Cohort Curriculum
ERG Culinary School™ follows a proven 3-part arc of facilitation: Build the Foundation, Elevate the Experience, and Deliver with Strategy.
This cohort is designed to help you master the art of community facilitation so your ERG can consistently create impact—for members and the business.
Week 1:
Welcome to the Kitchen
Rule: You can’t facilitate what you don’t understand.
Detail
We kick things off by defining what facilitation actually is—and how it differs from just “running programs.”
You’ll audit your current ERG container and map out the 90-day arc we’ll build together.
We’ll establish your cohort pod and set up Heartbeat for async community and coaching.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of your role as a facilitator—and the container you’re facilitating in.
Week 2:
Tools of the Trade
Rule: The right tool at the wrong time still fails.
Detail
We’ll dive deep into key facilitation formats—from events and rituals to async prompts and recurring programs.
You’ll learn when (and why) to use each one for the best impact.
You’ll also meet your AI Chef and explore how automation and prompts can make your work smarter, not harder.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll walk away with a toolkit of formats, rituals, and tech aids that match your goals—not just your calendar.
Week 3:
Serve the Business First
Rule: Strategy wins when facilitation meets stakeholder value.
Detail
Learn how to align facilitation with business goals, DEI strategies, and executive needs.
Build a pitch-ready program with clear ROI and metrics that matter.
You’ll hear how other ERGs have used facilitation to influence budget, visibility, and support.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll be able to speak the business case fluently—and design programs that resonate up the chain.
Week 4:
Still Make It Delicious
Rule: Business goals don’t mean boring programs.
Detail
This week is all about member magic—building moments that engage, surprise, and stick.
You’ll develop a real persona for your ERG members and explore layered engagement techniques.
We’ll also break down how to facilitate both small, tight-knit groups and larger, looser ones.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll have programs that engage and convert—turning one-time attendees into active members.
Rule: Good programs solve problems. Great ones stir emotion.
Detail
Elevate your programs with energy, emotion, and resonance.
Learn facilitation tactics for hard moments—burnout, conflict, low turnout.
We’ll also touch on emotional tone, surprise-and-delight tactics, and creative framing.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll learn how to facilitate through highs and lows—and create programming that people actually feel.
Rule: Systems beat one-offs.
Detail
You’ll draft your 90-day facilitation calendar using everything you’ve learned.
Participate in peer review, group feedback, and a final 1:1 coaching hour if you choose.
Get support refining your seasonal plan and signature program.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll leave this week with a polished facilitation calendar and a program you’re proud to pitch.
Week 7:
The Tasting Table
Rule: A great chef always plates the dish.
Detail
Share your final facilitation plan and signature program during our live showcase.
Celebrate with your pod and get final coaching feedback from your Chef.
Receive your digital certification and join the alumni network of Certified Community Facilitators.
🔎 Outcome: You’ll walk away certified, confident, and connected to a network of leaders doing the same work.