Topic:  The Neglected Superpower: How to Foster Connection, Collaboration, and Commitment in Your Association

Speaker: Rob Volpe, CEO and Founder of Empathy Activist, and author of Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time

We live in a world increasingly polarized by algorithms, politics, and cultural divides. It’s unrealistic to leave all that behind when we show up to work — yet success in any organization depends on connection, cohesion, and strong leadership. The often-overlooked superpower that makes this possible? Empathy.

The manager-employee relationship has been evolving, but not always fast enough. In a recent study, 79% of CEOs reported struggling to be empathetic, while 90% of Gen Z employees say they’re more likely to stay with an empathetic employer. This “empathy paradox” affects how we lead, collaborate, and engage with colleagues and staff.

Through real-world examples and interactive activities, Rob Volpe will demystify empathy, dispel common misconceptions, and introduce his “5 Steps to Empathy.” You will walk away with practical tools to strengthen relationships, inspire loyalty, and improve workplace culture across your association.

Learning Objectives:  In this talk you will learn how to engage with colleagues and staff to create a more empathetic organization that will ultimately strengthen your workplace.

• What empathy is—and isn’t
• How to overcome common barriers to empathy, one conversation at a time
• Practical ways to engage empathetically in daily interactions
• Key insights from the State of Workplace Empathy study

About our Speaker:

Rob Volpe, CEO & Founder, Empathy Activist, LLC

Rob Volpe is an astute observer of life and a master storyteller who brings empathy and compassion to the human experience. He is the author of the award-winning book Tell Me More About That: Solving the Empathy Crisis One Conversation at a Time. Rob is also the Founder of Ignite 360, an insights and marketing strategy firm.

Rob is a thought leader and highly-rated speaker in the improvement of communication and collaboration. Rob works with organizations to implement customized training, coaching and consulting programs that can help drive results through the strategic use of empathy in the workplace and life. Rob has worked with clients across a range of industries, including associations, nonprofits, and the Fortune 500.

Rob is a contributor to Entrepreneur’s Leadership Network and frequently speaks on the topic. He’s been quoted in Advertising Week, Mashable, Huffington Post, TheStreet, Hemispheres Magazine and the Chicago Tribune, among others. He is a regular contributor to the mid-morning lifestyle show Good Things Utah on KTVX-TV in Salt Lake City.

Rob is a graduate of Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and lives in San Francisco with his husband and 3 cats.