The EVP Ypres Meetup Podcast

Marsha & John - How Community and Connection Drive Growth at EVP

Marsha and John review the EVP meetup in Ypres, focusing on the transformative power of visual thinking and community. Attendees shared experiences that emphasized the importance of human connection in collaboration and the real-world impact of visual facilitation beyond aesthetics. The meetup fostered a strong sense of community and support, highlighting continuous learning and innovation. Members like Jerome are dedicated to adopting new approaches and expanding skills, which illustrates the group’s commitment to growth. Plans for European expansion with new board members aim to maintain a welcoming atmosphere, promoting talent sharing and collective growth over competition. Visual thinking is central to enhancing understanding and collaboration, while providing both tangible and intangible benefits like belonging and shared energy. The meetup encouraged challenging traditional leadership notions by valuing community builders who contribute selflessly. The theme of “Peaceful Projections” showcased visual language’s role in fostering inclusivity. Overall, the EVP community exemplifies collaboration, learning, and positive global impact, emphasizing the transformative effect of supportive networks in amplifying unique voices and perspectives.

Maaike Boorsboom - Building a Creative Community

This podcast episode features Maaike Boorsboom, Chair of the European Visual Practitioners Board, discussing the event. This meetup focused on building a strong community among visual practitioners, emphasizing inclusivity, diversity, and the creation of meaningful connections. Participants appreciated the welcoming and non-competitive atmosphere, where creativity and humility were celebrated, and individual contributions were recognized. The discussion also delves into the group’s identity and shared values, using metaphors like trees’ root systems to symbolize collaboration and interconnectedness. The community aims to support and connect visual practitioners across Europe, encouraging participation from individuals at all experience levels. The podcast concludes by acknowledging sponsors and urging continued exploration and connection within the community.

Jeroen Blijsie - Unlocking Visual Magic

The podcast features Jeroen Blijsie at the European Visual Practitioners Meetup in Ypres, discussing his influence on visual thinking and the growth of his company. The conversation highlights the value of networking within Europe and the intimate setting of the meetup for fostering relationships and learning. Jeroen reflects on a weekend event that allowed him to gain perspective on his profession, leading him to prioritize facilitation over purely visual elements. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, insights, and the use of liberating structures to enhance facilitation through visualization. The speaker discusses the role of visuals in capturing interactions and connections during facilitation, noting that while they hold value for participants, they may need explanation for others. He highlights a project involving a book with 52 co-authors, focusing on the collaborative process and the stories conveyed through visuals. Meeting David Sibbet in 2014 inspired Jeroen to work on this book, emphasizing sharing lessons and connecting with pioneers in the field. Interactions with other practitioners, like Mara Kallert and Ben Crutters, are mentioned, along with plans for future collaborations and training courses. The discussion underscores the significance of books and partnerships in advancing the visual practitioners’ community, expressing gratitude for contributions from peers.

Rudy Begas - Energetic Energizing with Visuals

This episode features Rudy Begas discussing his experiences with visualization, which has become a significant part of his life and career as a commercial trainer. He expresses gratitude towards the host, Karl, for inspiring his journey in visualization. Rudy shares how he integrates creativity into everyday tasks, even carrying his Neuland suitcase while buying a car, and highlights the importance of simplicity in visual communication for effective message delivery. The discussion includes Rudy’s involvement in the EVP meetup, where participants passionate about markers, paper, ink, color, and forms aim to integrate these elements into business environments. The professional atmosphere and collaborative learning opportunities are appreciated, with Rudy contributing through his enthusiasm and skills like using drones and cameras. The conversation also explores training and leadership techniques, focusing on using “smart energizers,” humor, and the role of a joker to cover vulnerabilities. The episode concludes with personal connections, sponsor acknowledgments, and an invitation to engage with visual thinking practices.

Claudio Nichelle - Building Trust and Unity

Claudio Nichelle shares his experiences collaborating with visual practitioners, highlighting the warm and caring atmosphere of the event with host Karl Mortier. He stresses the importance of values such as trust, transparency, and communication in visual work, noting that these qualities are innate to visual thinkers. Claudio expresses pride in contributing to Europe’s development despite its imperfections, emphasizing the necessity of trust, integrity, and accountability within institutions. The discussion also explores the multicultural aspect of living in Belgium, where diverse languages are spoken, and Claudio reflects on his own dual cultural heritage, blending Italian passion with Belgian work ethic. He advocates for building a European identity, fostering unity in diversity, and establishing trust and respect among individuals. The conversation concludes with gratitude towards sponsors and a heartfelt farewell.