Podcasts about difficult conversations

How to have the conversations that are most difficult — and most important.Before you can have hard conversations with others, you need to have an honest conversation with yourself. That's the counterintuitive advice from Sheila Heen, who says our own internal narratives often derail our attempts at negotiation and conflict resolution."The first negotiation is actually a negotiation I have with myself about my own story," explains Heen, a Harvard Law School lecturer and co-author of Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most. When entering challenging interactions, she recommends a powerful shift where we consider that our perspective is only one side of the story. "If I can shift my purpose from convincing you of something to just understanding how you see it and why we might see it differently, that actually is more likely to generate a good conversation with less defensiveness for both of us."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Heen joins Matt Abrahams to explore effective communication in high-stakes situations. From giving and receiving feedback with her “ACE” framework (Appreciation, Coaching, and Evaluation) to recognizing the "degrees of difficulty" in disagreements, she offers practical strategies for having productive conversations even when emotions run high.Episode Reference Links:Sheila Heen Sheila's Books: Difficult Conversations / Thanks for the Feedback  Ep.144 Communicating Through Conflict: How to Get Along with AnyoneEp.136 The Art of Disagreeing Without Conflict: Navigating the Nuance  Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:36) - Managing Anxiety in Tough Conversations (04:15) - Why Emotions Matter (07:23) - Shifting the Story We Tell Ourselves (08:41) - Starting with the Real Issue (10:20) - Getting Unstuck in Conflict (13:18) - ACE: The Three Types of Feedback (16:20) - Making Feedback Actionable (18:40) - Finding Common Ground (20:17) - The Final Three Questions (27:32) - Conclusion    *****This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can get started on your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.       

Send us a textDifficult conversations are at the heart of successful marriages, yet many struggle with vulnerability and emotional expression. We explore practical ways to share feelings authentically and address how to reveal past mistakes you've been hiding.Sharing your feelings can be a difficult conversation for some. This is a skill which may require intentional practice.Vulnerability is the heart of intimate relationships. Revealing the fullness of yourself is the only way to be loved for who you really are.Join us on Patreon to access our Emotion Wheel and other helpful resources: Please support these companies that support Intimate Covenant: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenantMarried Dance — https://marrieddance.com/?aff=29 We're a Christian-friendly, marriage-centered sex toy and marital aid store for couples that's nudity-free.  Shop from this link for special savings and part of your purchase will support Intimate Covenant.  Coconu — http://www.coconu.com Coconu is committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives by offering 100% safe and organic personal care products.  Your purchase helps support Intimate Covenant AND you get 15% OFF. Coupon Code: intimateconvenantDating Divas — https://thedatingdivas.myshopify.com?sca_ref=6278443.H6eWDeXGfx Strengthening marriages one date at a time. Shop from this link and your part of your purchase will help support Intimate Covenant. Check out their Sexy Subscription Boxes!Honoring Intimates — https://www.honoringintimates.com/?ref=INTIMATECOVENANT Modest and classy premium lingerie, model-free. Get 20% off and support Intimate Covenant with your purchase.Ginger & Peach — https://www.gingerandpeachlingerie.com/ Ginger & Peach lingerie is a Christian husband and wife owned brand bringing classy, model-free lingerie to the market. Get 10% off your order and support Intimate Covenant with code: “INTIMATECOVENANT"  To send your comments, questions and suggestions, go to our website: www.intimatecovenant.com/podcast and click on the button: “Contact the Podcast” for an ANONYMOUS submission form. Or, send an email: podcast@intimatecovenant.com   Thanks for sharing, rating, reviewing and subscribing!    Cherishing,  Matt & JennPS — If you have been blessed by the message of this podcast, we would deeply appreciate your support by donating to our mission of spreading God's plan for intimate marriage and holy sexuality.Join us at Patreon: www.patreon.com/intimatecovenantConsider a one-time gift: www.intimatecovenant.com/donate www.intimatecovenant.com Intimate Covenant | Matt & Jenn SchmidtSupport the show

Difficult conversations are inevitable—but they don't have to be painful. Whether it's giving tough feedback, addressing underperformance, or navigating sensitive issues, the way you handle these moments defines your leadership.  What if, instead of avoiding them, you could turn these conversations into opportunities for trust, growth, and alignment?  Explore topics such as:  Why difficult conversations go wrong—and how to get them right.  Frameworks for delivering feedback with clarity and empathy.  Managing emotional reactions (your own and others') to keep conversations productive.  How to navigate resistance, defensiveness, and high-stakes situations.  This conversation will equip you with practical tools to transform tension into constructive dialogue—so you can lead with confidence, even in the toughest conversations. Follow SAIT Corporate Training on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/saitcorporatetraining/?viewAsMember=true Connect directly with Jennie and Craig on LinkedIn: Jennie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniengilbert/ Craig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craighess/ Have burning questions about leadership that you'd like us to address? Email them to leadership.questions@sait.ca and let your voice be heard.

We all have one conversation we keep putting off. Maybe it's a long-overdue apology. Maybe it's asking for what you need. Or maybe it's telling someone how much they hurt you. These unspoken issues can eat away at our peace of mind and wellbeing, as well as threatening the strength of our relationships. In this episode I walk you through my tried and tested 10-step process for tackling these conversations with confidence.The Big Conversation ToolkitI've created a step-by-step toolkit to accompany this podcast. The 26 page guide contains:My tried-and-tested 10-step process I use with clientsReflective exercises and prompts to help you gain clarityExample scripts and language to help you manage difficult momentGrounding techniques to regulate anxietyLinks to additional resources and supportA Big Conversation Readiness ChecklistClick here to get the guide___Newsletter sign upCorporate Speaking How to Build a Healthy Brain* Unprocessed: What Your Diet is Doing to Your Brain* Patreon Original music by Juan Iglesias *Affiliate links The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Remember, your health is unique to you, so consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your personal needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/strongerminds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Succession planning is complicated territory for any business, but perhaps more so in farming with families at the core of most operations.It's not just relationships and family legacies that hinge on effective succession planning, it also plays a critical role in building strategic foresight, sustainability and continuity into a business. Succession is delicate stuff, so we thought we'd draw on the experience of accountant Chloe Arthur and lawyer Kirsty Evans to learn what can make the process more positive for farming families.So, pull up a chair and make yourself comfy, to hear their tips on navigating those difficult conversations... and the key parts of the process to 'get right' to foster trust and collaboration throughout the succession journey.TakeawaysOpen communication, flexibility, and goodwill are the foundations of effective succession planning It's important to understand the differing needs of each generation It's essential to build a team of external professionals to support decision makingSuccession planning is an ongoing process that constantly evolves with family dynamicsFair doesn't necessarily mean equal Delaying the transfer of farm assets is one of the least effective strategies for successionChapters00:00 Breaking the taboo of succession planning in agriculture08:53 Balancing optimism and realism 11:56 Generational Shifts: understanding the needs of each generation and family values17:56 Successful succession stories: learning from others' experience24:07 Navigating difficult conversations: the importance of open communication30:00 Structuring family farms as businesses42:06 Preparing for a return to the family farm52:04 Ongoing discussions: being nimble with your plan and evolving with the family unitIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and let us know your thoughts at hello@humansofagriculture.com. Don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review!

Difficult conversations are a fundamental aspect of fostering authentic relationships, as they possess the potential to enhance trust and emotional connection. In this episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia summarises the key research findings on difficult conversations and provides five practical tips to help you navigate tough conversations with clarity and constructive intentions. This episode is PART 2 of May's theme: Difficult Conversations.

