Moving Beyond Dispute

Amanda Ripley is an experienced journalist who got curious about increasing levels of conflict in the world, and went on a journey to understand conflict much more deeply. She has since written a book about the subject, and it’s a very good one. It’s called “High Conflict: why we get trapped, and how we get out." Drawing on stories from politics, journalism, communities, peace negotiations and much more, Amanda shares surprising ways to interrupt destructive cycles and create disagreement that leads somewhere.

Bill Rainey is a barrister, mediator and adjudicator with over 40 years experience, Bill is a master of difficult conversations. Bill explains why the real work of a mediator often happens long before the formal session begins, how trust is built through one-to-one conversations, and why the best mediators know when to stop talking and let the parties find their own way through their conflict.

Barrister and commercial mediator, Mark Kelly shares insights into the world of mediation and disputes. In this episode, Mark reveals the subtle art of transforming explosive conflicts into meaningful conversations. He also uncovers how simple tools like courtesy, reframing, and structured dialogue can unlock breakthroughs where anger and misunderstanding once ruled.

Barrister Ann Skelton is an experienced, award winning mediator with a wide range of subject area expertise. She knows the pitfalls and devastating effect unresolved disputes can have on people and organisations.  As you’ll hear, Ann says mediation feels powerful because it can resolve conflict in a way that is more respectful, more human, and often more satisfying than simply “winning” for one side.

Baden Vertongen is a barrister, mediator and arbitrator based out of Wellington. He mediates a wide range of issues, but is particularly experienced in dispute resolution where one or more parties are Māori. In this episode, Baden reflects on his observations around conflict, moving towards resolution and the role of Tikanga in mediation.

Most disputes in farming aren’t just about land or contracts - they’re deeply rooted in relationships, personalities, and shifting expectations. Penny Mudford is a seasoned dispute resolution expert with a unique background ... in farming. This includes 20 years on a farm and time as provincial President of Federated Farmers.

Malcolm Wallace is a Christchurch based barrister who has made a name for himself by offering arbitration and mediation to clients, alongside the more traditional or adversarial court based options. He is also currently President of the Arbitrators and Mediator’s Institute of New Zealand.

Nicola Hartfield is a New Zealand mediator with over 30 years professional experience, focussing on family/relationship and employment disputes. She also trains dozens of new mediators each year as the lead trainer at intensive courses run throughout the country by AMINZ. In this conversation she talks about rethinking emotional triggers, slowing down the process to speed up the outcome, what it takes to be a successful mediator, and much more.