In many roles—especially in service, leadership, and community work—empathy is not optional, but constant. This session is designed for anyone feeling stretched thin by the emotional demands of their work and wondering how to show up with care when their own reserves are low. Participants will learn regenerative practices that build capacity for self-empathy and sustainable empathy for staff, volunteers, clients, and communities. Together we’ll explore why empathy matters, what drains it, and how deep listening can help people feel seen and heard in ways that are genuinely nourishing. Participants will leave feeling more connected to themselves and others, with practical approaches they can use right away.

You will leave with:

• A practical definition of empathy that supports boundaries and sustainability
• Simple practices to strengthen connection and psychological safety through deep listening
• Deep listening approaches that help others feel seen and heard
• Regenerative practices for building self-empathy when you feel depleted

About the Presenter

Cassandra O’Neill, MA, founder of Leadership Alchemy LLC, helps teams and organizations unlock their collective brilliance—boosting impact through asset‑based coaching and facilitation. She creates energizing, connection‑rich spaces by facilitating Empathy Circles and hosting the Flow Game, a collaborative experience that invites groups to explore the questions and topics that matter most. She is a co‑author of Five Elements of Collective Leadership and has contributed to multiple articles on advancing equity through shared leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s of Art in Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master’s of Political Science from Rutgers University. You can learn more about her at www.cassandraoneill.com. As a member of the International Listening Association, she champions deep listening, equity, and empathy.