How to Have Constructive Conversations on Sensitive Topics
Clear, memorable tools and exercises that everyone can use to transform their conversations about any sensitive issue.
Speaker · Facilitator · Consultant
Leading Constructive Conversations on Sensitive Topics
Based on my current book project, I focus on my experience teaching classes and leading facilitations with Israelis, Palestinians, and Americans to help even those who disagree have a constructive discussion. I combine the topical expertise of a professor with the empathetic guidance of a seasoned facilitator.
My Background
For over two decades, I have researched and taught about the politics and history of the U.S., Israelis, Palestinians, and the broader Middle East, including 2 years as a high school teacher and 15 years as a college professor. I lived in the Middle East for 3 years while conducting interviews and engaging in conversations with Palestinians, Israelis, and others in the region. Since 2021, I have designed and led facilitations with hundreds of Israeli and Palestinian young adults through peace-building programs. As highlighted below, I have led hundreds of talks and facilitations with colleges and universities, high schools and middle schools, business organizations, and community groups.
My Approach
I pride myself on being a dynamic, knowledgeable, balanced, and engaging speaker and facilitator. I believe in the importance of deeply engaging with all perspectives in my research and presentations. I warmly engage not only with the most knowledgeable and motivated people in the group, but also the attendees who may be hesitant to ask a question or share their thoughts.
I am in the discovery and education business. Discovery is the search for the right answer. Education is helping others find it, or, even better, teaching them how to find it themselves. I focus on this point in the process: helping people learn, develop a better understanding of each other, and identify the best paths through the challenging situations we find ourselves in. Though it does not have a predetermined destination, constructive conversation points us in the right direction.
Speaking and facilitation topics
In a session with me, everyone will learn practical skills and meaningful content, have their assumptions challenged, laugh together, and leave energized to continue the conversation with new tools and fresh perspectives in hand. I regularly deliver talks, guide facilitations, and shape curriculum on these topics.
How to Have a Constructive Conversation on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Effectively discussing the most divisive issue on campus and in society today.
The Past, Present, and Future for Israelis and Palestinians
The history of two proud peoples, their conflicting narratives, and the prospects for a better future.
U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East
Debates over U.S. intervention and restraint in the Middle East, with a focus on the war with Iran, Arab-Israeli relations, or other topics of interest.
Polarization in America
Understanding the roots of polarization in the U.S. and how to discuss and address it.
Building Peace
How peace has been built and can be achieved in the Middle East and beyond.
I have spoken to crowds of 600 people and led discussions with small groups, given one-off talks and led cumulative dialogue sessions with the same group for a year, and everything in between. I have worked directly with leadership, faculty, and students to meet their needs, both in-person and virtually.
Whatever the audience, topic, and timeframe, we can create an event that serves your community.
Speaking and facilitation experience
For two decades, I’ve given talks, led dialogue, & consulted on curriculum for institutions of all kinds.
Colleges and Universities
Harvard University, MIT, University of Chicago, Georgetown University, Brown University, Williams College, Trinity College, University College London.
High Schools and Middle Schools
The Hotchkiss School, Stuart Country Day School, Cambridge Rindge and Latin, Weston High School, Heads Collegiate Forum, Primary Source, Model UN.
Business Organizations
Chambers of commerce, business schools (Harvard Business School and MIT-Sloan), The Lumen Institute, GAWDA, BC Finance Conference.
Community Groups
Religious institutions, libraries, senior centers, Rotary Clubs, World Affairs Councils, Civic Series, Chilton Club, Boston Council on Foreign Relations.
What people say
“Peter is the rare individual who can see both sides of the conflict in the Middle East with passion and compassion for all parties. Peter is committed to telling both sides of the story, which he does masterfully. The silver lining of the recent tragedies is that I was able to learn from a wonderful human being with a first-rate mind.” Ray Reagans, Alfred P. Sloan Professor of Management & Associate Dean at MIT Sloan
“Peter’s lectures and facilitated discussions on Israeli and Palestinian history and politics were extremely thoughtful and balanced, and his ability to present multiple perspectives in an empathetic and informative manner is quite rare. His expertise in navigating the complexities of this controversial topic is truly commendable, especially with a group that is from the region.” Lobna Agbaria, CEO, Our Generation Speaks
Let’s have the conversation
Interested in having me speak, facilitate a discussion, or consult with your organization? Please get in touch.