On April 8, we gathered for a Culture Exchange focused on one of the most essential—and often most avoided—parts of workplace culture: meaningful conversation. As always, the session focused on an issue that is relevant in people’s real-work, right now.
“What’s a conversation that needs to happen in your workplace—but hasn’t?”
Participants named the weight many of us carry when it comes to addressing hard topics. They cited fear of retribution, fatigue, feeling like “we’ve always had a culture problem,” and the risk of being labeled a negative contributor. In today’s politicized and high-stakes environments, it’s no surprise that many conversations are being delayed—or avoided altogether.
But avoiding the conversation doesn’t make the tension go away. It simply shows up in different ways: in morale, trust, and team effectiveness. Now as much as ever, we need to stay connected, in conversation, and reinforcing the inclusive values that have always been our DNA.
The DARE Model simple framework for transforming difficult conversations into courageous dialogue. It doesn’t propose we need a full “script”. Sometimes we just need tips to help us begin engaging, and stay in alignment with our purpose–nurturing important workplace relationships even when emotions are high and answers may be sparse.
D — Deepen Understanding
Listen actively. Ask questions that uncover context, emotion, and meaning—not just facts.
Tool: Use open-ended, curiosity-based prompts like: “Please say more about that…”
A — Acknowledge and Validate
Recognize the other person’s experience—even if you don’t agree. This builds trust and connection.
Tool: Use phrases like: “That makes sense,” or “I hear how that impacted you.”
R — Reframe the Narrative
Shift from “right vs. wrong” to “what’s possible?” Find common ground in values, goals, or concerns.
Tool: Rephrase tense moments with forward-thinking language like: “It sounds like we both care about getting this right for the team.”
E — Engage to Act
Conversations must lead somewhere. Co-create small agreements or next steps.
Tool: Ask: “What do we want to do differently moving forward?”
At the close of the session, we returned to that original question: What’s the conversation that needs to happen?
But this time, we asked: How might you begin it?
Here are five conversation starters that are professional, grounded, and ready for real-world use:
There has never been a more important time to lead from where you are. Regardless of title or formal authority, each of us has the power to model care, invite dialogue, and foster connection in our workplaces. Transforming conversations isn’t about having the perfect words—it’s about showing up with courage, intention, and a commitment to shared growth. The DARE model offers a powerful framework to navigate discomfort and build the trust that fuels innovation and meaningful change.
We invite you to join us for an upcoming Culture Exchange—free, facilitated conversations in community with values-aligned peers across sectors and regions. And for those seeking deeper, sustained development—both personal and professional—CultureRoad is here for you. It’s your always-on, supportive space to learn, grow, and stay connected during times of transformation.
Learn more about the practices mentioned in this post by checking out our programs. Whether you’re a manager looking for in-depth skill development, a leader wanting tools to navigate change, or an individual contributor needing structure and support for bringing well-being into focus, our learning & development programs are for you!