エピソード

  • The Elasticity of Decision-Making: Understanding Conflict in Infrastructure Projects
    2025/07/22
    In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria engages in a conversation with Hervé de Trogoff, CEO of the international consultancy Accuracy. They delve into the complexities of the construction industry, exploring the myriad conflicts that arise from high-stakes infrastructure projects. Hervé shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the challenges of decision-making in environments fraught with fear and insecurity. The discussion emphasises the importance of fostering genuine communication and emotional connection in resolving disputes, moving beyond mere technicalities to address the human elements at play. Hervé advocates for slowing down and allowing time for relationships to develop, ultimately leading to more productive and empathetic conversations. This episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating conflict in business and the transformative power of understanding and connection. KEY TAKEAWAYS Complexity in Construction: The construction industry is characterised by high stakes and complexity, making it prone to conflicts. Projects often exceed time and budget expectations, leading to disputes over who bears the financial burden. Human Dynamics in Decision-Making: Decision-making in infrastructure projects can be hindered by fear, ego, and insecurity. Individuals may avoid making necessary decisions due to the potential for blame or repercussions, which can escalate conflicts. Importance of Quality Conversations: Effective communication is crucial in resolving disputes. Quality conversations involve empathy, curiosity, and the ability to connect on a human level, rather than solely relying on logic and technicalities. Emotional Engagement: Shifting the focus from purely intellectual discussions to addressing emotions can lead to more productive outcomes. Engaging the heart in conversations allows for deeper connections and mutual understanding. Slowing Down for Better Outcomes: Taking the time to reflect and allowing space for relationships to settle can facilitate better communication and conflict resolution. Slowing down can help create a more conducive environment for meaningful dialogue. BEST MOMENTS "The stakes are very high, both for states and private investors, and things go wrong the whole time, which, of course, is a recipe for conflict." - Hervé de Trogoff "It takes tens and tens of years to realize that it's just not going to happen because those human beings are so different." - Hervé de Trogoff "The inability to make a decision... is triggering disputes which will go on for many, many years." - Hervé de Trogoff "Finding ways to open hearts when the brain's not doing its job." - Hervé de Trogoff "Slowing down is the word that comes to mind... giving time for relationships and situations to settle is always a good starting point." - Hervé de Trogoff SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    36 分
  • Creating Safe Spaces: The Role of Empathy and Reflection in Workplace Mediation
    2025/07/15
    In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa MBE welcomes back her husband, David Ellis, a seasoned mediator with over 20 years of experience. They delve into the intricacies of workplace mediation, exploring how it transcends mere conflict resolution to foster genuine human connections. David emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals to reflect on their experiences and emotions, allowing them to navigate their relationships more effectively. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of employment law and the necessity for employers to prioritise the well-being of their employees, highlighting that a compassionate approach can lead to a more engaged and productive workforce. Through their discussion, Maria and David advocate for a shift in workplace culture, encouraging leaders to embrace empathy and understanding as fundamental components of a thriving business environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS Holistic Understanding of Employees: It's essential to recognize that employees are whole human beings with diverse roles and experiences outside of work. Acknowledging their personal lives can lead to better workplace relationships and understanding. Importance of Safe Spaces: Mediation provides a unique opportunity for individuals to express their feelings and concerns in a safe environment, allowing for reflection and open dialogue without fear of repercussions. Proactive Approach to Workplace Issues: Employers should not wait for conflicts or grievances to arise before addressing employee well-being. A proactive approach that fosters open communication can prevent issues from escalating and create a more harmonious work environment. Value of Empathy and Kindness: Creating a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy, kindness, and understanding can lead to increased employee satisfaction, better performance, and a more cohesive team dynamic. Legislative Changes and Employer Responsibility: New employment laws are pushing businesses to take responsibility for their employees' well-being. Employers should view these changes as opportunities to enhance workplace culture rather than as burdensome requirements. SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    42 分
  • WORKPLACE CONFLICT SPECIAL: An Episode with Shannon Pearson
    2025/07/13
    In this deeply personal and raw conversation, Shannon Pearson opens up about her journey from being a trusted HR leader to becoming the target of a system she once believed in. What began as a career rooted in care and service unravelled in the face of organizational dysfunction, toxic silence, and moral injury. This is not just a story of conflict — it's a story of betrayal, awakening, and personal transformation. Shannon speaks candidly about what it felt like to be gaslit, isolated, and ultimately broken by the very system she tried to help fix. Now a coach and conflict practitioner, Shannon reflects on how conflict changed her — and what it taught her about power, identity, compassion, and courage. Key Takeaways: You can be both respected and completely unsupported in a broken system. Moral injury in the workplace is real — and recovery requires grieving and rebuilding. Silence in conflict isn’t neutral. It protects power and erases harm. Healing starts when we stop blaming ourselves for what the system failed to hold. 🔗 Connect with Shannon: LinkedIn: Shannon Pearson Website: shannonpearson.ca We will be releasing special episodes every couple of weeks and these will be a deeper dive into the guests and the conflict subjects. STAY TUNED Host Bio Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. The DRM has applications in all aspects of life and is used for resolving conflict, repairing harm, decision making and healing at an individual and group level. It challenges people to live in harmony with their values. In 2020 Maria received an MBE from the Queen for services to mediation. www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 時間 17 分
