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  • In this episode of The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations, hosts Chris Wong and Lucie Tesarova dive deep into the art of delivering feedback that gets results. Whether you're a leader, manager, or HR professional, mastering feedback can elevate your team's performance and trust.

    🎙️ What You'll Learn:

    The 5 essential elements of effective feedbackHow to balance honesty with empathyCommon feedback mistakes and how to avoid them

    Why Listen?
    Communication is key to leadership. This episode equips you with practical strategies to navigate feedback conversations with confidence and impact.

    Subscribe & Review:
    If you enjoy this episode, leave a review and share your insights!

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     

  • Have you been struggling to feel fulfilled in life?

    In this week’s episode, Chris and Lucie welcome high-performance expert Purdeep Sangha to discuss the critical link between communication, well-being, and achieving a fulfilling life. Drawing on his unique background and experience, Purdeep explores the challenges individuals and organizations face in today’s digital age, particularly in maintaining energy levels, focus, and meaningful connections.

     Key Takeaways:

     The impact of cultural backgrounds on communication The importance of self-awareness in effective communication How to communicate authentically The challenges of communication in the digital age How to overcome the fear of difficult conversations Using mindfulness and grounding to overcome difficult situations

    Purdeep Sangha is a high-performance expert and author who empowers individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential. Drawing on his background in neuroscience, performance psychology, and business, Purdeep helps people optimize well-being, productivity, and communication for a more fulfilling life.  As an author, speaker, and advisor, he helps people overcome challenges in communication, well-being, and leadership to unlock their true potential.

     

    Contact Purdeep:

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/purdeepsangha/

    Website: www.purdeepsangha.com

    Company: www.theexeclab.com

     

    Book: The Complete Man

    Physical copy: https://mybook.to/thecompleteman

    Audio Book: completemanaudio.com 

    PROMO CODE FOR 75% off: victory7

     

    Contact Us
    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    How to prepare for difficult conversations webinar (and the checklist) https://bit.ly/TASWeb01

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos
    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com
    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

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  • Ever faced the tricky scenario of an underperforming team member asking for a promotion? In this episode of The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations, we dive into this complex workplace challenge. Join Chris and Lucie as we explore why underperformers might feel they deserve a promotion, the motivations behind their requests, and how to navigate these conversations effectively as a leader. With real-world examples, practical advice, and even a role-play demonstration, we’ll give you the tools to handle these situations while fostering growth and maintaining team morale.

    Whether you're a manager facing this dilemma or an employee considering your next career move, this episode will provide actionable insights to tackle tough workplace dynamics with empathy and clarity.

    Links & Resources:

    Chris’s Self-Paced Course: Learn how to master difficult conversations, de-escalate conflicts, and become assertive without being aggressive. Join the waiting list here. https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    HR Resources Mentioned: Employee Assistance Programs (check with your HR department for details).

    Book Recommendation: Radical Candor by Kim Scott – A guide to providing honest feedback while caring deeply.

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos
    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com
    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Are you being the “real you” in conversations?

    Not many people would disagree that productive conversations mean both sides being open and honest.

    Easier said than done.

    How do you create an environment where the other person feels safe enough to be open and honest? More importantly, how do you be honest too?

    In this episode, Chris and Lucie interview Grace Gavin, a communication expert who emphasizes the importance of honesty and openness in creating strong connections. Grace shares her personal journey of learning to communicate more effectively and introduces her six key practices for mastering communication. Grace discusses how to implement these practices in personal and professional relationships, and how they can transform communication, even in challenging situations.

    Key Takeaways:
    • It’s important to be both open AND honest. Openness meaning listening without reservation or judgement and honesty meaning being truly and freely yourself
    • The six practices she recommends to enhance communication skills
    • The importance of balancing honesty with empathy and love
    • How to balance giving bad news, even when you don’t have all the information

    Grace is an open and honest expert, helping leaders simplify their communication and eliminate the divides that exist within organizations. As co-founder of Know Honesty, she guides people towards becoming masterful communicators day in and day out. Having experienced the transformative power of openness and honesty, Grace is on a mission to help others create that same freedom in their own lives.

