Develop the extraordinary relationships you’ve always wanted

Learn essential communication skills to eliminate miscommunication and develop grace-filled connection in all areas of life

“Most people want good relationships or even great relationships.”

With these simple words, Dr. Gary Sweeten invites us into his life’s work of teaching people all over the world how to “love other people in ways that make them feel understood, valued, and appreciated.” In one slender volume, Gary distills his most helpful teachings, biblical precepts, scientific findings, entertaining illustrations, poignant stories, memorable taglines, down-to-earth experiences, and heavenly grace.

What people are saying about “Communicate For A Change”

Beth Guckenberger

Author/Speaker, Co-Executive Director, Back2Back Ministries

“Communicate for a Change is a treatise on connection. We need now, more than ever, practical wisdom on how to make connections and protect them. Dr. Gary Sweeten is the best in class, and his insight will improve your relationships right away.”

Mark Lutz

Pastor, Vineyard Cincinnati, author of “Unleashing the Power of Small Groups” and “What is Wrong With People?!”

“Gary Sweeten's training on relationships and listening was the basis of our leader training for recovery groups. In a relational context, facilitated by skilled listening, empowered by God's Spirit, we've watched lives change for nearly 30 years.”

Valerie Chan

Pastor, Covenant Evangelical Free Church, Singapore

“Gary’s teachings on genuineness, warmth, empathy, and respect have impacted me deeply since 1996, and I’ve taught these principles to many people in various church contexts. The common feedback I’ve received is, “It’s so simple, yet so life-changing.” I believe the principles in this new book will continue to impact lives and change relationships.”

Doug Pollock

Author (God Space, Irresistible Evangelism) and Speaker

“In this new book, Gary has captured the essence of how true change happens best. When we learn to listen to God and others longer than often feels comfortable, we end up standing on sacred ground. Then we have the greatest potential to discover and join God's conversation with the people who rub shoulders with us.”

Gary’s work has touched the lives of millions of people around the world seeking to develop strong relationships. His teaching empowers people with relational skills to create families and churches that build themselves into healing communities.

Take These Concepts Further

The companion workbook includes in-depth resources and practical application questions for you and your group to dive deeper into these communication skills.

The Communicate For A Change Online Course

In this online course, Gary Sweeten teaches four simple relational skills that lead to a profound change in our lives and relationships. It may come as a surprise, but these skills center around listening instead of speaking. Research consistently shows how the most important factor in life change and growth is the quality and connection of our relationships. Using concepts and skills taught to counselors and therapists, this course teaches how to listen well to create the kind of relationships in which people feel safe, connected, and thrive. The course is a combination of pre-recorded lectures and practical applications along with additional videos and articles to expand learning and for those who want to dig deeper into the content.