Episodios

  • What does it mean to grow up in different cultural settings?

    How do you find your own voice and find the confidence to be yourself?

    In this episode, Chris interviews Andrea Horton-Meriçli, Founder of Diversifuse DEI Consulting Services, about her experiences growing up mixed-race in Texas and how, as a first-generation college student, she found confidence in her history and talents to succeed in college and professionally.

    Andrea also shares about her journey to overcoming imposter syndrome.

    Learn more about Andrea here:

    My journey is deeply rooted in my intersectionality as a mixed-race Latina, the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, a military brat, an individual from a low-income background, and the partner of an immigrant. With a career spanning over two decades in the nonprofit sector, I amassed a wealth of experience and expertise in various domains, including K-12 education, adult education, the medical field, career services, workforce development, project management, working with immigrants and refugees, and diversity initiatives. My journey was shaped by the challenges of growing up in a low-income, bi-racial household while navigating the complexities of being a military brat, moving frequently, and adapting to new environments. Growing up, I was passionate about technology and innovation, so I started university by majoring in electrical engineering. As a minority woman in a male-dominated industry, I often felt like I didn't belong. As a first-generation working college student, I didn’t know where to go for help and support. Despite my talents and ambitions, self-doubt crept in, holding me back from fully embracing my potential...and I ended up changing universities and majors. However, deep down, I knew there was more to my story than fear and insecurity. Despite facing systemic barriers and stereotypes, my resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for having my voice and others like mine be heard, propelled me forward. Driven by my lived experiences and a desire to create positive change, I founded Diversifuse, a platform dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion with a niche for advocating for immigrants and language learners in organizations. Through Diversifuse, I am on a mission to dismantle systemic inequalities, empower underrepresented individuals, and cultivate a culture of belonging and equity in the community at large. My intersectional identity and unique perspective serve as a driving force for change, inspiring others to embrace their own stories, challenge societal norms, and create a more equitable and inclusive world.

    Connect with Andrea here:

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: https://diversifuse.com/

    LinkedIn Personal Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreahortonmericli/

    LinkedIn Company Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diversifuse/

    Facebook (Diversifuse): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551500632190

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversifuse/

    YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3JWfkOJ2OwudZsQ8iSyc5A Get Diversifused Podcast on ouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Diversifuse/podcasts Get Diversifused Podcast on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea79366

    --

    Questions? Comments? What did we do well? Where should we get better? Suggestions for our next roleplays? 

    Let us know! :)

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Ever found yourself in a sticky situation with your boss or a colleague where you just couldn't express your needs effectively? đŸ€” Tune into our latest episode of "The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations," where we explore practical strategies for managing up and steering tough discussions toward productive outcomes. Don't miss these invaluable insights! 🎧 #Leadership #Communication #Podcast

     Key Takeaways:

    Understanding Dynamics: The episode explores the dynamics between a high-performing employee and a busy manager, highlighting the importance of clear communication.Strategies for Effective Communication: Listeners learn how to manage up by using strategies that include preparation, clarity in conversation, and setting realistic expectations.Role Play Insights: Through role-play, the hosts demonstrate both ineffective and effective ways to navigate difficult conversations, providing listeners with practical examples.Emotional Intelligence: The importance of tone, empathy, and understanding in communication is discussed, emphasizing how these factors can defuse potential conflict.Actionable Tips: The episode concludes with actionable advice for listeners on how to apply these techniques in real-life scenarios to foster better understanding and cooperation.Optional Reflection Prompts for You:Reflect on Past Conversations: Think about a recent difficult conversation at work. What would you change about your approach if you could do it over?Empathy Exercise: Consider a time when your boss or a colleague seemed dismissive. How could understanding their perspective better have changed the outcome?Future Strategies: What are some specific strategies you can adopt from this podcast to improve your next challenging workplace conversation?

    Questions? Comments? What did we do well? Where should we get better? Suggestions for our next roleplays? 

    Let us know! :)

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Communication is really hard; good dialogue is even harder. 

    The essence of good communication and good dialog is being able to say what you want to say and create an environment where the other person is also willing and open to share.

    In this episode, Chris walks through common things we all say that actually get in the way of good conversations.

    Take a listen and let us know - do you do or say any of these?

     Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • Everyone’s leadership journey is different, but have you ever: 

    -        Been told you were not a good leader

    -        Set out to prove them wrong

    -        Realize they were right all along?

