For this special Christmas episode of The Middle Ground, Sarah is joined by two familiar faces from the Smile team, Liz and Cath, both mediators and case coordinators.

This episode is a relaxed, festive conversation mixing Christmas fun with reflections on conflict, communication and community. Liz and Cath share how they found their way into mediation, what they love most about their roles and what it really takes to support people during difficult moments.

Alongside the serious stuff, there are some light-hearted questions too, from Christmas mascots for mediation and gifts for communities in conflict, to communication tips for navigating festive gatherings and what role they would play at a Smile Christmas party.

It's honest, warm and a reminder that even during busy and emotional times of year, good conversations still matter.

The Middle Ground is all about understanding, connection and finding that space where conversations can finally move forward.

We all talk.

We all listen.

But somewhere in the middle, that's where the real conversations happen.

Follow The Middle Ground for more conversations on communication and connection.
Hosted by Sarah from Smile Mediation and Marcus from Bridge Harmony Mediation.
Find us on Instagram: @themiddlegroundpod
Contact: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and share it with someone who’d love it.

In our second episode, Sarah and Marcus explore why so many of us avoid difficult situations and what actually helps when we finally face them. They talk about preparing for challenging conversations, the impact avoidance can have and the role mediators play in supporting people through those moments.

They also chat about winning the Going Above and Beyond award at the SheInspires Awards and how going that extra step makes a difference in mediation and everyday conversations.

This episode is honest, relatable and full of practical tips for anyone planning a difficult conversation or wanting to understand communication on a deeper level.

The Middle Ground is all about understanding, connection and finding that space where conversations can finally move forward.

We all talk.

We all listen.

But somewhere in the middle… that is where the real conversations happen.

Follow The Middle Ground for more conversations on communication and connection.

Hosted by Sarah from Smile Mediation and Marcus from Bridge Harmony Mediation.

Find us on Instagram: @themiddlegroundpod

Contact: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and share it with someone who would love it.

Follow The Middle Ground for more conversations on communication and connection.
Hosted by Sarah from Smile Mediation and Marcus from Bridge Harmony Mediation.
Find us on Instagram: @themiddlegroundpod
Contact: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and share it with someone who’d love it.

In our first ever episode, Sarah and Marcus sit down to talk about what mediation really is, what it means to them, and why it matters more than people realise. They share real stories, clear up some of the most common myths and chat about the moments that surprise people the most when they come into mediation.

The Middle Ground is all about understanding, connection, and finding that space where conversations can finally move forward.

We all talk.
We all listen.
But somewhere in the middle… that’s where the real conversations happen.

Follow The Middle Ground for more conversations on communication and connection.
Hosted by Sarah from Smile Mediation and Marcus from Bridge Harmony Mediation.
Find us on Instagram: @themiddlegroundpod
Contact: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show and share it with someone who’d love it.