This Deliberate Leaders podcast episode, hosted by Allison Dunn, centers around the crucial leadership skill of mastering difficult conversations. The episode begins by highlighting the common tendency for leaders to avoid these challenging discussions, such as addressing performance issues or team conflicts, and emphasizes that avoidance only exacerbates these problems. Dunn shares a personal anecdote about a client who delayed addressing an underperforming team member, resulting in a damaged relationship and frustration for both parties, illustrating the point that a leader's willingness to have difficult conversations significantly impacts whether problems become disasters or opportunities for growth.The core of the episode introduces a four-part framework for navigating difficult conversations: Prepare, Connect, Navigate, and Close.•  Prepare: This initial stage involves thoughtful preparation before the conversation. Leaders are encouraged to define their desired outcome, identify supporting facts, anticipate the other person's reaction, and choose an appropriate time and place. Dunn recommends writing down key points to maintain focus, while stressing that this is for clarity, not scripting.•  Connect: The opening of the conversation is critical for establishing psychological safety. Leaders should begin by expressing genuine appreciation and stating their positive intention to find a way forward that addresses the challenge and supports the other person's success. This helps build a foundation of respect.•  Navigate: This is presented as the stage where conversations most often succeed or fail. The episode emphasizes using "I" statements to present one's perspective without being accusatory, and provides an example: "I noticed the project deadline was missed" instead of "You missed the deadline". Crucially, leaders are advised to pause, genuinely listen by asking open-ended questions like, "I'd like to understand your perspective," and to use the powerful phrase, "Tell me more about that," to uncover important information. The primary goal during navigation is mutual understanding and finding a path forward together, not "winning".•  Close: The final part of the framework focuses on summarizing what was heard, confirming any agreements or next steps, and expressing confidence in future progress. An example provided is: "So we've agreed that you'll provide weekly updates, and I'll check in more frequently. I'm confident we can make this work together". This ensures shared understanding and reinforces the relationship.To help listeners apply these concepts, Dunn issues a "Conversation Audit" challenge. This involves taking 15 minutes to identify postponed conversations, noting the reasons for avoidance (fear, uncertainty, concern), selecting one conversation, scheduling it within a week, and applying the four-part framework. Listeners are then encouraged to reflect on the experience—what went well, what could be improved, and how the outcome compared to expectations—and even to email the host with their experiences.The episode concludes by reinforcing that how leaders handle difficult conversations significantly shapes their leadership reputation, especially more so than easier interactions. It highlights that teams observe how leaders navigate challenges and take cues from their approach. Mastering these conversations is presented not as eliminating discomfort, but as moving through it towards better understanding, stronger relationships, and improved outcomes. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast and leave reviews to help others discover the content. The final message reminds listeners that the conversations they are avoiding are often the key to their next level of leadership.About the Host:Allison Dunn•  Host of the Deliberate Leaders Podcast•  Business Coach•  Founder of Deliberate DirectionsConnect:•  Website: Deliberate Directions•  Podcast: Deliberate Leaders PodcastReminder: Subscribe and leave a review to support the podcast!

Send us a textToday, our guest, Dr. Muhalab Al Sammarrie, will share his experiences and how he learned to work through difficult conversations. By listening to himself and opening up to understanding others, he will offer a series of thoughts and ideas that help difficult conversations end with better outcomes.

Is your family business built on a foundation of unspoken truths? Beneath the surface of legacy and loyalty, hidden emotional dynamics can silently sabotage even the most promising family-owned enterprises. Join Andrea and Michelle as they pull back the curtain on the unspoken stories and secrets that often derail family businesses from the inside out.   Discover the delicate dance of not wanting to "rock the boat," the stifling effect of withheld feedback, and the silent resentments that can fester between generations and even impact non-family employees. Learn why these unaddressed issues erode trust, create false harmony, and ultimately threaten the very future of the business.    In this episode, uncover these hidden dangers and gain practical insights on how to bring the invisible into the visible, fostering honest conversations and building a resilient family legacy. Don't miss the downloadable worksheet to help you identify and address these critical unspoken issues within your own family business.   Takeaways   Family businesses often appear smooth on the surface but have underlying issues. Generational differences can lead to communication breakdowns. Fear of hurting feelings prevents honest feedback. Unresolved resentments can impact business dynamics. Trust is crucial for family business success. Addressing unsaid issues can prevent toxic cultures. Facilitating conversations can help uncover hidden emotions. Third-party mediation can assist in difficult discussions. Assumptions about others' motivations can hinder progress. Finding common ground is essential for collaboration.   For more resources on developing leadership skills visit us at Revela. Where we've helped hundreds of executives lead productive teams and thriving organizations. This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative.

In this episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia speaks to an executive coach Chris Wong to dive into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of any relationship: difficult conversations. Whether it's with a colleague, partner, friend, or family member, these tough talks are often avoided out of fear, but they hold the key to deeper connection and lasting happiness. They explore how embracing uncomfortable discussions can strengthen trust, resolve underlying issues, and create more emotional intimacy. Join them as they share practical tips on how to approach difficult conversations with empathy, honesty, and courage—so you can build stronger, happier relationships. This episode is PART 1 of May's theme: Difficult Conversations.

Curious how to handle tough conversations without losing your cool—or your power? We are re-releasing this episode of The Grit Show while host, Shawna, continues her healing from breast cancer surgery. This episode spotlights internationally acclaimed mediator Hesha Abrams, who shares secrets from decades of resolving high-conflict cases. You'll hear surprising, practical strategies to “hold the calm,” neutralize workplace tension, and manage challenging relationships—from dealing with difficult bosses to family drama at the dinner table. Shawna reflects on the life-changing impact Hesha's tools have had on her own coaching and training. Wondering how to disarm a gaslighter, stop a meeting hijacker in their tracks, or break free from toxic work dynamics? You'll want to catch the memorable analogies (hint: spaghetti sauce) and actionable tips—like why “calm down” is the worst thing to say in heated situations, and how to lead with curiosity instead of judgment. Ready to upgrade your conflict resolution skills and empower yourself? Tune in!Hesha Abrams is a professional peacemaker, an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, negotiator, and author, known for crafting highly creative settlements and resolutions in very difficult matters. With 30+ years in the trenches of resolving human conflict, she has recently distilled her skills into an easy-to-use tool kit, her new book, "Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension." Through stories and examples, she shares her secrets enabling anyone to learn how to approach tense situations to prevent explosions, disarm conflicts, and reduce drama. It is her mission to help make our world, our businesses, and our relationships less acrimonious and more harmonious.Connect with HeshaLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hesha-abrams/Facebook: Hesha AbramsYoutube: Hesha Abrams - Holding The CalmWebsite: www.holdingthecalm.comGet your copy of Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension HEREShawna Rodrigues left her award-winning career in the public sector in 2019 and after launching The Grit Show, soon learned the abysmal fact that women hosted only 27% of podcasts. This led to the founding of the Authentic Connections Podcast Network intent on raising that number by 10% in five years- 37 by 27. Because really, shouldn't it be closer to 50%? She now focuses on helping purpose driven solopreneurs find their ideal clients through podcasting. She believes that the first step is guesting on podcasts - check out her tip sheet and once you've built your business and are ready for the full-service support for podcasting production and mentoring, she'll help you launch the podcast you were meant for. Diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2025, much of this year will be prioritizing her fight, victory, and healing. If you would like to follow that journey and be one of her warriors you can learn more via Being Honest, and the

