Podcasts about difficult conversations

What if the biggest thing affecting your relationships, leadership, and communication isn't what you're saying...but how you're breathing?In this episode, Anne sits down with speaker, facilitator, and communication expert Hilary Blair (hilaryblairspeaks.com), creator of the Fruitful Friction® framework, to explore the surprising connection between breath, voice, trust, and human connection. Drawing from decades in theater and corporate leadership development, Hilary reveals why your voice is a giant "poker tell" and how small shifts in breath and awareness can dramatically change the way people experience you. If you've ever struggled with difficult conversations, workplace conflict, executive presence, or feeling truly heard, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice communicates trust before you even speak the words  How breath affects confidence, connection, and emotional regulation  The difference between being vulnerable and being available  Why "take a deep breath" may be terrible advice...and what to do instead  How tone, vowels, consonants, and vocal habits influence relationships Want more from Hilary?HilaryBlairSpeaks.comArticulateRC.comHilary Blair is a dynamic speaker, facilitator and CEO of ARTiculate: Real&Clear. She's the creator of Fruitful Friction®, a framework redefining tension as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and trust. Blending her background as a professional actor with deep expertise in communication and executive presence, Hilary helps leaders stay in conversation when it matters most. Her work equips teams to engage authentically, communicate clearly, and use friction to gain traction for growth.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.

It's been a wild 24 hours... let's talk about it! For this one we invite Tember Harward from Beacon SSA fellowship!

The benefits of having difficult conversations are so much greater than the fear of having them. Before you talk yourself out of having them, learn the five things that shift when you learn how to speak up effectively.Join the masterclass here (or sign up for the waitlist) https://lastfirstdate.com/difficult-conversations-masterclass/►Please subscribe/rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts http://bit.ly/lastfirstdateradio or Spotify https://tinyurl.com/lfdradio ►If you're feeling stuck in dating and relationships and would like to find your last first date, sign up for a complimentary 30-minute breakthrough session with me https://lastfirstdate.com/application ►Join my free Facebook for women https://facebook.com/groups/yourlastfirstdate ►Get my books, Becoming a Woman of Value; How to Thrive in Life and Love https://bit.ly/womanofvaluebook , Choice Points in Dating https://amzn.to/3jTFQe9 and Love at Last https://amzn.to/4erpj7C ►Apply for FREE coaching on the podcast! https://bit.ly/LFDradiocoaching ►Submit your dating dilemma to be answered on my podcast https://tinyurl.com/datingdilemma ►Group Coaching: https://lastfirstdate.com/the-woman-of-value-club/ ►Website → https://lastfirstdate.com/ ► Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lastfirstdate1/ ► TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@lastfirstdate1 ►Get Amazon Music Unlimited FREE for 30 days at https://getamazonmusic.com/lastfirstdate  

This solo episode of Do Good to Lead Well focuses on one of the most common challenges in both leadership and everyday life: continually repeating the same difficult conversation without real resolution. Drawing on the important work of Crucial Conversations and Crucial Accountability, I explore the transformative CPR model (Content, Pattern, Relationship) as a deceptively simple framework for breaking frustrating cycles.I talk about how most people stay stuck addressing immediate content rather than recognizing damaging patterns or the deeper relationship impacts underneath. I also share concrete scripts using common scenarios to bring to life how shifting the “elevation” of a conversation can untangle recurring problems and restore trust.Leaders, teammates, and anyone facing persistent roadblocks in communication will walk away with actionable tools to finally resolve stubborn issues. Share your thoughts on how you have dealt with these situations and better yet, share the episode with someone who you feel would benefit from hearing it.What You'll Learn- What is C.P.R. in difficult conversations?- The importance of addressing issues early.- The trap of relitigating the same content without recognizing a pattern.- The risk of escalating prematurely to relationship-level concerns after a single incident.- The problem of “piling on,” or tackling content, pattern, and relationship all at once. Podcast Timestamps(00:03) - The Recurring Conversation Challenge(01:23) - Introducing the CPR Model(03:30) - Content: Addressing Issues Early(06:08) - Elevating to Pattern-Level Conversations(08:50) - Relationship: Impact on Trust and Collaboration(10:43) - Approaching Difficult Conversations from Different Roles(14:46) - Common Traps and Pitfalls in Tough Conversations(17:53) - Choosing the Right Level for Effective Dialogue(19:33) - Final Reflections and a Call to ActionKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Difficult Conversations, Conflict Management, Crucial Conversations, Crucial Accountability, CPR model, Content Pattern Relationship, Communication Framework, Workplace Relationships, Feedback Scripts, Pattern Recognition, Escalation in Conversations, Resolving Conflict, Peer Conversations, Leadership Communication, Employee Feedback, Conversational Traps, CEO Success

Ed Lane conducted a Scripting Fridays session of Agent Power Huddle focused on difficult conversations as the real estate market shifts. Ed discussed strategies for handling challenging situations including telling sellers their homes aren't worth what they think, implementing price reductions, addressing buyers with financial instability, and managing unrealistic client expectations. He emphasized the importance of honesty, empathy, and proper timing in these conversations, explaining that agents who avoid difficult conversations often pay higher costs later. Ed shared specific scripts and techniques for delivering difficult news while building trust, and encouraged participants to identify their most challenging conversations and develop scripts for those situations.

This week, Kaleb and I are diving into turbulent waters and talking parenting.

Difficult conversations are rarely difficult because we don't know what to say.More often, they fall apart because we have the conversation at the wrong time, in the wrong way, or without realizing that the other person is experiencing the situation very differently than we are.Fortunately, this week's guest shares a practical framework for navigating challenging conversations without creating more conflict. Instead of focusing on "winning" the discussion, you'll learn how to create the conditions for people to listen, collaborate, and move forward together.Victoria Rennoldson is a global leadership expert, executive coach, and author of Become a Global Leader. She helps leaders communicate across cultures, build stronger relationships, and handle difficult conversations with greater confidence and empathy.In this conversation, we explore why difficult conversations so often break down, how culture and communication styles shape conflict, and a simple framework that helps leaders replace defensiveness with genuine dialogue and better decisions.Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction(01:56) Why most difficult conversations fail before they even begin(05:18) Preparing yourself before addressing conflict(09:41) The hidden emotional baggage that shapes difficult conversations(13:27) How culture influences communication, conflict, and feedback(17:42) Three communication differences every manager should recognize(22:06) How to avoid misreading what someone is really communicating(26:11) Practical ways to create safer, more productive conversations(28:09) [Extended Episode Only] The BRIDGE framework for difficult conversations(35:02) [Extended Episode Only] How to avoid misunderstandings across different communication styles(37:13) [Extended Episode Only] Why simple check-ins uncover what meetings often miss

In Episode 523 of Fishing Without Bait, we continue our conversation with Missy Sorg in Part 2 of a thoughtful and challenging discussion about politics, responsibility, family support, and respectful disagreement. Missy and Jim Ellermeyer begin by examining the complicated realities surrounding abortion and the question of what happens after a child is born. Their conversation moves beyond political slogans to consider infertility, adoption, foster care, support systems, special-needs care, financial responsibility, and the difficult decisions families may face. Missy shares personal experiences that have shaped her perspective, including going through infertility treatments and seeing family members navigate teenage pregnancy and lifelong care needs. The discussion asks whether society is doing enough to educate young people about consequences, critical thinking, emotional decision-making, and personal responsibility. The conversation then expands into voter education and representative government. Drawing from her work as a Republican committee woman and her experiences at polling locations, Missy discusses the importance of understanding what elected offices actually control rather than voting entirely through party labels or a single issue. Jim and Missy also consider how political representatives can become disconnected from their constituents, how social media encourages echo chambers, and why people often listen only long enough to prepare their response. Despite the disagreements and difficult subjects, the episode returns to a simple principle: people should be treated with courtesy and respect. Meaningful progress begins when we stop reducing one another to political labels and begin listening to learn. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Missy Sorg. The discussion continues in the next episode. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait through your favorite podcast player so you do not miss the continuation. Support the podcast and receive ad-free episodes through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book: https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Do a kindness for yourself. Do a kindness for another. Forgive yourself and forgive another.

