Building Community in the Digital Age: Leah Litman's Vision for College Peer Groups

The Heart of Business

Leah Litman, the youngest certified facilitator with the International Facilitators Organization (IFO), is on a mission to transform the college experience through structured peer forums. In this thought-provoking conversation with host Mo Fatalbab, Leah reveals how her psychology background at Tulane University intersects perfectly with her passion for creating authentic connection among students.
The digital generation faces a unique paradox – constantly connected yet profoundly isolated. As Leah observes, "Everyone's communicated and connected online, but not necessarily in real life." This disconnection has left many students feeling lost, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Drawing on neuroscience insights, she explains how the college years represent a critical developmental window when the prefrontal cortex is still forming. The leadership and vulnerability skills taught in forum groups can literally shape students' brain development during this formative period.
What makes Leah's vision so compelling is its practicality. She identifies the gap between theoretical classroom learning and real-world application, noting that while universities provide counselors for classes and study abroad, students "aren't told what comes next." Forum groups fill this void, creating not just community but developing the exact skills employers seek. As she prepares to launch at Tulane with interactive demonstrations, Leah's pioneering approach could revolutionize campus support systems nationwide – providing what so many students desperately need: a safe space to be vulnerable, practice leadership, and form meaningful connections that extend far beyond graduation.
Have you experienced the power of peer groups in your own development? Leave a review sharing your thoughts, and visit internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about bringing forums to your organization.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Leah Littman (00:00:00)

2. Psychology and IFO Certification Journey (00:01:30)

3. Creating Safe Spaces for College Students (00:03:40)

4. Digital vs. Real-Life Connections (00:06:10)

5. College Forums and Career Readiness (00:09:00)

6. Launching at Tulane and Future Vision (00:13:30)