Can You and Your Spouse Have Difficult Conversations?•The discussion centers around the difficulties couples face when having hard conversations, especially those filled with tension. Importance of Safe Spaces•Creating Emotional Safety: The need for a safe emotional environment within a relationship, where both partners feel secure enough to share their feelings without fear of being attacked or dismissed.•Common Issues: Reasons why conversations might not feel safe, including past trauma, fears of anger, and emotional unavailability.•Distinction Between Peacekeepers and Peacemakers: Linda emphasizes the difference; peacekeepers avoid conflict while peacemakers address issues with an aim to enhance the relationship.Consequences of Avoiding Difficult Conversations•Building Resentment: Avoidance leads to resentment, increasing emotional distance and eroding intimacy over time.•Trust Issues: Unresolved issues can damage trust, leading partners to feel unsupported and potentially seeking emotional or physical connection outside the marriage.•General Relationship Decline: A lack of open communication can lead to a “rotting” relationship.Strategies for Addressing Difficult Conversations1. Grounding in Shared Beliefs•Common Purpose: Establish a shared belief in the importance of the marriage and family, utilizing a spiritual or religious framework as a guiding principle for conflict resolution.•Prayer and Humility: Starting discussions with prayer and a humble approach can help set a positive tone and prepare both partners to engage constructively.2. Active Listening•Listening vs. Defensiveness: The importance of active listening, which requires closing one's mouth and truly focusing on the partner's words, rather than preparing a rebuttal.•Clarifying Understanding: After listening, repeat back what has been said to ensure mutual understanding, which helps diffuse defensiveness and promotes a healthy dialogue.3. Speak the Truth in Love•Honesty with Gentleness: When expressing feelings or grievances, it's crucial to be truthful yet gentle, avoiding harsh words or accusations.•Avoiding Extremes: Steer clear of exaggerated terms like “always” or “never,” which can trigger defensiveness and hinder productive communication.4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation•Understanding Hurt: Addressing past wounds and recognizing triggers during conversations is vital for healing.•The Power of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is imperative for moving forward in a relationship, as holding onto grudges can prevent healing and reconciliation.5. Focus on Unity•Shared Goals: Instead of hyper-focusing on problems, couples should align their efforts towards common goals that foster unity in the marriage.•Prioritizing the Relationship: Emphasizing the health of the marriage and the family unit over individual grievances can help reduce conflict and build a stronger partnership.Recognizing the Need for Help•Seeking External Support: Seek counseling or mediation when conflict becomes too overwhelming or unmanageable, especially in cases of emotional instability or past trauma.•Mutual Commitment to Improvement: Both partners must be willing to engage in the process of resolving conflicts for it to be effective.https://rocksolidfamilies.orgSupport the show#Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy, #marriagecounseling, #parenting, #faithbasedcounseling, #counseling, #Strongdads, #coaching, #lifecoach, #lifecoaching, #marriagecoaching, #marriageandfamily, #control, #security, #respect, #affection, #love, #purpose, #faith, #affairs, #infidelity

Send your burning questions to hrask.org Ep 325. This week on This Week at Work, Phil and Burt dive into one of HR's most uncomfortable but essential responsibilities: having difficult conversations. Inspired by a viral workplace scenario where a manager struggled to address an employee's provocative attire, we'll unpack how to approach sensitive topics, whether it's dress code, performance, or conflict, address it without damaging relationships or morale. Tune in for expert strategies, real-world examples, and a few laughs to help make those tough talks a little easier.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Show Overview 01:30 – Live from Las Vegas: Ogletree Deakins Workplace Strategy Seminar 02:40 – The Cost of No Training: Phil's Son's Experience as a New Manager 07:00 – HR Scenario Q&A: Handling Difficult Conversations 13:00 – Preparing Managers for Sensitive Talks: Tools & Frameworks 20:00 – Supporting Managers: HR as a Partner in Performance 21:00 – Lawyer on the Clock – Missouri Proposition A Update 24:00 – Paid Sick Leave Policy Advice: Interim Solutions 26:00 – Federal Executive Orders: DEI, Disparate Impact, and Legal Trends 30:00 – Final Thoughts: HR Leadership & Legal Foresight   Brought to you by AAIM Employers Association, your partner in HR support, compliance, and professional development.

What do you do when you have a conflict at your company?  How do you handle that difficult conversation? Or should I ask, do you handle it? Our guest today is Daniel Tocchini, and he is a leadership and culture expert, and he shares with us some best practices for having those difficult conversations. TODAY'S WIN-WIN:Have difficult conversations as soon as you are able.LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:You can visit our guest's website at: https://takenewground.com/#challengesAttend our Franchise Sales Training Workshop:  https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/franchisesalestraining/If you are ready to franchise your business or take it to the next level: CLICK HERE.Connect with our guest on social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_tocchiniLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantocchini/ABOUT OUR GUEST:Dan Tocchini has been helping leaders bring some more magic onto their teams for over 35 years. He has worked with executive teams from Interstate Batteries and ESPN, to Smarty Pants Vitamins and Impulse Space, as well as with non-profits like Homeboy Industries and Defy Ventures. Dan gives a no-fluff approach by helping transform leadership teams without any pixie dust - just courageous leadership, creative conflict resolution, and relevant restructuring. No conversation is too difficult, no situation too conflicted because a leader with a vision cannot be held hostage by circumstance or history. ABOUT BIG SKY FRANCHISE TEAM:This episode is powered by Big Sky Franchise Team. If you are ready to talk about franchising your business you can schedule your free, no-obligation, franchise consultation online at: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/.The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any business decisions. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Big Sky Franchise Team, or our affiliates. Additionally, this podcast may feature sponsors or advertisers, but any mention of products or services does not constitute an endorsement. Please do your own research before making any purchasing or business decisions.

In this episode, we dive into Karen Harrison's insightful article, "Reiki for Challenging Conversations," exploring how Reiki can support us in navigating difficult or emotional conversations with grace. Join Pam and Karen as they discuss practical Reiki techniques that help calm nerves, ground us, and create a space for more mindful, heart-centered communication. Whether you're facing tough discussions in your personal relationships or professional life, this episode offers empowering tools and perspectives for navigating conflict with ease.______Pam Allen-LeBlanc is a scientist, businesswoman, and Licensed Reiki Master Teacher (LRMT) with the International Center for Reiki Training.Get in Touch with Pam:Email: pam@reikifromthefarm.comwww.reikifromthefarm.comReiki from the Farm Newsletter & Reiki Shares: http://eepurl.com/dFm-19  Karen Harrison is a Senior Licensed Reiki Master Teacher with the International Center for Reiki Training (ICRT) and is the Co-Director of the ICRT's Licensed Reiki Master Teacher Training Program. Besides Reiki, she's a licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist.Get in touch with Karen:Website: https://www.karenharrison.net/A special thanks goes out to Music from Pixabay for the intro music and to Nate Miller for the meditation music.Register for our newsletter! Instagram Facebook Youtube pam@reikifromthefarm.com

Rising to the Top speaks with Chris Wong, an ICF-certified executive coach, licensed therapist, speaker, and podcaster who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the world of leadership and learning and development in the nonprofit space. He has worked with leaders at all levels to strategically prioritize their work and navigate difficult conversations/relationships with confidence and he currently, works with new mission driven leaders navigate organizations in chaos. This includes helping leaders navigate difficult conversations, resolve conflicts, create high-performing cultures, enhance productivity, and cultivate an inclusive and equitable work environment. He also co-hosts the podcast, “The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations”, where he helps people master difficult conversations in all domains of their lives.

In this episode Rachel Moon, MD, FAAP, associate editor of digital media for the journal Pediatrics, shares a research roundup from the April issue. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Adam Ratner, MD, MPH, FAAP, and Nitya Shah, MD, FAAP, about having difficult conversations with families about a diagnosis of congenital syphilis and other diseases.  For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Ever faced a frustrated donor? If you've been fundraising for any length of time, chances are you've been on the receiving end of donor displeasure. Donor frustration comes in many forms - from upset letters and negative social media comments to exasperated responses when you reach out. Andrew and Rhen tackle these awkward situations with practical advice for becoming a supportive listener. Their key insight: when donors express frustration, it often stems from genuine care about your organization and a desire to see improvement. As a fundraiser, learning to separate a donor's anger from their feelings about you personally is essential for navigating these challenging interactions successfully.

Matthew Hawn used to be a social studies teacher until he was fired. He had his day in court and won, but instead of being reinstated the school board appealed. In this conversation, Matt shares his story, his thoughts on teaching controversial issues and how the community and particularly his former students have reacted. Despite many setbacks, he continues to be optimistic about the future and his desire to return to the classroom.

