The Rotman School of Management will host executive communication coach Nick Kindler for a hybrid event on , centered on his book The Narrative Effect. The session will run from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Desautels Hall and online, with a moderated Q&A, meet-and-greet, and book signing following the presentation.
Key facts
- The event is scheduled for December 7, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- It will be held in Desautels Hall and virtually in a hybrid format.
- Nick Kindler is the featured speaker and Brett Hendrie will moderate.
- General admission with a book ticket costs $25.95 plus HST.
- Registration includes a copy of the book, with livestream access and a 30-day replay option for virtual attendees.
What this means for students, alumni and Rotman community members
The event gives Rotman students and other attendees a chance to hear a leadership communication coach discuss how stories shape behaviour, culture and results inside organizations. The program is built around practical themes such as seeing, shifting and sharing the stories that influence decision-making and leadership.
For people planning to attend, the main decision is whether to register for the in-person or livestream option. Both tickets are listed at $25.95 plus HST and include the book, while the in-person ticket also includes the meet-and-greet, book signing and light refreshments. Livestream registrants receive access to the session replay for 30 days, and the book will be shipped after the event.
- In-person attendees: arrive for check-in and light refreshments starting at 5:00 p.m.
- Virtual attendees: plan for livestream access and book delivery after the event.
- Accessibility requests: email events@rotman.utoronto.ca no later than two weeks in advance.
- Refund deadline: cancellations must be received in writing at least 24 hours before the event.
Why Rotman is framing the event around narrative
Kindler’s book argues that organizations run on stories, and that leaders need to understand the narratives already shaping culture before they can change them. The event description links that idea to management practice, emphasizing that strategy is most effective when people can understand, believe in and join the story behind it.
Kindler is founder and CEO of Kindler & Company in Toronto and has worked with CEOs, founders and senior leaders on presentations, keynotes and other high-stakes communications. Rotman says Brett Hendrie, its director of strategic events, will moderate the session.
How to get there
Rotman says Desautels Hall is about a 2.5-minute walk south of St. George TTC Station, using the Saint George Street exit. Bicycle racks are available at the north and south entrances of the building, and paid parking is available at the 107 Saint George Street underground garage near Saint George Street and Bloor Street.
Frequently asked questions
What does the registration fee include?
Both the in-person and livestream book-ticket options are listed at $25.95 plus HST and include a copy of The Narrative Effect. The in-person option also includes the meet-and-greet, book signing and light refreshments, while the livestream option includes the video replay for 30 days and shipping for the book.
When should accessibility requests be made?
Rotman asks attendees to email events@rotman.utoronto.ca no later than two weeks before the event if they need access support or other arrangements.
