This week at Open Gov Hub, we kicked off the last week of September with our favorite breakfast ritual: Muffin Monday. Muffins, bagels, and good coffee were on the table, but the real highlight was the session that followed with Andrés Marquez-Lara, Founder and CEO of UFacilitate.
Andrés Marquez-Lara leading the Rituals 2.0 session
Everyday Rituals that Strengthen Connection
Andrés led a powerful workshop on Everyday Rituals that Strengthen Connection, reminding us that true community isn't built from big events alone; it grows from small, consistent moments. Moments like sharing a muffin and a conversation with colleagues.
Through stories and interactive exercises, Andrés introduced Rituals 2.0: modern, co-created practices designed to help teams navigate the "messy human stuff": egos, miscommunication, cultural differences, and conflict. By turning routine into intentional practice, groups can break down silos, strengthen collaboration, and create more cohesive, high-performing teams.
UFacilitate's work has impacted organizations worldwide, including the World Food Program, The Nature Conservancy, Easterseals, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and The Rockefeller Foundation, helping them turn human complexity into meaningful collaboration.
Andrés also teaches leadership development at Georgetown University, serves as a Senior Fellow at the Center for Excellence in Public Leadership at George Washington University, and advises the Emergence Project for Purposeful Entrepreneurship at Stanford University.
We were thrilled to have him share his insights with our community. If you're inspired by his approach, don't miss the opportunity to check out Andrés Marquez-Lara's new book, where he dives deeper into the principles behind Rituals 2.0 and how everyday practices can transform teams.
