At the outset of the pandemic, one of my goals was to read more books.  Instead, I have watched more TV.  My wife, Jo, and I have binged some great shows:  The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Yellowstone, Away, The Missing, three-plus seasons of Schitt’s Creek, Mrs. Wilson and Tiger King.  Okay, Jo bailed early on Tiger King, but not me. That time would definitely have been better spent with a book. 

I have read a few books, however, and one has proven to be especially relevant to my consulting work: "A Curious Mind: The Secret to a Bigger Life" by Brian Grazer, the Academy Award-winning producer. Throughout the pandemic and the national movement to end racism this year, it’s been clear to me that empathy is the key to connecting with and earning the trust of an audience.  Prior to this year, I advocated energy and likability as the great connectors.  While still important, empathy is now the key.

Grazer’s book revealed curiosity as an effective generator of empathy.