Courageous Conversations That Move Communities Forward

Keynotes, workshops, and dialogues that open the door to civic possibility

“When communities come together with courage and hope, they open the way to new possibilities. That’s the deeper promise of our democracy—not endless division, but the chance to move forward, together, toward something even better.”  —Matt Lehrman, Social Prosperity Partners

For civic leaders seeking to build trust and gather consensus

From Conflict to Conversation:

Courageous Leadership for Divisive Times

When the stakes are high, what you say—and how you listen—can change everything. Participants gain practical tools and clear frameworks to build trust, encourage openness, and guide conversations toward real progress. Learn how the simple phrase “Tell me more” can unlock connection and keep dialogue moving forward.


Who this speaks to: leaders and teams across local government, education, and nonprofit sectors who are responsible for navigating tension, building trust, and strengthening public dialogue.  Especially relevant for: elected officials, senior staff, board members, and executives facing high-stakes decisions or community conflict.

Perfect for anyone interested in their community's future.

The Case for Civic Togetherness

A Collaborative Exercise in Possibilities

In a moment filled with challenge and opportunity, this facilitated keynote calls people together to imagine what’s possible, uncover common hopes, and lead with courage, curiosity, and care. Blending thought-provoking remarks with unexpected interactivity, it invites real-time input that sparks dialogue and reflection—not through politics or partisanship, but through genuine connection.


Energizing and collaborative by design, this is more than a speech—it’s an exercise in civic imagination and collaborative possibility. There are no pre-set agendas or right answers, only space to ask better questions, listen generously, and summon the courage to imagine what’s possible, together. Suitable for both large gatherings and intimate groups, participants leave with optimism and a sense of purpose they can carry into their communities, workplaces, and everyday lives.


Who this speaks to: community-focused volunteers, neighbors, and visionaries working through nonprofits, foundations, faith communities, libraries, service clubs, coalitions, and mission-driven organizations. Also impactful for: anyone who cares about where their community is headed—even if they don’t yet see themselves as leaders—and who is ready to be supported, encouraged, and invited into the work of imagining and shaping it together.

For leaders prioritizing long-term vision and strategic planning

A Community of Possibilities:

Visioning That Invites, Unites, and Inspires

Communities don’t just need plans—they need a durable system for welcoming and considering ideas. Ideastructure, Social Prosperity Partners’ original framework for long-term visioning, helps leaders engage their entire community in imagining what’s possible.


Through guided conversation and collaborative reflection, participants learn how to spark broad participation, surface fresh thinking, and align around a vision people believe in—and feel excited to bring to life.


Who this speaks to:  leaders across municipal, public education, and nonprofit sectors who are responsible for long-term planning and vision development. Especially relevant for: city and county managers, superintendents, department heads, nonprofit executives, and governing boards working to engage their communities in shaping shared goals.

Ideal for public office holders facing complex, high-stakes choices

Leading Through Complexity:

A Compass for Governance in Uncertain Times

Complex problems rarely come with clear solutions—but they do call for steady, values-based leadership. In this interactive and thought-provoking session, participants are introduced to the Compass for Complexity, a practical framework to align decisions with purpose, values, and long-term vision. Through collaborative exercises, leaders explore how to adapt without losing direction, stay grounded amid competing pressures, and move forward with confidence—even when the path ahead is uncertain.


Who this speaks to: leaders across government, education, and nonprofit sectors who are navigating rapid change, competing demands, or high-stakes decisions. Especially relevant for: board members, council leaders, executive teams, and department heads seeking alignment, direction, and clarity amid complexity.

Matt is facilitating a conversation in a large and crowded ballroom.

Need help convening a
courageous conversation?


As a civic facilitator, I help people work together courageously to explore possibilities and make strategic decisions.


What can I help you and your community or organization achieve together?


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Let's talk possibilities.

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