
Ep 149: Emily Kasriel | How deep listening creates 'a spacious permission to think new thoughts'
From Rethinking Communication by Michael Ashford
June 30, 2025 · 48 min · Episode 149
About this episode
Emily Kasriel discusses the concept of deep listening and its transformative power in relationships and society.
In this conversation, Emily Kasriel — author of the book, "Deep Listening: Transform your relationships with family, friends, and foes" — discusses the concept of deep listening, emphasizing its transformative power and the courage it requires. Emily has had a two-decades-long career at the BBC as an award-winning journalist, and she shares her journey from being a transactional listener to embracing deep listening, highlighting its effect on her personal relationships and professional environments. Our discussion covers the importance of creating safe spaces for listening, the role of silence, and the challenges posed by power dynamics. Emily also details the outcomes of deep listening, including fostering connection and understanding in a polarized society, and the ethical considerations involved in listening. You can learn more about Emily and her work at https://www.emilykasriel.com/ . To learn more about my speaking and leadership communication coaching, visit my website at https://michaelashford.com .
People in this episode
Host: Michael Ashford
Guest: Emily Kasriel
Topics covered
- deep listening
- transformative power
- personal relationships
- professional environments
- safe spaces
- polarized society
- ethical considerations
Keywords
- deep listening
- relationships
- communication
- silence
- power dynamics
- connection
- understanding
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: BBC
Books & works: Deep Listening: Transform your relationships with family, friends, and foes
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