ONLINE: Listening with Empathy

One of the most common traits among failed scenes, negotiations, and contract discussions is misunderstanding the intent behind a verbal statement. Oftentimes the intent is buried behind "under talk" and lack of trust. This can be particularly challenging when communication is already at a standstill. Join me as we explore how to regain trust and relearn how to listen with empathy.

In this class, we will be covering:

• What is “Under talk” and how can we recognize it in our speech
• Reading body language or the lack of body language
• Learning how to become a more empathic person
• Rebuilding trust after a communication break down
• How to create a safe place for private talks

PRESENTER:

Master Retro Bella is a Latina High Femme Master and Leather woman from Bakersfield, California. Her pronouns are She/Her/Hers. She is the first woman to earn the title of 2023 Southwest Master and became the first person of Latin descent to hold the 2024 International Master title. She is passionate about Latinx/ne representation in M/s and Leather spaces. This passion fueled her to create the Latine Leather Pride flag, which debuted at South Plains Leatherfest in 2025, and to become the founder of Latinos in Leather. Recognized as one of the Onyx Pearls’ “Young 8,” she carries the pearl name Amara Pearl. Currently, Master Retro Bella curates the Latinx Queer Chronicles on Substack, which showcases the intersectionality of queerness and Latinidad.

TICKETING:

$30 suggested. We offer several price points, so that cost is less of a barrier to attendance. Please pay at the level you can comfortably afford.

https://forbiddentickets.com/events/wicked-grounds/412287efca

Patreon members at the VIP+ level may get discounted tickets for $10. Just see your Patreon membership emails for this month's discount code. Find out more at Patreon.com/WickedGrounds!

If cost is a barrier at any level, please use the "Volunteer List" to request a free scholarship ticket. We will award as many scholarship tickets as we can on a space-available basis.

ACCESS:

This will be a live, online class offered through Zoom. To participate, you may need to download the free, basic version of the Zoom app before the class! This class will be recorded and is available for later viewing within seven days of the class.

Zoom now provides closed captioning which will be available for this event.