  • Family, Trust & Fallout: Why Family Businesses Break Down - Ed Weeks
    2025/07/08
    In this powerful episode, we dive into the emotional and legal complexities of family business conflict with solicitor and dispute resolution expert Ed Weeks. With decades of experience helping families navigate shareholder breakdowns, succession battles, and deep-seated sibling rivalries, Ed shares what really causes these disputes—and how to stop them from destroying relationships and companies alike. We talk trust, betrayal, power dynamics, and why no one ever wants a shareholders’ agreement... until it’s too late. Ed also lifts the lid on the psychology behind mediation, why litigation often makes things worse, and how to spot the real reason a family can’t move forward. Whether you’re in a family business, advise one, or simply want to understand conflict better, this episode is filled with eye-opening insights. Key Takeaways Trust is not a strategy. Without structure, family businesses are vulnerable. Legal documents feel unromantic—but they’re life-saving. Most family disputes are emotional, not rational. And that’s what makes them so hard to fix. Look beyond the surface. Sometimes, the person who looks neutral is fuelling the conflict. The best lawyer won’t just fight—they’ll help you walk away whole. Host Bio Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. The DRM has applications in all aspects of life and is used for resolving conflict, repairing harm, decision making and healing at an individual and group level. It challenges people to live in harmony with their values. In 2020 Maria received an MBE from the Queen for services to mediation. www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    38 分
  • The Future of Work: Embracing Conflict as a Catalyst for Innovation and Creativity
    2025/07/01
    Maria engages in a thought-provoking conversation with David Liddle, founder of Total Conflict Management (TCM). They explore the transformative power of conflict resolution in workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of addressing unresolved conflict and fostering constructive dialogue. David shares his journey from community mediation to developing innovative frameworks that prioritize empathy, collaboration, and restorative practices in organizational settings. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of traditional grievance procedures and the need for a shift towards more inclusive and supportive systems that empower individuals and promote high performance. With insights drawn from David's extensive experience and upcoming publications, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating healthier work environments and the role of HR in driving cultural transformation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transformative Nature of Conflict: Conflict can be both destructive and transformative. When handled well, it can lead to positive outcomes and foster engagement, creativity, and innovation in the workplace. Importance of Early Resolution: Addressing conflicts early through constructive dialogue and resolution frameworks can prevent escalation and create a healthier work environment. This proactive approach is more effective than traditional grievance procedures. Redesigning Conflict Management Systems: Current grievance and disciplinary systems often perpetuate a two-tier justice system that employees do not trust. There is a need for objective criteria and processes that promote fairness and transparency in conflict resolution. Human-Centric Approach: Understanding truth as a human experience rather than a binary, evidence-based concept is crucial. Engaging in meaningful conversations allows individuals to connect and understand each other's perspectives, leading to better outcomes. Cultural Transformation through People and Culture Functions: By shifting the focus of HR from managing risks to fostering a people and culture-centric approach, organizations can drive significant cultural transformation, enhance employee engagement, and improve overall performance. SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    45 分
  • Healthy Conflict Resolution: Strategies for Effective Leadership and Team Dynamics
    2025/06/24
    In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Cullum, a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both corporate and charitable sectors. They explore the nuances of conflict in leadership, emphasising the importance of listening and empathy in navigating challenges within organisations. John shares insights from his diverse career, including his time at Ford Motor Company and various non-executive roles, highlighting the significance of healthy debate and the value of 360-degree feedback in fostering better communication among teams. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of leadership, the privilege of guiding others, and the necessity of balancing strategic decision-making with a deep respect for individual perspectives. As they conclude, John encourages listeners to embrace open-mindedness and continuous learning as essential components of effective leadership and conflict resolution. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Listening: Effective conflict resolution in leadership requires active listening and understanding different viewpoints. Leaders should prioritize listening to foster better communication and collaboration. Healthy Conflict vs. Counterproductive Conflict: While conflict is inevitable in any organization, it can be healthy when it leads to constructive debate. However, heated and unproductive exchanges can hinder progress and require careful management. Value of Diverse Perspectives: A well-structured board should include diverse viewpoints and skill sets. This diversity enhances decision-making and helps organizations better understand their stakeholders' needs. Privilege of Leadership: Leadership roles come with the privilege of making impactful decisions. Leaders should recognize this privilege and use it to benefit both the organization and its employees, fostering a culture of respect and engagement. Continuous Learning and Humility: Embracing a mindset of curiosity and humility is essential for personal and professional growth. Leaders should remain open to learning from experiences and recognize that their titles do not define their worth or humanity. BEST MOMENTS "If the leadership aren't aligned or they're having their own conflicts, it will have an impact all the way through." - Maria Arpa "Conflict is at the heart of it. I would say, in general, the conflicts I've handled have been largely what I call healthy." - John Cullum "The best run companies are those that engage better with their employees and listen." - John Cullum "The secret is never to hope that events will turn out the way you want, but welcome events, whatever way they happen." - John Cullum "Your humanity doesn't go away. You can develop it and acquire it, but titles, they go away overnight." - John Cullum SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    36 分
