Today I’d like to take it back to basics. What is graphic recording, exactly? Who is that person drawing and why? Is it really worth it? Let’s explore together!

When I get to work with scientists like CSU veterinarians, I’ll often get some skeptical looks when people first walk in. I love this because, with a background in science communication, it’s an opportunity for participants to experience their own ideas visualized to support deep thinking in a beautiful way.

Last week I had the pleasure of supporting the CANDO (pronounced “can due”) during their inaugural meeting. This group of veterinarians and researchers are creating a network of researchers and practitioners a cross the US to address canine osteoarthritis with the goal of eventually applied what’s learned to help people with arthritis as well.

As we move into the heart of the winter holiday season, I want to wish you warmth, peace, and rest. Although we intuitively know in our bodies that this is a time of year for slowing down, connecting with loved ones, and letting yourself simply be rather than constantly do…Our minds don’t always want to let us.

If you're a parent, you might know the term "co-regulation": that moment when you use your own calm energy to help settle a child who's overwhelmed. Guess what? This isn't just for parents and kids. As a facilitator or meeting host, you're doing this all the time, whether you realize it or not.

"But how do you know what to capture?"

It's one of the most common questions I get asked about graphic recording. People watch me work and wonder: How do I decide what goes on the wall and what doesn't? How do I know which moment matters?

You know that feeling when you leave a meeting energized? Ideas were flowing, people were doing deep thinking, and there was this sense that something meaningful was happening.

Then two weeks later... crickets.

No matter who you are, having a safe place to call home makes everything a little easier. Recovering from illness or addiction, finding a stable job, raising a family, taking time to process an emotional experience, or taking the first steps toward a healthier life by getting enough sleep or cooking a meal – each of these things is easier when you have a place to call home.

Let's be honest – when was the last time you got genuinely excited reading a press release? If you're scratching your head, you're not alone. Most press releases aren’t visually appealing, which is a shame because they're often sharing amazing things.

Earlier this year, I reflected that in the heart of winter, goal-setting felt less aligned with the energy of resting, going inward, and moving slowly.