In an era of deep division, it is the responsibility and opportunity of community leaders to rise above cynicism, outrage, and exhaustion, becoming champions of civility, courage, and meaningful community engagement.


“Disagreement isn’t only natural, it’s necessary,” emphasizes Matt Lehrman as he imparts skills for gathering stakeholder consensus around shared goals. There’s never been a more important time for municipal, civic, and nonprofit leaders to learn how to create inclusive decision-making environments from which participants emerge feeling connected, respected, and heard.



Takeaways include:

  • How to Initiate a "Courageous Conversation"
  • Distinguishing "Governance" from "Politics"
  • 6 Principles for Bringing People Together
  • Addressing Obstinance & Exclusivism
  • 8 Skills of "Emotional Intentionality"
  • Practical Social Media Engagement Tips
  • Exploring Creative Options Beyond Binary Choices
  • And More!

 

Ideal for conference keynotes (live & virtual) and easily adaptable for half & full-day workshops, webinars, and leadership retreats.

Connect with Matt

"With an energetic pre-conference workshop and an inspiring opening keynote, Matt Lehrman was an essential partner in the launch of our Civility Initiative. And even more impressive. he fully attended our entire annual conference. Many speakers show up, speak, and disappear, but every time I turned around he was participating in a session, engaging in the exhibit areas, and speaking with our members. That speaks volumes. He cares deeply about his subject matter and invests back in the organizations and people he serves."

Todd Glover, Executive Director, Municipal Association of South Carolina 


“Matt Lehrman’s “From Conflict to Conversation” keynote brought great spirit and substance to the North Dakota League of Cities’ 2021 Annual Conference. He’s an incredibly engaging speaker who inspires community leaders to live up to their highest values while also teaching them pragmatic skills to help people join together to solve problems. Matt’s conversational style (he’s a natural at group facilitation) was an ideal way for our members to reconnect with each other while tackling sensitive but important topics.”
Blake Crosby, Executive Director, North Dakota League of Cities



“Matt was fantastic to work with, and really resonated with our audience. Several of the mayors in attendance shared with me they have already applied what they learned, and put new skills to good use in their meetings. We hope to bring him back to Kansas for a future event – and maybe this time we won’t be in the middle of a tornado warning!”
Kate Cooley, Director of Engagement, League of Kansas Municipalities


“Matt Lehrman’s keynote presentation was the highlight of our 2021 Annual Conference. His message that “Where people work together courageously, their potential is unlimited.” was timely, relevant and delivered with passion and enthusiasm. He thoroughly captured the attention of an audience of elected, appointed, and staff community leaders, which is no small feat. His breakout session the next day was standing room only. And as an added bonus – he was a delight to work with!”
Carol Graves, Communications Director, Tennessee Municipal League


"Matt’s message is both inspirational and practical. In this time where incivility in public settings has become far too common, his advice offers a path to pull people together toward common ground and consensus."
Scott Mooneyham, Director of Political Communication and Coordination, North Carolina League of Municipalities


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