One of the sessions at the recent CHART Boston conference that impacted me the most was “Unboring Your Training” by Daniele Ceccato of Salamander Collection and Kate Stiteler of Sonesta Hotels. In training, we are often asked, “How much time is this going to take?” or “How much is this going to cost?”. But this session offered a simple reminder: fun is free! It showed me that engaging training does not require expensive technology or elaborate materials. Sometimes, it is just about presenting information differently. We completed wuzzles, or word puzzles, and the energy in the room immediately changed. It made me think about how easily a lecture or policy review can become something learners actually want to participate in.
During one activity, my table was challenged to make a training policy topic more fun. Our scenario was attendance and being on time – something that could easily become a dry policy discussion. We created a song to the tune of “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper. We sung lines such as, “If you’re late, you can look, and you will find me, time after time!” It was simple and funny, but it also made the message more memorable and the people in the room were engaged and bought in.
Another part of the presentation that stayed with me was the story of Steve Nash. The presenters shared a video explaining how he earned back-to-back MVP titles even though he was never the NBA’s top scorer. His impact came from the way he elevated the people around him. Through assists, communication and frequent positive interactions like high-fives and fist bumps, he helped build confidence, energy and connection across his team.
The session connected those interactions to the power of positive human touch, which can trigger oxytocin, a hormone associated with trust and social bonding. Learning about this was especially meaningful to me because Steve Nash’s high-fives were not just celebrations. They were small, consistent ways of making his teammates feel supported and recognized. It showed me how something as simple as a high-five can raise the bar. Words of encouragement are important, but positive human touch can provide immediate recognition and make someone feel seen in the moment. I highly recommend everyone to take two minutes to watch the referenced video!
“Unboring” training does not mean turning every session into a game. It means creating purposeful moments that help people participate, connect and remember. Sometimes a puzzle, song, video, challenge or high-five is all it takes to make the learning stick!
CHART Community Discussion