How do we reconnect in a world where conversations can feel more polarized than ever? A new community event in St. Petersburg is tackling that question head-on. On Thursday, November 6, 2025, the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg will host “Can We Still Talk?” Finding Empathy During Divided Times at the Center for Health Equity from 5:00 – 7:30 PM.

Presented in partnership with the Tampa Bay Times, the evening will focus on how empathy can help bridge divides and bring people together, even when they don’t see eye to eye.

The event features local and national voices leading a conversation about listening, understanding, and communicating across differences. Attendees can expect open dialogue, thought-provoking insights, and practical takeaways for creating more meaningful connections in daily life.

Michael Tennet headshot| photo via Caroline Bel-Kher

Panelist Michael Tennant, a Clearwater-based entrepreneur, author, and empathy advocate, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. As the founder of ‘Curiosity Lab, a purpose-driven creative studio, Tennant has spent more than a decade helping organizations like VICE, Coca-Cola, Google, and P&G connect through empathy-centered storytelling.

Tennant explains, “It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to have interesting and meaningful connections with your neighbors facilitated by an expert in empathy, and to hear brilliant minds talk strategies for fostering connections. Come early and play the Actually Curious conversation game in a connection experience facilitated by Curiosity Lab. It’s like a TED Talk for building connections this holiday season and beyond.”

Lifestyle photoshoot of ‘Actually Curious’ |photo via Caroline Bel-Kher

His work includes the bestselling conversation game Actually Curious, the book The Power of Empathy, and The Five Phases of Empathy Workshop, all designed to teach people how to listen, understand, and engage with compassion. His work has been recognized by outlets including The New York Times, Oprah, and Beyoncé, and awarded by organizations such as the Pharrell Williams Black Ambition Prize and the Maynard Institute for Journalism.

Moderated by Tampa Bay Times columnist Stephanie Hayes, the panel will also feature Kelly McBride of The Poynter Institute, Rev. Dr. Russell Meyer of the Florida Council of Churches, Tammy Briant Spratling from USF’s College of Education, and Dr. Jeffrey Collins from UF’s Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education.

Hosted at the Foundation’s Center for Health Equity, the event reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to creating spaces where dialogue, understanding, and community connection can thrive across Pinellas County.

Event Details
Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Time: 5:00 – 7:30 PM EST
Location: Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Center for Health Equity
Partner: Tampa Bay Times
Admission: Free with registration