Have you ever witnessed a leader transform a conflict into an opportunity for growth? That's exactly the kind of transformation Karen Knab, former marriage and family therapist turned leadership coach, specializes in. Her journey from passive to assertive leadership is inspiring; it's a masterclass for anyone at the helm of a business or team. In our candid conversation, Karen dissects the challenges of progressing in her career and how she gained the necessary tools for effective management and decision-making, providing a mirror for us to examine our own leadership style.

It's a common myth that career success and interpersonal skills go hand in hand – but Karen is here to set the record straight. We strip down the nature of conflict to its core, revealing it as a neutral event ripe with potential for positive outcomes if navigated correctly. With Karen's insights, we explore how creating a non-judgmental space for vulnerability leads to stronger client and colleague relationships. This episode redefines conflict resolution, advocating for a shift in perspective towards embracing diverse experiences and responses as a pathway to personal and professional growth.

In the realm of leadership, empathy emerges as a non-negotiable trait. Karen and I share in our perspective that it is an essential quality of a human-centric work culture. For those ready to lead with integrity, courage, and empathy, Karen's insights and the resources discussed in this episode offer a beacon of hope and guidance on your leadership journey.

Be the Best Leader You Know

Perform with Power, Lead with Impact, Inspire Growth

To sharpen your skills and increase your confidence, check out the Confident Leader Course: https://www.intentionaleaders.com/confident-leader

Podcast: 'I fear conflict.' Co-Presenter Kristen Coggan

It's a strange thing.... client after client come in and say these words 'I fear conflict.' This is a completely valid statement of course, and it's often core to the struggles that we are having. No problems there... what is interesting is that we tend to think that we're alone in this thinking framework, when in truth, most of the population think and feel this same way. I was eager to talk through this topic with Kristen, and explore why this is a common fear, why we feel alone with it, and perhaps how to work through it. 

We are social creatures, so conflict with loved ones and not so loved ones is inevitable. I'm sure this is a topic that we can all relate to.

An important part of effective conflict resolution is ensuring everyone has a voice. Since 85% of the workforce experiences some form of conflict, practical communication can be a vital tool in resolving workplace conflict, especially in a virtual environment. Listen as Jeremy Pollack, a conflict resolution practitioner, researcher, writer, coach, trainer, and entrepreneur chats with Dr. Stephanie Menefee about how to prevent, navigate, and understand conflict. Jeremy is the president of Pollack Peacebuilding Systems, a nationwide conflict resolution consulting firm, as well as a research fellow at Stanford University’s Center for International Conflict and Negotiation. Learn more about Jeremy and his work at www.PollackPeacebuilding.com.