Conflict Skills
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Conflict Skills episodes

  • Handling Conflict With Your Boss: Data, Values, and Power in Action

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores practical strategies for managing conflict with your boss, using three workplace case studies: public criticism in meetings, unrealistic deadlines, and credit being taken for ideas. He breaks down each scenario using five types of conflict—data, values, relationships, structure, and interests—and shares targeted tools such as empathetic listening and clarifying expectations. Listeners gain actionable frameworks to navigate difficult conversations and strengthen trust in manager-employee relationships.

    TIMESTAMPS: 
    00:00 Applying conflict resolution strategies

    05:10 Types of workplace conflict discussed

    09:28 Negotiating power dynamics at work

    10:18 Sarah's negotiation position explained

    15:20 Managing conflict in a meeting

    20:04 Handling conflict with empathetic listening

    21:38 Discussing Deadline Concerns and Solutions

    24:20 Understanding the Other Person's Perspective

    27:39 Discussing unrealistic deadlines and credit theft

    33:37 Considering interests in negotiations

    36:34 Rebuilding trust with Rachel

    38:23 Ending the conversation



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    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    39 min
  • Young Professionals Guide to Navigating Workplace Conflict Without Jeopardizing Your Career

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores practical strategies for young professionals to navigate workplace conflict without harming their reputations, using real-life case studies of early-career employees facing challenges like having their ideas dismissed, feeling undermined, or disagreeing with management decisions. He highlights the importance of self-regulation, assertive communication, and choosing appropriate conflict modes—such as accommodating, collaborating, or compromising—based on situational needs. The episode offers empathetic and actionable guidance, making it a valuable listen for managers and teams seeking to support younger staff in difficult conversations and team dynamics.

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 Managing workplace conflict for young staff

    06:58 GROW coaching model questions

    09:16 Reflecting on workplace communication

    13:19 Negotiation and compromise strategies

    17:02 Discussing assertiveness and communication

    19:03 Overcoming Age and Authority Challenges

    22:34 Dealing with patronizing comments

    28:59 Addressing communication feedback

    30:22 Improving Communication and Self-Regulation

    34:25 Staying calm in arguments

    40:05 Navigating workplace conflict and stress

    41:48 Discussing team communication issues

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    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    45 min
  • 3 Tools To Manage Passive-Aggressive Behaviour: Proven Approaches to Smooth Team Dynamics

    In this episode, Simon Goode examines the challenges of passive-aggressive behavior in the workplace through three case studies: the silent treatment after feedback, backhanded comments in meetings, and staff who agree outwardly but later undermine decisions. He explores practical approaches for HR managers and team leaders, highlighting different conflict types and strategies such as empathetic listening, clarifying expectations, and leveraging structural changes. The episode emphasizes the importance of proactively addressing subtle negative patterns to maintain team cohesion and motivation.

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 Handling passive-aggressive behavior

    06:26 Addressing personal conflict calmly

    09:22 Addressing underlying conflict factors

    12:47 Dealing with subtle workplace criticism

    17:13 Navigating workplace conflict

    19:39 Discussing feedback and communication strategies

    22:59 Evaluating Team Dynamics and Performance

    25:57 Managing Performance Issues


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    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    29 min
  • Giving Negative Feedback: Practical Approaches for Managing Underperforming Employees

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores the challenges of managing underperforming employees by analyzing three workplace case studies involving declining output, quality issues, and inconsistent performance. He discusses practical frameworks such as the What-Ask-Check model and the GROW coaching model to give and structure negative feedback effectively. The episode emphasizes the need for specificity, empathy, and clear goal-setting when addressing performance concerns in teams.

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 Addressing performance and incentives

    03:34 Handling Performance Issues

    07:11 Improving communication in reports

    11:53 Addressing Vague Explanations

    13:38 Handling workplace conflict and goals

    18:46 Managing relationship goals and priorities

    21:54 Discussing performance expectations

    26:53 Dealing with workplace empathy challenges

    28:12 Discussing performance expectations

    31:58 Discussing coaching frameworks

    34:44 Managing multiple systems in coaching

    38:29 Managing team member challenges

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    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    41 min
  • Addressing Unfair Workload: Case Studies and Tools for Resolving Team Conflict

    In this episode, Simon Goode analyzes three workplace conflict case studies centered on unfair workloads, including a passive-aggressive response to feedback, perceptions of favoritism in task allocation, and resentment from covering for a colleague's lack of effort. Simon Goode explores different conflict resolution frameworks such as the GROW coaching model and the five types of conflict: data, interest, value, structure, and relationship. He emphasizes the importance of clarifying expectations, choosing appropriate conflict modes, and building trust through consistent follow-through.

