The Myth of Neutrality: Examining Our Biases as Facilitators with Adrian Ashton

Are facilitators ever truly neutral?

We often describe our role as neutral.

We hold the space. We guide the process. We stay impartial.

But none of us arrives in a room as a blank slate.

Our experiences, values, hopes, and frustrations shape what we notice, what we challenge, what we amplify, and what we quietly close down.

So this month, instead of focusing on tools or techniques, the Café turns the spotlight inward.

Together, we’ll explore what our own biases mean for our facilitation practice. Not to judge ourselves. But to understand how our presence shapes the room in ways we may not always see.

This session may feel a little more personal than usual. That is part of the point.

As Baz Luhrmann’s Sunscreen reminds us: "Do one thing every day that scares you."

What you’ll experience

• A thoughtful exploration of the idea of facilitator neutrality.
• Reflection on how our life experiences shape our default responses in sessions.
• Conversations about when our interventions might unintentionally help, or harm.
• Space to consider how others may experience us and our facilitation.
• A chance to explore whether openly acknowledging bias might sometimes strengthen trust rather than weaken it.

Expect an honest conversation, thoughtful reflection, and the kind of dialogue that only happens when facilitators talk openly with each other.

What you need

• A laptop or desktop for the best experience.
• Openness to self-reflection and honest conversation.
• A willingness to sit with a little discomfort as we explore important questions.

Who’s it for?

Facilitators, coaches, trainers, and leaders who:

• Are curious about the deeper dynamics behind their facilitation choices.
• Want to reflect on how their own perspectives influence the room.
• Believe facilitation is as much about self-awareness as it is about tools and techniques.
• Are willing to explore questions that do not always have easy answers.

About Adrian

Adrian Ashton is a seasoned facilitator, author, and long-time contributor to the facilitation community. He is known for asking thoughtful questions that challenge accepted assumptions and open up new ways of thinking about our work.

Rather than offering easy answers, Adrian creates space for facilitators to reflect more deeply on the craft and responsibility of the role.