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a16z Podcast

The Art and Science of Moderating Discussions

Aug 4, 2022
Matt Abrahams, a Stanford lecturer and communication expert, joins Sonal Choksi to explore the nuances of effective moderation. They discuss key skills like active listening and flexibility, comparing moderation to navigating a GPS system. Strategies for engaging diverse audiences are shared, alongside tips for managing anxiety in public speaking. Abrahams emphasizes the balance between structure and spontaneity, highlighting the importance of nonverbal cues and practical techniques to foster clear and engaging discussions in both in-person and virtual settings.
01:03:32

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Preparation and goal-setting are essential for successful moderation and facilitation, involving understanding the purpose, audience needs, and stockpiling questions.
  • Moderating and facilitating discussions require techniques like paraphrasing, bridging, and managing disruptions through polite intervention and ground rules.

Deep dives

The importance of preparation and goal-setting

Preparation and goal-setting are essential for successful moderation and facilitation. Before any interaction, it is important to understand the purpose of the communication and what you want to achieve. This involves thinking about the audience and their needs, establishing ground rules if necessary, and stockpiling questions to guide the conversation. Successful preparation includes understanding the themes and goals of the discussion, both in specific planned meetings and in more spontaneous sessions, and being adaptable to navigate different situations.

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