In Episode 523 of Fishing Without Bait, we continue our conversation with Missy Sorg in Part 2 of a thoughtful and challenging discussion about politics, responsibility, family support, and respectful disagreement. Missy and Jim Ellermeyer begin by examining the complicated realities surrounding abortion and the question of what happens after a child is born. Their conversation moves beyond political slogans to consider infertility, adoption, foster care, support systems, special-needs care, financial responsibility, and the difficult decisions families may face. Missy shares personal experiences that have shaped her perspective, including going through infertility treatments and seeing family members navigate teenage pregnancy and lifelong care needs. The discussion asks whether society is doing enough to educate young people about consequences, critical thinking, emotional decision-making, and personal responsibility. The conversation then expands into voter education and representative government. Drawing from her work as a Republican committee woman and her experiences at polling locations, Missy discusses the importance of understanding what elected offices actually control rather than voting entirely through party labels or a single issue. Jim and Missy also consider how political representatives can become disconnected from their constituents, how social media encourages echo chambers, and why people often listen only long enough to prepare their response. Despite the disagreements and difficult subjects, the episode returns to a simple principle: people should be treated with courtesy and respect. Meaningful progress begins when we stop reducing one another to political labels and begin listening to learn. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Missy Sorg. The discussion continues in the next episode. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait through your favorite podcast player so you do not miss the continuation. Support the podcast and receive ad-free episodes through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book: https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Do a kindness for yourself. Do a kindness for another. Forgive yourself and forgive another.

I was walking on a beach when God said something I wasn't ready to hear. Not comfort. Not ease. Peace. "If you don't bring me peace, you don't get a place at my table." I thought I understood what that meant. I didn't. I thought protecting my peace meant cutting out anyone who challenged me. But challenge is not the enemy of peace — emotional hijacking is. Some people don't challenge you. They hijack you. You leave every interaction drained, defensive, replaying the conversation in the shower at 2am. That's not growth — it's an open loop quietly stealing your energy, and it won't close itself. If you're tired of draining relationships that never change, this episode gives you a way to discern who belongs at your table — and the courage to stop setting a place for those who don't. In this episode: • The difference between a holy challenge and emotional hijacking • The "aftermath test" — one question that reveals who stays at your table • 4 practical steps to protect your peace — no drama, no guilt • Why protecting your peace is stewardship, not selfishness This is the heart of Stop Stealing From Yourself — starting with the relationships you keep saying yes to.

How can leaders elevate their impact without sacrificing their energy, focus, and quality of life? In this episode, Kevin talks with Laurie Maddalena about what it means to become an elevated leader in today's changing world of work. Laurie challenges the outdated belief that leadership requires constant overwhelm, availability, and personal sacrifice, and instead makes the case for leading with greater intention, self-awareness, reflection, and energy. Kevin and Laurie discuss why many leaders are promoted without real preparation, how the role shifts from doing the work to developing people, and why managers must move from being fixers to facilitators. They also discuss practical ways to protect focus and manage energy rather than just time. Listen For 0:00 Intro: Why Leadership Must Elevate 1:36 Meet Laurie Maddalena 2:33 Why She Wrote The Elevated Leader 3:54 The Big Idea Behind the Book 6:08 What Defines an Elevated Leader 7:11 The Starbucks Barista Problem 8:14 Laurie's Own Leadership Wake-Up Call 10:34 Is Everyone Meant to Lead? 13:37 Overview of the Elevated Leadership Model 14:23 Self-Awareness, Sleep, and Energy 15:35 Why Reflection Is Undervalued 18:20 Creating Clarity and Caretaking the Culture 20:24 Energy Patterns and Productivity Sprints 23:57 Treat Your Calendar Like "Cardiologist Time" 26:16 The Problem With Open-Door Policies 27:29 What Organizations Should Do to Support Leaders 29:11 Training Leaders Like a True Profession 31:55 What Laurie Is Reading Right Now 32:43 Where to Find Laurie 33:16 Closing: What Action Will You Take? Laurie's Story: Laurie Maddalena is the author of The Elevated Leader: Boost Your Confidence and Transform Your Team by Mastering Coaching, Accountability, and Difficult Conversations. She is a leadership provocateur, confronting outdated leadership models that reward exhaustion over effectiveness. As the founder of Envision Excellence, she helps managers go from "The Fixer" to "The Facilitator," enabling high-achieving leaders to deliver elite results without burnout. A former VP of HR by age 30, Laurie is a Certified Speaking Professional and has worked directly with influencers like Brené Brown and Jack Canfield. Laurie intentionally caps her workweek at 40 hours—demonstrating that sustainable success and elite results are not mutually exclusive, but essential to modern leadership. https://www.lauriemaddalena.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lauriemaddalena/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriemaddalena/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Laurie-Maddalena/100063864253481/ https://www.youtube.com/@lauriemaddalena Book Recommendations The Elevated Leader: Boost Your Confidence and Transform Your Team by Mastering Coaching, Accountability, and Difficult Conversations by Laurie Maddalena  The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations by B. Joseph Pine II  Like this? Solving the Culture Puzzle with Mario Moussa and Derek Newberry Bringing the Art of Reflection into Your Busy Life with Joseph Badaracco Energy and Leadership with Rick Maurer Join Our Community If you want to view our live podcast episodes, hear about new releases, or chat with others who enjoy this podcast join one of our communities below. Join the Facebook Group Join the LinkedIn Group   Leave a Review If you liked this conversation, we'd be thrilled if you'd let others know by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Here's a quick guide for posting a review. Review on Apple: https://remarkablepodcast.com/itunes   

Join Glen Scrivener, Naomi Brehm and Thomas Thorogood as they discuss deconstruction, denominations and disagreeing well.Thank you to Aidan, Cassidy, Emile, Jeff, Nemo & Jared for sharing part of their story with us.Thank you to Paul VanderKlay and Cassidy van Der Kamp for hosting conversations and space for new friendships at the Breakwater Festival.We'd love to know what you think. Have you had a “change of orbit”? How do you navigate tension and conflict in faith conversations? Know of any similar events coming up? (We'd love to join!)_____________________________Enjoy seeing life through the lens of Jesus? Here's where to find more Speak Life content: 321course.com // YouTube // Instagram // WebsiteSupport the show

As radiologists, we work in dark rooms, but some shadows have nothing to do with the monitors. Cohosts Sherry S. Wang, MBBS, and Surbhi Raichandani, MD, illuminate bullying, gossip, and incivility in radiology and the small brave moves that build healthier cultures. Listen to their discussion in episode 1 of Difficult Conversations, an AJR Podcast Series.

In 2026, across the board, organisations are struggling to maintain team cohesion. With so many societal issues in need of resolution, and an inflammatory media whose success depends on sensationalist headlines that blame and shame, there's no shortage of things to disagree on. This has profound consequences for organisations that desperately need group harmony for successful collaboration and innovation. This episode Dom and Cat meet communications strategist Neil Hopkins to learn about how to have inclusive, empathic conversations that build unity, even when topics are delicate and require deep diplomacy and tact.   About Neil Hopkins Neil is a writer by trade, a strategist at heart and a geek when it comes to behaviour change communications. Insatiably curious, his specific interest is in building the systems and growing the soul of great communications, which he's developed during 20+ years leading communications agendas mostly in the UK public sector. His projects have won awards, he's secured industry accolades for a wide range of organisations and deftly steered the response to multiple crisis events. For fun, he reviews submissions for international social marketing conferences and curates a LinkedIn community for ‘Secret Social Marketers' (to which you're all invited).    Find Neil on LinkedIn:           https://www.linkedin.com/in/interacter/ Find Interacter :                     https://interacter.co.uk/

Some of the most important conversations in life are the ones we keep putting off.Whether it's with a spouse, a parent, a sibling, a friend, or someone at work, avoiding difficult conversations often feels safer than having them. But what if those conversations are actually the foundation of the legacy you're building?In Episode 201 of the Decide Your Legacy podcast, Adam Gragg explores why we naturally avoid hard conversations, what psychology teaches us about those fears, and how greater clarity leads to greater confidence. Through personal stories, practical coaching insights, and real life examples, you'll discover simple ways to start meaningful conversations that strengthen relationships instead of damaging them.In this episode you'll learn:• Why most difficult conversations are less painful than we imagine• The two biggest fears that keep us silent• Why peace doesn't always mean the absence of conflict• How clarity creates confidence before a hard conversation• Three simple ways to start meaningful conversations with anyone• How AI can help you prepare for important conversations without replacing them• Practical tools to help you build deeper relationships and a lasting legacy22 Conversations Starters (post) by Adam GraggLegacy isn't something you leave behind someday. It's something you build every day through honest conversations with the people who matter most.If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe for more conversations on courage, leadership, personal growth, and intentional living.