    That’s Jack Skeels story - he joined us today to talk about his own leadership journey, including one of the hardest parts of being a leader: 

    Getting feedback we don’t agree with

     In fact, that was the inspiration behind the book he researched and wrote: Unmanaged: Master the Magic of Creating Empowered and Happy Organizations

    Listen to hear his journey and pick up a copy of the book here!

    Jack is a two-time Inc. 500 award-winning entrepreneur, consultant, and former management sciences researcher at the think-tank RAND Corporation. A noted author, expert, and speaker, he has been published and featured over 35 times, including Ad Age, Entrepreneur.com, Business Horizons, Wall Street Journal, Training, and many other publications.

     You can follow him here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackaskeels/https://jackskeels.medium.comhttps://business.facebook.com/AgencyAgile/https://twitter.com/AgencyAgile

    Thoughts? Questions? Let us know! We would love to hear from you, your feedback matters to us. 

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Chris Wong and Lucie Tesarova delve into the complexities of navigating emotionally charged discussions within family dynamics. Using a role-playing strategy, they explore the difficult conversation about suggesting assisted living to an elderly parent. This episode touches on cultural sensitivities, shows the importance of empathy and validation, and explores strategies for maintaining connection while addressing challenging topics.

    Key Takeaways:

    Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting cultural backgrounds is crucial in conversations about elderly care. For instance, in many Asian and European cultures, the idea of assisted living is less common, and family care is preferred.Approach with Empathy: Demonstrating empathy and concern, rather than dictating solutions, can lead to a more productive dialogue. It's about creating a space where the elderly family member feels heard and valued.Strategic Listening: Active and strategic listening plays a significant role in understanding the concerns and fears of the elderly. Asking thoughtful questions and really listening to the answers can uncover underlying issues and lead to mutually acceptable solutions.Maintaining Connection: Keeping the dialogue open and ongoing is essential. Acknowledging that there may not be an immediate solution but being willing to continue the conversation can strengthen familial bonds.

    Optional Reflection Prompts:

    Reflect on your own experiences: Have you had a similar conversation with a family member about aging or assisted living? What strategies worked for you, and what would you do differently?Consider the role of culture: How does your cultural background influence your views on elderly care and family dynamics? Share your thoughts and how they might differ from or align with the discussion in this episode.

    Thoughts? Questions? Let us know! We would love to hear from you, your feedback matters to us. 

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • There is no shortage of seminars, books, and trainings out there that focus on active listening skills.  But even if you get good at them, what are you even listening for? 

    In this episode, Chris walks through just exactly WHAT you should be listening for in hard conversations.  Because, at the end of the day, good listening skills really focus on bringing what's unsaid to the surface. This includes:  

    underlying emotionsthe other person's worldview/point of viewtheir valuestheir interests/motivationsopportunities to strengthen the relationship  

    Listen in to figure out how to take your listening skills to the next level.  

     

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

  • This episode features Steven Farber discussing with Lucie Tesarova the critical role of communication in solving workplace issues and improving personal relationships.

    Tune in to learn: 

    - how empathy & understanding of the other can help in having better personal and professional conversations

    - how introverts and extroverts may communicate differently and what kind of challenges that can create in our conversations 

    - why self-acceptance is important for our personal growth, including learning to communicate better

    - how video games can be similar to our life stories, and what we can learn from them

    And more! 

     

    Connect with Steven Farber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenfarber/

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/
    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

     

  • Summary: 

    Have you ever had that frustrating experience of working with a boss who keeps criticizing you and micromanaging you? Or, maybe you are a team leader who works with team members that you don’t trust that they can get the job done right, and your 1:1s are not going anywhere, as the team members don’t seem to take any responsibility and the same issues continue to happen? 

    Whether you’re a team leader, a team member, or anyone who’s ever found themselves thinking, ‘There has to be a better way to handle this,’ this episode is for you. 

    In this episode, we dive into a tense workplace scenario between a micromanaging and critical team lead, Lucie, and Chris, a team member who made a mistake. Both of them are experiencing frustration and miscommunication around job expectations and performance, specifically focusing on a recurring issue with the unfortunate "line number 13."

    Through the roleplays and debriefing after, we explore themes of trust, micromanagement, and effective communication strategies in resolving workplace conflicts. The episode concludes with practical steps both parties can take to improve their working relationship and overall team dynamics.