    Grace brings her heartfelt approach to every event, workshop, and interaction. She believes deeply that every human being brings a unique perspective to the world and that we all deserve to be heard and respected.

    Visit Grace Gavin’s website, www.KnowHonesty.com, to take the free communication assessment and learn more about her book, Know Honesty. Connect with Grace on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.

    Contact Grace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-gavin/

    Get the Book “Know Honesty” here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DBM4MCJJ

     

    Contact Us
    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    How to prepare for difficult conversations webinar (and the checklist) https://bit.ly/TASWeb01

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos
    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com
    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • What To Do When a High Performer Slacks After a Promotion?

    Today’s episode is a deep dive into the complexities of leadership. Chris and Lucie tackle a challenging scenario where a top performer begins to drop the ball after a recent promotion. They discuss ways to understand underlying issues—whether insecurity, new role challenges, or overconfidence—and provide practical guidance for supporting employees while upholding performance standards.

    Topics Discussed:

    Identifying causes behind declining performanceCoaching strategies for new role adaptationBalancing support with accountabilityRoleplay: Manager-employee discussion

    Any other ideas, what has worked for you? Let us know!

    Contact Us
    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    How to prepare for difficult conversations webinar (and the checklist) https://bit.ly/TASWeb01

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos
    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com
    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Whether you’re interested in understanding family dynamics, navigating generational trauma, or fostering connection through meaningful conversations, this episode offers powerful insights and practical takeaways.

    Today’s special guest is Becky Ellis, author of her debut memoir, Little Avalanches. In our conversation, Becky shares how tough yet healing discussions with her father, a WWII veteran, transformed her life. We explore what made these conversations both challenging and healing, and how empathy emerged through deeper understanding. Join us as we dive into themes of vulnerability, authenticity, courage, and the healing impact that difficult conversations can have.

    About Becky:
    Becky Ellis is a Timberwolf Pup. The daughter of a highly decorated World War II combat sergeant, she is a veteran of a war fought at home. She earned a BA in English Literature at UC Berkeley and has over twenty years of experience in the publishing industry. Her writing has appeared in Psychology Today, Northwest Review, The Ethel, Best Small Fictions, and The Rudder. She teaches writing in Portland, Oregon, where she lives, plays, and has raised three daughters. Little Avalanches is her debut memoir. You can find more about her at beckyellis.net

    Connect with Becky:
    Website: beckyellis.net
    Instagram: @beckyellisauthor
    Facebook: becky.ellis.9081
    Linkedin: becky-ellis
    YouTube: @beckyellisauthor
    Newsletter: https://beckyellis.net/connect-1

    Connect with us:
    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com
    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

    Difficult Conversations Newsletter

    Want more updates on how to handle difficult conversations? Grab your weekly copy here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

  • Navigating Holiday Decisions: Whose Family Do We Spend It With?

    In today’s episode, Chris and Lucie dive into a common holiday dilemma many couples face: deciding whose family to spend holidays with. They explore the complexities of family dynamics, travel, and emotions, offering strategies for managing these conversations without compromising relationships. They roleplay a discussion between a married couple working through holiday plans, highlighting how empathy, emotional intelligence, and creative problem-solving can lead to more harmonious decisions.

    Key Takeaways:

    Setting feeling-based goals for the holidaysBalancing competing family dynamics and expectationsNavigating family guilt and boundary-settingThe importance of creative problem-solving in relationships

    Have you faced a similar situation? How do you navigate holiday plans with family? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review!

    Difficult Conversations Newsletter

    Want more updates on how to handle difficult conversations?  Grab your weekly copy here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

     Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • We love communication here at the Art and Science of Difficult Conversations.  In fact, that’s our tagline, “Communicate better, live better”.  But in the pursuit of more open and transparent communication, does the pendulum swing too far in the opposite direction?  Are there times when we don’t need to communicate about a topic?

