Douglas has spent decades leading inquiry-driven discussions for students of all ages, using literature, philosophy, and the humanities to spark deep, thoughtful conversations. His career spans a wide range of educational settings, from international schools to programs for incarcerated learners, always centering dialogue around life’s enduring questions. Drawing on his background in theater, education, and community dialogue, Douglas brings a rare blend of warmth, insight, and depth to every conversation he facilitates. Why Premise? "Life moves fast, and it’s easy to go from one thing to the next without stopping to really think. Premise creates space for busy adults to slow down, reflect, and have the kinds of conversations that challenge us, connect us, and make life richer. As an educator, I’ve seen firsthand the power of inquiry-driven dialogue, and I want to create more opportunities for people to engage in the kind of learning that expands perspectives and deepens understanding."

Mary founded Premise with the belief that all adults, no matter how busy, should have the chance to engage in meaningful conversations about life’s big questions. She believes grounding each discussion in a piece of art—whether literature, nonfiction, or film—creates a shared foundation for rich dialogue and diverse perspectives. For Mary, real connection doesn’t come through small talk but by exploring thoughtful questions that get to the heart of the human experience. She is passionate about making intellectual exploration accessible, fitting into even the busiest schedules. Through Premise, Mary offers adults the chance to step away from daily routines and engage in deep, structured conversations that prioritize curiosity and joy over competition. Listening and questioning are just as important as sharing ideas, creating a welcoming space for all voices. With two decades of experience leading conversation-style courses with Symposium Great Books Institute, Gather Learning, Portland Literary Arts Foundation, and in high school classrooms, Mary’s work has always centered on the power of conversation. She holds a BA in History from American University, and master’s degrees from Brown University, St. John’s College, and San Jose State University. Mary is also a two-time National Endowment for the Humanities Fellow. Her thinking is deeply inspired by philosopher Hannah Arendt, and she has presented at Bard College’s Conference on Arendt. Premise, which began in 2012 as an in-person program in San Francisco, is relaunching in Fall 2024 after a brief hiatus. With hundreds of past participants, Mary is excited to expand Premise nationwide and bring its conversations to more communities.

Casie is a product manager at Microsoft and a Master of Liberal Arts student at the University of Chicago Graham School. Her work and studies center on a shared passion: exploring the intersection of technology and the human experience. With a deep curiosity about how language shapes thinking, relationships, and culture, Casie is drawn to questions about how we influence — and are influenced by — the systems we create. Casie’s approach to learning was shaped by her undergraduate work at The Evergreen State College and her graduate studies at St. John’s College, where she developed a strong foundation in inquiry-driven, egalitarian, community-based education. She has a long history of following her curiosity across companies, schools, and cities, and has led inquiry-based discussions both with young people in educational settings and with colleagues in the tech world. Through Premise, Casie is excited to create space for real conversation — the kind that challenges assumptions, fosters connection, and expands how we see ourselves and the world. Why Premise? “Premise offers something rare: a space to step outside of daily noise and engage with the deeper questions that shape how we live and connect. It’s a chance to slow down, think together, and make meaning in a way that feels increasingly essential.”

Kristin Kalangis has over 20 years of experience as a researcher, teacher, mentor, and trainer in K–12, higher education, and government settings. Known to many as Ms. K, she has guided learners to become more curious, engaged, and thoughtful—about academic content, human perspectives, and life’s enduring questions. Kristin holds degrees in psychology, anthropology, and education, which together have shaped what she calls a “quilt” of professional and personal pursuits. Though she’s lived and traveled in many places—both physically and imaginatively—she calls Santa Fe, NM home. Her Greek family roots there go back to the 1930s, and she’s raised her own children in what has become an ever-expanding community “family.” Kristin discovered Premise while searching for ways to deepen connection and insight in her local community. She draws inspiration from Santa Fe’s striking landscape, layered histories, and wide-ranging perspectives. Her grounding and wonder come from reading, writing poetry (she’s currently working on her first chapbook), hiking in the northern New Mexico mountains, singing and songwriting, “wild” gardening, and spontaneous conversations with friends old and new. Fun fact: Kristin once read Rilke’s poem “You See, I Want a Lot” during a job interview—and it turned out to be a plus.

Blyth is a designer, builder, and connector who creates experiences that help people learn, grow, and feel a deeper sense of belonging. She has held leadership roles at several technology companies, always focused on using design thinking to enhance the human experience. At the same time, she has remained deeply involved in her community, serving as a mentor and tutor to young people through organizations such as SF CASA and 826 Valencia. Locally, she expresses her enthusiasm for education through her involvement with the Loma Public Education Fund and Loma Home & School Club. Blyth first joined Premise as a participant in 2013 and has been part of its evolution ever since. She has contributed to nearly every aspect of the organization’s growth, from advising to experience design, including the design of the Premise website. One of her guiding goals is to help people make sense of the world and their place in it. She believes that the Premise model of a short text, an enduring question, and a guided conversation offers an accessible and meaningful way to do just that, together. As Chapter Leader in Los Gatos, Blyth is excited to create thoughtful spaces for reflection, curiosity, and connection close to home—and help neighbors get to know one another in even deeper and more meaningful ways.

Mali Locke is a strategic philanthropy leader, trusted facilitator, and community weaver with more than 20 years of experience guiding funders, nonprofits, and social enterprises toward deeper alignment, greater impact, and more authentic relationships. Known for her transparent and values-driven approach, Mali creates spaces where diverse stakeholders can move from intention to action—together. As the inaugural Managing Director of the Inherent Foundation, she built the organization from the ground up, designing its theory of change, overseeing a mission-aligned investment strategy, and leading collaborative initiatives across education, mental health, workforce, and climate. She is also Principal of Harper Group, where she facilitates retreats, leadership workshops, and design sessions for funders and changemakers nationwide. Mali’s speaking and facilitation style is both grounded and generative—equal parts strategic clarity and human connection. Whether leading a cross-sector convening, guiding a board retreat, or moderating a panel, she is known for surfacing what matters, making complexity manageable, and holding space for reflection and movement. She currently serves on the board of Easterseals DC MD VA, where she chairs fundraising efforts and champions inclusive, community-led solutions. A fluent French speaker with roots in the nonprofit, philanthropic, and civic sectors, Mali bridges people and possibilities with authenticity, humility, and heart.

Elizabeth is a nonprofit leadership coach and advisor who has spent more than 20 years in senior management roles at mission-driven organizations working to solve complex social problems. Elizabeth specializes in developing and implementing growth strategies for nonprofit organizations and mission-driven startups. She helps leaders and their teams achieve greater clarity, alignment, and impact through strategic planning, fundraising, and organizational development. Her approach centers on unleashing creativity and innovative thinking while ensuring that mission-driven work translates into measurable outcomes. Why Premise? "In my work with nonprofit leaders, I've seen how transformative it can be when people step back from the demands of their mission to engage with deeper questions about purpose, leadership, and social change. Premise offers that rare opportunity to connect with others around the fundamental questions that drive our work and our lives. These conversations don't just satisfy intellectual curiosity—they help us become more thoughtful, more effective, and more connected leaders and human beings."