Directness is prized in some organizations and penalized in others. But the gap between direct and rude isn't personality. It's a choice. In this episode, Jill Griffin breaks down: What actually happens when communication gets misreadHow to calibrate if you've been told you're too directLearn to separate content from deliveryWhat to do if someone's communication style is triggering you Support the showJill Griffin, is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and host of The Career Refresh. She works with senior leaders to navigate complexity, strengthen teams, and lead with greater clarity and intention.With 20+ years of experience at companies like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton, and Martha Stewart, Jill brings a practical, real-world lens to leadership, decision-making, and career strategy. Visit GriffinMethod.com to learn more about working together:The Next Era Leader An 8-week cohort for women leaders ready to expand their capacity and lead through complexity with clarity and intentionExecutive Coaching & Leadership Advisory 1:1 strategic partnership for leaders navigating growth, transition, and what's nextConnect with Jill for Leadership Development for Organizations and Speaking & WorkshopsInstagram: @JillGriffinOffical

In Fishing Without Bait 522, Jim Ellermeyer begins a new conversation with Missy Sorg about one of the most difficult challenges many people face today: how to stay connected when political differences feel personal, painful, and divisive. Missy shares why she wanted to return to the show and talk openly about strained friendships, lost connections, and the fear of being reduced to a political label. Jim and Missy explore the idea that even when people disagree, there may still be a shared “ice cream” — a common point of connection that allows a real conversation to begin. This Part 1 episode moves through themes of political polarization, patriotism, social media, assumptions, “contempt prior to investigation,” and the need to focus less on identifying problems and more on finding solutions. Missy also opens up about women's health, fertility treatments, abortion, birth control, and the way women's bodies are often discussed or legislated without enough listening or understanding. Rather than a shouting match, this is a conversation about conversation itself: how to disagree without dehumanizing, how to listen without surrendering your values, and how to look for the person behind the label. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait on your favorite podcast player. Support the show and receive ad-free episodes on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait. You can also pick up our book, “Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book,” at https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

In Fishing Without Bait 522, Jim Ellermeyer begins a new conversation with Missy Sorg about one of the most difficult challenges many people face today: how to stay connected when political differences feel personal, painful, and divisive. Missy shares why she wanted to return to the show and talk openly about strained friendships, lost connections, and the fear of being reduced to a political label. Jim and Missy explore the idea that even when people disagree, there may still be a shared “ice cream” — a common point of connection that allows a real conversation to begin. This Part 1 episode moves through themes of political polarization, patriotism, social media, assumptions, “contempt prior to investigation,” and the need to focus less on identifying problems and more on finding solutions. Missy also opens up about women's health, fertility treatments, abortion, birth control, and the way women's bodies are often discussed or legislated without enough listening or understanding. Rather than a shouting match, this is a conversation about conversation itself: how to disagree without dehumanizing, how to listen without surrendering your values, and how to look for the person behind the label. Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait on your favorite podcast player. Support the show and receive ad-free episodes on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait. You can also pick up our book, “Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book,” at https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

They share real, personal stories (including the time Robin was so triggered she literally fainted), the science of the amygdala without the jargon, and the practical tools that help you slow down and respond instead of react. In this episode: • What emotional hijacking actually is — and why the airplane metaphor fits • How AI-generated misinformation is hijacking millions of us daily • The physical signs you're being hijacked (heat, spinning, going blank) • Why identity threats hit harder than almost anything else • "Steady neutral" and calm authority — how the calmest person in the room holds the most power • The ONE genuine question that can change a heated conversation • Why silence is one of the most powerful tools you have — and the story of 5 minutes of silence that changed a man's life If you've ever lost yourself in a moment you wish you could take back, this conversation will change how you respond.

Radiologists are trained to catch every detail, yet as a profession, it's easy to overlook the human struggles happening right in the reading room. Join Surbhi Raichandani, MD and Sherry Wang, MBBS as they introduce a new AJR Podcast Series dedicated to discussions around bullying, power dynamics, financial pressures, and what it takes to survive in this field. There are no scripts and no safe answers, just real stories from the people who have lived them.

In Episode 186, we explore Matthew 18:15-20 and Jesus' brilliant process for addressing sin and conflict in relationships. Our culture teaches us to avoid conflict at all costs—we ghost people, talk about them behind their backs, cut them off, or post passive-aggressive comments on social media. But Jesus calls us to something radically different: go to them directly and work it out. Through guided meditation, discover why avoidance doesn't heal relationships—it destroys them. When we refuse to address sin, it festers, grows, and spreads to others, creating distance where there could be reconciliation. Jesus gives us a three-step process designed with love at every stage. First, go privately with the goal of restoration, not embarrassment or judgment. If they listen and confess, you've won that person back. Second, if they don't listen, bring one or two witnesses to ensure clarity and fairness—not to gang up on them, but to protect everyone involved. Third, take it to the church community, recognizing that we're not meant to handle serious conflict alone. This episode explores the profound promise that bookends this teaching: "If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them." Jesus is saying that when you come together for the work of reconciliation, He is present with you. Learn why confrontation requires courage and humility, and why it's ultimately an act of profound love. Discover practical steps for preparing your heart before a difficult conversation: check yourself for humility, clarify that your goal is restoration not victory, and choose your words carefully. Find the freedom to show up honestly and seek restoration, trusting that God is with you in the hard conversations.

Send us Fan MailYou have prepared for the meeting. You know the material. You have the results to back you up. And still, when you walk out of the room, you can feel that your voice did not carry the weight your expertise deserves. That gap between what you know you are capable of and how your crucial conversations actually land is what this episode is about. Kele Belton walks through why brilliant women with undeniable results still find their most important conversations falling flat, and gives you the exact strategic fixes that turn every crucial conversation into an opportunity to lead.In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton unpacks one of the most persistent challenges she sees in her coaching work: high-performing women whose crucial conversations do not land with the impact their expertise deserves. She reveals the 5 ways authority dilution quietly shows up (even when you are prepared and competent), walks through her Leadership Impact Framework for turning every conversation into an influence opportunity, and hands you specific language shifts you can use in your very next crucial conversation. This episode originally aired in September 2025 and quickly became one of the most downloaded episodes of the show. Kele is bringing it back because these strategies are more relevant now than they have ever been.A note from Kele: This conversation is being re-released because crucial conversations remain the number one reason organizations bring me in to train and coach their leaders. We were never taught how to have these conversations well. We avoid them, we rush them, or we leave them feeling unheard. And we are living in a moment where these conversations matter more than ever. If you have not heard this one yet, or if it has been a while, it is worth your time today.What You Will Learn:The 5 subtle ways authority dilution shows up in your speech even when you are fully prepared and technically right, and how to spot each one in real time.The Leadership Impact Framework that turns every crucial conversation from a performance you have to survive into an opportunity to lead.The 3 foundational pillars of high-impact communication that command respect without requiring you to raise your voice or change your personality.Strategic language shifts you can implement in your very next difficult conversation, including the exact phrases to replace the ones quietly costing you credibility.The mindset shift that moves you from proving your worth in every meeting to embodying the authority you already have.Why crucial conversations feel so hard for high-performing women specifically, and what to do about it that does not require becoming someone you are not.Your Action Step:Take one step this week to apply this material in a real conversation: Identify one upcoming crucial conversation on your calendar. It might be a performance discussion, a negotiation, or a pushback you have been avoiding.Before the conversation, choose one of the strategic language shifts from this episode and decide exactly where you will use it. One shift, one moment, on purpose.Afterward, reflect on what changed in the exchange when you used the shift. Notice what shifted in you as much as what shifted in the room.Frequently Asked Questions:What is a crucial conversation, and why do they matter for women leaders?A crucial conversation is any high-stakes exchange where opinions differ, emotions run strong, and the outcome matters. Performance discussions, salary negotiations, disagreements with senior leadership, and boundary-setting all qualify. For women leaders, these conversations carry extra weight because the way they are handled often determines whether your competence is fully seen and whether you are trusted with the next opportunity. Getting them right is one of the highest-leverage skills you can build.Why do my important conversations at work fall flat even when I am prepared?Preparation is necessary but not sufficient. Most high-performing women lose ground in crucial conversations not because they lack the material, but because of authority dilution: small, often unconscious speech patterns that quietly undercut how your message lands. Softeners, over-explanation, and language that asks the room to validate you before you have finished your point all drain authority, even when the underlying content is strong. Fixing the dilution changes how the same message is received.How can I command respect in a meeting without seeming aggressive?Commanding respect is not about volume or dominance. It is about the alignment of your words, your voice, and your body, and about removing the language that undercuts you before it reaches the other person. When you speak with clear language, grounded pace, and settled body language, the room reads authority without you having to perform it. Warmth and authority are not opposites. They coexist in every leader who commands genuine respect.What is the mindset shift that changes how crucial conversations land?The shift moves you from proving your worth to embodying your authority. When you walk into a conversation trying to prove you belong there, the room hears the effort of proving. When you walk in from the assumption that you already belong, the room hears the assumption. Both are conveyed by tone, pace, and language, not by content. The mindset shift is the foundation. The language shifts are what carry it into the room.Related Questions:How do you handle difficult conversations with your boss?What are the biggest communication mistakes women make in meetings?How do you speak with authority as a woman in leadership?How do you push back on a decision without damaging the relationship?What language should you avoid in high-stakes conversations at work?About Your Host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who helps high-performing women in middle management build the communication and leadership strategies that get them recognized, sponsored, and promoted.Connect with Kele:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.comBook a Leadership Strategy Call (30 minutes, complimentary): https://calendly.com/kele-thetailoredapproach/leadership-strategy-call

