Best Conflict Competence Podcasts (2025)

1
EP 158 \\ How Your Phone Is Quietly Competing With Your Spouse—And How to Reconnect in Marriage 14:10

6d ago14:10

14:10

Hi friend! It’s always with us—our phones. They wake us up, keep us company, and fill every quiet moment. But what happens when that constant connection starts pulling us away from the people right in front of us—especially our spouse? In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the subtle yet powerful impact phone distraction can have on your marriage. We…

1
66 How your self-beliefs grow your conflict competence 4:57

13d ago4:57

4:57

What you tell yourself about your conflict competencies is what you believe is true. Are you telling yourself information that will grow your skills? On the conflict competence continuum of skills, where you put your pin will influence and inform how you do conflict. show notes. These scholars research how our beliefs shape our choices in life. * M…

1
From Stigma to Support: Fixing the Mental Health Crisis in Construction 50:25

6h ago50:25

50:25

Dan Lester, Vice President of Field Culture and Inclusion at Clayco, brings a powerful voice to the conversation around mental health in the construction industry. Focusing on total health and well-being, Dan emphasizes that mental health is about managing everyday and extreme stress. Dan shares findings from a 2024 Clayco study showing that 54% of…

1
Compete Every Day with Jake Thompson 1:03:48

11h ago1:03:48

1:03:48

Show Notes: erickrheam.com/076 In this episode, Erick Rheam interviews Jake Thompson, a professional speaker and author about his concept of competing everyday and how it’s a critical component to success. In this powerful episode, Jake opens up about the crushing disappointment of walking away from his lifelong dream of playing quarterback at the …

1
69 How to build trust in yourself 7:27

2d ago7:27

7:27

Perhaps you've taken the course on how to have have difficult conversations. You know how to do it. But now, in real life, do you trust yourself to actually have those difficult conversations? We discuss self-trust building, the role of power imbalances that make it hard to communicate, and the risk of communicating your needs when the stakes are h…

1
Optimizing Thai Business with Facilitation Services 17:07

4d ago17:07

17:07

Optimizing Thai Business with Facilitation Services https://www.changeworksltd.co.th/facilitation-service/ Unlock the hidden power behind Thailand’s most successful organizations with this episode on Facilitation Services. Discover how expert facilitators help businesses improve communication, accelerate decision-making, resolve conflict, and adapt…

1
68 where did your conflict mental map come from? 5:08

6d ago5:08

5:08

Everyone has at least one conflict mental map; a picture in your mind about how you believe conflict should be conducted, and what you expect of those in conflict with you. But where did you form this conflict mental map? show notes Shoalts, Adam, A History of Canada in Ten Maps: Epic Stories of Charting a Mysterious Land. Allen Lane, 2017, ISBN-10…

1
Ep. 36 – Employment Law Changes Under Trump: The First 100 Days 58:03

6d ago58:03

58:03

The first 100 days of the new Trump administration have been nothing but unprecedented. From terminating federal agency heads to signing controversial executive orders to the targeting of DEI efforts, both businesses and individual workers are dealing with a lot of change—and likely navigating a lot of confusion. Prinz’s marketing manager Matt Tede…

1
How to Win Negotiated Projects in Construction Without Competing on Price 20:19

7d ago20:19

20:19

If you’re serious about winning more work, building trust with clients, and leading your sales team with confidence, let’s talk. I’m offering a free 10-minute call to help you pinpoint exactly where your sales process is breaking down—and what to do about it. 👉 Book your 10-minute call here: https://10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me/ Don’t wait for t…

1
67 Is trust a necessary ingredient for managing your conflicts? 11:07

9d ago11:07

11:07

"Trust exists in relationships in different types and amounts. Maybe your friendships have a comfortable, lasting trust between intimates. Or, maybe you don't trust a person at all but have to deal with them. Trust is nice to have, has to be rebuilt when it's broken, and can't be bought. We discuss trust building measures that you can apply to impr…

