Conflict can strengthen relationships—if handled well. Nina Barnes shares why avoiding conflict causes more harm, how to tell the truth with kindness (not just niceness!), and why “agreeing to disagree” isn’t always the answer. Learn strategies for turning conflict into deeper connection.

This episode kicks off the newly relaunched Mending Divides Podcast, where Dr. Jer Swigart has unfiltered conversations about conflict—what it is, why it matters, and how to navigate it well—with those who think deeply about it.

Chapters

01:00 Start

01:34 Conflict is inevitable

04:43 Conflict styles

06:36 Conflict as an opportunity

09:15 Suspicion in the Absence of Conflict

10:53 Conflict is modeled for us

15:48 Nina’s Direct Conflict Style

16:50 Niceness vs. Kindness

21:17 Truth-telling with Kindness: What’s the Goal?

26:30 Getting Practical - How to do this

32:54 Agree to Disagree?

36:56 Dehumanization is “the line”

42:53 A Real Life Story

50:56 Invitations

58:32 Closing

Guest bio: Nina Barnes

Nina Barnes is a Spiritual Director, the Founder of Transforming Journey, and a featured faculty member of Global Immersion’s Leadership Cohort. She is a seasoned leader who spends her life accompanying Reconciling Leaders as they grow their cultural awareness, resilience, and prophetic witness.

Nina's Website

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