     That’s our focus today, when we have a lively dialogue with Ahad just about that topic, are there times we should hold off on communicating? 

     Ahad is originally from Pakistan and currently lives in the Netherlands as a data consultant working with organizations to get more intentional and persuasive with their data to make decisions.  He also hosts his own podcast, The Weekly Vasl.

     Follow Ahad here:

     https://www.instagram.com/ahadbudhani/?locale=en-SG&hl=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@ahadbudhanihttps://youtube.com/@theweeklyvasl?feature=shared https://open.spotify.com/show/6PC0A8oxtGZ9ggrG2pnhDi?si=_JkI7GJxSaGC2G3NmwgiOg

     

    Difficult Conversations Newsletter

    Want more updates on how to handle difficult conversations?  Grab your weekly copy here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

     

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     

  • In this episode, we discuss how to handle situations where a high-performing employee or leader is creating interpersonal challenges in the workplace. Whether you're a manager, team member, or leader, dealing with someone who excels technically but struggles with people skills can be tricky. We explore the risks of not addressing the issue, strategies for providing constructive feedback, and how to prepare for these tough conversations. Plus, we roleplay a common scenario to demonstrate key techniques. Join us for practical tips and insights on managing difficult workplace dynamics.

    Key Topics:

    Why interpersonal conflict matters even with high performanceStrategies to provide constructive feedbackHow to prepare for difficult conversations with concrete examplesThe importance of aligning behavior with organizational cultureRoleplay demonstration: How to approach a divisive leader

    Takeaways:

    Preparation and concrete data are key when addressing difficult conversations.Ask the right questions to uncover underlying motivations and behavioral patterns.Don’t avoid the conversation—address it early to prevent larger issues later.

    Difficult Conversations Newsletter

    Want more updates on how to handle difficult conversations?  Grab your weekly copy here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

     Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • What can you say if your wife wants a separation? Or a divorce?

     If you’re like most men, you’ll feel blindsided and/or you’ll immediately try to figure out how to solve this problem.  Unfortunately, that’s actually not the right way to approach it at all.

     In this week’s episode, Lucie and Chris talk with Randy, an experienced relationship coach focused on helping separated husbands reconnect with their wives. His faith-based methods center around growing closer to Christ and becoming the best version of ourselves, which provides the greatest chance of reconciling marriages.

     Here he shares his best tips, including:

      Why talking about it may not actually be the best option

     How problem-solving approaches don’t work What it means to actually be a better person, and not just doing it for your spouse.

     

    Randy collaborates with professionals, business owners, and executives. Good men who accept responsibility for their part in the breakdown of their marriage and seek to reconnect with their wives. Through live sessions and actionable strategies, Randy and his coaches support them while holding them accountable, ensuring their relationships improve.

    Before coaching, Randy was a professional comedy magician/juggler on cruise ships all over the world. His previous experience in the “funny business” helps lighten the mood when discussing the serious topics of separation and divorce, and helps husbands realize that, with Christ, there is ALWAYS hope.

     Connect with Randy here:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachrandypryor/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hopeforseparatedhusbands

    Website: https://RandyPryor.com or http://SOSRandy.com

     

    Difficult Conversations Newsletter

    Want more updates on how to handle difficult conversations?  Grab your weekly copy here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

     Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • In this episode, Chris and Lucie discuss what to do when someone keeps interrupting you while you speak, or, when you are the one who keeps interrupting others and want to stop :)

    Key Takeaways:

    Reasons for Interrupting:

    Having lots of ideas and wanting to share them.Reacting emotionally (anger, upset) and wanting to defend yourself.Feeling a need to show expertise or control the conversation.

    How to Stop Interrupting Yourself:

    Self-awareness: Notice how often you interrupt.Note-taking: Jot down ideas as the other person speaks to come back to later.Calming Techniques: Use grounding tools (rock, deep breaths) to manage anxiety.Listen to Understand: Focus on truly understanding the other person's perspective.

