Conflict doesn’t have to be scary—or destructive. In this solo episode, licensed marriage & family therapist, Nina Westbrook shares a practical, therapist-backed playbook to turn conflict into connection across romantic partnerships, parenting, family, and work. You’ll learn why conflict often triggers fight/flight, how your family history shapes your responses, when to let things go vs. stand your ground, and a simple 3-step framework to repair and move forward—without resentment.

What you’ll learn

• The hidden upside of conflict (why reps build resilience & trust)
  

• How to “serve the relationship,” not your ego
  

• Timing, tone, and language that lower defenses (“I feel…”> “You always…”)
  

• Active listening made easy (reflect, validate, then respond)
  

• A clear litmus test for what to address vs. what to release
  

Nina’s 3-Step Conflict Playbook

• 1. Get grounded before you go in (self-awareness regulates the room)
  2. Communicate to connect, not to win (seek to understand first)
     
  3. Repair & move forward (what you do after the talk matters most)

Resources & links

• • Nina’s emotional wellness app Nebbi: available in the App Store.
  • Contact the show: [email protected] or Follow on @benexnina