In Their Own Words

In this video, the founders of Conversation Cafe, Vicki Robin and Susan Partnow explain how this movement got started, and they guide you through the how-to's of starting your own.

The video files currently available are in QuickTime format (higher quality/larger files). You must have QuickTime installed in order to play these files. You may download the player for free here.

This host training presentation is now also available as a DVD.

If you have a slower connection, (e.g. a dial-up service), or just want to do a test run, then watch the video in segments. When you click the link, not much will happen for the time that it takes the file to download, then the QuickTime player will appear and start the video.

Segment 1 6 1/2 min (8MB)
Welcome! Hosting a Conversation Cafe; the role of a host; what is a BIG talk conversation; history of the CC Initiative.
Segment 2 1 3/4 min (2MB)
Where to host a Conversation Cafe; finding a cafe and working with cafe owners.
Segment 3 3 min (4MB)
What's "in" and what's "out" at a Conversation Cafe; what a CC is, and what it isn't ... do's and don'ts; how many people can be part of a Conversation Cafe; CCs are a commercial-free zone, no committees will be formed, no membership, nothing to join; how to create and find topics.
Segment 4 2 1/2 min (3MB)
What do I need to host a Conversation Cafe? What things are helpful to have on hand?
Segment 5 6 1/2 min(8MB)
What happens at a Conversation Cafe? CC agreements & process.
Segment 6 4 min (5MB)
What are the benefits of hosting a Conversation Cafe? Coaching for hosts. How to respond to the challenges of hosting.
Segment 7 3 min (4MB)
What support is there for hosts of a Conversation Cafe? Resources on the website, the host listserv, and training info.

If you have a fast connection, you may want to play the video from start to finish with this one file:

Entire Video 27 min (32 MB)

If you want just the audio from the movie, use this link:

Audio only.

To order a DVD of this training presentation, we suggest that you make a contribution of $15 ($10 plus $5 postage and handling), to cover our costs in producing the DVD. Send your check made out to Conversation Café s along with your order to:

Conversation Cafés
PO Box 1363
Langley, WA 98260

Please let us know how you like the video, or if you had problems tryring to watch it. You can send feedback to [email protected].