In a society that has become increasingly polarized and with another presidential election upon us, it is more important than ever to bridge divides in our communities. Award-winning journalist Gianna Toboni believes there’s one practice we’re all capable of that can fundamentally change the way we engage with one another: Empathy. 

In her reporting, Gianna’s empathy has been tested to the extreme, during tense interviews with ISIS fighters, Mexican cartel hitmen, and American death row inmates, just to name a few. Those experiences have taught Gianna that no matter how much we may disagree, we are all capable of challenging ourselves to understand and step into the shoes of another human being. Not only does this practice improve interpersonal relationships, but it also fuels collaboration and communication, helping us become the very best global citizens we can be. In sharing examples of the practice of empathy in her own work, Gianna inspires audiences to lean into uncomfortable conversations and find hope for a better future.

Award-winning journalist Gianna Toboni has spent years sitting down face-to-face with people from all walks of life and getting them to open up. She recognizes that reaching a state of vulnerability with another person can be challenging, particularly in stressful environments, but it is also a golden nugget of opportunity when achieved. In the workplace, for example, the whirlwind of tracking pivotal KPIs and deadlines often prevents managers from taking time to reflect on how to best communicate with their staff.

In this conversation, Gianna teaches leaders how to achieve vulnerability and ultimately gain trust, a key step in the path to employee retention and performance. Sharing stories from her years in the field and doling out tips on adapting to and communicating with a variety of personality types, Gianna leaves audiences better equipped to manage difficult conversations and drive positive outcomes.