Beyond Words – How Carrie Klewin Lawrence Emphasized Listening at December’s Joyful Masterclass

Storytelling brings people together. But words alone don’t create connection. Listening does. At December’s “A Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals,” hosted by Covve’s Connection Crew, Carrie Klewin Lawrence showed how listening transforms interactions.

Carrie Klewin Lawrence (she/her) is a stage director, acting coach, and author of Origin Story. She helps people shape their personal narratives on stage and in life. As a branding coach and professor, she understands the way communication shapes relationships. Her book, Origin Story, explores how storytelling gives people control over their experiences.

Her journey into storytelling started when she rediscovered a childhood play she had written. That moment reinforced her belief in the power of narrative. She brings that perspective into her work, helping people find confidence in their voice and the way they tell their stories. Whether directing, coaching, or teaching, she focuses on real connection.

Beyond Words – The Power of Active Listening

Bringing her expertise to the masterclass, she invited participants to share personal stories. Instead of responding with advice or questions, listeners reflected on what they heard using three descriptive words and a gesture. It shifted attention from reacting to absorbing.

Carrie highlighted that truly listening involves paying attention to tone, emotions, and values. Words and gestures helped participants engage in a way that felt more personal and memorable.

Bringing This Into Everyday Conversations

Try it with colleagues, friends, or family:

1. Ask something open-ended: “What’s a holiday tradition you love, and why does it matter to you?”
2. Really listen: Let the story unfold without interruption.
3. Summarize with three words: Pick words that capture its essence.
4. Use a gesture: A movement or expression that reflects the story’s meaning.

It’s a small shift that creates a stronger sense of connection.

The Impact of Truly Listening

People assume they’re good listeners, but real listening takes focus. When people feel heard, conversations change. Relationships deepen. Teams collaborate better.

Carrie’s activity at December’s Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals left participants with a simple yet powerful takeaway: the best storytellers are great speakers because of their ability to be great listeners, too.