In this episode of Leadership is Feminine, Kris Plachy shares a powerful reminder: your body is the vessel for your leadership, your dreams, and your impact—and it deserves your full attention. Kris explores what it means to be physically well-resourced as a woman in leadership, especially as we navigate the transitions of our 40s and 50s. Health and energy aren't luxuries—they're the foundation. “Your body is the thing to take care of so that all of these visions that you have… all of the things that you want to achieve… you need your body to be able to do that.” A key practice Kris shares—originally introduced in the book Co-Active Coaching by Thomas Leonard—is what she calls the “clean sweep.” This exercise invites you to take an intentional walk-through of your home, using a detailed punch list to identify and remove sources of energetic drain. By consciously clearing your physical space, you also create more room for clarity, ease, and inspiration. It's a simple practice that reveals just how much we've been tolerating—and how good it feels to finally let go. This episode is an invitation to listen more closely to your body, to curate an environment that supports your vitality, and to reclaim the kind of energy that fuels sustainable success. This episode is also a check-in: are you taking care of your body maintenance? Do you have a physician and a team to help you stay on top of your physical health? Leadership starts within—and tending to your physical health and energetic hygiene is one of the most profound ways to lead with strength and authenticity. Key Takeaways From This Episode Health and Energy as Integrated Components: Health and Energy are separate areas of focus, but they are closely related. The Body is a Vessel: Importance of taking care of physical health to achieve personal goals. Physical Health Maintenance: Questions about personal health care routines and reminders on the importance of check-ups. Energy Management: Explanation of empaths and their sensitivity to others' energy. Impact of Environment and People on Personal Energy: Encouragement to eliminate energetic drains to create space for positive energy. Contact Information and Recommended Resources Dealing with a Difficult Person in your business or need to have a Difficult Conversation? Join Kris' class HERE! (https://www.thevisionary.ceo/offers/4XYGiuSv) Linkedin Instagram Facebook Pinterest

Welcome to episode #979 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Dr. Kurt Gray is a social psychologist whose work couldn't be more relevant to our times. As a professor at UNC Chapel Hill, director of the Deepest Beliefs Lab and the Center for the Science of Moral Understanding, and the author of the new book Outraged - Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground, he's helping reshape how we understand conflict in a divided world. In this conversation, Kurt unpacked why it's not that we're wired differently across political lines - it's that we perceive harm differently. He introduces ideas like the “exhausted majority,” the dangers of elite-driven outrage, and the evolutionary roots of our hypersensitivity to perceived threats. We also explore the surprising role of personal narratives in reducing division, the generational shift in how people approach morality, and how resilience - not avoidance - is what we really need when engaging across differences. His work dismantles the myth that we're hopelessly divided and instead offers a path forward - one grounded in empathy, humility, and the science of human connection. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the volume of moral outrage around you, this episode just might restore a little hope. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 55:13. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on X. Here is my conversation with Dr. Kurt Gray. Outraged - Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground. Deepest Beliefs Lab. Center for the Science of Moral Understanding. UNC Chapel Hill Follow Kurt on X. Follow Kurt on LinkedIn. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Outrage and Its Relevance. (03:07) - Understanding Political Outrage and Connection. (05:55) - The Role of Elites in Political Discourse. (09:14) - The Exhausted Majority and Misconceptions. (12:05) - Moral Perception and Human Nature. (15:04) - The Evolution of Morality and Fear. (18:08) - Tribalism and Moral Progress. (21:01) - The Impact of Words and Microaggressions. (24:03) - Generational Perspectives on Discourse. (28:18) - Understanding Generational Perspectives on Misinformation. (30:02) - The Challenge of Political Centrism. (31:58) - Navigating Independent Ideologies. (33:53) - The Impact of Technological Change on Society. (35:40) - The Role of Personal Stories in Bridging Divides. (39:34) - The Power of Personal Experiences in Conversations. (42:19) - The Competing Narratives of Victimhood. (46:51) - Moral Ambiguity in Victimhood and Survival. (49:18) - The Momentum of Change and Hope. (55:27) - Building Resilience in Difficult Conversations.

Topics: Parenting, Difficult Conversations, Aging Parents, Mother Issues, Depression, Narcissists, Living Together, Letting Go Hosts: Brian Perez, Dr. Alice Benton, Dr. Sheri Keffer Caller Questions & More: Dr. Alice shares how to bring up the top topics to address with our kids.  How can my sister and I tell our 94yo mom that she has to be in assisted living for the rest of her The post New Life Live: April 9, 2025 appeared first on New Life.

Alexandra Zatarain is the co-founder and VP of Brand and Marketing of Eight Sleep, the world's first sleep fitness company. With accolades like being named to Forbes 30 Under 30 and Inc's 100 female founders lists, Alexandra is the marketing genius that helped put Eight Sleep on the map.  Starting Eight Sleep with minimal marketing experience, she managed to redefine their product category through a long process of trial and error. Alexandra shares her thoughts about the importance of feedback, effective communication, humility, and long-term planning while emphasizing the need to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and maintain a growth mindset. Listen to her insights on navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in the tech space.   Key takeaways: The journey of entrepreneurship is often messy and filled with failures. Understanding customer needs is crucial for product development. Feedback from early users can guide product improvements. Positioning is critical for startup success. Growth comes from learning through challenges and failures. Embracing feedback as a learning opportunity can lead to growth. Humility is a key trait for effective leadership. Scaling a business introduces new complexities and challenges. Long-term planning is necessary for sustainable growth. Feedback should be immediate and constructive, not just negative. Assuming good intentions helps in receiving feedback positively. Continuous learning is vital in entrepreneurship. Building a supportive community can alleviate the fear of failure.   The Failure Factor Podcast was brought to you by Off The Field Coaching. Explore working with one of our coaches at http://offthefieldcoaching.com  Hosted by Megan Bruneau: therapist, executive coach, speaker, Forbes contributor and host of The Failure Factor. For more info visit https://meganbruneau.com   Learn more about Eight Sleep: https://www.eightsleep.com Ig: https://www.instagram.com/eightsleep In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eight-- Follow Alexandra Ig: https://www.instagram.com/alexzatarainj In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrazatarain Follow Megan  Ig: https://www.instagram.com/meganjbruneau In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-j-bruneau-m-a-rcc    Subscribe to the podcast newsletter at https://thefailurefactorpodcast.com  Themes: entrepreneurship, sleep technology, Eight Sleep, failure, innovation, marketing, crowdfunding, product development, difficult conversations, leadership, entrepreneurship, feedback, leadership, scaling, business growth, humility, team dynamics

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Todd Davis about strategies for managing emotional tension during difficult conversations. TODD DAVIS is a senior consultant and thought leader at FranklinCovey. With over 35 years of experience in human resources, talent development and executive recruiting, Todd spent 18 years as Chief People Officer where he was responsible for global development in over 40 offices reaching 160 countries. Additionally, he authored and co-authored the best-selling books Get Better: 15 Proven Practices to Build Effective Relationships at Work and Everyone Deserves A Great Manager.  Check out all of the podcasts in the HCI Podcast Network!

With Jhana Li, founder of Spyglass Ops, empowering founders to scale their businesses while reclaiming their personal freedom. Jhana Li first discovered Operations while Van-lifing her way through North & South America. She's been COO at multiple successful startups, and coached hundreds more. After seeing countless founders stall out & trap themselves without the proper Operations, Jhana started Spyglass Ops which providers operations consulting & recruitment to CEOs of 7 and 8 figure businesses, Operations teams, and digital startup entrepreneurs.