    Key Takeaways:

    The importance of pausing and reflecting in heated conversationsStrategies for acknowledging and addressing micromanagementThe role of trust and validation in workplace communicationPractical steps for conflict resolution and improving team dynamics

    Next steps: 

    Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful episodes on effective communication.Share your thoughts or your own experiences with difficult conversations on our social media platforms.Check out Chris's course on Difficult conversations! https://leadershippotential.teachable.com/ 

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

    PS – did you know we have an upcoming webinar on how to prepare for hard conversations?  Come and leave with practical tools and strategies so you can feel confident about your upcoming difficult conversation.  Save your spot here - https://www.mindfittery.com/difficult-conv-webinar

  • When is it time to call it quits?

    A question we’ve been getting more and more recently is â€œwhen is it time to call it quits”?  

    And it’s a fair question, because drawing the line in hard conversations is more than just ending emotional outbursts.  It means setting healthy boundaries, recognizing when the conflict is no longer productive, or at worst, noticing when it’s becoming more disrespectful and potentially causing harm.

    In today’s episode, Chris walks through two major points:

    1. Signs it’s times to end the conversation
    2. How to end the conversation well

    Typically, if you notice any of these, it means it’s time to end the conversation:

    - Personal attacks or disrespect
    - Emotionally becoming overwhelmed
    - Violation of your core values
    - The conversation is going in circles
    - Concerns about your emotional or physical safety
    - Potentially crossing legal/ethical boundaries

    Chris also talks through HOW to end the conversation, including:

    - Being clear and direct
    - Taking a break
    - Seeking a neutral mediator
    - Setting ground rules and referring back to them

    Have you had to end a hard conversation?  What’s been your strategy of choice? Continue the conversation on our socials or share this episode with your thoughts.

    Connect with us here:

    Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
    Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

    PS – did you know we have an upcoming webinar on how to prepare for hard conversations?  Come and leave with practical tools and strategies so you can feel confident about your upcoming difficult conversation.  Save your spot here - https://www.mindfittery.com/difficult-conv-webinar

  • In this week's episode, we interview Mikel Wisler, an award-winning filmmaker and author.  He is a big fan of science fiction and helping others find meaning through stories (in all forms).  In this episode, we talk about:

    - The vulnerability that comes with putting yourself out there and how to handle feedback/criticism

    - How leaders can take their storytelling to the next level to motivate and inspire

    - the importance of stories in our lives

    And if you listen to the whole thing, you may even hear which actor Chris would want to portray him in a biopic of his life.

     

    Connect with Mikel here:

    Website: www.mikelwisler.com

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

    Instagram: @mikelwisler

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/
    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

     

    Sign up for updates and weekly communication tips here: www.tinyurl.com/leadershippotential

  • Podcast Summary:

    In this rolepay episode of our podcast, we delve into the delicate matter of emotional boundaries and trust within personal and professional relationships. We roleplayed a situation in which Chris shared with a third party something that Lucie shared with him in confidence. Lucie found out about it. Tune in to find out how she addressed it with Chris. 

    The first scenario we roleplayed leads to increased conflict and the potential end of a friendship, and another paves the way for understanding, healing, and possibly mending the damaged relationship.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Impact of Breached Trust: Sharing something in confidence only to have it disclosed can lead to feelings of exposure, hurt, and betrayal, highlighting the importance of respecting emotional boundaries.

    Navigating the Aftermath: The episode emphasizes the significance of addressing breaches of trust thoughtfully, showing how different approaches can lead to vastly different outcomes.

    Constructive Communication: Through the roleplay, listeners learn valuable strategies for constructive communication, including the importance of calmness, clarity, and empathy in repairing relationships.

    Setting and Reaffirming Boundaries: The discussion sheds light on the critical role of setting clear emotional boundaries and the steps one can take to reaffirm or redefine these boundaries after they've been crossed.

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • Are questions really that important?    

    Yes!    

    In fact, asking good questions may be the single best tool you have to get unstuck in hard conversations.  But good, powerful questions are easier said than done. 

    In this week's episode, Chris walks through:  

    The benefits of asking good questionsThe ingredients of what makes a question powerfulWhy closed-ended questions may actually be good to use sometimesWhy you shouldn't ask too many questions and what to do instead.  

    In the episode, Chris also mentions a book "Questions are the Answer".  You can find that book on Amazon here   Next week, we role-play how to approach someone who has crossed an emotional boundary; see you next week!  

     

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • How to use your story to empower others

    In this week’s podcast episode, we interview a very dear friend, Heidi Lee. Chris has been friends with her for many years, and Heidi has worked for years in the Boston area as a treatment case manager, harm reduction specialist, and peer support specialist with vulnerable and underserved populations. 

    Her motivation? 

    She also experienced really difficult situations throughout her life and has learned to use her own experiences with the mental health care system in Massachusetts to help others who also struggle.

