Conflict Skills

In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, Simon Goode analyzes a workplace conflict between a software developer and a project manager working on upgrading a CRM for an important client. Simon breaks down the situation using five conflict categories—relationship, data, interests, values, and structure—offering practical frameworks and strategies for understanding and managing such clashes. The episode is packed with actionable advice for listeners facing similar challenges in their own work environments.

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Developer vs. Manager Conflict Escalates
03:54 Workplace Conflict Dynamics Explained
07:53 "Navigating Interests, Data, Values"
10:15 "Mitigating Team Conflict Structurally"
14:25 Improving Relationships Through Clarity
17:06 Resolving Conflicts Through Understanding
20:18 Navigating Authority and Conflict Dynamics
23:56 "Adjusting Team Communication Structure"
27:23 Conflict Insights and Resolutions
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Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect. 
website: simongoode.com 
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Would you like to feel more calm in the midst of conflict? In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, host Simon Goode talks with mindfulness specialist and former mediator Charlotte Tharup about how mindfulness can support conflict resolution both in personal and workplace settings. Charlotte shares practical techniques for self-regulation during difficult conversations, emphasizing the importance of body awareness and kind curiosity towards uncomfortable emotions. We explore some of the neuroscience behind mindfulness and discuss strategies to cultivate calm, empathy, and constructive engagement amid conflict.

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CHARLOTTES WEBSITE: 
https://themindfulnessclinic.com.au/
You can download a variety of resources as well as sign up to the newsletter. 
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TIMESTAMPS: 
00:00 "Mindfulness in Conflict Resolution"
05:41 Journey into Conflict Resolution
06:52 "Mindfulness for Leadership and Conflict"
10:01 "Alternatives to Violence Through Calm"
14:02 Awakening Through Mindful Awareness
19:31 "Mindfulness Through Kind Curiosity"
21:33 Managing Emotions in Conflict
25:50 "Awareness and Emotional Dynamics"
28:51 "Body Leads, Mind Follows"
32:49 Rushing Disrupts Awareness and Empathy
36:42 "Thanks and Stay Connected"
37:33 "Thanks and Goodbye"
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INTRO REFLECTION: 
Every thought is an afterthought. 
 
 As a human, at any one moment we have more sensory data coming in than we can manage efficiently. As a result, our brain selects what to prioritise.
 
 Our perception acts as a filter, choosing which aspects of our incoming sensory data we become aware of. 
 
 Our brain effectively creates an internal model of our current outside world which we experience as 'reality'. 
 
 Before that awareness, our body reacts almost immediately to incoming sensory data. This reaction occurs before we become consciously aware (or think or feel anything). 
 
 Always retrospectively, our brain creates what seems to be a coherent 'story'. This includes thoughts and feelings, urges and whims, sensations and interpretations. 
 
 The brain (pre-frontal cortex) will literally 'lie' to itself to make sense of what is happening - it can only ever make a 'best guess' at predicting what is happening in our context and what we might need to do next.
 
 What an unusual concept to grapple with - our brain lying to itself.... 
 
 I suppose then, in a sense, so do we all. 
 
By comparison, when we engage with mindfulness, we turn our attention to the texture and nuance of our experience in the moment.

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Support the show
Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.
website: simongoode.com
email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, Simon Goode is joined by a fellow mediator mediator and former employment lawyer, Fiona Bigelli, to discuss the realities of workplace investigations and alternative approaches to resolving conflict. Fiona shares insights on the high-stakes, structured nature of investigations, the importance of procedural fairness, and why addressing issues early—with coaching, facilitated workshops, and mediation—can often be more effective and restorative. They also explore practical advice for organizations and individuals experiencing conflict, highlighting the value of clarity, support, and proactive communication.
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Pax People offer options for restoring workplace relationships following completion of investigations in circumstances where the parties remain working together. 
Learn more about Fiona's services or get in touch through their website paxpeople.com.au. 
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My website is simongoode.com 
You can find information about my services or join the Conflict Skills newsletter for free resources and tools for dealing with conflict. 
Email me at [email protected]
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Thanks as always for listening 🙏

TIMESTAMPS: 
00:00 "Conflict Skills & Workplace Mediation"
04:32 Workplace Investigations and Risks
09:14 Employment Law and High-Stakes Investigations
11:51 Evolving Workplace Conflict Trends
14:58 "Team Bonding via Deep Reflection"
18:21 Addressing Workplace Dysfunction Proactively
23:43 Facilitated Workshops for Team Success
26:15 Grievance Investigations: Costs and Choices
30:04 "Workplace Support and Regulation"
31:49 Managing Emotions at Work
34:14 "Thanks to Fiona Bigelli"
Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail
Support the show
Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.
website: simongoode.com
email: [email protected]

In this episode, Simon Goode explores how to follow up assertively in conflict situations without crossing into aggression, using a real-life neighborhood dispute as a case study. He breaks down practical strategies for communicating boundaries, weighing escalation options, and balancing assertiveness with relationship-building. The episode emphasizes adapting your approach to fit your context and values, and encourages listeners to reflect on their own methods and share their experiences.

TIMESTAMPS: 
00:00 The Challenges of Conflict Resolution
06:16 "Resolving Property Dispute Options"
09:19 Navigating Boundary Issues Diplomatically
10:39 "Conflict, Compromise, and Boundaries"
14:08 "Neighbor Dispute: Final Warning"
17:34 "Effective Follow-up Strategies"
22:53 Prioritizing Harmony With Neighbors
24:18 "Approaches to Conflict Resolution"
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Support the show
Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.
website: simongoode.com
email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, Simon Goode interviews Linda Kochanski, an experienced mediator and trainer, about her 33-year journey in mediation, her approach to training new mediators, and the importance of reflective practice and resilience in the field. They explore how mediation skills benefit professionals from diverse backgrounds, including HR and rehabilitation, and discuss the challenges and rewards of working with conflict, especially in family dispute resolution. Linda Kochanski also shares insights on mentorship, continuing professional development, and her commitment to helping others build lifelong conflict management skills.
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Linda coordinates several courses with the College of Law in different states around Australia. For information please visit: https://www.collaw.edu.au/ 
The book Linda mentions: Mediating with Families (5th edition) 
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 TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 "Mediation Skills as Life Tools"
03:44 Qualities of Effective Mediators
09:12 "Breaking Down Mediation Process"
12:03 Encouraging Growth Through Coaching
15:05 "Becoming a Reflective Practitioner"
16:17 "Mediator Challenges in Family Disputes"
20:15 "Prioritizing Growth and Mentorship"
23:43 "Importance of Verbalizing Thoughts"
27:49 "Learning and Growth Through Mediation"
29:28 "Mediation Skills for Life"

Click here to send me a quick message via FanMail
Support the show
Thank you so much for listening! I'd love to know what you think and connect.
website: simongoode.com
email: [email protected]