Easing the Journey of Becoming: Dustin Liu on Facilitation, Purpose, and System Sensing

In this deep and energizing episode, Mentor Dida sits down with Dustin Liu - facilitator, educator, and the Senior Associate Director at NYU Stern’s Initiative on Purpose and Flourishing - for a conversation that spans the art, science, and spirit of facilitation.

Together we explore what it means to “ease the journey of becoming,” how to create conditions for human growth, and why great facilitation starts with setting intention - not controlling outcomes. Dustin shares insights from years of guiding learning communities, designing transformative experiences, and helping organizations move toward more generous, humane ways of working.

We talk about the importance of norms, naming the unspoken, the role of the ego in group dynamics, and what it means to “listen louder than you speak.” Drawing from his background in systems-change, adult development, and life design, Dustin also shares what it takes to lead in a way that’s grounded in purpose, curiosity, and joy.

If you’ve ever wondered how to create truly transformative spaces, disrupt power dynamics with care, or lead from a place of humility and presence, this episode is for you.

About Dustin Liu
Dustin Liu is the Senior Associate Director at the NYU Stern Initiative on Purpose and Flourishing, where he helps design programs that bridge research and practice on purpose-driven leadership. A former Fulbright Scholar and educator at institutions like Stanford’s d.school and Harvard Extension School, Dustin is a certified life design facilitator, systems-change practitioner, and lifelong learner - currently diving into the world of death doulas.

He’s worked with Ashoka, the University of Chicago, and schools and organizations around the world to help individuals and teams reimagine what’s possible.

Links Mentioned

• Connect with Dustin on LinkedIn
• Learn more about the NYU Stern Initiative on Purpose and Flourishing
• Find out more about the Facilitating Change podcast at changemakerallies.com/podcast