Jess Berentson Shaw
I imagine a world that is both expansive and inclusive. In which the rich diversity of knowledge and experience held across all our communities is at the heart of our public decision-making. Through such decision making we can create a world that is better for all of us and our planet.
I am driven by a deep curiosity about our world, how it works, the complexity of our different systems, and a sense of responsibility to use my knowledge and curiosity for public good. Being a public narrative researcher and advisor is how I do this work.
I am currently a Co-Director and Co-Founder of The Workshop, a unique research organisation in Aotearoa New Zealand that uses scientific methods to find narrative strategies that deepen people’s thinking about complex issues.
I gained my PhD in Health Psychology from Victoria University in 2003. Since then I have worked across government and the not for profit sectors on getting best knowledge and equity at the heart of decision-making. Including as the Research Manager for the New Zealand Guidelines Group.
I now research and teach scientists, policy makers and advocates how to shift their narratives to put knowledge at the heart of decision making and motivate action on our big social and environmental challenges.
I have written two books:
- Pennies From Heaven. Why Cash Works Best (2017)
- A Matter of Fact. Talking Truth in a Post-truth World. A BWB (2018)
I am also a research associate at the Public Policy Institute at University of Auckland.