Open a Session · Energize · Reconnect
Best Thing You Heard
Bring one useful, funny, or interesting thing from the break back to your table.
Time2–3 minutes
Group size4+ people
FormatTable groups
MaterialsNone
What this accomplishes
After a break, participants share something they heard or learned that is both appropriate and theirs to repeat. It can come from the session, a colleague, or a new connection.
- Restart conversation after a break
- Share useful informal learning
Before you begin
Materials
- None
Preparation
- Display a visible timer
- Plan to hear no more than two table reports
What to say
“Here is the ask. You will work only with your table, the timer will stay visible, and passing is always fine.”
How to run it
- 1
Ask everyone to think of one useful, funny, or interesting thing from the break that is okay to repeat.
- 2
Share around the table in one sentence each.
- 3
Let the table choose one idea worth carrying into the next segment.
- 4
Hear two examples from the room.
Prompts to use
Something useful you learned
A question that made you think
A recommendation you received
A harmless moment that made you laugh
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one table and let everyone contribute; skip the room report.
Large group
Run the activity simultaneously at tables of four to six, then hear only two brief reports.
Virtual
Use breakout rooms of four to six, broadcast the prompt and timer, and collect one response in chat when rooms close.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Keep participation seated by default.
- Display and read the prompt aloud.
- Allow anyone to pass, write, or contribute through a tablemate.
Debrief, if useful
What informal learning should come back into the session with us?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
The prompt converts break-time conversation into shared value and brings the noise level back up without a new introduction.
Watch out for
- Share only what is appropriate to repeat.
- Do not quote private conversations or identify someone without permission.