    How to Deal with People who Interrupt:

    Have a conversation with them 1:1 and communicate the impact the interruptions have on you/team and without blame, ask, e.g., 'In our next meeting, what could we do to make sure your points get heard, and also I get to finish what I want to say first?"Think about Ground Rules: E.g., establish agreements on taking turns or focusing on one point at a time.Muting Yourself (Online): If triggered, mute your microphone to avoid interrupting unintentionally. (Not applicable in person)

    Any other ideas, what has worked for you?

    Let us know!

    Contact Us

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     

  • Navigating Political Conversations at Work

    Politics can seem super divisive.  And really, how do we talk about it in the workplace? 

    In this episode,  We talk with Chris, a diversity, inclusion, and belonging expert at Navy Federal Credit Union about the challenges of navigating political conversations in the workplace, particularly during a charged election season.

     Here are some key takeaways from the episode:

    Should we talk about politics at work?Prioritize Relationships Over WinningSeek Consent and Be Mindful of BoundariesPractice Self-Awareness and DisengagementFocus on Shared Values and Common GroundLead with Curiosity and Vulnerability

    Chris Geggie is a leadership development coach whose passion is helping people discover their authentic voice. Drawing from his experience as a teacher and community organizer, Geggie has coached electoral candidates and business leaders to guide themselves and others toward ethical decision making and the strategic execution of their vision, mission, and goals. He is currently an internal business consultant with Navy Federal Credit Union’s Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging team and lives with his partner and dog in Baltimore, MD.

     

    Connect with Chris Geggie here:

    Linkedin - Www.LinkedIn.com/in/chrisgeggie/

     

    Contact Us

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     #difficultconversations #politics #talkingaboutpolitics #howtotalkpoliticsatwork

  • Setting boundaries with our family members might be the most difficult thing for many of us, yet not doing so might be very detrimental to our well-being and other relationships.

    Imagine that your parent cannot stand your spouse and is very vocal about it. What do you do in that situation? How do you address it?

    Tune in today's episode and see what from we share resonates with you.

     Have you faced that situation in your family? How did you address it? What worked for you, what didn't? Let us know! Let's learn together, have better conversations and better relationships, and ultimately, a better quality of life.

    Sign up for the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

    Contact Us

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova #difficultconversations #settingboundaries #boundariesinrelationships #relationships #communicationskills #impactfulconversations

  • Sometimes, the hardest conversations we need are with ourselves.  

    Mainly, how do we find confidence in what we’re doing, even in the face of adversity?  And more so, how do we build supports around us that inspire and move us, rather than pull us down?

     Today, we interview Emily Aarons, a leading educator to spiritual entrepreneurs, renowned energy healer, and business coach.  She shares about her journey and struggles in building a business and the often-difficult conversations that are needed internally to grow and learn.

     We talk about:

    -        What it’s like to create a path with no prior example of what that path looks like

    -        How to build confidence in our own skills and talents

    -        How to learn to listen to our intuition

    With over two decades of experience blending spirituality and business, Emily’s mission is to help outstanding practitioners to build a successful and sustainable business. Her dedication to excellence is setting the gold standard to see leadership as a spiritual practice. 

    If you’re a budding entrepreneur, a small business owner, or just looking to better trust your own gut instinct, listen to this episode!

     

    Connect with Emily here:

    Https://emilyaarons.com

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emilyaarons/

    Podcast - https://emilyaarons.com/podcast/

    Email – emily@emilyaarons.com      

     

    Contact Us

    Check out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • In this episode of "The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations," hosts Chris Wong and Lucie Tesarova dive deep into the complex issue of managing resistance to change, especially when it comes to implementing new technologies in the workplace.

    Resistance to change is a common challenge in organizations of all sizes. Whether it’s introducing new software, processes, or policies, getting everyone on board can be tough. Chris and Lucie discuss why employees might resist changes, especially technological ones, and explore the underlying psychological factors contributing to this pushback.