In this episode, we discuss how addiction affects families, the challenges of supporting a loved one, and practical, evidence-based approaches to  conversations with others who may be experiencing addiction problems. Richard Velleman is Emeritus Professor of Mental Health Research at the University of Bath, Co-Director of the Addictions and Related Research Group at Sangath (India), and a founder of the Addiction and the Family International Network (AFINet). A clinical and academic psychologist, he is internationally recognised for his work on addiction, family members affected by addiction, and psychological interventions. He co-developed the influential Stress-Strain-Information-Coping-Support (SSICS) model and 5-Step Method, which are used worldwide to support families affected by addiction. His current work focuses on improving access to mental health care through community-based and digital interventions in the UK, India, and internationally. Resources mentioned in this episode:AFINet (Addiction and the Family International Network) – Research, resources and support for people affected by a loved one's addiction: https://afinetwork.info/AFINet 5-Step Method – Evidence-based approach to supporting affected family members: https://afinetwork.info/the-5-step-method-resource-hub/Adfam (UK) – Information and support for families affected by drugs, alcohol and gambling: https://adfam.org.uk/Peer supportAl-Anon – Support for families and friends of people with alcohol problems: https://al-anon.org/Alateen – Support for young people affected by someone else's drinking: https://al-anon.org/for-members/group-resources/alateen/Nar-Anon – Support for families and friends of people who use drugs: https://nar-anon.org/Families Anonymous – Support for families affected by addiction and related behaviours: https://familiesanonymous.org/Other evidence-based support Alternatives – Support groups and practical help for families and friends: https://www.alternat-i-ves.org/SMART Recovery Family & Friends – Evidence-based support programmes (country-specific):Australia: https://smartrecoveryaustralia.com.au/family-friends-programUK: https://smartrecovery.org.uk/smart_family__friends/USA: https://smartrecovery.org/familyCanada: https://smartrecovery-canada.ca/programsInvitation to Change – Compassionate, evidence-based approach for helping someone with substance use problems: https://cmcffc.org/approach/invitation-to-changeSupport the showIf you are interested in one-to-one support for your drinking with Dr James Morris, contact him at DrJamesMorris.comSign up to receive new episodes to your inbox here. For more episodes visit https://alcoholpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Follow us on Instagram 

In this episode, I share a powerful personal story about reaching out to a friend who used derogatory language on social media.    Rather than ignoring it or publicly calling him out, I chose a third path — a private, loving, curiosity-driven conversation that led to a genuine shift in my friend's thinking.   Join me as I break down three key lessons for communicating across the divide: Lead with curiosity, not correction — a well-placed question opens doors that criticism slams shut. Be willing to be taught even when you're the one trying to teach — being truly heard is what makes someone willing to listen. Love is not weakness — approaching hard conversations with love and grace is the most advanced communication skill a leader can possess.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to influence hearts and minds, navigate difficult conversations, and use their voice as a force for genuine connection rather than division. More from Tricia  Claim your spot for my two-day virtual masterclass, The Art of The Big Talk Join me LIVE for my Complimentary Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram  Connect with me on Facebook  Connect with me on LinkedIn  Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com 

"There are a huge array of medical dynamics that people endure, and when they leave a lasting impact, a word that we don't use widely enough is the word 'trauma.' There's an entire category of phenomena in the medical arena that are, in fact, traumatic. One way we know that these experiences are traumatic is that we know that huge portions of people who experience things like cancer do indeed develop problems like [post-traumatic stress disorder]," James C. Jackson, PsyD, research professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN, told Jaime Weimer, MSN, RN, AGCNS-BS, AOCNS®, manager of oncology nursing practice at ONS, during a conversation about understanding medical trauma in oncology. Music Credit: "Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod Licensed under Creative Commons by Attribution 3.0  Earn 0.75 contact hours of nursing continuing professional development (NCPD) by listening to the full recording and completing an evaluation at courses.ons.org by June 26, 2027. The planners and faculty for this episode have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. ONS is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. Learning outcome: Learners will report increased knowledge of medical trauma and its effects on patients with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Episode Notes  Complete this evaluation for free NCPD.  ONS Podcast™ episodes: Episode 315: Processing Grief as an Oncology Nurse Episode 287: Tools, Techniques, and Real-World Examples for Difficult Conversations in Cancer Care Episode 276: Support Young Families During a Parent's Cancer Journey Episode 257: Redefining the Bell: The Ethics of Hope for Oncology Nurses and Patients Episode 103: What Oncology Nurses Need to Know to Support Caregivers ONS Voice articles: 'Between Two Kingdoms' Gives Us a Glimpse Into How Patients and Families Experience Malignancy AYA Cancer Survivors Experience Five Times Higher Depression Rates Than Individuals Diagnosed at Older Ages From Stigma to Support: Changing the Cancer Conversation Help Caregivers Control the Chronic Stress of Cancer Care and Manage PTSD Moral Injury and Trauma in Nursing Trauma-Informed Care Provides Person-Centered Support for Patients During Deep Distress When the Story Ends, Cancer Does Not Win: Reframing Death in Terminal Cancer Care Word Choice Matters When Caring for Patients With Cancer ONS course: ONS Psychosocial Dimensions of Cancer Care™  Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing articles: Psychosocial Barriers to Care: Recognizing and Responding Through a Trauma-Informed Care Approach Trauma-Informed Care Addressing the Mental and Emotional Needs of Patients With Cancer Oncology Nursing Forum articles: Post-Traumatic Distress and Symptom Experience in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer–Related Tracheostomy and Family Caregivers The Effect of Neuroticism, Fear of Progression, and Self-Efficacy on Post-Traumatic Growth in Patients With Lung Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy Reclaiming Your Life From Medical Trauma by James C. Jackson To discuss the information in this episode with other oncology nurses, visit the ONS Communities. To find resources for creating an ONS Podcast club in your chapter or nursing community, visit the ONS Podcast Library. To provide feedback or otherwise reach ONS about the podcast, email pubONSVoice@ons.org. Highlights From This Episode "Many people have a notion about what medical trauma is, but perhaps they lack a definition. I use a definition that is deliberately broad because I think it is better to be inclusive than exclusive. A medical trauma to me is a medical experience or a medical encounter that basically leaves a mark. It leaves an emotional mark, and that mark is significant enough to disrupt your daily life." TS 2:06 "When somebody develops a life-threatening illness—let's say cancer—it's not their problem only. It's very much a family problem. It affects any manner of people. There is literature that says that family members of people with life-threatening conditions often have rates of PTSD that are every bit as high as the patients do. There's also literature that says that if we can identify this issue as a family problem—a family challenge, not just an individual challenge—then very often that patient is going to do better." TS 8:23 "We just need to make space for people to feel however they feel. And we need to emphasize, I think, that in some ways, even though there's no cancer on the scan, cancer casts a long shadow in the lives of people, which is why when patients after cancer see their primary care provider, when they come back for a checkup with oncology, we need to continue this conversation of 'How is your mental health? Are you okay? How's your anxiety? How are you managing?' … We need to be really curious and kind, and we need to query people about how they're doing, even if officially they don't have cancer." TS 16:20 "Trauma-informed care has become a bit of a buzzword in our culture. But when it is engaged correctly, I think it's really important. And I think in a nutshell, what it means is that as providers, we need to recognize that some situations and circumstances are likely to be traumatic, and we need to pivot and engage people differently now that we know that. Specific features of trauma-informed care might be we're really going to value your emotional safety. We're going to emphasize that. We are going to emphasize boundaries. We are going to ask your permission instead of telling you how to do things. We are going to be really attentive to the language we use to engage you because we're aware of there might be things about your situation that are really triggering." TS 28:15 "I think one [misconception] certainly is that it is only afflicting and affecting people who are frail or weak—not very strong. That's emphatically not true. But that's a popular misconception—that if I'm strong enough, if I'm resilient enough, this experience will not be traumatic to me. It's just not true. Medical trauma doesn't just happen in emotionally weak people. Medical trauma can impact people of all sorts." TS 33:42 "The other misconception, I think, is that there is no hope for people in the throes of medical trauma. I'm not advocating 'hopium,' It's a term that was coined, I think, during the pandemic. I don't think that living with medical trauma is all rainbows and unicorns and shiny things. But the truth is, if you get the treatment that you need, you can find a way to thrive with medical trauma even as you're impacted by medical trauma. This, this 'both-and-ness' is really true. You can both be adversely affected and you can even find some beauty in your struggle. Both can be true." TS 34:13 "I wish people understood that there is a name for this phenomenon. We're naming it here today medical trauma. Not everyone who has cancer has medical trauma—not even close—but there are many people who do. And I think many of those people, they don't quite have a name for it. And when I introduce this name for it—trauma—many of them say, 'Oh, my gosh, that makes so much sense. I didn't quite understand why I was struggling so much with this. I didn't quite understand why it casts such a long shadow in my life. I didn't really understand why I was having panic attacks every time I had to get another scan at the oncology office to see if my breast cancer had returned. Now I understand. Now I understand it's because it was trauma.'" TS 35:09