We are living in a time where people seemingly have deeply conflicting views. How can you have a conversation with someone who doesn't agree with you? How can you allow for the conflict that might ensue? Will you be understanding and compassionate? Or do you just walk away? Lisa continues the conversation today with author and therapist Carolyn Sharp, who assures us that it is possible to find common ground. She also shares ways to handle being triggered, if conversations get heated. Carolyn asks us to consider our values. It's a matter of alignment and feeling safe. She explains that it's better to be proactive in our relationships. Care, respect, and curiosity are all keys to better communication. She also discusses how to set boundaries if things are going in a toxic direction. We must be confident in our boundaries. We need to first understand ourselves and our limits, then we can be clear with others. Carolyn is both a therapist and coach, who works with individuals as well as couples. She has been trained by relationship expert Stan Tatkin, founder of the PACT Institute. She talks about how you know whether to repair a damaged relationship. She believes almost any problem in a relationship, except for abuse, can be fixed and eventually healed, as long as the individuals want it to work out for the best. It takes constant care, and can be challenging, yet relationships offer us the biggest opportunities for growth! Info: CarolynSharp.com and SecureConnectionsRetreats.com

In this episode we're talking about something that comes up all the time - avoiding difficult conversations because we don't want to upset someone. You might tell yourself it's about their feelings… but is it really?In this episode, I'm breaking down the real reason we shy away from being direct, giving feedback, or speaking up - because we're trying to protect ourselves from our own discomfort. This episode is an invitation to be radically honest with yourself about what's really holding you back - so you can start to move through it towards saying those difficult things clearly and kindly.If you've ever fluffed around an issue, softened a message so much it lost all clarity, or avoided a conversation entirely… this one's for you.You will learn:Why telling yourself it's about them is a trapHow to spot the real emotions you're trying to avoidWhat makes hard conversations harder (and what makes them easier)The truth about control - and why you never really had it anyway!How to step into clarity, kindness, and courage by telling yourself the truth first Want to be more Confident At Work?Start here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠take our free: Confidence Assessment ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get private support to feel confident at work - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠book a call to explore private coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Explore and join the ⁠Confident At Work Membership ⁠Cover art by Jacob McFaddenTheme song by Melissa Carter @ Making Audio Magic 

Do you ever feel like your time and energy are stretched too thin? In this episode of Leadership is Feminine, Kris Plachy kicks off a limited series on what it truly means to be a well-resourced woman. She explores the unique challenges women in leadership face—especially the pressure to juggle it all. From running a business to managing personal responsibilities, cultural expectations often lead women to overcommit, leaving them drained and overwhelmed. But what if there were a better way? Kris introduces a powerful exercise to help listeners assess how they spend their time. By categorizing tasks into love and loathe, women can gain clarity on where their energy goes—and, more importantly, where it should go. She challenges listeners to delegate tasks that don't align with their strengths and invest in support that allows them to focus on high-impact activities. Kris gets real about the importance of time management: "A woman who is abundant in her time as a resource is a cycle breaker." Stepping into a well-resourced life isn't just about personal well-being—it's about creating the space to lead, innovate, and make a bigger impact. When women reclaim their time, they don't just transform their own lives—they drive meaningful change in their businesses, industries, and communities. If you're ready to break free from the cycle of overcommitment and start managing your time with intention, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways From This Episode Core Relationships Women Must Develop: Key relationships women must nurture across the primary elements of their lives. Time as a Resource: How societal and cultural expectations shape women's relationship with their time commitments. Expectations and Family Structure: Examining the challenges that arise when entrepreneurial goals intersect with familial responsibilities. Transition to Empowerment: Reassessing and realigning time use can lead to a more empowered and purpose-driven life. Identifying Time Sucks and Loathsome Activities: Looking at the tasks you engage in, and making intentional choices about what stays and what goes. Delegation and Support Systems: Logistical and emotional dynamics of outsourcing tasks and letting go of control Contact Information and Recommended Resources 1. Join Kris's live Be Better classes at www.thevisionary.ceo/bebetter. 2. Dealing with a Difficult Person in your business or need to have a Difficult Conversation? Join Kris' class HERE! (https://www.thevisionary.ceo/offers/4XYGiuSv)    Linkedin Instagram Facebook Pinterest

 How can you have a conversation with someone who has differing views than you do? How can you allow for the conflict that might ensue? Can you be understanding and compassionate? Or do you walk away? According to our guest today, author, therapist, and relationship expert Carolyn Sharp, there are ways to handle being triggered. This is a normal and natural response when we feel fear. If we can soften, it will ease the trigger, and we can begin to feel calmer. Carolyn explains that if we learn to be curious, rather than judgmental, we can get through these intense moments. When we stay focused on just the facts, we disconnect from the curiosity. We can feel misunderstood and not heard. We can feel that people are not respecting us. This is prevalent in our country and especially missing culturally now. We all want to be understood and recognized. For example, many people may disagree about how the government wants to enforce judgements and control the narrative. We must create space to talk about things in a safe way. Make it safe for both sides. It's a matter of acknowledging and not judging. If someone feels wrong, it erodes compassion. This can lead to violence and lack of safety. Carolyn also discusses her recent book, “Fire It Up: Reigniting Intimacy and Joy in Your Relationship” and how she wrote it for couples and people in relationships. It's about compassionate communication. She addresses various aspects of couples including what to do when one lies or even is unfaithful. She talks about how lying is extraordinarily common in relationships, especially during the courtship phase. As an example, someone may ask, “How do you like the dinner I cooked?” and the other person may feel the need to be overly complimentary, even if they dislike it. She talks about a culture where people feel safe enough to be completely honest. If we continue with “white lies” we eventually stop recognizing that we are lying. In this Age of Social Media, we are experiencing general people, who are not trained journalists, reporting what they believe is fact. People are stating opinions and claiming it as fact. This becomes very hard for us to decipher and can lead to major disagreements. Carolyn also talks about the importance of investing in your relationships, and specifically with your partner. She addresses if someone in the partnership cheats and how traumatic it can be.  If the other person is not hearing you, it's important to decide if it's healthy to stay in the relationship. If it's in a situation with co-workers or with your boss, you may need to just “agree to disagree.” We are not able to change others. We can only change ourselves. Fighting doesn't allow for this opportunity. In politics and such a divided nation, it's challenging to acknowledge one another. It is impacting many aspects of our lives. Many people feel betrayed and hurt. We are living in an intense time, and Carolyn suggests getting support around your feelings. These are complicated times, but there are ways to de-escalate and disengage. Everyone has to decide what they need in their relationships. You can value the other person's support yet not agree with them. It's better to be honest and respectful and see if you can come to a place of radical acceptance. Info: CarolynSharp.com and SecureConnectionsRetreats.com.

In this episode of Leadership is Feminine, host Kris Plachy dives into a topic we all know too well—difficult people. We've all worked with someone who's frustrating, quirky, or just hard to get along with. And rather than facing the issue head-on, we tend to tuck these individuals away, hoping they'll just disappear. If you're someone who avoids difficult conversations, in this episode you'll learn the strategies to embrace the difficult people and become the leader you're capable of being. As a business owner, it's your responsibility to deal with the people who challenge you. Whether it's employees who push back, disagree, or simply don't fit the mold you envisioned, avoiding these difficult situations only hinders your business and personal growth. Kris emphasizes that by avoiding tough conversations, you're holding yourself back from fulfilling your vision and advancing your mission. “We are shrinking in the face of difficult when we should be standing and firmly growing who we are,” Kris reminds us. Facing difficulty head-on requires us to change the way we think and behave, and it's essential for growth. No one teaches you how to deal with difficult people, but when you step into being a leader, it is essential to learn and refine this skill. Kris teaches how to turn these situations into opportunities for both you and your team to grow. Kris guides us through the art of navigating these tough moments with honesty, courage, and a commitment to fostering growth. If you're ready to stop avoiding conflict and start growing, grab your pen and take notes—this episode will transform how you lead your business and your life. Key Takeaways From This Episode Embrace Difficulty as a Path to Growth: Avoiding challenges may feel easier in the short term, but overcoming them leads to the next level of success and fulfillment. Resistance Stalls Progress: Accepting reality allows you to move forward with clarity and purpose. Leadership Requires Facing Hard Conversations: Addressing challenges directly and honestly is key to maintaining a strong, functional team. Difficult People Are an Opportunity, Not a Roadblock: Mastering these interactions builds confidence, resilience, and stronger leadership skills. Avoiding Conversations Hurts Everyone: Honest feedback helps both individuals and organizations grow. Developing Conflict Resolution Skills is a Game-Changer: This skill is critical for maintaining peace of mind and achieving your long-term goals. Contact Information and Recommended Resources 1. If you want to become a well-resourced woman, subscribe to the FREE Well-Resourced Woman Limited Series Private Podcast. Visit www.thevisionary.ceo/asagewoman to learn more. The first episode is waiting for you! 2. Join Kris's live Be Better classes at www.thevisionary.ceo/bebetter. 3. Dealing with a Difficult Person in your business or need to have a Difficult Conversation? Join Kris' class HERE! (https://www.thevisionary.ceo/offers/4XYGiuSv)  Linkedin Instagram Facebook Pinterest

