Featured Speaker
Deborah Thompson is known for captivating audiences with her insights on public health, civic engagement, and the lived experiences that make her both unforgettable and deeply relatable.
She’s also genuinely funny — the kind of funny that disarms a room, opens people up, and makes hard topics feel human.
Bring her in as a speaker when you want an event that pushes people to think differently, feel deeply, and walk out energized. She’ll leave guests hopeful, happy, and absolutely hyped.
Bottom line: Deborah’s rare ability to connect with adult audiences of all ages — with humor, heart, and razor‑sharp clarity — makes her an ideal speaker for sparking meaningful conversations and elevating any gathering.
Values-Based Communication Training & Coaching
Deborah leads audiences through activities and reflection to highlight the influence of morals and values on public policy.
Why it matters: Understanding values-based communication is crucial for influencing positive public policy decisions and voting habits.
Participants learn tools to "check their elephant" and stay engaged during challenging conversations.
The workshops empower attendees to practice meaningful discourse effectively.
The bottom line: Deborah’s sessions equip individuals with the communication skills needed to navigate complex policy discussions.
Project management
According to one client, “Deborah is a consultant leader who excels in building relationships.” (Aaron Todd, Iowa PCA)
Deborah and her team adapt to company cultures like a chameleon changes colors - with ease. They keep all the plates spinning and your project moving forward.
Why it matters: We provide the extra capacity and expertise needed for time-limited projects, ensuring objectives are met without compromising quality.
By developing detailed workplans and organizing roles, we ensure that every team member knows their responsibilities and contributes to the project's success.
The bottom line: Companies gain a partner dedicated to facilitating efficient and effective project completion.
Facilitation & Strategic Planning
We create welcoming environments where people can share ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another.
Guided by proven facilitation techniques, including Extreme Facilitation, activities are designed to encourage participation, build trust, and help everyone contribute to the conversation.
The result is a more engaging, inclusive, and rewarding experience for all.
After taking a training from Deborah, a participate shared:
“After the Iowa State Association of Counties (ISAC) presentation, I stepped WAAAYYYYYY outside of my comfort zone and made myself very visible (I am a fly under the radar type of person). Not only did I attend a town hall meeting, but I actually spoke! I had my elevator speech ready to go and we had a good conversation.”
- Local Public Health Administrator
Legislative Process, Advocacy and Civic Engagement
With more than 20 years of experience navigating the halls of government and leading advocacy efforts, Deborah knows how decisions are made and why citizen voices matter.
Why it matters: Democracy works best when people understand how government functions and feel empowered to participate. Yet many citizens don't know where to start.
Drawing from firsthand experiences at the Iowa Statehouse, Deborah shares compelling stories and the lessons that inspired her lifelong commitment to civic engagement.
What you'll gain:
A practical understanding of how legislative decisions are made
Tools for tracking bills and legislative action
Strategies for effectively communicating with elected officials
Insight into why engaged citizens are essential to strong, thriving communities
The bottom line: Civic engagement isn't just for politicians and lobbyists. It's for everyone. Join Deborah for engaging and insightful sessions that will help you become a more informed, confident, and influential citizen.
Let’s collaborate
Don’t see your specific project or capacity need above? Shoot us a message to talk through personalized work.