1
EP 157 \\ Struggling In Your Marriage? H.O.P.E Is Still Possible 13:33

13d ago13:33

13:33

Hi friend! Marriage is one of the most beautiful bonds we can experience — but when it's struggling, it can also feel like one of the loneliest places to be. If you’re feeling worn down, unheard, or unsure how to keep going, you’re not alone. Today’s episode is for the couples holding on by a thread… The ones still showing up even when it’s hard…an…

1
The Housing Crisis with Alan Kohler 46:04

13d ago46:04

46:04

Richard Holden | Alan Kohler Australia, a land of sweeping plains, has one of the lowest population densities on the planet. So, how did we end up with a housing shortage? In conversation with economist and author Richard Holden, veteran finance journalist Alan Kohler’s new Quarterly Essay, The Great Divide: Australia’s Housing Crisis and How to Fi…

1
From Bad Plans to Brilliant Builds: Practical Applications of AI in Construction 43:12

14d ago43:12

43:12

As in any other industry, artificial intelligence is becoming a vital tool in construction, reforming how projects are designed, planned, and executed. It can help construction companies with critical challenges like skilled labor shortages by empowering junior employees with expert knowledge ingrained in digital tools. As the industry evolves, AI …

1
The Power of Routines 15:44

15d ago15:44

15:44

Show Notes: erickrhream.com/075 In this episode, Erick Rheam discusses the importance of building a morning and event routine and the critical roles those two routines play in your significance journey. Erick discusses how a morning routine saves mental energy and sets you up for an effective day and the importance of shutting down properly at nigh…

1
65 What life experiences inform your conflict competencies? 12:39

16d ago12:39

12:39

Everyone experiences conflict, and has ways of dealing with it but some ways are better than others for improving the quality of your relationships. It's never too late to learn more and better ways. Tyson and Deborah share how they learned conflict management, what tools they use most (spoiler - for Deborah, it's conflict analysis), when they bega…

1
EP 156 \\ 4 Things Husbands Wish Their Wives Would Stop Doing 20:32

20d ago20:32

20:32

Hey friend! Today, we’re diving into one of those topics that might feel a little uncomfortable—but that’s exactly why it’s so important to talk about. Every marriage has its ups and downs. And sometimes, without even realizing it, we slip into habits that slowly create distance instead of building connection. In this episode, we’re talking about a…

1
Dark Technologies 47:08

20d ago47:08

47:08

Machines lead the charge on today’s battlefields, but what does this mean for the people caught in the crossfire? Learn from journalist Antony Loewenstein, whose Walkley Award-winning investigation, The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World, uncovered the widespread commercialisation and global deplo…

1
64 How is self awareness a conflict competency? 3:51

20d ago3:51

3:51

"Know thyself!" comes to us as philosophical wisdom from antiquity. Self awareness is a conflict competency that increases your adaptability. The self you know is a learning, growing being who strives for quality relationships. Self awareness can prevent conflict, make you more adaptable to manage different kinds of conflict with different strategi…

1
Aggressive Patience: The Strategic Art of Family Business Succession 46:12

22d ago46:12

46:12

Family business succession is not just about changing the leadership; it’s a delicate balancing act between maintaining the legacy and embracing innovation. Both founders and successors face the challenges of navigating deep personal attachments, generational differences, and the emotional weight of letting go and stepping up. A genuine succession …

1
63 Is your frame big enough to picture your whole conflict? 7:14

24d ago7:14

7:14

Everyone has a view of how the world should work according to themselves. Your view is a frame that your holds, among other things, your beliefs, concerns, values, and hopes. But sometimes, your frame rubs wrong against someone else's frame, and oops, conflict happens. That's when a reframe adds a valuable conflict competence. We describe user-frie…