    It’s not easy to be vulnerable in sharing your own story, let alone sharing the areas you struggled with and the loss you’ve experienced.  But today, she shares: 

    -        Her own history of abuse and recovery from mental illness

    -        How to find purpose and make meaning

    -        How to find power in your own story and use it to have an impact in the world

    We’re very grateful for Heidi and her courage to share her story and we look forward to continue seeing her have an incredible impact in the world.

    You can follow Heidi at:

    Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-hyunjin-lee-25566919/

    Instagram - @heidi.hj.lee1231

    Email Heidi at [email protected]   If you're interested in learning more about the NAAPIEN that Heidi mentions, it's now named "National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association," and you can learn more at their website here: https://www.naapimha.org/ 

     

  •  

    Show Notes for the Podcast Episode:

    Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to collaborate on a project with someone outside your department or team? 

    It can be either a mutually enjoyable experience or one that you tell your coworkers about with anger and frustration in your voice. 

    Join us today for a roleplay podcast episode, where we demonstrate two versions of cross-department collaboration and debrief after each with key lessons on what makes these conversations challenging and what you can change to make conversations and collaborations more productive and successful. 

    Introduction:

    The episode begins with a realistic roleplay of a challenging conversation between two colleagues, Chris and Lucie, addressing workload issues, deadlines, and team dynamics in a high-pressure environment.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    The Initial Confrontation:

    Lucie approaches Chris with an urgent request for a slide deck, bio, and pictures for an upcoming recruitment fair, highlighting the importance of meeting tight deadlines.Chris expresses his overwhelming workload and inability to meet the immediate request, leading to a tense exchange.

    Stress Factors and Organizational Changes:

    Discussion of additional stress factors, such as company reorganization and covering for absent colleagues.The conversation sheds light on the impact of organizational changes on individual workloads and team dynamics.

    Communication Breakdowns and Pressure:

    Analysis of how both parties communicated under pressure, including instances of talking over each other and competing over who was more overwhelmed.

    Lack of Empathy and Understanding:

    Insight into how the lack of empathy and understanding can escalate workplace tensions.The conversation pivots to finding a resolution and exploring how each could have approached the situation differently.

    Alternative Approaches and Solutions:

    A second roleplay shows a more empathetic and collaborative approach to the situation.Exploration of alternative solutions, including delegating tasks, repurposing existing materials, and adjusting project quality expectations.

    Importance of Active Listening and Collaboration:

    Emphasis on the significance of active listening, acknowledging each other's challenges, and working collaboratively towards a solution.Discussion on how a change in approach can lead to more productive outcomes and preserve professional relationships.

    Long-term Impact on Team Dynamics:

    Examination of how such interactions can affect long-term team dynamics, trust, and collaboration.Strategies for maintaining a positive and supportive work environment amidst challenges.

     

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • In this week’s podcast, Chris answers the age-old question:

    “How do I deal with a person that gets defensive or gets emotional or angry?”

    The good news – there are simple, proven techniques that can help in the moment.

    Even better news?

    There are two things you can do to prepare so that you can minimize the intensity of that behavior. In this short strategy episode, Chris goes over:

    - How to start the conversation off well to minimize the intensity of defensive behaviors or emotional outbursts

    - How summaries, when used correctly, can guide the conversation in a specific direction

    - How to reframe your mindset around the fear of getting a reflection or summary wrong

    What other strategies do you have in hard conversations? Join us back next week when we role-play how to navigate a conversation between departments.

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/
    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • Episode Overview:

    Have you ever found yourself avoiding tough conversations, whether at work or in personal relationships? Do you want to know how cultural and familial backgrounds shape the way we handle conflicts? How can that play out in your life and what it takes to transform from a conflict-avoider to a confident communicator in difficult situations?

     Join us for another episode of The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations, this time listen to a conversation between Chris Wong and our special guest, Tiffany Teng to learn answers to these questions and. more! 

    Tiffany Teng, is a FinTech executive with a rich background that intersects personal growth, cultural influences, and professional development. Listen as Tiffany shares her insightful journey from navigating familial and cultural communication barriers to mastering the art of difficult conversations.

    Key Highlights:

    Tiffany's Roots and Career Evolution:

    Background as a child of Asian immigrants and growing up in an Asian church alongside Chris.The transition from studying neuroscience and psychology at Stanford to a business career focusing on consumer decision-making.

    Overcoming Cultural Communication Barriers:

    Discussing the challenges faced due to her family and cultural background in handling difficult conversations.The impact of suppressed emotions and conflict avoidance in her personal and professional life.