    Through an engaging conversation, Chris and Lucie share practical strategies for leaders and managers to navigate these tough conversations effectively. They role-play real-life scenarios, offer insightful tips, and discuss best practices for fostering a culture of openness and collaboration. You'll learn how to communicate change effectively, maintain employee morale, and ensure a smoother transition.

    Key Takeaways:

    Understanding the root causes of resistance to technology and changeEffective communication strategies for leaders and managersRole-play demonstration on handling employee pushbackBalancing empathy with accountability in the workplaceCommon mistakes managers make and how to avoid themHow to get employee buy-in and support during transitions

    Who Should Listen:
    This episode is perfect for HR professionals, managers, team leaders, and anyone looking to improve their leadership and communication skills. If you're interested in navigating difficult conversations and managing change more effectively, this episode is for you!

    Contact Us

    Sign up for the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Summary:

    You know what’s hard?  Talking about money with your partner or family.

     You know what’s even harder?

    Talking about money and estate planning and death.

     With over two decades in the financial services realm, Christopher Hensley's journey has been driven by a singular passion: helping individuals navigate the intricate paths of finance to achieve their life aspirations. His dedication isn't just rooted in numbers and strategies; it's about making genuine connections and empowering people with the knowledge they need for a secure future.

     Today, Christopher joins us to share his tips from decades in the work, how to navigate difficult conversations around finances and death. 

     He truly helps demystify:

     -        How the legal and financial documents seem daunting, but are actually easier than you think

    -        The importance of having these conversations in case something happens

    -        How to navigate complicated family dynamics so you can honor your family’s legacy

     Christopher's foundation in the industry is robust. He's collaborated with Fortune 500 frontrunners like Merrill Lynch and UBS Financial Services and has made significant contributions to non-profits, notably with MMI-Consumer Credit Counselors Southwest. His credentials, including licenses from FINRA and designations like the Retirement Income Certified Professional® and the Certified Estate and Trust Specialist™, speak volumes about his commitment to professional growth and expertise.

     But beyond the certificates and affiliations, what truly sets Christopher apart is his ability to communicate. For a decade, he's been the voice behind the radio/podcast show “Money Matters” on KPFT Houston, demystifying complex financial concepts for a broad audience. His insights have been sought after by platforms like Wall Street Journal Radio and 1110 KTEK Business Builders Network Radio, and he's provided expert commentary on market trends in renowned publications.

     Christopher's community involvement further underscores his dedication. As the former President of the Houston Midtown Chapter of the Society for Financial Awareness, he's delivered financial literacy seminars across Houston and the Gulf Coast. He's also been an active voice in Houston Money Week since 2008, currently holding a leadership position.

     

    What difficulties have you had around these conversations with family?

     Connect with Christopher here:

    www.houstonfirstfinancialgroup.com

    www.moneymatterspodcast.com 

     Email - christopher.hensley@cambridgesecure.com

     

    Contact Us

    Sign up for the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to

     

    Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • In this episode of "The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations," Chris and Lucie tackle a common challenge in both professional and personal settings: dealing with tangents during difficult conversations. They explore strategies for keeping conversations on track, maintaining focus, and setting boundaries without dismissing the other person's perspective.

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Preparation is Key: Start by understanding the goal of the conversation. Preparation helps in staying on track, especially when the other person goes off-topic.

    2. Empathy with Boundaries: Acknowledge the other person's feelings and situation, but gently steer the conversation back to the main point. It's about balancing empathy with the need to stay focused.

    3. Using Names for Focus: Addressing the person by name can be a powerful tool to regain their attention and refocus the conversation.

    4. Setting Ground Rules: For recurring conversations, setting clear boundaries and expectations beforehand can help manage tangents effectively.

    5. Handling Emotional Responses: If emotions run high, suggest taking a break to regroup and return to the conversation with a clearer mindset.

