EcoDialogues is a research-grounded, facilitated three-session dialogue cycle that helps individuals, teams, and organizations pause, listen, and see challenges in a new light—then move forward with practical next steps. It is not therapy or coaching, but rather a structured approach to transformative dialogue grounded in rigorous theoretical foundations.
Developed by Rev. Dr. Robert Levey as part of ongoing research into transformative leadership, EcoDialogues operationalizes the Space as Metaphor framework. This open-source conceptual approach draws from transdisciplinary scholarship, including organizational development, moral philosophy, ecopsychology, Taoism, Buddhism, Ubuntu, depth psychology, Indigenous thinking, and consciousness studies. Each session contributes to both participant transformation and the empirical validation of space-making practices.
Who is it for?
If you are navigating complexity, doing culture work, aligning across functions, or moving through change, EcoDialogues is designed for you. It works well for individuals, pairs, and small teams—virtual or in‑person. Participants become co-researchers, contributing to our understanding of how dialogue facilitates perspective transformation.
Individuals: You are weighing a hard decision with conflicting priorities. In dialogue, you slow down, sort signal from noise, and name a next step you can act on now. Your experience contributes to research on how internal space-making enables clearer decision-making.
Pairs: Two leads see the same project differently. Instead of debating, you witness each other’s perspectives, surface assumptions, and clarify shared intent for aligned action. This process generates insights into how radical listening transforms relational dynamics.
Small teams: A cross‑functional group (e.g., product, operations, communications) is stuck. You map what each role is holding, notice overlaps and tensions, and agree on a small, testable move that respects the whole system. Your team’s journey provides data on how collective space-making enables adaptive capacity.
How it Works
Session One: Internal Space (Self)
Session Two: Shared Space (Relational)
This session brings participants into relational dialogue—not to debate or align—with a focus on how different internal spaces interact, intersect, or resist one another. Here, participants operationalize “Dialogue as Method—Witnessing Without Forcing,” based on David Bohm’s dialogue theory and Indigenous methodologies that center relational knowing.
Session Three: The Field (Systems)
Research Foundation & Outcomes
- Perspective Transformation: Measurable shifts in how participants understand complex challenges, moving from individual to systemic perspectives
- Enhanced Collective Intelligence: Improved capacity for radical listening and dialogue across difference
- Space-Making Competencies: Development of skills in making, mapping, and maintaining space
- Contribution to Knowledge: Participant reflections enrich the Spaciology Encyclopedia and inform best practices
Learn More
During our pilot in NH and northern MA, we are offering 30-minute one-on-one virtual EcoDialogues to introduce the approach, explore its theoretical foundations, share the rationale behind it, and offer a real experience of how full EcoDialogues sessions unfold.
In this introductory session, you will not only be able to evaluate if EcoDialogues is right for you and/or your organization, but you will also walk away with practical insights you can immediately apply in your personal and professional life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EcoDialogues?
What is EcoDialogues? EcoDialogues is a research-based, facilitated three-session dialogue cycle that helps you pause, listen, and see challenges in a new light. It’s not therapy or coaching—it’s a structured dialogue process grounded in transdisciplinary scholarship that moves from self-reflection (Internal Space) to relational dynamics (Shared Space) to systems awareness (The Field). You leave with clearer perspectives and a practical next step while contributing to empirical research on transformative dialogue.
Who is it for?
Anyone navigating complexity, culture work, cross-functional alignment, or change. This includes individuals facing tough decisions, pairs working through different perspectives, and small teams building trust and collaboration. No prior experience needed—just willingness to pause and reflect.
How does it work?
Three 90-120 minute sessions over 3-6 weeks, virtual or in-person. We use guided questions, brief silences, and structured dialogue based on validated frameworks from multiple disciplines. During our pilot, we also offer 30-minute intro sessions so you can experience the approach before committing. Optional follow-up assessments help us understand long-term impact.
How much does it cost?
EcoDialogues is donation-based during the pilot. No one is turned away for lack of funds. Your contribution helps sustain the program and expand access to others. UYM Charities is a 501(c)(3), so donations are tax-deductible. Your participation in the pilot phase directly supports the research and development of this transformative approach.
How do I get started?
Book a 30-minute intro session to experience the approach, or contact us about bringing EcoDialogues to your team. Email rlevey@uymcharities.org. We will discuss both your needs and how your participation contributes to advancing this work.
Access Services
In its pilot phase, EcoDialogues is offered on a donation basis.
Explore Custom Solutions
EcoDialogues can adapt to meet your specific needs—whether that means quarterly leadership dialogues, monthly team sessions, integration with existing initiatives, or long-term accompaniment through organizational transitions.
Partner with UYM
Support Our Mission
Our offerings are sustained by a blend of earned income, grants, and individual donations. Your support directly expands access and impact—underwriting scholarships for those with limited resources, helps us serve communities who might not otherwise participate, and pilot new offerings that respond to emerging needs.
