The Best of "Tavis Smiley"
Four decades. One mic. Countless conversations.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Better Dialogue Starts with Better Listening
Most conversations break down not because we don’t care, but because we were never taught how to truly listen.
At work, at home, and in our communities, people talk past each other, miss key points, or react instead of respond. How we listen shapes how we are heard. Too often, we are talking when we should be receiving.
After nearly four decades of conversations with presidents, world leaders, and everyday people, Tavis Smiley built a practice around that truth.
This course is what that practice looks like.
What You'll Learn
How Dialogue Actually Works
Learn to build trust, when to lead or follow, and how to create space where people open up.
Listen with Intention
Stay present, read the moment, and adjust your approach as conversations unfold.
Create Memorable Conversations
Recognize key moments, ask better questions, and engage in a way that feels personal and lasting.
Navigate Disagreements
Engage across differences without escalating conflict and understand why this skill matters in everyday life.
What Participants from the First Cohort Are Saying...
"The response I received made it clear something had shifted."
- Anya, Consultant
"I was able to sharpen old tools and add new tools to my toolbox. I highly recommend this course."
-Â Angela, Dispute Resolution Strategist
"It has inspired me to put the insights I gained into action."
- Darmon, Retired
Course Outline
The Practice of Dialogue: Becoming a More Effective Communicator
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Week 1: How Conversations Actually Work
5 lessons- Interviewing vs. Conversing
- Why “following” builds trust faster than leading
- How to be someone people feel safe talking to
- Asking questions that invite, not control
- Live Session 1: Monday, May 4 at 6:00 PM (PDT)
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Week 2: Listening, Presence, and Adaptation
5 lessons- Active listening
- Reading tone, energy, and cues
- Adjusting your approach in real time
- Navigating unexpected moments
- Live Session 2: Monday, May 11 at 6:00 PM (PDT)
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Week 3: Creating Conversations That Stay With People
5 lessons- What makes a conversation memorable
- Recognizing and responding to “unlocking moments”
- Balancing preparation with spontaneity
- Leaving people feeling heard and valued
- Live Session 3: Monday, May 18 at 6:00 PM (PDT)
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Week 4: Navigating Disagreement and Division
6 lessons- Staying present under pressure
- Engaging without escalating
- Asking instead of reacting
- Holding your ground without shutting others down
- Why dialogue matters in a divided society
- Live Session 4: Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00 PM (PDT)
What's Included
Four 60-minute live group sessions led by Tavis Smiley
Access to course community
Reading and other reference materials
Early-bird rate through April 17th
Flexible payment options available through Afterpay and KlarnaÂ
ABOUT TAVIS
Tavis Smiley is managing editor and host of the “Tavis Smiley” show, a nationally syndicated program originating from KBLA Talk 1580 in Los Angeles and available worldwide through the KBLA 1580 app.
A recipient of the highest honor in the talk radio industry, the coveted “Freedom of Speech” award, Tavis is listed perennially on the “Heavy Hundred” list of the “100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts” in the nation.Â
A New York Times bestselling author, advocate and philanthropist, Tavis is the recipient of nearly 20 honorary doctorate degrees, the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and recognized by TIME magazine as one of the world’s “100 Most Influential People.”
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