The Dominator

One voice takes up all the air. They answer first and fill every pause, until the rest of the room quietly stops trying to get a word in. The work isn't to shut them down, it's to reopen the floor to the people they're crowding out.

Say this — right now

Thanks [Name], great points. Let's hear from others - [quiet person], what's your take?

Word for word is fine. The room won't know.

Work the move

01Acknowledge their contribution positively
02Use direct invitation to others by name
03Implement round-robin for equal turns
04Set speaking time limits if needed

Next time —

Set ground rules at start about balanced participation

Still in your hand

The Silent One

Participant hasn't spoken

The Naysayer

Constant negative pushback

The Side-Talker

Private conversations disrupting

Plan your next workshop

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How the cards work

Recognize the moment

Each card is triggered by a specific challenge you're watching unfold in the room — a silence, a dominator, a stalled decision.

Pull the move

Each card gives you an exact phrase to say, plus detailed tips and a prevention strategy for next time.

Take action

Use the quick response on the spot, or choose an alternative that fits your room. Back on track in seconds.