Most founders think Avoiding Difficult Conversations protects relationships. In reality, it quietly damages them. Every conversation left unsaid chips away at trust, lowers accountability, and weakens team performance. Over time, your employees feel the tension, your business slows, and your confidence as a leader takes the biggest hit. The conversation isn't the problem. Avoiding it is.Many founder challenges don't begin with strategy or systems—they begin with the moments leaders hesitate to address. A story of an underperforming employee reveals why difficult conversations with employees become harder the longer they're delayed, and why what we're often protecting isn't the relationship at all, but our own discomfort. Shifting that mindset is one of the most valuable leadership skills a founder can develop.You'll discover why high-performing teams tackle tough conversations earlier, how Avoiding Difficult Conversations affects culture and business growth, and what it really takes to manage employees with clarity and respect. The Say The Thing Script Kit provides a practical four-step framework to help you prepare, navigate emotional responses, create genuine buy-in through listening, and finish every conversation with clear expectations and meaningful next steps.Real confidence as a leader isn't built by sidestepping uncomfortable moments. It's earned every time you lean into them with honesty, empathy, and direction. As your business grows, your ability to manage employees through difficult situations becomes one of the defining factors behind sustainable success. Avoiding Difficult Conversations doesn't protect your leadership—it limits it. Learning how to address them well is what allows both your people and your business to grow.Download the Say The Thing Script Kit to confidently navigate your next conversation, then book a Spark Session if you're ready to strengthen your leadership skills and build a high-performing team. https://go.highvoltageleadership.ca/resource-library-423628 And if you're feeling stretched thin and ready for a reset, book a Spark Session, a focused 60-minute strategy session to work through what's really going on and build a path forward: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/hvl-sparkSupport the showThe People Side of Business is the podcast for female founders and business owners who are leading teams and growing businesses.Hosted by Lindsay White, Leadership Coach, Team Leadership Strategist, and Fractional HR Expert, this show delivers practical leadership strategies, real-world people solutions, and honest conversations about the challenges of leading a team.From employee performance issues and difficult conversations to hiring, accountability, workplace culture, and team growth, each episode is designed to help you lead, manage, and scale your team as a founder.If you're ready to become a more confident leader, make better people decisions, and build a stronger, higher-performing team, you're in the right place.Learn more at highvoltageleadership.ca, connect on Instagram @highvoltleadership, or find Lindsay White on LinkedIn.The people side of business isn't separate from growth. The people side of business is the business.

Most founders think Avoiding Difficult Conversations protects relationships. In reality, it quietly damages them. Every conversation left unsaid chips away at trust, lowers accountability, and weakens team performance. Over time, your employees feel the tension, your business slows, and your confidence as a leader takes the biggest hit. The conversation isn't the problem. Avoiding it is.Many founder challenges don't begin with strategy or systems—they begin with the moments leaders hesitate to address. A story of an underperforming employee reveals why difficult conversations with employees become harder the longer they're delayed, and why what we're often protecting isn't the relationship at all, but our own discomfort. Shifting that mindset is one of the most valuable leadership skills a founder can develop.You'll discover why high-performing teams tackle tough conversations earlier, how Avoiding Difficult Conversations affects culture and business growth, and what it really takes to manage employees with clarity and respect. The Say The Thing Script Kit provides a practical four-step framework to help you prepare, navigate emotional responses, create genuine buy-in through listening, and finish every conversation with clear expectations and meaningful next steps.Real confidence as a leader isn't built by sidestepping uncomfortable moments. It's earned every time you lean into them with honesty, empathy, and direction. As your business grows, your ability to manage employees through difficult situations becomes one of the defining factors behind sustainable success. Avoiding Difficult Conversations doesn't protect your leadership—it limits it. Learning how to address them well is what allows both your people and your business to grow.Download the Say The Thing Script Kit to confidently navigate your next conversation, then book a Spark Session if you're ready to strengthen your leadership skills and build a high-performing team. https://go.highvoltageleadership.ca/resource-library-423628 And if you're feeling stretched thin and ready for a reset, book a Spark Session, a focused 60-minute strategy session to work through what's really going on and build a path forward: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/hvl-sparkSupport the showThe People Side of Business is the podcast for female founders and business owners who are leading teams and growing businesses.Hosted by Lindsay White, Leadership Coach, Team Leadership Strategist, and Fractional HR Expert, this show delivers practical leadership strategies, real-world people solutions, and honest conversations about the challenges of leading a team.From employee performance issues and difficult conversations to hiring, accountability, workplace culture, and team growth, each episode is designed to help you lead, manage, and scale your team as a founder.If you're ready to become a more confident leader, make better people decisions, and build a stronger, higher-performing team, you're in the right place.Learn more at highvoltageleadership.ca, connect on Instagram @highvoltleadership, or find Lindsay White on LinkedIn.The people side of business isn't separate from growth. The people side of business is the business.

