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A stimulating chat at Molly’s pub

The subject of bullying in the workplace will be thrashed out in an informal ‘Conversation in the Pub’ on 22 June with employment law specialist, Barbara Buckett, leading the conversation.

Barbara has worked with many clients who have been subjected to bullying in their workplaces.

The upper room at Molly Malone’s is the popular venue for a monthly ‘Conversation in the Pub’ on a wide range of life topics.

The idea is to provide a forum, outside of the usual church context, where people from a range of backgrounds feel welcome and are challenged by interesting speakers. Topic areas include social issues and themes relating to personal spirituality and well-being.

One of the organisers of the regular events, Fr Peter Roe, says the idea came from a visit to Australia where ‘Conversations in the Pub’ have a strong following.

‘We all benefit from being challenged by the thoughts and experiences of others,’ says Peter, ‘and yet many people lack a regular opportunity for that to happen.

‘This forum makes that possible. It draws people from diverse walks of life, including non-church-goers. The pub is a friendly environment where people feel relaxed and ready to share their own insights with others.

‘The informality has a real appeal for people but the issues being discussed have substance. Coping with adversity, seeking passion in your work life, confronting prejudice in yourself and others – facing up to these challenges really enhances people’s lives. It gives them something to take away and reflect on, it broadens horizons.’

Last month’s speaker, life coach and motivational speaker, Phil Kerslake, talked about his lifelong battle with cancer and his new book, Life, Happiness and Cancer in the context of coping with adversity.

Other speakers so far have included Michael Fitzsimons and Nigel Beckford, authors of the midlife career change book You Don’t Make a Big Leap Without a Gulp, Marc Wilson from Victoria University on the persistence of prejudice, and Jan Jordan from Victoria University on the controversial prostitution law reform legislation.

The format of the evening allows for a presentation from the guest speaker followed by questions and discussion. The event lasts from 5.45pm until 7.00pm in the evening so that people can call in on their way home from work. Light refreshments are provided. The feedback on the evenings so far has been very enthusiastic.

‘It’s a great idea,’ says regular attender, Jo Woods. ‘The speakers are all experts in their fields. A pub setting makes things very informal so the sessions are always interesting, humorous and informative.’

‘The feedback I’ve had from people attending the sessions so far has been terrific. So people should come along and give it a try if ‘Conversation in the Pub’ sounds like you,’ Fr Peter Roe said.

If you would like to be included on a regular email about upcoming speakers, email Peter Head on phead@now.net.nz

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