Impact Dialogue Series

The Impact Dialogue Series is a reimagined series of structured conversations designed to deepen understanding, strengthen relationships, and support purpose-driven engagement across the Wake Forest University School of Business (WFUSB). Inspired by Wake Forest University’s Call to Conversation, the original Real Talk with Roderick series, and other proven dialogue frameworks, this program brings students, faculty, staff, and partners together for meaningful conversations at the intersection of business, leadership, and society.

Participants explore pressing issues through facilitated discussion formats that emphasize reflection, strategic thinking, and practical relevance. The series supports the development of clear communication, global fluency, and professional readiness – core competencies for navigating today’s complex world of work.

Global Series Focus: Business & Society Across Regions

A signature feature of the series is its regional focus, with monthly sessions (September–November; February–April) exploring how business and society evolve across global contexts. Each dialogue highlights a specific geographic region – such as East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southern Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, or UK/Europe – and invites participants to examine leadership, innovation, economic trends, and societal dynamics unique to that region.

Through speaker spotlights, peer conversations, and group reflections, the series promotes cross-regional awareness and equips participants with the mindset and perspective to lead in global environments.

What You Can Expect

The Impact Dialogue Series provides participants with dynamic, high-impact opportunities to:

• Engage in Meaningful Reflection
  Explore ethical considerations, leadership choices, and real-world business scenarios through structured conversation.
• Build Global and Cultural Fluency
  Deepen understanding of how regional and societal contexts shape business strategy, leadership, and collaboration.
• Strengthen Relational Insight
  Form authentic connections across disciplines and roles while developing skills for navigating interpersonal and cross-functional environments.
• Generate Strategic Insight
  Collaboratively explore complex issues, identify emerging challenges, and share perspectives to support practical learning and action.

Each session prepares participants to lead with clarity, communicate effectively, and think globally – whether in classrooms, companies, or communities.

Key Features:

1. Strategic Conversation Facilitation
   • Uses well-designed, forward-thinking questions to guide purposeful group dialogue.
   • Encourages participants to share relevant experiences and insights to drive clarity and actionable thinking.
2. Collaborative Analysis & Problem Solving
   • Applies open discussion and peer feedback to explore challenges, test assumptions, and co-create potential solutions.
   • Builds capacity for integrative thinking across business functions and cultural contexts.
3. Insight-Driven Dialogue Sessions
   • Modeled after the Real Talk with Roderick format, these sessions provide space for open and candid exchange on timely issues shaping leadership and business.
   • Prioritizes thoughtful reflection, intellectual curiosity, and constructive conversation.

Benefits for Students, Faculty, and Staff

• Sharpened Strategic Thinking
  Participants develop clarity in communication and the ability to lead focused, high-stakes conversations.
• Improved Communication
  Sessions build listening, inquiry, and the ability to engage across backgrounds and professional contexts.
• Global Readiness
  Participants gain essential skills for working across geographic, cultural, and organizational boundaries.
• Stronger Community Engagement
  The series reinforces a shared commitment to thoughtful conversation, collaborative learning, and institutional excellence.