Most hard conversations don't start with an invitation. They start with something that sounds more like a verdict: You never listen to me. You don't respect my time. You don't care about my feelings. By the time we say those things, we've already decided what happened, what it means, and who's responsible. But those assumptions rarely resolve conflict. In this episode, I walk you through a shift that can completely change the quality of difficult conversations: moving from certainty to curiosity. When you learn to ask questions rather than make statements, you create more opportunities for connection. Here's what I cover:Why certainty feels so convincing and the psychological biases that make us believe our interpretation is the truthHow to make observations without turning them into stories about someone else's intentionsA three-step formula for approaching difficult conversations without certainty: observation, impact, and curiosityWhy curiosity can be hard to access when your nervous system is activated and certainty feels saferPractical questions you can use to create more understanding and meaningful resolution in your relationshipsReserve your seat for my next workshop: sarafisk.coach/sayitwithclarity Find Sara here:sarafisk.coachpages.sarafisk.coach/difficultconversationsinstagram.com/sarafiskcoachfacebook.com/SaraFiskCoachingtiktok.com/@sarafiskcoachyoutube.com/@sarafiskcoaching1333

In any relationship where you have real influence, love sometimes means saying the hard thing. But there's a difference between correcting someone and punishing them. Punishing is about the past, making someone pay for what they did. Correcting is about the future, helping them grow. Psalm 145 reminds me that God upholds those who fall and lifts up those who are bowed down, and that's the heart behind doing this well. So speak truth calmly, not in anger. Say it quickly, before resentment builds. And do it sparingly, trusting you don't have to fix every single thing. The question to sit with today: when you correct the people you love, are you focused on making them hurt, or helping them grow?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

We'd love to hear from you! Send us a text!Most of us love the idea of boundaries - in theory.  What we don't love is the conversation that often needs to happen with them. And although healthy confrontation is often one of the most loving things we can do, many of us were not taught how to engage in it well. Dr. Michele Fleming is back to walk us through a practical, step-by-step script for having those much-needed conversations. THIS episode is for EVERYONE.  (Be sure to like and share!)Books by Drs. Cloud and Townsend: Boundaries, Boundaries for Leaders, Boundaries for Dating, Boundaries in Marriage, Boundaries with Kids, Boundaries with Teens, Beyond BoundariesYou can find Dr. Michele Fleming and her work at drmichelefleming.comElizabeth Pehrson created The Exchange in 2015. The Exchange is a monthly event     for ALL adult women. Women who work outside the home. And women who work in the home. Women who are single. And women who are married. Women who are moms. Women who are grand-moms. No matter what season of life you are in, The Exchange is here to inspire you to live life ON PURPOSE and WITH INTENTION.The Exchange is a non-profit that provides an environment for women to hear practical advice from topics Elizabeth has read and life lessons she has learned, and is currently learning. Equipping us to become better women tomorrow than we are today. And to ultimately use that to pour back into those around us. Tickets and info: theexchangeus.orgfollow us on instagram: theexchangeusfollow us on Facebook: the exchange cumming

» Produced by Hack You Media: pioneering a new category of content at the intersection of health performance, entrepreneurship & cognitive optimisation.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackyoumedia/Website: https://hackyou.media/James Sexton, a divorce lawyer, on why fear is good, why marriage needs a plan, and why heartbreak matters.As someone who sees relationships fail every day, James explains that scepticism about marriage is actually healthy, real bravery requires fear. Most people don't realise marriage is the most legally significant thing you'll do and enter it with zero plan, yet they plan everything in fitness. Passion and chemistry don't equal partnership compatibility, and complacency kills relationships when partners stop trying after "locking someone in." Relationships need intentionality, maintenance, and honest feedback like any other area of life.The hardest part isn't falling in love, it's believing you're worthy of it. Heartbreak is painful but beautiful because grief proves you had something worth losing, and those experiences create the depth most people never experience.00:00 Introduction06:21 Past Relationships and Compatibility10:19 Relationships as Career vs Side Hustle14:55 Designing a Perfect Life Without Marriage18:40 Complacency and Maintenance in Marriage27:10 Honesty and Difficult Conversations in Relationships30:21 Teaching Relationship Skills and Managing Disconnection35:12 Comparison Between Fitness and Relationships40:42 Age and Experience in Love and Marriage45:48 Intentionality in Relationships and Maintaining Love50:01 Appreciating and Valuing Relationships55:14 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Love1:02:59 The Importance of Having Children1:05:47 Financial Stability and Motivation with Children1:11:22 Fame, Wealth, and Relationship Challenges1:18:10 Performance Art in Relationships and Social Media1:25:33 Belief in Love and Life's Fundamental Questions» Escape the 9-5 & build your dream life - https://www.digitalplaybook.net/» Transform your physique - https://www.thrstapp.com/» My clothing brand, THRST - https://thrstofficial.com» Discover Bioniq Lab peptide products- https://bioniqlab.com/mike1010% off with code MIKE10» Join our newsletter for actionable insights from every episode: https://thrst-letter.beehiiv.com/» Join Whoop and get your first month for free - join.whoop.com/FirstThingsThrst» Follow JamesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nycdivorcelawyer/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.nycdivorces.com/

In this episode: • Why we really avoid hard conversations (it's rarely "keeping the peace") • The four hidden costs of avoidance — the 2am rehearsal, the resentment that "builds the bomb," the slow drift, and the erosion of your own self-trust • How to get clear on what you actually want before you speak • How to "open it soft" so the truth gets through instead of hitting a wall of defense • Why their pushback means the conversation is working — not failing • Emotional stamina: the skill of staying steady, and why it's a muscle you build with reps The conversation is the way forward. This week: name one loop, get clear on what you want, and take one real step toward having it.

Season 7, Episode 6 Guest: Leslie Blye, Chief Revenue Officer, AnseraLeslie Blye, chief revenue officer for Ansera, joins host Courtney Stanley for a conversation about leadership, confidence and the courage to have difficult conversations.Together, they explore what it means to lead through change, how confidence is built through experience and candor, and the difference between managing a team and truly developing people.

 How can you have a conversation with someone who doesn't agree with you?  Will you be understanding? Or just dismiss it? We are living in a time where people seemingly have deeply conflicting views. 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 of Defence Deconstructed, David Perry sits down with Scott Clancy to discuss his recent visit to Greenland as a guest of the Kingdom of Denmark. // Guest bios: - Scott Clancy is a retired Major General and former Director of Operations for all NORAD in Colorado Springs. // Host bio: David Perry, President & CEO, Canadian Global Affairs Institute // Recommended readings: "Difficult Conversations", by Harvard Business Review: www.amazon.ca/Difficult-Conversations-HBR-20-Minute-Manager/dp/1633690784 // Defence Deconstructed was brought to you by Irving Shipbuilding, Invest Nova Scotia and Ombudsman. // Music Credit: Drew Phillips | Producer: Judy Alomari Release date: 19 June 2026

Most people don't avoid difficult conversations because they don't know what to say.They avoid them because they're afraid.Afraid of rejection.Afraid of conflict.Afraid of hurting someone.Afraid of being judged.Afraid of losing the relationship.But what if avoiding the conversation is actually causing more damage than having it?In this episode of Raw & Unscripted, Christopher Rausch the #NoExcusesCoach dives deep into why we avoid difficult conversations, the hidden costs of staying silent, how to regulate emotions during conflict, set healthy boundaries, repair damaged relationships, and navigate disagreement without destroying connection.Whether it's your spouse, child, friend, coworker, boss, or even yourself, this episode will challenge you to stop avoiding what needs to be said and start having the conversations that can transform your life.Videocast Replay Link: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ctj1PTj8LcThe quality of your relationships is often determined by the conversations you're willing to have.Are you ready to have yours?

Can you be understanding and compassionate with someone who has differing views than you do? How can you allow for the conflict that might ensue?  Or do you just 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

Sometimes resentment does not begin with a dramatic betrayal. Sometimes it begins in the small moment when you said yes before you were clear.  In this episode of The Liberated Life, Robin Quinn Keehn explores the quiet cost of the resentful yes — the yes that looks generous on the outside but feels dishonest on the inside. She unpacks the difference between a clean yes and a yes given from fear, guilt, image management, habit, or avoidance.  Through personal stories and practical language, Robin shows how unclear commitments become Open Loops: unfinished truths that quietly drain time, energy, peace, and trust. This episode is not about becoming selfish, unavailable, or unwilling to sacrifice. It is about becoming honest. It is about learning to pause before agreeing, renegotiate when needed, and close the loop with clarity before resentment becomes distance.  If you have been the dependable one, the flexible one, the easy one, or the one who always makes it work, this conversation will help you listen to resentment without weaponizing it — and begin rebuilding self-trust one honest sentence at a time.  Free resource:  Download the free Close One Loop tool at closetheloopsnow.com/tool.  Coming June 29 Robin's 5-Day Detox Your To-Do List Challenge will help you identify the unfinished commitments, conversations, and quiet yeses that keep draining your time, energy, and peace. Ready to do this together, with my guidance & support?  Register here.  Robin's book, Stop Stealing From Yourself, is available now on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, you might enjoy our free People Skillz community — a structured space to practice steadier, more intentional communication. We also created a short Communication Patterns Quiz to help you identify how you respond under pressure. You'll find both here.