In this episode, Kaila and Kyle discuss how to have those difficult conversations at work with career advice expert Erin McGoff of @advicewitherin. From addressing your lazy coworker to handling your micromanaging boss, Kaila, Kyle, and Erin offer specific tactics and approaches for conducting these challenging conversations. 00:00 Intro 00:55 How Advice With Erin got started 03:49 Stats on how much people avoid having difficult conversations  04:34 How Erin recommends approaching difficult conversations broadly 08:25 How to prep for having a difficult conversation 14:34 Difficult conversation scenario 1 - Telling your boss that you're quitting 19:25 Difficult conversation scenario 2 - How to address your anxious coworker 24:41 Difficult conversation scenario 3 - How to deal with a micromanaging boss 29:28 Difficult conversation scenario 4 - How to address a team member who isn't pulling their weight Want to get all of Kaila & Kyle's career resources? Subscribe to Per My Last Email: https://www.permylastemailshow.com/  Watch Per My Last Email on YouTube:   @PerMYLastEmailShow Follow Per My Last Email Instagram: @permylastemailshow TikTok: @permylastemailshow Twitter: @permylast_email Have a question for us? Send us an email or voice note to permylastemail@morningbrew.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Each week on Per My Last Email, Morning Brew's resident career experts Kaila and Kyle – whose careers have collectively spanned the corporate, government, nonprofit and startup sectors – debate the trickiest challenges in work life, and share tactics on how to overcome them. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your niece revealed her father's affair, you became the custodian of a truth that could detonate your entire family dynamic. It's Feedback Friday!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1133And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:Your niece found evidence that her father (your brother-in-law) is having an affair, putting you in an impossible position between family loyalty and moral responsibility. What do you do when every choice seems destined to hurt someone you care about, and the consequences could reshape your family forever?You're teaching a college course where student feedback suggests you're failing them with your outdated teaching methods and questionable content. As enrollment numbers plummet and department chairs circle, you face a choice between defending your academic freedom and adapting to modern educational expectations.You've always dreamed of inheriting your grandmother's charming house, but family complications and your cousin's competing claim have turned this potential windfall into a battlefield of resentment. As inheritance negotiations intensify, you're discovering what truly matters might not be the property itself.You've realized you no longer love your wife after years of marriage, leaving you torn between honesty that could devastate her and a lifetime of emotional deception. As you contemplate separation, unexpected revelations force you to question everything you thought you knew about love, commitment, and what you really want.Recommendation of the Week: Let a stranger know how they've had a positive impact on you. (Witness this in action at the next point!)You were struggling with severe depression and contemplating ending your life when you discovered The Jordan Harbinger Show, which unexpectedly became your lifeline during your darkest moments. The insights and perspectives you gained through listening gradually pulled you back from the edge and transformed your outlook on life. After helping a few of your friends find their way through their own struggles, you're looking to galvanize the urge for improvement in others. What can you do? [All of us here at the show are humbled and appreciate you for sharing your journey with us!]Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!Subscribe to our once-a-week Wee Bit Wiser newsletter today and start filling your Wednesdays with wisdom!Do you even Reddit, bro? Join us at r/JordanHarbinger!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FOLLOW SANDY:TwitterLinkedInKey Takeaways -Sandy emphasizes that successful negotiation relies on understanding human nature rather than just business terminology-Both in negotiations and personal interactions, maintaining a curious mindset is crucial.-Effective negotiation involves listening more than talking. By allowing the other party to express themselves fully, you can gather valuable information and subtly guide the conversation in your favor.-Utilizing an "accusation audit" can help clear the air in negotiations.-Demonstrating empathy and allowing the other party to save face can build trust and strengthen relationships.Join The “Now” Newsletter: https://now.katierichardson.com/newsletterAbout Katie Richardson:Katie, once a girl who just liked to have fun, transformed into a globally recognized designer and entrepreneur. With expertise in woodworking, welding, drawing, and sewing, she crafted her own path. Despite initial doubts and imposter syndrome, Katie defied expectations by establishing Puj, a business that now boasts its products in 2,000 US stores and 26 countries, delighting over 1 million customers worldwide. Her greatest aspiration is to inspire women across the globe. Renowned shows like the Ellen Degeneres Show, Rachael Ray Show, Today Show, and Entrepreneur Magazine have featured her, while influential figures like Martha Stewart, Matt Damon, Camilla Alves, Mario Lopez, Robert Downey Jr., Kourtney Kardashian, Bill & Giuliana Rancic, and Pam Beesley have embraced her products. Today, Katie is a coach, mother of four, wife, author, and powerful speaker.Connect with Katie:Website: https://katierichardson.com/CASE STUDIES: https://now.katierichardson.com/casestudyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-richardson-creatorApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-working-now/id1515291698BuzzSprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1847280Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2kV8cL7eTZ70UAXMOtcBbrNewsletter: https://now.katierichardson.com/newsletter

We've all been there, we've all had an unpleasant conversation that we dread. What are some ways to have these conversations?

Hi friend! Avoiding difficult conversations in marriage may seem like the easier route to take to prevent major conflicts from coming up but this could potentially lead to resentment due to the presence of unresolved conflict over time. However, when difficult conversations take place, the way they are handled is important as this could either result in bringing a couple closer together or causing disconnection in a marriage. This is why in this episode, I will be sharing 5 phrases to try when difficult conversations occur in marriage. This includes knowing how to respond when our spouses express their concerns to us. You can add these phrases to your marriage toolbox as you continue to invest in your marriage in the long run. Ready to know more? Alright, tune in to listen to find out more! .............................................................................................................  

