Earn 3 CEUs!*
Lonnie Weaver-Johnson is a dynamic and authentic public speaker known for her infectious energy, humor, and memorable storytelling. With more than 20 years of experience leading organizational change and developing people, she brings a passion for transformation to every event. Lonnie specializes in performance management, knowledge sharing, and conflict resolution, helping individuals and teams grow with confidence and clarity. A seasoned educator and mentor, she connects with audiences through practical tools, real-world stories, and a genuine commitment to creating positive, productive workplaces.
Description
Most people struggle far more with receiving feedback than giving it, and this challenge shows up every day in our workplaces. In this talk, we shine a light on the overlooked skill of accepting critical feedback with openness, clarity, and emotional maturity. Through humor, real-life stories, and practical tools, I help participants understand why becoming skilled at receiving feedback is one of the most important steps they can take toward personal and professional growth.
We begin by exploring why feedback matters, not only as a performance tool but also as a powerful relationship builder. People often assume they are good at receiving feedback simply because they have heard it before, but hearing and receiving are two very different experiences. Participants learn to recognize that difference and understand how true receiving requires curiosity, emotional regulation, and a willingness to consider new information even when it is uncomfortable.
Since emotions can quickly take over, we take a compassionate look at the natural reactions that surface when we feel criticized. These may include defensiveness, shutting down, rationalizing, or wanting to argue our point. Instead of judging these reactions, we identify what is happening in the brain and body and then practice making proactive choices about how to respond. Participants walk away with strategies for staying present, keeping themselves grounded, and choosing responses that support trust.
We also discuss what it means to respond well in the moment. Even when feedback is surprising, unclear, or feels unfair, people can learn to listen for useful insights, give themselves time to think, and respond with professionalism and clarity. The session offers practical language, mindset shifts, and simple steps that help people navigate these conversations with confidence instead of dread.
Finally, we look at what to do after the conversation ends. Participants learn how to reflect on the feedback, decide what actions make sense, and follow up in a way that strengthens relationships and demonstrates maturity. This is where true growth happens and where trust is reinforced.
By the end of the session, participants understand the importance of receiving feedback well, know how to manage their emotional responses, can distinguish hearing from truly receiving, and feel prepared with actionable steps to move forward even when the message is difficult. This talk supports teams in building cultures where openness is normal, learning is continuous, and people feel stronger for having heard the truth.
Objectives:
1. Understand why being able to receive critical feedback is important for personal and professional growth
2. Understand emotional responses and how to make proactive choices about said responses
3. Recognize the difference between merely hearing feedback and receiving it
4. Be prepared to respond in the moment and take important steps for moving forward
* This CE activity offered by Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family is approved by the Minnesota Board of Social Work as an approved CE Provider (approval valid through July 25, 2026).
This CE activity is pending CE approval with Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.