Most hard conversations do not go wrong because of what gets said.They go wrong because the person went in without knowing what they actually needed to say. Or they said the hard thing and immediately walked it back. Or the other person got defensive and they lost their footing. Or the conversation ended without a close, a commitment, or any shared sense of what comes next.This week on Leading Yourself, Carolina gives you the framework she uses with every coaching client before a hard conversation, and goes deep into what actually goes wrong at each stage.In this episode:The four failure points in hard conversations, and why the conversation itself is almost never the problemPhase 1: Prep. How to get clear on the one thing you need to say, what you actually want to happen, and how to name the fear before it shows up sidewaysPhase 2: Delivery. How to open without apologizing or presenting evidence, what to do in the silence after you say the hard thing, how to stay in the room when the other person gets defensive or emotional, and how to come back when the conversation goes sidewaysPhase 3: Follow-up. How to close a conversation so it actually produces something, why follow-through signals whether the conversation was real, and how to read the check-in to find out what actually landedWhat the framework is actually for, and the change it produces over time beyond any single conversationThis episode stands completely on its own. If you know someone sitting with a hard conversation right now, this is the one to share.This week's practice: run the conversation you have been avoiding through the prep phase. Write it out, all three parts. Then identify which phase you personally tend to skip. That is where your work is.

Practical communication strategies you can use immediately at work and beyond.How do you speak up when a conversation is moving faster than you can think? What should you do when emotions threaten to derail your listening? And how can you give honest feedback to a boss who doesn't seem interested in hearing it?In this Ask Matt Anything episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams answers listener questions from the Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community on some of the most challenging workplace communication scenarios. From practical techniques for inserting your ideas into fast-paced meetings to strategies for managing emotions and delivering feedback upward, Matt shares actionable advice to help you communicate with greater confidence, clarity, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:02) - Speaking Up in Meetings (04:42) - Listening Through Emotion (07:58) - Giving Feedback Upward (13:29) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

Today on Uncommon Sense, we're discussing the tragic state of the modern world.From the protests in Ireland to growing frustration across Western nations, many people feel as though their voices are no longer being heard by the institutions that claim to represent them. I'll share why I support the right of people to protest and why I believe the demonstrations in Ireland have resonated with so many people around the world.We'll also discuss what I see as a deeper spiritual crisis affecting modern society. Many of the political, cultural, and social problems we face today are symptoms of a broader moral and spiritual decline, one that cannot be solved through politics alone.In this episode:My thoughts on the protests in IrelandWhy so many citizens now feel disconnected from their governmentsThe growing divide between ordinary people and powerful institutionsThe role of faith, morality, and personal responsibility in rebuilding societyWhy I believe many of today's crises point to a deeper spiritual battleWhether you agree or disagree, this episode is an invitation to think critically about the direction of our culture, our governments, and our future.--https://www.youversion.com/bible-app

In this Therapy Thursdays episode, we're answering listener questions about the messy, tender, and sometimes confusing parts of relationships. We talk about what it means when someone says “I love you” very early on, how relationships naturally move through different stages, and what to do when the romance starts to fade. We also explore the painful reality of betrayal — including what repair can look like after cheating, and how to know whether your partner is truly respecting the process of rebuilding trust. This episode also looks at conflict and communication: how to bring up difficult issues with your partner, family, or friends when confrontation feels scary or overwhelming. In this episode, we cover: Whether saying “I love you” after two weeks is genuine love, infatuation, or a possible red flag The different stages relationships often go through First steps toward repair after infidelity What it means when a partner pressures you to accept contact with the person they cheated with How to talk about losing the spark in a long-term relationship Why romance and effort can fade after the honeymoon phase How to approach hard conversations when you hate confrontation The difference between healthy communication and avoiding conflict

Do you really win the negotiation if it means losing the relationship?You might think that successful negotiation means getting what you want here and now. But Stan Christensen says this short-sighted view is selling many negotiators short.Christensen is a professional negotiator, host of the All Things Negotiation podcast, and instructor of one of Stanford's most popular courses on the subject. His core insight: most negotiations happen with people you'll see again — which means success isn't about claiming victory, it's about building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. “Most people think of negotiation statically,” he says. “It's you and I. There's a fixed pie. We're trying to get more for ourself and less for the other party. In reality, 95% of negotiations are gonna be with people you see again, so I define success as contributing to the value of the long-term relationship.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Christensen and host Matt Abrahams explore what it takes to negotiate well — from the power of listening and asking questions to managing emotions and communicating for collaboration. Whether you're negotiating a business deal or just deciding where to go to dinner, Christensen shows why every negotiation is an opportunity to strengthen the relationship.Episode Reference Links:Stan ChristensenAll Things Negotiation PodcastEp.15 The Art of Negotiation: How to Get More of What You WantEp.204 Tough Talks: Turn Tension Into Trust 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:11) - What Is Negotiation? (02:50) - Negotiating Every Day (03:52) - The Power of Listening (05:25) - Asking Better Questions (07:26) - Handling Emotions (08:24) - Authentic Emotion (09:22) - Body Language Matters (10:13) - Collaboration in Negotiation (11:51) - Framing Conversations (13:16) - Setting the Agenda (14:38) - Co-Creating Structure (16:14) - A Common Negotiation Mistake (16:53) - Why Start a Podcast (17:57) - Learning from Guests (18:54) - The Final Three Questions (26:15) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

In Episode 208 of The Practice Podcast, Jeff Bast and Brett Amron sit down with matrimonial attorney  Jacqueline Newman, Managing Partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP, to discuss divorce, relationships, parenting, and the power of communication. Jacqueline shares how she knew from an early age that family law was her calling and reflects on a career dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate some of life's most challenging transitions. From high-net-worth divorces and custody matters to prenuptial agreements and mediation, she offers practical insight into the emotional and financial realities of divorce. The conversation explores why many prospective clients are encouraged to pause before filing for divorce, how parents can better protect their children during the process, and why effective communication is often the key to healthier relationships. Jacqueline also challenges common misconceptions about prenuptial agreements, explaining how they can foster transparency and strengthen marriages before problems arise. The episode concludes with a discussion on law firm leadership, recruiting, and building a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent. Key Topics:The realities of divorce and family law Protecting children during family transitions The importance of communication in relationships Why some clients are advised not to divorce—yet The value of prenuptial agreements Law firm culture, leadership, and recruitingTune in for an insightful conversation about relationships, resilience, and helping people move forward through life's most difficult transitions. Streaming on  YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts. We are also in the top ten percent of listened-to podcasts globally.

This episode was intentionally short… but maybe the conversation it opens is much bigger.So today is a short solo episode… and maybe the beginning of a mini-series.I'd genuinely love your feedback.So many leaders (often introverts) have asked me about difficult conversations…. and I've seen so many get nervous, emotional (or AVOID THE CONVO!) … and that could be costly, risky, loses trust with our teams ... and so I am thinking of putting together a short (secret) podcast series for free that might help leaders, introverts, like you, to shift a difficult conversation to an empowering one!Would this be of interest to you?Would episodes like this support you?Would you value practical conversations around communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, boundaries, expectation-setting, or navigating tension with more calm and confidence?Send me a message on Instagram or LinkedIn and let me know.I'd love your feedback.Would you value more mini episodes around empowering conversations and the human side of leadership? Kimberly SniderWebsite: https://peoplebrain.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/overflow_podcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-j-snider/Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/overflow-with-kimberly-snider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why “easy to work with” can become a leadership liability How small acts of avoidance create cultural drift The hidden relationship between accountability and trust Why high performers notice inconsistent standards first How unclear expectations frustrate teams over time The concept of “autopilot leadership” from Think First Learned helplessness and what it does to workplace culture The difference between Firefighter leadership and Architect leadership Why avoiding hard conversations creates bigger problems later A practical question leaders should ask themselves regularly:“Am I protecting this relationship, or avoiding discomfort?” How deliberate leaders create clarity without sacrificing compassion Why strong cultures are built through consistency, honesty, and accountability Think First