Difficult conversations can feel overwhelming, triggering anxiety, defensiveness, or avoidance. Why does this happen? This episode explores the biology behind conflict, explaining how the brain and nervous system react to confrontation. When emotions take over, we often react impulsively rather than responding with clarity and confidence.The discussion breaks down why we avoid tough conversations, how childhood conditioning shapes our reactions, and why our nervous system triggers stress responses in moments of disagreement. Through a yogic perspective, key principles like Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satya (truthfulness) offer guidance on handling conversations with compassion and clarity.Practical strategies include grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and learning how to pause before reacting. The episode also covers real-life scenarios—like setting boundaries with a friend or addressing workplace conflicts—to illustrate how we can navigate difficult conversations while maintaining emotional balance.If you've ever struggled with tough discussions, this episode provides clear, actionable steps to approach them with confidence and calm.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:00 Why Difficult Conversations Feel So Emotionally Intense00:05:00 The Brain's Fight-or-Flight Response in Conflict00:08:00 Why We Avoid Difficult Conversations00:12:00 The Impact of Childhood Conditioning on Communication00:15:00 A Yogic Perspective: Ahimsa & Satya in Conflict00:18:00 Practical Strategies to Stay Calm and Respond Thoughtfully00:22:00 The Power of Breathwork in Tough Conversations00:25:00 Real-Life Examples: Setting Boundaries & Workplace Conflicts00:28:00 Final Reflections on Emotional Awareness and Growth—-------—-------—-Michael Henri's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga's Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Other Mentions:Ep# 112: The Nervous System and The Polyvagal Theory—-------—-------—Tags: difficult conversations, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, communication skills, setting boundaries, self-regulation, nervous system, stress response, mindfulness, yoga philosophy, ego vs. authenticity, self-growth, vulnerability, active listening, handling disagreements

In this episode, Adam dives into the art of having courageous conversations. Drawing from his experience as a Legacy coach and family therapist, Adam starts by sharing a personal story about a dating situation that reminded him of the importance of addressing tough topics head-on. Throughout the episode, he aims to provide listeners with three essential perspectives to help them feel more confident in tackling those difficult talks.Adam emphasizes the cost of avoiding these conversations and how procrastination can erode both personal and professional relationships. As always, he challenges his listeners to take action by identifying a hard conversation they've been putting off. With practical advice and real-life examples, Adam guides you through how having these brave discussions benefits not only others but also yourself. Whether it's a chat with a family member or an employee, Adam encourages you to face these moments with courage and confidence, ultimately transforming your communication skills and relationships. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and powerful takeaways to help you live more courageously.ResourcesCrucial Conversations - BookFierce Conversations - BookShatterproof Yourself Lite00:00 Overcoming Communication Anxiety06:05 The Importance of Direct Communication06:52 Valuing Trust and Honest Conversations12:33 "Decide Legacy App Challenge"13:34 "Courageous Conversations Boost Confidence"19:18 Prepare for Courageous Conversations22:02 Lincoln's Unsent Letters Insight24:42 Addressing Conversations with Care29:23 "Exploring Insomnia-Inducing Worries"30:05 Discover Desires Through OppositesConnect with Decide Your Legacy! Adam Gragg is a Legacy Coach, Blogger, Podcaster, Speaker, & Mental Health Professional for nearly 25 years. Adam's life purpose is helping people & organizations find transformational clarity that propels them forward to face their biggest fears to LIVE & leave their chosen legacy. He's ultra-practical in his approach, convinced that engaging in self-reflective ACTION & practical tools, practiced consistently, WILL transform your life. He specializes in life transitions, career issues, and helping clients overcome anxiety, depression & trauma. Contact Adam HERE. if you're interested in getting started on deciding YOUR legacy.This show contains content, including information provided by guests, that is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to replace or substitute for any professional medical, counseling, therapeutic, financial, legal or other advice.  Decide Your Legacy LLC as well as its affiliates and subsidiaries (including their respective employees, agents and representatives) make no representations or warranties concerning the content and expressly disclaim any and all liability concerning the content including any treatment or action taken by any person following the information offered or provided within or through this show. Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you!

Learn more about Cindy's incredible work here: https://www.classfortheheart.com/ ____ Join the Balanced Ballerinas EXCLUSIVE Teachers Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/balancedballerinasteachers My Instagram! @thebalancedballerina Community Instagram! @balancedballerinas Facebook - Balanced Ballerinas And join the SECRET Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/balancedballerinas/ Join the Balanced Ballerinas FREE 5 Day Challenge here: www.balancedballerinas.com/challenge Prenatal, healing or beginner ballet student? This course was designed for you: https://www.balancedballerinas.com/butterballet My Signature 12 Week Adult Ballet Course: https://www.balancedballerinas.com/12weekadultballetcourse The Marketing Blueprint For Dance Teachers & Studio Owners: https://www.balancedballerinas.com/TMB

On this week's episode of Raising Confident Girls, your host, Melissa Jones, welcomes Alicia Crespin, a powerhouse in corporate strategy and marketing with over fifteen years of experience. Alicia resides in Southern California with her husband, Ryan, and their teen daughter, Kayla. She is passionate about empowering teams—especially women—through mentorship programs, and she's not afraid to talk about the uncomfortable topics that others shy away from.In this episode, Alicia opens up about her journey of personal and professional growth, and how she's using her new book, The Tea: The Talk, to help shape the next generation into the best one yet. She shares her insights on leadership, empowerment, and why it's crucial to create spaces where uncomfortable but necessary conversations can happen.Open dialogue is crucial for empowering girls – Alicia emphasizes the importance of fostering ongoing conversations to help girls feel heard and supported.Parents should not shy away from uncomfortable topics – Alicia encourages parents to tackle difficult subjects head-on, as this builds trust and empowers their daughters to navigate life's challenges.The 'talk' should evolve with the child's age and understanding – Alicia explains how the conversation should adapt as your child grows, ensuring they have the tools they need at each stage of development.Media influences perceptions; use it as a conversation starter – Alicia shares how media plays a major role in shaping young minds and how parents can use it to initiate important discussions about self-image and values.You can purchase Alicia's book here - The Tea: The TalkDon't miss this inspiring episode that will help you empower your daughter to build confidence, resilience, and meaningful relationships with others.Download the Quick Tips PDF of today's episode for future reference.If you know a parent who could benefit from this conversation, share this episode with them! Let's work together to raise the next generation of confident girls.Connect With Alicia CrespinWebsiteInstagramMelissa's Links:• Website • Instagram • Facebook• TikTok• LinkedIn

Learn how to navigate tough workplace conversations with grace. Leadership Strategist Talia Fox joins us to share strategies for fostering openness, maintaining trust, and handling sensitive topics like a pro. You'll learn: The biggest mistakes people make during tough conversations at work.How to use her L.O.V.E approach to difficult conversationsPractical frameworks including how to play Values Bingo with your coworkersShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Career Contessa: http://bit.ly/2TMH2QP Critique Crash Course: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/critique-crash-course/ Guest Resources:Talia Fox Website: https://taliafox.com/The Power of Conscious Connection: https://taliafox.com/book/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taliafoxspeaks/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taliafox/Kusi Training: https://www.kusitraining.com/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Browse open jobs: https://www.careercontessa.com/jobs/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Summary In this episode, Andy interviews Christian van Nieuwerburgh and Robert Biswas-Diener, authors of the book Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection. The discussion explores the concept of radical listening, distinguishing it from active listening and emphasizing the importance of creating genuine connections through intent, curiosity, and acknowledgment. Christian and Robert share personal anecdotes and practical applications of their listening framework, both in professional settings and personal relationships. They also address the impact of cultural differences on listening practices and provide tips for parents to improve communication with their children. The conversation culminates in an insightful look at the barriers to effective listening and strategies to overcome them. Whether to help you with your teams at work or loved ones at home, this is a must-listen! Sound Bites "Your intention will guide your attention." "I started questioning active listening when I started thinking about how much I summarize when I'm with my friends, which is to say I never do it!" "If I just go in thinking, ‘What can I learn from the conversation?' that is going to completely direct what I'm paying attention to." "Acknowledgement can't just be, ‘I have goodwill towards you.' It actually has to be demonstrated." "So one day I thought, ‘Look, I've been shouting, I've grounded the kid, I've taken away his computer, I've done everything… maybe I just need to understand what's going on.'" "Not a small portion of my friends, colleagues, and family members were surprised to hear that I was writing a book on listening" Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:59 Start of Interview 02:17 What Does Radical Listening NOT Mean? 04:54 Distinguishing Radical Listening from Active Listening 07:14 When Were You Recently in Listening Mode? 11:30 Handling Difficult Conversations with a Team Member 16:12 Difficult Conversation with a Relative With Different Political Views 20:22 Acknowledging and Interjecting in Conversations 28:22 Cultural Considerations in Radical Listening 28:53 Understanding Cultural Scripts in Conversations 33:21 The Importance of Respectful Listening 35:51 Personal Challenges in Listening 37:31 Applying Listening Skills in Parenting 42:06 End Of Interview 42:30 Andy Comments After The Interview 47:42 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Christian at CoachOnAMotorcycle.com. Also, learn more about Robert at RobertDiener.com. For more learning on this topic, check out: Episode 371 with Amanda Ripley about her book High Conflict. Episode 195 with Celeste Headlee about her book on communication. Episode 108 with Doug Stone about his book on receiving feedback. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills Topics: Listening, Communication, Active Listening, Leadership, Relationships, Engagement, Cultural Sensitivity, Communication Skills, Project Management The following music was used for this episode: Music: Brooklyn Nights by Tim Kulig License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Synthiemania by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Send us a textEpisode 175 - Communicate While Minimizing Conflict - 7 Keys to Staying GroundedIf conversations with your adult child feel tense, emotionally draining, or full of misunderstandings, you're not alone. In this episode of Your Family Relationships, I'll walk you through seven key principles of grounded communication that will help you navigate difficult conversations without losing yourself in anxiety, guilt, or defensiveness.You'll hear real-life examples of how these principles show up in parent-adult child relationships, and I'll hint at the solutions that can help you transform your interactions. These strategies will empower you to communicate with clarity, emotional balance, and integrity—no matter how your adult child responds.Want to go deeper? Download my free class: Healing Your Relationship with Your Adult Child. It's packed with practical tools to help you shift from conflict to connection.Click here to access the free class!Real-Life Examples Shared in This Episode:

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company In this enlightening episode, Kwame Christian is joined by guest Todd Dewett to explore the art of authentic leadership in the business world. They delve into Todd's unconventional career path and his compelling take on authenticity, informed by experiences both in academia and the corporate landscape. Todd shares insights from his new book "Dancing with Monsters," where he uses a creative fable featuring a vampire to illustrate important leadership lessons. Together, they discuss the power of vulnerability, the balance between candor and kindness, and the significance of relationships in fostering a positive workplace culture. What will be covered: Todd's unconventional career journey from academia to business consulting and public speaking. Insights and stories from Todd Dewett's new book "Dancing with Monsters". Discussion on the dynamics of candor and kindness in leadership within the context of negotiation. Connect with Todd:  www.drdewett.com Follow Todd on LinkedIn  Buy Now the book- Dancing with Monsters: A Tale About Leadership, Success, and Overcoming Fears   Contact ANI Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn The Ultimate Negotiation Guide Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race! Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!

Mónica Guzmán is author of I Never Thought of it That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times; founder and CEO of Reclaim Curiosity; Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels; and host of A Braver Way podcast. In this week's conversation, Yascha Mounk and Mónica Guzmán discuss how to build trust across political divides and the joy of heated debates. Please do listen and spread the word about The Good Fight. If you have not yet signed up for our podcast, please do so now by following this link on your phone. Email: podcast@persuasion.community  Website: http://www.persuasion.community Podcast production by Mickey Freeland, and Leonora Barclay Connect with us! Spotify | Apple | Google Twitter: @Yascha_Mounk & @joinpersuasion Youtube: Yascha Mounk LinkedIn: Persuasion Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your Loved One has substance use and/or mental illness, communication can get sticky and prickly pretty quickly. Yet there's no world where we'll never need to have difficult conversations with our family members. CRAFT provides an incredibly effective toolbox for developing more easeful relationships. In this episode, our co-hosts—family members dealing with a Loved One's substance/mental health struggles—share how they've come to approach sensitive topics. The skillset they've learned from Allies in Recovery, and the dedicated way they have practiced using those skills, has helped them to recognize the best times to share a comment, the best tone/mindset to adopt when doing so, and what reasonable expectations are for these exchanges.Every human can benefit from this conversation which is overflowing with wisdom, humility and common sense approaches.Learn more about Allies in Recovery and how we can help you help your Loved One.

In this episode, Dr. Walker tackles one of the toughest parts of leadership: addressing difficult issues. From resolving conflict to delivering feedback, challenging conversations are inevitable. Dr. Walker offers practical strategies for communicating with empathy, clarity, and confidence. Learn how to navigate these moments in ways that strengthen relationships and build trust. This episode equips leaders to approach tough talks with courage and wisdom.

Don't miss the Make Money Easy Book Tour! https://lewishowes.com/moneyyouCheck out the full episode: greatness.lnk.to/1737Communication expert Jefferson Fisher shares the three most powerful questions to ask when someone is overreactive or overwhelmed. The first is Chris Voss's disarming phrase "Sounds like you have a reason for saying that," which acknowledges the person's perspective without judgment. The second is the seemingly simple yet profound invitation to "Tell me more," which Fisher explains creates space for people to fully express themselves before they can receive new information. The third question—"Are you okay?"—asked with genuine concern, can instantly defuse tension and create connection.Lewis and Jefferson explore how mastering these communication tools, particularly "tell me more," can transform relationships by fostering deeper understanding during conflicts. They discuss the common mistake of lacking assertiveness in difficult conversations, with Jefferson emphasizing the importance of understanding your own triggers while communicating with confidence. Lewis candidly admits his past struggles with having challenging conversations, often choosing to keep peace rather than express his true feelings. Their conversation reveals how authentic listening without trying to fix problems creates powerful bonds that strengthen relationships over time.Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter

Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company In this insightful episode of "Negotiate Anything," host Kwame Christian welcomes Angela Cheng-Cimini, a seasoned HR professional with three decades of experience. Angela shares her expertise on navigating difficult conversations in the workplace, particularly those resembling mediation between conflicting parties. Delving deep into the essence of organizational courage, Angela emphasizes the importance of open communication and self-awareness in professional settings. As she transitions into a new chapter in her life, Angela reflects on the value of being honest and transparent to foster a productive work environment. What will be covered: Strategies for handling workplace mediations and resolving conflicts effectively. The concept of organizational courage and its impact on corporate culture. Angela's personal experiences and insights from her extensive HR career. Follow Angela on LinkedIn Contact ANI Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn The Ultimate Negotiation Guide Click here to buy your copy of How To Have Difficult Conversations About Race! Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!

they're not putting away their dishes, so do you put them away for them or let the mold grow? through interviews, we talk with self-proclaimed "bad roommates" and individuals who have firsthand experience dealing with challenging living situations. We whether those deemed as "bad roommates" are aware of their impact on shared living spaces and ask the question we all wish we could ask: “Why are you like that?” we also talk with healthy communication and boundaries expert and “Difficult Conversations” author Douglas Stone to help us figure out the best way to deal with bad roommates. you might want to send this episode out to a few people… Follow GrownKid on Instagram: @Grownk1d @gaelaitor @_kaylasuarez JOIN OUR SOCIAL CLUB: https://form.typeform.com/to/eBSho4lE Featured Guests: Sabrina Brier: @sabrinabrier comedian, influencer Deke: self-proclaimed bad roommate About Our Partners: GrownKid is made possible by the Schultz Family Foundation, dedicated to helping young people unlock their full potential and successfully navigate to fulfilling careers. GrownKid is made in partnership with Joy Coalition where purpose driven content meets powerful storytelling. From 13 reasons Why to unprisoned, Joy Coalition projects are made to bridge generations and drive groundbreaking conversations. Interested in a career in mental health? Check out the Youth Mental Health Corps – a new program created by the Schultz Family Foundation, Pinterest and AmeriCorps - where anyone with a high school degree can gain experience, skills, and a credential during a year of paid service in the mental health field. Learn more at youthmentalhealthcorps.org Resources: What is OppNet? The Opportunity Network is a New York City-based national nonprofit organization that ignites the drive, curiosity, and agency of underrepresented students on their paths to and through college and into thriving careers, powered by our commitment to access and community. Through our programs, students gain access to educational resources, professional networks, and career opportunities. Visit opportunitynetwork.org for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices