In Episode 29 of the Thoroughly Thriving Podcast, we sit down with Jerlyn to unpack one of the most overlooked leadership challenges — avoiding conflict.

Jerlyn shares powerful insights on why unaddressed tension quietly grows, how it impacts teams and performance, and what it actually takes to lead through discomfort with clarity and confidence.

If you’re in leadership, building a team, or navigating high-stakes environments, this conversation will challenge how you think about communication, accountability, and growth.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why avoiding conflict creates bigger problems later
• How tension builds beneath the surface in teams
• The mindset shift required for effective leadership
• Practical ways to approach difficult conversations
• How strong leaders create clarity instead of comfort

👉 If this episode challenges you, share it with someone in leadership.

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(00:00) Introduction to Jerlyn

(02:15) Why leaders avoid conflict

(06:40) The hidden cost of unaddressed tension

(12:05) How conflict impacts team performance

(18:30) Shifting your mindset around hard conversations

(25:10) Practical ways to address tension early

(31:45) Building a culture of clarity

(38:20) Leadership growth through discomfort

(44:10) Final thoughts and key takeaways