How Resentment Quietly Builds In this episode of The Liberated Life Podcast, Robin Keehn opens a new conversation about what happens underneath our relationships — especially when something needed to be said, but wasn't. Resentment does not usually arrive all at once. It accumulates. A tone. A look. A changed plan. A moment of being overlooked. A “yes” that should have been a “no.” None of these may seem dramatic on its own, but together they begin to form a story. Robin shares how resentment often grows in the space between what happened and what was never spoken. She introduces the idea of an Open Loop — something unfinished, incomplete, or outdated that continues draining your time, energy, and peace — and an Unspoken Broken, a relational loop that stays open because it was never named. You'll hear why resentment is not always proof that the other person is bad. Sometimes it is a signal that something remains unfinished. In this episode, Robin talks about:  How resentment quietly accumulates over time Why small moments can carry a surprising amount of weight The difference between truly releasing something and simply not bringing it up How “always” and “never” stories begin to form in relationships Why unspoken moments become Open Loops What an Unspoken Broken is and why it matters How to begin with “Here's what I've noticed” instead of an accusation The two questions to ask before having a hard conversation: Why am I sharing this?What do I actually want here? Why closing one loop can begin to restore your time, energy, and peace “Resentment is interest on a debt nobody named.” Where have you gone quiet — and what has that silence been costing you? Want a place to start? Download Robin's free tool, Close One Loop, and walk through one open loop from start to finish in just a few minutes. Go to: closetheloopsnow.com/tool You'll also be the first to hear about Robin's upcoming five-day challenge at the end of June. If this episode resonated with you, you might enjoy our free People Skillz community — a structured space to practice steadier, more intentional communication. We also created a short Communication Patterns Quiz to help you identify how you respond under pressure. You'll find both here.

In this episode of 5 Minutes of Peace, we are guided through a gentle reflection on navigating difficult conversations with greater presence and compassion.Rather than avoiding or bracing against these moments, this practice invites us to slow down, breathe, and soften our inner response. Through mindful awareness, we begin to notice the emotions that arise — tension, fear, defensiveness — and create space to meet them with calm instead of reaction.This episode reminds us that difficult conversations are not just challenges to get through, but opportunities to listen more deeply, speak more truthfully, and remain grounded in our own center.With a focus on breath, body awareness, and intention, we are encouraged to approach these interactions with clarity, kindness, and self-trust.Key Takeaways• Pause — a breath can shift the entire tone of a conversation• Stay connected to your body — grounding helps you remain present• You don't need to control the outcome — focus on how you show up• Compassion changes everything — for yourself and the other person• Difficult conversations can deepen connection when approached with awarenessMemorable Reflection“You can meet this moment with calm… and let your presence lead the conversation.”The next time a difficult conversation arises,pause…breathe…and remember —You can choose presence over reaction,and compassion over control.

Ladies, let's bring it back to this episode where we're talking about caring for our parents as they get older. We'll talk about what getting older really means especially when you realize your own joints have RSVP'd to the party too.CHAPTERS00:00 Intro & Backyard Nature Project Success04:34 Palm Springs Work Trip & Estrogen Mishap09:40 The Sandwich Generation Introduction18:15 Jen's Father-in-Law's Health 21:30 Parent Communication Challenges28:17 The Heart Monitor Incident34:17 Difficult Conversations & Planning37:00 Modern Senior Living Options39:27 Mom Box: Awkward Family PhotoMORE PODCAST EPISODES:    • #IMOMSOHARD: the PODCAST  JUST LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: https://link.chtbl.com/imomsohardSEE US ON TOUR: https://www.imomsohard.com/Get our sponsor DISCOUNT CODES here!https://linktr.ee/imshpodcastWATCH OUR AMAZON PRIME SPECIAL: https://www.amazon.com/IMomSoHard-Liv...FOLLOW US: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imomsohardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/imomsohard/Twitter: https://twitter.com/imomsohardABOUT US Female comedy duo Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley have been performing, teaching, and writing comedy internationally for a combined 40+ years. They have been moms for one quarter of that time and it shows. How do they cope? They laugh about all of the craziness that comes with being a mom and they want you to laugh about it too! From snot to stretchmarks to sleepless nights, Kristin and Jen know firsthand that parenting is a hard job and they invite you to join them in taking it all a little less seriously (even if for a few short minutes a day). After all, Jen currently has four days of dry shampoo in her hair and Kristin's keys are still in her front door. They try, they fail, they support each other, and they mom as hard as they can.

Jefferson Fisher is a trial attorney, legal educator, and content creator. Why are the conversations that matter most the hardest to have? When something meaningful needs to be said, we often avoid it, only making things worse. So how do you structure a difficult conversation the right way, and connect with someone not just logically, but emotionally? Expect to learn why we fear conflict in communication and why it's so scary but necessary to navigate, how to deal with conflict more effectively, the best ways to respond to an insult, why being right feels so good, what's realistic and true about working out if someone's lying to you, how to properly connect in any communication and much more… Sponsors: See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: ⁠⁠https://chriswillx.com/deals⁠⁠ Get 35% off your first subscription on the best supplements from Momentous at https://livemomentous.com/modernwisdom Get up to 20% off Timeline powered by Mitopure (now at a lower price) at https://timeline.com/modernwisdom Get up to $50 off the RP Hypertrophy App at https://rpstrength.com/modernwisdom Get 15% off your first order of my favourite Non-Alcoholic Brew at https://athleticbrewing.com/modernwisdom Timestamps: (0:00) Why Communication Feels Harder Than Ever (0:41) Is Conflict Really Something to Fear? (1:45) Why Are We So Quick to Lose Control? (2:56) What Actually Triggers Us? (7:57) We Need to Learn How to Hold Space For Others (14:59) The Best Ways to Regulate Any Conversation (17:34) Simple Tricks to Stay Calm in Difficult Conversations (25:22) What Is Your Anger Really Hiding? (31:39) Are You Making This Mistake During Conflict? (33:24) Why Setting Boundaries Feels So Difficult (36:56) How Do You Handle Passive Aggression? (39:55) Does Childhood Shape Passive Aggressive Behaviour? (42:20) The Best Way to Deliver Bad News (52:28) Are You Carrying Other People's Emotions? (56:45) The Shame of Small Fears (01:06:02) How to Avoid Frustration When You're Being Misunderstood (01:09:15) How Much Does a Divorce Raise Your Heart Rate? (01:13:50) Is Silence the Best Response to Insult? (01:26:32) Why Do We Hide Behind “Just Joking”? (01:28:51) Do Certain Phrases Make You Sound Weak? (01:31:15) Where Does Self-Assurance Come From? (01:36:09) What Makes Someone Sound Truly Composed? (01:38:17) Can You Be Assertive Without Being an A**hole? (01:41:33) Why We Need to Be Intentional With Our Words (01:47:04) Is Being Right Overrated? (01:52:29) Why We're Obsessed With Winning Arguments (01:53:06) The Biggest Clues Someone is Lying to You (01:56:42) The Best Way to Repair After Conflict (01:59:33) Why Tough Times Build Stronger Relationships (02:01:08) What Really Makes a Great Partner? (02:02:56) Lessons From a Trial Lawyer (02:06:47) The One Rule Behind Great Communication (02:10:02) Find Out More About Jefferson Extra Stuff: Get my free reading list of 100 books to read before you die: ⁠⁠https://chriswillx.com/books⁠⁠ Try my productivity energy drink Neutonic: ⁠⁠https://neutonic.com/modernwisdom⁠⁠ Episodes You Might Enjoy: This Is How To Master Your Life - David Goggins - #577: ⁠⁠⁠lnkfi.re/SN-Goggins⁠⁠⁠ How To Destroy Your Negative Beliefs - Dr Jordan Peterson - #712: ⁠⁠⁠lnkfi.re/SN-Peterson⁠⁠⁠ The Secret Tools To Hack Your Brain - Dr Andrew Huberman - #700: ⁠⁠⁠lnkfi.re/SN-Huberman⁠⁠ - Get In Touch: Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/chriswillx⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/modernwisdompodcast⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠https://chriswillx.com/contact⁠⁠ - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices