In this episode Esther discusses the tension between your right to speak and your right to remain silent.  Sometimes staying silent gives you time to listen, to tame your emotions, and learn new information.  When it's time to speak up, how you do it can make all the difference in whether your message is heard and real communication occurs.

In this episode Esther shares a short practical strategy for managing difficult emotions.  This strategy, which research has demonstrated is effective, can be very helpful in getting emotions under control in the midst of conflicts and other stressful experiences.  As both a Certified Anger Management Specialist and Credentialed Mediator, Esther recommends giving this simple strategy a try.

In this episode Esther identifies 5 high-conflict-prone situations when it can be immensely helpful to involve a skilled, trained mediator in the decision making process; before a full blown conflict evolves. She explains why the structure process of communication can help you navigate conflict prone situations to find productive solutions for a wide variety of issues.

In this episode Esther describes 8 common traits of a person with a Conflict Personality.  These individuals, sometimes referred to as High Conflict Personalities, demonstrate some predictable behavior patterns when they are in a dispute, and understanding them can be the key to finding peaceful resolutions. Esther offers 3 practical strategies for de-escalating conflicts with Conflict Personalities.

In this episode Esther describes 4 major benefits of using mediation to resolve stubborn and/or high stakes conflicts and disputes.  She explains the role of the mediator in the process, and the unique features of mediation that contribute to resolutions with high rates of satisfaction and follow through.

Political differences don't have to damage personal relationships.  In this episode Esther shares strategies for keeping peace in your relationships while engaging in political discourse, even on social media.

For some people, conflict is viewed as a competition that they need to win, and want you to lose.  In this episode Esther shares on how to avoid the win-lose model of conflict resolution, leave behind the battle and move towards positive solutions.

Conflict is like trash, if it is not dealt with and removed in a reasonable amount of time it become a smelly mess that can pose all kinds of hazards. Some people do everything they can to hide from conflict, refusing to acknowledge. address, or try to resolve it. In this episode Esther shares 3 strategies for resolving conflicts with these Conflict Hiders with the goal of protecting the relationship and finding viable solutions that work for everyone involved.  

Timing can be critical in the success of a conflict resolution attempt. In this episode Esther offers candid advice on stubborn high stakes conflicts, and how to pick the right time to make a resolution attempt for the maximum odds of success.

People need to be heard.  When they feel they are not being heard, the lack of communication can lead to frustration, conflict, and relationship breakdown.  In this episode Esther shares four strategies to improve listening skills, helping to resolve conflict and build stronger, more peaceful relationships.