Welcome to Episode 100 of Things Leaders Do! I can’t believe we’ve hit this milestone together. Thank you to every listener who’s been here along the way—your feedback and stories keep pushing me to bring leadership conversations that actually matter.

For this milestone episode, we’re continuing the Conflict IQ series with Part 2: Reading the Room—How to Spot Hidden Conflict Before It Explodes.

Here’s the truth: by the time conflict becomes visible, it’s already too late. The real leadership skill is noticing the quiet signals—hesitation, withdrawal, selective agreement—before they derail your team.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The subtle anatomy of hidden conflict and why it’s so dangerous
• Four common signals that conflict is brewing under the surface
• The psychology of why smart people stay silent (and what it costs you)
• Practical tools to “read the room” and surface concerns before they escalate
• Real-world examples of leaders who missed the signals—and those who nailed them

Research shows that 43% of employees experience burnout and stress tied to poor communication. Hidden conflict doesn’t just stall projects—it quietly erodes trust, engagement, and retention.

Key takeaway: Great leaders don’t just manage conflict when it erupts—they develop the Conflict IQ to see it coming and create the safety for their teams to address it directly.

Next week: Episode 101, Part 3 of the Conflict IQ series—The Courage Conversation: How to Invite Conflict Instead of Avoiding It.

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