Ecocycle Planning:
A 12 Month Exploratory Workshop Series
What if...
We decided to dive deeply into one model? Use it, play with it, explore it, and commit to it for one year. What becomes possible?
I recently hosted a workshop on activating change using the Ecocycle Planning model as the orienting structure. Within 75 minutes, two things happened—and this is what intrigues me.
First, a state-level arts director had an epiphany: “This changes my life. I am seeing things differently now.” The cyclical framework opened something.
Second, a group of people working on a national program that had them stuck, started trying to sort the various parts of the program onto the ecocycle. Within that same hour, they identified the key leverage point to shift.
One person shifted their thinking. One group solved a real problem. Both happened because we slowed down, mapped the work, and used the ecocycle framework as a starting point to see more clearly.
I’m seeing shifts in my own work. The cyclical language is opening space for interconnected thinking. It’s also giving me permission to creatively destroy what isn’t working and invest that energy into something new (this workshop, for example).
Details
Are you swinging between two ways of planning? Sometimes you’re practical and goal-driven, moving fast and checking boxes. Other times you’re reflective and exploratory, taking time to think deeply about meaning and cycles. You pendulum between them, and are struggling to find a more harmonious way. Yeah, I know this dance…
Maybe you set goals with hope and precision, like I do. And then find that reality is has different plans. I find this happens because I haven’t slowed down to find clarity about the situation first.
This year-long series invites you into a both/and space. We use a nature-based framework (ecocycle planning) that asks you to think cyclically about your work—Incubation, Birth, Maturity, Creative Destruction. But we ground it in monthly diagnosis: What’s actually happening? What’s stuck? What’s one small move forward?
Each month you’ll create a fresh ecocycle map, notice what’s genuinely shifting versus what’s stuck, and work in small groups to move those stuck items forward. Over a year, you’ll have 12 snapshots of your work’s evolution—and you’ll have developed a more integrated way of planning, one that doesn’t require you to choose between reflection and action.
This is not a goal-achievement workshop. It’s a laboratory for learning how to steward your work through its natural cycles and phases with both clarity and creativity.
Who?
People who are curious about a different model of planning. People who are willing to slow down, map with clarity, and learn from others who think differently than they do. People who are ready to explore with others.
When?
One hour, once a month on the first Friday of every month at 10:00 AM PST. In January and July, the workshops will not be on the first Friday. In December we will host two gatherings; the regular first Friday session and a community reflection gathering later in the month. All dates are listed below.
Where?
Online via Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and available to registered participants.
Cost?
The cost for this workshop series is a pay-what you can donation. All proceeds from this workshop will go to the Bethlehem House of Bread, my neighborhood's local food bank. You can make a donation directly to them or pay through my business and I will donate every month. Funds raised will be posted and shared each month.
FAQ
How do I know if this is right for me?
People come from many different sectors and practices—nonprofit, tech, creative fields, social enterprise. What we share is this: mechanical, linear planning alone isn’t quite serving you. You’re curious about what happens when we complement traditional methods with a living systems approach.
If you love the moment when you say, “I had not thought about it that way,” then this space is definitely for you.
If you don’t love that moment yet but you’re curious—attend one session and see how it lands. Sometimes we arrive aspirationally.
If being in unfamiliar thinking territory feels weird—yeah, that might happen. That’s the point. Come anyway.
I’m not naming specific job titles or niches because the serendipity of diverse perspectives is what opens new ways of thinking. You’ll discover what you need from others in the room.
Where can I learn more about Ecocycle Planning?
I first learned about Ecocycle Planning through Liberating Structures. You can learn more here: https://www.liberatingstructures.com/31-ecocycle-planning/
What if I can't Attend A Session?
Sessions will be recorded and available to registered participants.
What do I need to participate?
You will need an internet connection and a way to participate on Zoom. You will also need paper and something to write with. Digital printable handouts will be provided by email for printing. However, if you do not have access to a printer, you can quickly draw what is needed.
What is included in this Workshop Series?
Registered participants will receive digital ecocycle worksheets, the facilitation methodology, and updates on what we are learning as a community.
What work can I map?
A variety of things can be mapped to the ecocycle: partnerships, business activities, programs, creative practice activities, projects, services, professional skills, and relationships. Each month can be a different focus with a different map. Collectively, over time, a more complete picture of work will emerge.
Can I join after the series has started?
Yes! We are planning for it. Each month, there will be a short introduction to where we are now in the series. And, this series is designed so that you can join at any point. The format will be similar each month. Begin where you are.
Do I have to sign up for every month?
No, you do not. You can sign up each month or sign up for the series in full. When registering, select drop-in and you will be registered for the upcoming month. However, to get the full benefit, the full series is recommended. Only registered participants will receive the recording for that particular month.
Cost is A challenge for me right now...
It’s ok. You don’t need to donate to participate. This workshop series is a way to learn and support my community, including YOU! If what supports you in this moment is saving your dollars; then that’s what is needed. Do that! I want you here learning and growing alongside me in this community.
Why are the proceeds going to this particular nonprofit?
I want the work I do to benefit my direct and hyperlocal community. This is one way that I can do that. Food Banks are no longer receiving the support they used to and every dollar helps. And, this food bank is just down the street from me.
What is the refund policy?
Contributions to Ecocycle Planning Workshop Series are non-refundable. All proceeds are donated to the chosen nonprofit monthly.
If circumstances change and you’re unable to attend a session you donated towards, you’re welcome to adjust your contribution for future months. Your participation matters, and we want this to be accessible.
*Also, no refunds makes my life a bit easier and able to focus making this a great experience.
Business For Good
Join us for this experiment in business as a system for mutual benefit.
YOU: Receive a service for your payment.
BETHLEMHEM HOUSE OF BREAD: Receives financial resources to deliver its mission.
DEEP CURRENTS: Receives a platform to experiment, learn in community, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a local challenge.
What is becoming visible?
What needs growth?
What is finding it's rhythm?
What needs creative destruction?
Dates
All times will be at 10 am PST.
January 16, 2025
February 6, 2025
March 6, 2025
April 3, 2025
May 1, 20205
June 5, 2025
July 10, 2025
August 7, 2025
September 4, 2025
October 2, 2025
November 6, 2025
December 4 & 19, 2025