Transforming Conflict Into Community With Iggy Perillo

What if conflict wasn’t something to fear or avoid, but a powerful gateway to deeper connection, justice, and community?

In this episode of the Sacred Changemakers Podcast, I’m joined by leadership and justice facilitator Iggy Perillo, founder of WSL Leadership, who works with thoughtful leaders and organizations to co-create custom, values-aligned conflict management systems. Drawing on over 25 years of leading wilderness expeditions and her background in psychology, Iggy brings a grounded, human-centered approach to helping organizations move beyond traditional models and into systems that truly reflect respect, dignity, and collective care.

Together, we explore how stripping life down to its essentials, in nature, in community, and in crisis, teaches us the fundamentals of communication, presence, and trust. Iggy shares the core principles behind her “power-with” systems that turn conflict into an opportunity for healing and transformation, rather than division and fear.

This is a rich and practical conversation about unlearning outdated patterns, reclaiming our humanness at work, and designing restorative systems that help everyone thrive.

Whether you’re a coach working with organizations, a leader navigating complex group dynamics, or a sacred changemaker building community in uncertain times, this episode offers powerful insights for transforming the way we relate to conflict, leadership, and one another.

Key Takeaways

• Why traditional codes of conduct often fail and what to build instead
• The core difference between “power-over” and “power-with” systems
• How Iggy’s wilderness background informs her leadership approach
• The importance of presence, listening, and humility in conflict
• What it really takes to co-create a justice-centered, non-toxic workplace culture
• How to meet conflict as a space for community, not punishment

Episode Resources:

• Guest website: https://wslleadership.com
• Guest Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iggyperillo/
• Learn more: https://wslleadership.com/the-process
• Jayne’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynewarrilow/
• SacredChangemakers.com

Thank you to our sponsor:

A huge thank you to our Resonance Collective members, podcast sponsors, and extended Sacred Changemakers community, helping us make a global impact aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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About Sacred Changemakers

Sacred Changemakers is a movement for coaches who feel called to something more. We support those who are ready to step beyond traditional coaching and into deeper impact, regenerative change, and meaningful work that truly makes a difference.

We believe coaching is evolving; it’s no longer just about personal transformation but about shaping the world we live in. If you’re ready to align your work with a greater purpose, join us. You can find out more at sacredchangemakers.com