ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Kirk Docker's Tips for Tough Conversations

other · 2026-06-28

Kirk Docker, creator of ABC's 'You Can't Ask That' and 'I Was Actually There', shares advice on having difficult conversations. He emphasizes starting the conversation despite fear, being genuinely curious, listening without planning a response, asking to understand rather than judge, leading with empathy, and ensuring the other person doesn't feel more vulnerable afterward. The tips are featured in frankie issue 132.

Key facts

  • Kirk Docker created ABC's 'You Can't Ask That' and 'I Was Actually There'.
  • Docker advises starting tough conversations despite fear.
  • He recommends asking questions you genuinely care about.
  • Listening without planning your next comment is crucial.
  • Questions should aim to understand, not criticize.
  • Empathy means understanding another's perspective, not agreeing.
  • Finish interactions by asking about growth and wisdom.
  • The tips are from frankie issue 132.

Entities

Artists

  • Kirk Docker

Institutions

  • ABC
  • frankie

Sources