1
EP 155 \\ 4 Things Wives Wish Their Husbands Would Stop Doing 20:47

27d ago20:47

20:47

Hi friend! Marriage is a beautiful journey—but let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. Between work, life, and everyday routines, we can slip into habits we don’t even realize are hurting the very people we love most. That’s why today, we’re diving into a topic that hits home for so many couples: “4 Things Wives Wish Their Husbands Would Stop Doing.…

1
History of Sex 50:28

27d ago50:28

50:28

How did sex begin? How did it evolve to become so varied and complex in humans? And what could sex look like for future generations? Hosted by evolutionary biologist Rob Brooks, this blush-worthy panel discussion features sex historian Esmé Louise James and historian David Baker. Esmé adapted her wildly popular TikTok series into a book, Kinky Hist…

1
62 what's in a name? Quite a lot when it's a conflict 4:04

27d ago4:04

4:04

You have habits, everyone does. Habits are patterns of how you behave. Once you recognize how you usually or often react in a conflict you have identified your conflict pattern. Name your reaction pattern, the emotions driving that pattern, and the pattern you'd rather have. Name it, own it, improve it. Show notes Juliet spoke to herself (Act 2, Sc…

1
From Dictator to Coach: The Leadership Shift Every Construction Owner Must Make to Win in 2025 24:05

28d ago24:05

24:05

Today, Eric explores the essential shift in leadership from the outdated command-and-control style to a coaching-focused approach. Eric addresses common leadership myths, emphasizes the power of trust, and outlines practical frameworks for effective coaching conversations. He highlights tools like the 90-Day High-Performance Dashboard to help leade…

1
Book Report - Think Ahead - 7 Decisions You Can Make for The God-Honoring Life You Want Tomorrow 34:06

29d ago34:06

34:06

Show Notes: erickrheam.com/074 In this episode, Erick Rheam, reviews the book, Think Ahead by Craig Groeschel Erick discusses how this book focuses on the power of pre-deciding on seven key areas of your life so that you can maximize your decision making ability and protecting yourself from the pitfalls of resistance and temptation that often derai…

1
61 how to use opportunities to change your conflict 12:05

1M ago12:05

12:05

Conflicts unfold over time to become patterns. We discuss the many opportunities to manage, shift, change and reframe conflict patterns. When you change the pattern you improve your conflict competence. Tyson refers to adrienne maree brown: https://adriennemareebrown.net/2015/02/02/trust-the-people/ "if you do not trust the people, they will become…

1
Ep. 35 – Mental Health & Non-Competes in Illinois 12:56

1M ago12:56

12:56

Earlier this year, an amendment to the Illinois Freedom to Work Act invalidated non-compete clauses that would make it more difficult for a veteran or first responder to obtain mental health services. Without timely access to proper mental health care, these groups are at a higher risk of developing conditions like PTSD from their line of work. Par…

1
EP 154 \\ Unfiltered Honesty In Marriage: Its Effects—And What To Do Instead 15:47

1M ago15:47

15:47

Hi friend! There’s a popular saying: “Honesty is the best policy.” But does that mean we should say everything that crosses our minds—no matter how raw, blunt, or unfiltered? In today’s episode, we’re exploring a truth many couples overlook: Unfiltered honesty can do more harm than good in your marriage. Words that are unprocessed or spoken in the …

1
The Fading Dream 57:07

1M ago57:07

57:07

Economist John N. Friedman has made a career researching the causes of inequality and its long-term consequences for children in the US. His findings are grim. Social mobility is in sharp decline. Where you live and go to school increasingly determines your success and future. Joining fellow economist, Richard Holden, Friedman will explore how poli…

1
60 How do you show curiosity without sounding judgmental? 3:27

1M ago3:27

3:27

Does your attachment to your point of view make your good questions sound like judgments? Here are four steps to showing that your curiosity comes from your good intentions. Send us a text. We love hearing from you. Dr. Deborah Sword is a conflict specialist with decades of experience and training to share. Please subscribe to our podcast, like it,…