    Professional Challenges and Growth:

    Tiffany's early career experiences, including co-founding a startup and managing workplace conflicts.The journey of acquiring conflict mediation certification and leadership training for effective conversation and feedback.

    Personal Development Through Therapy:

    A decade of therapy aiding in personal growth and changing communication styles.Shift from a fixed to a growth mindset and its significance in personal relationships and professional interactions.

    Strategies for Difficult Conversations:

    Emphasis on using "I" statements instead of "you" statements to avoid defensiveness.The role of meditation and mindfulness in managing stress and emotions during conflicts.Adapting communication styles in different cultural contexts, including family and workplace.

    Sensitive Topics and Family Dynamics:

    Insights into handling conversations about race, politics, and racial justice.Tiffany's experiences with changing family communication patterns post-therapy.

    Key Takeaways:

    The importance of understanding and adapting to cultural and familial influences in communication.The transformation from conflict avoidance to effective conflict resolution.The role of self-awareness, therapy, and continuous learning in mastering difficult conversations.

    Up Next:

    Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll dive into "How to Respond to Angry Behaviors in Hard Conversations."

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/
    Connect with Tiffany Teng: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyjaneteng 

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • Show Notes: How (not) to give constructive feedback. 

    Are you struggling with giving negative feedback to your team members? Join us for this roleplay episode, and take it as an opportunity to review or learn some tips to make giving constructive feedback better for everyone involved. In the bonus resource to this episode, you will find a summary of key takeaways and a few other coaching prompts to help you prepare for your future constructive feedback sessions. 

    In today's roleplay scenario, Lucie, the employee, is confronted by Chris, her manager, about consistent issues with late paperwork submissions and inaccuracies. You will get to experience two versions: one shows how constructive feedback is done in an ineffective way, and the second shows how to do it a bit better. 

    We debrief after each version and share with you key takeaways and action steps that you can implement in your future conversations. 

    Download a bonus resource here. 

     Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

     

  • Why are difficult conversations so difficult?

    In this episode, Chris walks through just what exactly makes difficult conversations so difficult.  Because knowing what makes them difficult can help us put in the right strategies to make them less stressful.  In this episode, Chris walks through:

    How the fight/flight/freeze response affects the conversationsWhy caring about both the relationship and outcome makes a difference.How emotions are hard for most peopleThe importance of feeling prepared

    As well as some quick tips around each of these.  

    Do these resonate with you?  Is there something else that makes difficult conversations hard for you?

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

  • Why do Lucie and Chris care about difficult conversations so much?

    In this episode, Lucie and Chris each share about why they care about this topic and what it’s meant for them to become more comfortable with difficult conversations. 

    Listeners will hear how Chris’ immigrant and refugee parents had a “ignore at all costs” approach to difficult conversations and how he was forced to adapt and become comfortable with hard conversations.

    Lucie shares her own immigration story and how her culture’s blunt approach to conversations and own experiences meant that she had to learn how to inject empathy into her difficult conversations.

    What is YOUR story or challenge with difficult conversations? Let us know! We would love to hear from you. 

    Follow us on social media:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

     

  • How to handle stressful conversations with family during the holidays?

    In this special holiday episode, we delve into the art of navigating challenging conversations at the Thanksgiving table. Through roleplaying scenarios, we explore both the ineffective and more effective ways to handle difficult family discussions.

    Key Takeaways:

    Roleplaying the Ineffective Way: We simulate tense family dialogues, highlighting common pitfalls such as interrupting, dismissive attitudes, and confrontational behavior. (Topic: gun ownership)

    Recognizing Communication Breakdowns: Understanding how ineffective communication can escalate tension and hinder meaningful dialogue, impacting relationships.

    Roleplaying the More Effective Way: We demonstrate strategies for effective communication – active listening, empathy, and respectful responses – fostering understanding and connection.

    Tips for Productive Conversations: Practical guidance on initiating discussions, setting boundaries, and redirecting topics to maintain a positive atmosphere.

    The 'Why' Behind Effective Dialogue: Briefly touching the psychological and emotional impact of respectful communication on family dynamics and relationships.

    Conclusion:

    By dissecting these roleplaying scenarios, we provide actionable insights into transforming challenging conversations over the holidays into opportunities for connection, understanding, and growth.

    Additional Resources:

    Connect with Chris Wong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

     

    Connect with Lucie Tesarova: 

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova/

     

    #Thanksgiving #Holidays #difficultpeople #DifficultConversations #gunownership