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 Handling challenging team dynamics

    05:10 Addressing passive-aggressive conflict

    08:49 Applying the GROW model in coaching

    12:10 Handling workplace conflicts

    16:43 Addressing workplace conflicts

    19:24 Addressing hidden team conflicts

    23:59 Resolving workplace conflicts

    27:34 Discussing collaboration and conflict modes

    31:43 Team tensions and leadership challenges

    34:17 Finding a middle ground

    38:00 Addressing team communication challenges

    40:27 Improving team dynamics and feedback

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    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    43 min
  • Generational Differences at Work How to Resolve Communication and Value Conflicts

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores the challenges of generational conflict in the workplace, focusing on differing values, expectations, and communication styles among various age groups. He analyzes three workplace case studies—between a leading hand and apprentice, a team leader and younger staff, and a supervisor and machine operators—and offers practical frameworks for resolving these conflicts. Simon Goode emphasizes the importance of understanding value conflicts and tailoring approaches—such as normalizing differences, clarifying expectations, and choosing the right conflict mode—to achieve better outcomes.

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 Navigating generational workplace differences

    04:15 Analyzing workplace conflict case studies

    08:47 Addressing generational work conflicts

    13:27 Judging others for phone use

    16:12 Giving feedback privately to Jake

    17:39 Discussing constructive feedback strategies

    23:14 Navigating office policy changes

    24:37 Discussing paper-based review cycles

    30:35 Balancing tradition with new methods

    33:26 Managing conflict with older staff

    38:07 Discussing conflict and collaboration strategies

    39:39 Podcast interaction reminders

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    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    41 min
  • Managing Conflict as Team Leader: Practical Case Studies and Conflict Resolution Tools

    In this episode, Simon Goode explores common challenges faced by team leaders in managing workplace conflict through three detailed case studies. He analyzes each situation using practical conflict resolution tools, including the five types of conflict and various conflict modes such as collaboration, compromise, and assertiveness. Listeners are offered actionable strategies for navigating value clashes, mediating team disputes, and handling resistance from senior team members.

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to Conflict Skills Podcast

    06:34 Adapting management styles

    08:59 Discussing team process adjustments

    12:19 Handling staff resistance professionally

    14:48 Struggles with team collaboration

    18:03 Conflicts between Jordan and Sam

    21:34 Handling Work Conflicts Thoughtfully

    24:39 Using the GROW coaching model

    28:00 Choosing compromise as a conflict solution

    30:51 Workplace conflict and presenteeism

    34:48 Handling team communication issues

    38:01 Discussing conflict resolution styles

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    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    41 min
  • How to Start a Workplace Mediation Business in 2026

    In this episode, Simon Goode shares practical advice and personal reflections on starting and growing a mediation business, with an emphasis on the early stages and leveraging technology like content marketing and video. He discusses the pros and cons of self-employment in mediation, offering tips for building a client base, setting up a website, and structuring services for sustainability. The episode also emphasizes the importance of work-life integration, clinical supervision, and continuous professional development for long-term success.
    --------

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 Challenges and benefits of mediation

    06:43 Balancing family and business decisions

    13:06 Discussing pros and cons of business

    18:15 Using podcasts for mediation marketing

    26:30 Dealing with daily distractions

    29:38 Challenges of running a mediation business

    36:41 Dressing for workplace mediation

    39:22 Balancing Mediation Work and Income

    49:56 Planning Annual Income Goals

    51:13 Evaluating pricing strategies for mediators

    01:00:57 Handling mediation inquiries

    01:06:18 Monthly leadership seminars options

    01:12:08 Long-term success and changing priorities

    01:14:31 Discussing Mediation Strategies

    01:19:10 Different approaches to mediation

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    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    1 hr 21 min
  • How to Handle a Jealous Partner: Conflict Resolution Strategies Explored

    In this episode, Simon Goode analyzes a listener-submitted case study involving conflict arising from a partner's jealousy over frequent messaging with an old friend. He explores key contributors to such conflicts, including differences in values, trust, and communication styles, and outlines practical conflict resolution tools like clarifying goals, apology frameworks, and the Thomas-Kilmann model for handling disagreements. The episode emphasizes understanding both perspectives and developing multiple options for resolving relationship tension constructively.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Privacy and phone boundaries

    06:05 Dealing with relationship conflicts

    08:49 Discussing relationship communication issues

    12:53 Defining relationship goals and priorities

    14:09 Navigating relationship conflicts

    19:37 Discussing relationship and workplace conflict

    22:38 Discussing effective apologies

    24:54 Communicating with different personality types

    27:27 Managing communication and conflict

    32:03 Listener interaction and feedback

    -------------


    Sequence of Topics Covered

    Introduction and Podcast Overview

    • Simon Goode introduces himself and the mission of the podcast 00:15
    • Encouragement to subscribe and access to free conflict resolution resources

