Our Story
Relational Notions began with a simple but powerful belief: people deserve spaces where they can show up as they are and be met with dignity, curiosity, and care. This doesn’t mean anything goes; care includes holding boundaries around what isn’t okay.
Our founder, Elsa Casanova, saw firsthand how systems, workplaces, and communities can unintentionally diminish the humanity of the people within them. Instead of accepting that as the norm, Relational Notions was created to build something better.
We set out on a mission to reduce harm, eliminate discrimination, and rebuild the conditions that allow everyone to thrive. Our work is rooted in the idea that meaningful change doesn’t come from strategies alone, it comes from the quality of our relationships, the courage to face the truth, and the belief that we can design something different together.
Today, we partner with organizations to create spaces where people can show up fully, engage in honest dialogue, and co-create the future they want to see. Whether we’re guiding strategic planning, facilitating team conversations, or supporting culture transformation, we bring openness, warmth, and a deep belief in the power of people.
Our approach is simple, human, and grounded in trust. We don’t come with all the answers; we come with the right questions and a process that helps you uncover what’s possible.
Our Core Values
Five commitments that guide how we show up, work, and co-create change.
Meet Elsa
Elsa Casanova is the founder and principal consultant of Relational Notions.
With a background shaped by lived experience, community work, and years of supporting teams across nonprofits, public agencies, and mission-driven organizations, Elsa brings a grounded and human approach to culture and systems change. They help leaders and teams slow down enough to connect with one another, name what’s real, and design more equitable and caring ways of working together and creating impact in the communities they serve.
Elsa is known for creating spaces where people feel safe to be honest, brave enough to imagine something different, and supported enough to move forward together. Their work blends strategic thinking with deep listening, meeting teams exactly where they are while helping them grow toward what’s possible.
At the heart of Elsa’s approach is a simple belief: real change starts with how we show up for one another.
Start your journey with our free Belonging Toolkit.
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Occasional reflections, resources, and invitations for leaders who want to build equity, belonging, and meaningful change.