  • The Philosophy of Systemic Win: How Leaders Can Foster Flourishing Systems
    2025/06/17
    Maria Arpa welcomes back philosopher Paul Baker to delve into the complexities of leadership, board dynamics, and the philosophy of Systemic Win. They explore how boards can assess their effectiveness not only through self-evaluation but also by considering the perspectives of those affected by their decisions. Paul emphasizes the importance of moving beyond a punitive, adversarial mindset to foster a culture of collaboration and learning. Through engaging examples, including a poignant story about a charity's evolution, they discuss the critical relationship between leaders and followers, the necessity of open communication, and the need for systemic awareness in decision-making. The conversation highlights the significance of nurturing relationships and accountability within organizations to achieve a more holistic and sustainable approach to leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS Assessment of Board Effectiveness: It's crucial for boards to evaluate their own effectiveness, as well as how they are perceived by those who appointed them and those affected by their decisions. This includes understanding the subjective and objective measures of success. Systemic Win Philosophy: The concept of systemic win emphasizes the importance of creating environments where all parties involved feel good about the outcomes, leading to a cycle of positive reactions rather than unsatisfactory ones. This approach encourages collaboration and mutual benefit. Feedback Mechanisms: Effective leadership requires establishing systems for feedback that go beyond mere results. Leaders should actively seek input from their teams and stakeholders to understand the dynamics at play and adjust their strategies accordingly. Power Dynamics in Leadership: The relationship between leaders and followers is critical. Leaders should foster an environment of collaboration rather than exerting power over their team, as this can lead to distorted feedback and hinder progress. Complexity of Systems: Understanding that organizations operate within complex systems is essential. Leaders must balance short-term and long-term perspectives and be aware of the interconnectedness of various elements within the system to make informed decisions. BEST MOMENTS Maria Arper: "So the real problem we've got is someone does something that doesn't work very well... then reacts in an unsatisfactory way to it. So there's basically a spiral of unsatisfactory reactions." Paul Baker: "If you don't pay sufficient attention in the moment, you've got a problem. And if you don't pay sufficiently wide and long-term attention, you've got a problem." Maria Arper: "When we use power over instead of power with... the feedback that you get isn't really going to be useful because there's too much at stake for them to tell you the truth." Paul Baker: "Hierarchy can be a tyranny, but it can also be freedom. Having the right relationship with hierarchy... needs to also have some level of flexibility." Maria Arper: "If what I'm saying to you makes sense, well, talk to you and your team, because you are very good at getting people to get the reality of what they're dealing with." SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/ Learn More About Us: https://www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org/
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    34 分
  • Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Lessons from Simon Woodroffe's Business Evolution
    2025/06/10
    In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Simon Woodroffe, the founder of Yo Sushi and Yotel, and a former dragon on Dragon's Den. Simon shares his journey from a headstrong entrepreneur with little formal education to a leader who values connection and rapport in business. He reflects on the challenges of navigating relationships in the entrepreneurial world and emphasizes the importance of building goodwill and trust. The discussion touches on personal development, the significance of emotional connections in leadership, and the cultural differences in service and teamwork. Simon also shares pivotal moments in his life that led to his transformation, highlighting the necessity of self-love and respect in fostering meaningful relationships. This episode is a rich exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the evolving nature of business in today's world. KEY TAKEAWAYS Vision and Imagination: Having a clear vision and the ability to imagine what you want to achieve is crucial for success in entrepreneurship. This vision helps guide decisions and actions toward achieving goals. Importance of Relationships: Building rapport and maintaining good relationships with others is essential in business. Creating goodwill allows for more effective collaboration and can lead to better outcomes. Personal Growth and Self-Trust: Trusting oneself is foundational for being able to lead and inspire others. Personal development, including overcoming challenges and learning to love oneself, is key to becoming a more effective leader. Balancing Drive and Connection: While being driven and focused on results is important, it is equally vital to connect with people on an emotional level. This balance can lead to greater collaboration and success in business endeavors. Learning from Experience: The journey of entrepreneurship often involves learning from mistakes and adapting one's approach over time. Embracing the lessons from past experiences can lead to personal and professional growth. BEST MOMENTS "I always used to say, you know, business is easy. It's people that are difficult." - Simon Woodroffe "If you can imagine what something is, or what you want to get to, you've got a chance of getting there." - Simon Woodroffe "I think the bank of goodwill is a very good way to put it." - Simon Woodroffe "You can't really trust other people until you can trust yourself." - Simon Woodroffe "Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all." - Simon Woodroffe SOCIAL LINKS www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk www.workplacehuddle.com HOST BIO Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM). Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/ Learn More About Us: https://www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org/
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    38 分