Bob VandePol's Page

For centuries, theologians and philosophers have pondered the meaning of human suffering and responses to it. Today trauma-related researchers vigorously debate the post-critical incident trajectories toward recovery for individuals and organizations. Why do some of those impacted by tragedy become Victims-- indelibly marred and increasingly vulnerable to subsequent traumatization? Why do some quickly incorporate internal and natural resiliency factors to bounce back as Survivors? And, was Fried… Continue

Perhaps you have also faced this problem. To say that my contact person was anal would be an understatement. No matter how much pre-event information I sent, she always had yet another tedious request. She probably resigned from the IRS in disdain for its frivolity. Needless to say, I was deeply chagrined when she announced that now that she had 117 pages of my bio (not really, it just seemed that way), she intended to introduce me before the keynote. Nooooooo! I could already envision an elegan… Continue

We have all heard speakers tell stories depicting deep personal tragedies. Personally, there have been times when I was profoundly engaged, impressed by the co-existance of strength and weakness, inspired by courage, and compelled to positive action. There have also been times when I was made uncomfortable by "individual therapy with an audience" or felt the need to take a shower after sleazy manipulation. I invite questions and suggestions regarding personal disclosure best practices.

During these economic times it is easy to assume a “deficit perspective” in which focus narrows to protecting MINE!. Nope, not going there! During speaking engagements I have frequently engaged my audience in the following activity:
Part I
• Every body stand and take all the change out of their pockets or purses.
• Two rules – 1) Get all the money you can. 2) If somebody asks you for your change, you have to give it to them.
In a matter of 2 minutes, tension will have filled the room, a few peop… Continue

My son has an aquarium dominated by a highly aggressive, carnivorous Oscar. His/her (how do you tell?) name is Jaws. Each Saturday, 30 fresh goldfish productized and sold for a dime apiece as "feeder fish" are introduced to a lethal game of Hide & Seek. (I know, I know, it's gruesome. Someday when all the neighborhood kids are in therapy I'll recount the fact that we also had two soft, cuddly hamsters.) Perhaps six months ago, one little goldfish successfully eluded Jaws for the entire week… Continue