    Roleplay Demonstrations: Chris and Lucie provide practical examples through roleplay, showing how to handle tangents in both professional and personal scenarios

    #DifficultConversations #CommunicationSkills #Podcast #ConflictResolution #Focus #empathy

    How do you manage these situations with colleagues, friends, or family? Leave us a comment, email, or message with your thoughts and questions!

    Contact Us

    Sign up for the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvos

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     

  • Title: Finding the courage to speak up in high stakes meetings

    Summary:

    Conflict in high stakes meetings is inevitable.  Whether it's a board meeting, a roundtable discussion, or a workgroup tasked with solving complex issues, the mix of opinions will always lead to debate.  

     When done well, it can spark new ideas and create an inclusive process where people feel invested in the outcome.  Done poorly, you risk alienating everyone in the meeting.  

    But how do you find the courage to speak up in these types of meetings?  Especially if you're a newer person or maybe even underrepresented, so you're not feeling confident in voicing your opinion?

    In our first interview of season 2, we interviewed Elise Woodworth, president of Woodworth Enterprises. She helps nonprofits, and specifically their boards, reach their full potential.

    Elise talks about:

    The power of questions to frame the conversationHow to find the courage to speak up as an underrepresented person in the meetingThe importance of preparing for difficult meetingsWhy nonprofits and their board structure doesn't always encourage open discussion of issues.

    As a best-selling author Elise made a name for herself in the world of nonprofit management. With her book "Business Not Battle for Nonprofit Boards" as a guide, she has helped many organizations thrive. Elise's expertise in leadership, governance, and team building shines through in her frequent speaking engagements. Her role as a member of the Virginia Military Institute’s Foundation’s Board of Trustees and as a volunteer with other organizations further showcase her commitment to service and excellence, making her the perfect choice for your next event.

    Elise is a former US Air Force Logistics Officer with an MBA from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VMI. With her unique blend of military experience and business acumen, Elise delivers powerful messages that are sure to leave a lasting impact on your audience.

    Let us know what you think – What other strategies have you used to speak up in high stakes meetings?

     Resources

    Elise's website: www.elisewoodworth.com

    Elise's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisewoodworth/

    Get her book ["Business, not Battle"] here: https://a.co/d/7AbkEov

    Info about Mastering Difficult Conversations Course

     

    Contact Us

     Instagram

    Youtube

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

     

     

     

  • The Do’s and Don’ts of negotiating a raise

     Summary:

     Being paid fairly for your work is always a hot topic issue.  In fact, if you’ve been at your company for quite a while, you should consider asking for a raise.

     And it’s not just an intellectual exercise.

    Not getting a raise can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars over the course of your career and you might be missing out on valuable buffers against inflation.

     But it’s not about asking for a raise – it’s about learning how to negotiate that raise.  It’s a difficult conversation especially if you are squeamish talking about money or touting your own accomplishments. 

     In today’s episode, Lucie and Chris walk through the Do’s and Don’ts of difficult conversations around negotiating a raise.

     They cover:

    The importance of researchFocusing on value and growth of the companyCreating a collaborative environment

     And teach you how NOT to do it, including:

    Don’t lie/bluff/threatenDon’t talk about fairness

    Then they demonstrate how to do the conversation in two different scenarios. 

    Let us know what you think – what could Chris have done differently to negotiate his raise?

    Resources

    Instagram account that Chris referenced around salary transparency – Salary Transparent Street

    Info about Mastering Difficult Conversations Course

    Contact Us 

    Instagram

    Youtube

    Email – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    Chris  www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Join us for another compilation episode! This time, we put together Season One's most popular roleplay episodes of personal relationship scenarios.

    Enjoy!

    Do you have feedback or tips for what we could do in season two?

    Please let us know!

    Connect with us here:

    Email: tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

    LinkedIn: Chris—www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc

    Lucie—www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

    Want to be a guest on our podcast? Let us know.