Bioneers brings together a very diverse, discerning, engaged and reflective community, and the curated conversations around crucial topics we have been hosting recently (“Conversation Cafes”) have proven highly popular and stimulating. Each session begins with a very brief presentation by one of the conference presenters as a “conversation starter” to frame the topic, followed by structured group discussion. At the end of each session, a “harvester” who has carefully witnessed and “absorbed” what has transpired, offers us a poetic synopsis/recapitulation of the highlights of our time together.

The learning and networking we engage with at Bioneers often leave us afire with ideas and energies for bringing ecological and social change to our local and global communities. Unfortunately, our passions are not always mirrored by our personal, professional, and home communities, but the scale of the change needed for mass healing will require practically everyone. Transformative learning theory teaches us that in order to change interlocutors’ outdated paradigms, it is essential to work just beyond their comfort zone – too much discomfort will shut someone down, and too little will not create sufficient disruption. In this session, we will explore our edges of efficacy in fostering change with unlikely partners. The central question we will contemplate is: “What are our leverage points to foster effective paradigm changes within our communities? “ Come prepared to listen and interact in mindful, respectful conversations with open minds and hearts. Conversation starter: Jeanine Canty, Professor of Transformative Studies at CIIS. Facilitated by: David Shaw, Santa Cruz Permaculture and UCSC Right Livelihood Center. “Harvester:” Jason Bayani, author, theater performer, Artistic Director, Kearny Street Workshop.