1
No Ego, No Surprises: The Succession System That Actually Works 54:09

1M ago54:09

54:09

What is the greatest remark in your leadership? Is it what you’ve left behind, or is it what you’ve built? Brad DesJardin, retired president of DesCor Builders, joins today’s episode to explore a succession system that works, embedded with values, clarity, and trust. Through the lens of the construction industry, we discuss how to create a lasting …

1
Thailand Facilitation Services: Driving Collaboration and Business Success 13:05

1M ago13:05

13:05

Thailand Facilitation Services: Driving Collaboration and Business Success https://thenewsdesk24.com/2025/03/21/facilitation-services-in-thailand Discover why facilitation services are becoming essential for businesses in Thailand. This episode breaks down what professional facilitation is, why it's crucial for collaboration and decision-making, an…

1
59 How do conflict competencies affect politics? 8:14

1M ago8:14

8:14

It's election 2025 tomorrow in Canada, and we discuss conflict competence as a skill in every interaction, as well as necessary for democracy, electioneering, voting, and governing. Send us a text. We love hearing from you. Dr. Deborah Sword is a conflict specialist with decades of experience and training to share. Please subscribe to our podcast, …

1
EP 153 \\ Are Assumptions Silently Hurting Your Marriage? Here's The Truth 17:21

1M ago17:21

17:21

Hi friend! What if the biggest threat to your marriage wasn’t arguments, finances, or stress? Today, we’re unpacking something sneaky — something that can quietly unravel even the strongest relationships: assumptions. You know the ones: “They should know what I need.” “If they really cared, they’d act differently.” “I already know how they’ll respo…

1
58 What does it mean to ask "good questions" 5:49

1M ago5:49

5:49

Defaulting to curiosity rather than judgement is conflict competent. But, what if that curious question still sounds judgemental? We show you how to ask conflict competent questions, so you can diffuse conflict. The article the explains better questions than starting with the word "why" at this link: https://deborahsword.com/a-conflict-analysis-of-…

1
Ending the 'Tyranny' of Pregnancy 58:23

1M ago58:23

58:23

Brigitte Gerstl | Luara Ferracioli | Mianna Lotz | Chaired by Kathryn MacKay Is the emergence of artificial wombs and womb transplants a ‘boon’ or a ‘bane’ for women? Listen now to explore the transformative possibilities for reproductive autonomy that could redefine the very essence of motherhood. This session is presented as part of the Festival …

1
AI Without the B.S.: Sharpen Proposals, Cut Rework, Win More Work — Fast 31:21

1M ago31:21

31:21

This episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders aiming to integrate AI while enhancing judgment, collaboration, and decision-making in construction! Luca Dellanna, a management advisor and bestselling author, discusses the real-world applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the construction industry. Luca emphasizes how AI can streamline…

1
Adopt the Pilot Mindset to Navigate the Chaos of Your Life with Bobby Dutton 1:00:57

1M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

Show Notes: erickrheam.com/073 In this episode, Erick Rheam interviews Bobby Dutton, a professional pilot, speaker, and events creator. In this episode, Bobby discusses the importance of keeping calm during turbulent times in life and how the pilot philosophy when navigating chaos translates well in everyday life. He walks us through the steps a pi…

1
57 What conflict competencies help overcome biased thinking? 14:47

1M ago14:47

14:47

A bias can make decisions easier. You don't have to think hard if you already know your bias for herbal tea and against caffeinated tea. But when biases cause conflict, or stop you from enjoying the company of friends who hold perspectives you don't share, you'll want some conflict competent hacks to overcome biased thinking. We discuss four of the…

1
EP 152 \\ 5 Thoughtful Questions To Deepen Your Connection In Marriage 10:42

2M ago10:42

10:42

Hi friend! When was the last time you asked your spouse a question that made them pause and feel truly seen? In this episode, we're diving into 5 endearing, heartfelt questions you can ask your spouse to spark deeper connection, emotional intimacy, and meaningful conversation in your marriage. Whether you’ve been married for 5 months or 5 years, th…

