The Social Labs: A Step by Step Guide to Conquering Shyness/Social Anxiety

The Social Labs is a bi-weekly workshop series designed to help individuals navigate and overcome social anxiety while building meaningful connections. Each session combines practical tools, guided exercises, and supportive group discussions to foster confidence, self-compassion, and effective communication. Participants will gradually progress through activities aimed at personal development, resilience, and real-world social interactions, culminating in the ability to socialize with reduced anxiety and greater ease.

Hosts: Erika Desroches & Chris Baken

Week 4: The Art of Active Listening – How to Be Fully Present in Conversations

Do you ever feel like people aren’t really listening when you speak? Or do you find yourself distracted, planning your response instead of truly hearing what someone is saying? Great conversations start with great listening—and it’s a skill we can all improve!

Join us for an interactive workshop where we’ll practice powerful techniques to become better listeners, deepen connections, and make conversations more meaningful.

What We’ll Do:
Play "Telephone" – A fun icebreaker to see how easily messages get lost
Partner Exercises – Practice listening without interrupting, paraphrasing, and asking thoughtful follow-up questions
Speed-Meet Debrief – Test your memory by introducing a past partner based on what you learned about them

Why Attend?
✔ Learn how to stay fully engaged in conversations
✔ Discover the emotional impact of being truly heard
✔ Improve your ability to ask better questions and avoid misunderstandings
✔ Gain confidence in handling pauses and silences naturally

Who Should Come?
Anyone who wants to communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, or simply become a more present and attentive listener. No experience needed—just a willingness to practice!

Outcome: You’ll leave with practical skills to create deeper, more authentic conversations in both personal and professional settings.