    Case Study Introduction: The Jealous Girlfriend Situation

    • Origin of the case study: listener email describing conflict in a relationship 00:39
    • Dynamics of the conflict: boyfriend's friendship with an attractive female friend 00:52
    • Girlfriend's feelings of jealousy and insecurity
    • Initial confrontation: girlfriend questions boyfriend about frequency of contact 01:16
    • Discrepancy between boyfriend's report and actual message frequency 01:19

    Analysis of Key Contributing Factors

    • Privacy and trust issues around checking partner’s phone 02:56
      • Value differences in relationships regarding privacy
      • The balance between transparency and personal boundaries
    • Frequency and language in messages as sources of tension 04:28
      • The subjectivity of affectionate language between friends of different sexes
      • Expectation around how partners interact with friends
    • Impact of past experiences, social circles, and external opinions on reactions 10:25
      • Influence of friends and family
      • Personal history, such as previous experiences with infidelity or divorce

    Dissecting the Conflict: Types and Approaches

    • Identifying facets of the conflict 05:51
      • Frequency of contact
      • Affectionate language
    • The role of emotions and nervous system regulation in escalating conflict 07:55
      • Defensive reactions
      • Importance of self-regulation
    • Clarifying goals in the conflict 12:02
      • Immediate and long-term priorities in the relationship
      • Impact on family and social dynamics
    • Sorting goals: for self, for the relationship, for others 13:25

    Tools for Resolution and Communication

    • Types of conflict to address 14:32
      • Data/facts-based conflict: clarifying the truth
      • Values-based conflict: validating diverse perspectives
      • Relationship conflict: addressing underlying patterns and restoring closeness
      • Interests: focusing on actionable, specific solutions
      • Structure: creating systems or rules to reduce tension

    Exploring Responses and Negotiation Strategies

    • Approaches for negotiating compromise 16:05
      • Validating perspectives and seeking middle ground
      • Making specific proposals or structural changes (e.g., joint activities, sharing information)
    • Consideration of underlying causes such as lack of information or transparency 19:19

    Apology and Relationship Repair

    • Five types of apologies discussed 20:28
      • Expressing regret (“I’m sorry”)
      • Admitting fault (“I was wrong”)
      • Promising not to repeat the behavior
      • Offering reparative gestures (“What can I do to make it up to you?”)
      • Requesting forgiveness (“Would you please forgive me?”)
    • Importance of meaningful apologies and avoiding dismissiveness

    Personality Differences and Their Impact

    • Using the Big Five personality traits to understand reactions 24:20
      • Openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, neuroticism, extraversion
    • Impact of individual sensitivity, compliance, or anxiety 24:35

    Conflict Styles and Assertiveness

    • Explanation of Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Modes 26:08
      • Competing/directing: maintaining firm boundaries
      • Accommodating: giving in to partner’s requests
      • Compromising: meeting halfway
      • Avoiding: postponing or sidestepping the conflict
      • Collaborating: seeking creative win-win solutions
    • Pros and cons of various approaches 28:39
      • The risk of delayed resolution versus benefits of closure

    Practical Application and Personal Reflection

    • Encouraging listeners to reflect on their own relationship dynamics 31:33
    • Emphasis on tailoring conflict resolution frameworks to individual needs
    • Invitation for feedback and further case study submissions 31:58

    Closing

    • Summary of key points 32:29
    • Gratitude to listeners and encouragement to interact with the podcast

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    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    33 min
  • Maya Wants Growth, Tom Fears Risk: Managing Conflict in Business Partnerships

    In this episode, Simon Goode analyzes a case study involving business partners Maya and Tom, whose differing visions for their agency lead to escalating conflict and operational challenges. Simon Goode breaks down the situation using the five types of conflict and discusses practical reflective tools, negotiation tactics, and structural solutions to help navigate such dilemmas. The episode emphasizes the importance of meta-analysis, clear communication, and empathy in resolving conflicts within business partnerships.


    TIMESTAMP:

    00:00 Understanding and resolving conflicts

    06:45 Managing personal conflict responses

    07:42 Reflective practice and meta-analysis

    11:31 Negotiating budget and interests

    17:18 Processing short-term impacts of conflict

    21:07 Setting and Revising Personal Goals

    24:30 Balancing business with personal goals

    27:22 Handling information conflicts

    31:18 Addressing Child Safety in Families

    33:03 Discussing relationship and communication dynamics

    36:55 Considering different management strategies

    39:23 Closing remarks and contact info

    Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 

    website: simongoode.com 
    email: [email protected]



    41 min

About Conflict Skills

From the publisher's feed

Simon Goode is a professional mediator and the host of the Conflict Skills Podcast, where he offers free resources and tools to navigate conflicts both in and out of the workplace. With a focus on…

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