Founder & Director of The Dialogue Project, Theatre Director, Communication Expert, Dialogue Specialist & Leadership Communication Consultant

Karl James is a leading expert in dialogue, communication and human connection. As the Founder and Director of The Dialogue Project and a celebrated theatre director, Karl has spent over 25 years helping people have better conversations in the most challenging environments imaginable. From peace negotiators and surgeons to explorers and everyday people in extraordinary situations, his work reveals what happens when we truly listen. Drawing on insights from thousands of recorded conversations, Karl helps teams, leaders, and individuals develop empathy, trust and clarity through better dialogue.

Credentials & Impact

Karl began his career as Co-Founder and Director of Trade Secrets in 1996 before founding The Dialogue Project in 2001, an organisation dedicated to improving communication across workplaces, schools and communities. His research and fieldwork have taken him into operating theatres, boardrooms and international peace talks, where he has studied dialogue in its most high-stakes moments. Commercial clients such as Google, Unilever, Tesco and TSB have sought his expertise to enhance leadership communication, trust and innovation. As a theatre director, Karl has worked with the Royal Court, National Theatre, National Theatre of Scotland and Royal Shakespeare Company, staging acclaimed productions in New York, Tokyo and Lisbon. His cross-disciplinary career blends storytelling, psychology and leadership, making him a rare and powerful voice on how authentic conversations drive performance and collaboration.

Publications & Media

Karl’s work has featured widely on BBC Radio 4, where he shares real-life recordings that explore resilience, conflict, reconciliation and empathy. His dialogue projects have been covered in national newspapers and business media, with his techniques now adopted by global brands and education systems. Through his podcast and speaking appearances, Karl continues to shape how organisations think about communication and connection in an era of division and automation.

Why Book Karl James?

Booking Karl James brings audiences an engaging, practical and emotionally resonant experience. He combines humour and humanity with powerful stories drawn from decades of research and lived experience. Karl equips leaders and teams with tools to handle complex conversations, strengthen relationships and foster more inclusive, innovative environments. His approach is both deeply human and highly actionable, leaving a lasting impact on every audience.

To book Karl James to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.