1
56 What's the disconnect between your intention and the impact? 5:15

2M ago5:15

5:15

Have you made a comment that you intended as helpful and been criticized rather than thanked? Depending on how you respond in the situation, the cycle of defensive reaction either escalates or is diffused. You can decide if a conflict happens or not. We discuss two useful conflict competencies and how to use them. Send us a text. We love hearing fr…

1
Counterfeit People 57:16

2M ago57:16

57:16

The late philosopher and scientist, Daniel Dennett talked about ‘counterfeit people’ as one of the great dangers of AI – but are we now willing to court the same dangers through our adoption of multiple identities across the metaverse. Moving from the confinement of physical reality to the landscape of the metaverse, where looks, preferences, and g…

1
5 Proven Ways Contractors Can Thrive During an Economic Downturn 22:26

2M ago22:26

22:26

The winds are changing, and uncertainty is knocking at your door! The market is shifting, and the anxiety is real. But right now? Now is your moment. In this week’s solo episode, Eric dives into what it takes to lead when the economy feels unstable, how to keep your head clear, your team steady, and your business thriving. Eric presents us with fiv…

1
55 How do you express vulnerability in your conflicts? 7:18

2M ago7:18

7:18

You have choices about how and when you let the person you're in conflict with know that you're feeling vulnerable. Since your sense of your vulnerability influences the decisions you make in conflict, it's a conflict competence to be mindful of how vulnerable you feel, and how you choose to express or hide that vulnerability. Send us a text. We lo…

1
EP 151 \\ 3 Overlooked Ways to Show Love to Your Spouse That Will Impact Your Marriage 12:57

2M ago12:57

12:57

Hi friend! Looking for ways to show love to your spouse this week? In this episode, we’re diving into 3 intentional ways to express love in your marriage that will make a lasting impact. These simple yet powerful gestures will help your spouse feel truly seen, valued, and deeply loved. Whether your goal is to reconnect or strengthen your bond in ma…

1
Deborah Lawrie: The Fight to Fly 51:16

2M ago51:16

51:16

Over 40 years ago, Deborah Lawrie broke barriers to become Australia’s first female commercial airline pilot. Her path wasn’t easy — she battled a landmark High Court case to challenge gender discrimination in employment and prevailed, all while facing blatant prejudice and unapologetic misogyny. Deborah’s determination didn’t just open cockpit doo…

1
54 What's on your conflict mental map? 4:31

2M ago4:31

4:31

Everyone has a mental map of what conflict does or should look like, how it unfolds, and your ideal ending. Not everything on your conflict mental map is conflict competent. What may be on your conflict mental map as one of your strategies may not optimally belong there. Deborah discusses 'deflection' as one strategy that you might want to delete f…

1
The Human Foundation: How a Construction Executive Learned to Build Teams, Not Just Structures 42:01

2M ago42:01

42:01

Effective leadership is about more than just navigating teams to success. It involves building trust, clear communication, and emotional intelligence. Influential leaders set clear expectations, provide necessary coaching, and focus on finding solutions during challenging times. Furthermore, they identify and value the importance of personal well-b…

1
Don't Be Afraid to Jump with Melanie Curtis 1:16:36

2M ago1:16:36

1:16:36

Show Notes: erickrheam.com/072 In this episode, Erick Rheam interviews Melanie Curtis, a world-record professional skydiver and professional speaker. In this episode, Melanie shares the incredible story of how a failed first attempt at skydiving at just 16 years old almost kept her grounded for good. But instead of giving in to fear, Melanie made a…

1
53 How shame impacts your conflict competence 8:52

2M ago8:52

8:52

Feeling shame doesn't leave you much room for dealing with conflict. Shame fills a lot of space, crowding out empathy and perspective taking. How can you be conflict competent when you're beating up on yourself in shame? We give a few tips. Show notes: Brené Brown, in Rising Strong, writes that vulnerability is “the birthplace of many of the fulfil…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Conflict Competence Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen