Listening to Understand
About This Conversation
In this episode, Denise and Tim explore what it means to truly hear another person, especially when emotions, assumptions, or strong opinions get in the way.
From everyday conversations to military stories, parenting, and the challenges of today's divided world, they reflect on the simple practices that build trust: asking better questions, staying curious, and listening to understand instead of listening to respond.
Along the way, they discover that meaningful conversations rarely begin with having the right answer. They begin with creating enough space for another person's story.
This week's question: When was the last time someone made you feel truly heard?
Listen to this conversation
Big Idea
Listening isn't passive. It's an active choice to set aside assumptions, stay curious, and make room for another person's story. When people feel heard, trust grows—and relationships become stronger.
Around Your Table
Carry the conversation into your own life.
When was the last time someone made you feel truly heard? What did they do?
Do you tend to listen to understand or listen to respond?
What's one question you could ask this week that invites someone to share more of their story?
Keepsake
“The goal isn’t to win the conversation. It’s to understand the person.”
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