummit.com
Event Date:              https://EmpathySummit.com/dates/apr-5-2025-empathy-circles
World Times:           https://bit.ly/April5SummitWorldTimes
Registration:     https://bit.ly/RegisterSummitApril5
Partners:    http://EmpathySummit.com/sponsors 
Volunteers:              http://EmpathySummit.com/volunteers
LinkedIn Event:     https://Linkedin.com/events/7272383571456081920/
Facebook Event:    https://Facebook.com/events/404857922618443/ 
Feedback: https://forms.gle/2KGCskMtHdoCKu3LA 
Final Report:    https://EmpathySummit.com/dates/apr-5-2025-empathy-circles

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