In episode 81 of the Speak In Flow Podcast, host Melinda Lee engages with Chrystal Ellis Sweazey, Director of Human Resources at the American Conservatory Theater. With over a decade of leadership experience, Chrystal shares her insights on creating and maintaining positive workplace relationships, navigating conflicts with grace, and fostering a compassionate leadership style. She also dives deep into the challenges posed by hybrid work environments, miscommunication, and emotional stress in the workplace. Whether you're in a leadership position or part of a team, this episode provides valuable tools to handle interpersonal dynamics and build a healthy, productive environment.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

Managing Communication in a Hybrid Work Environment

Chrystal discusses the challenges that arise from hybrid work models, including miscommunication and feelings of disconnect within teams.

The Impact of Miscommunication on Team Dynamics

Learn how ineffective communication can lead to resentment and slow productivity, and the importance of addressing these issues head-on.

Graceful Conflict Navigation

Chrystal shares strategies for handling workplace conflicts with compassion and emotional intelligence, emphasizing the importance of listening and problem-solving.

Training Leaders for Effective Communication

Discover how providing leadership training can create an environment where employees feel heard and supported, leading to stronger team cohesion.

Building Strong Relationships in the Workplace

Chrystal highlights the value of investing in relationships at work, which enhances productivity and reduces conflict.

Memorable Quotes:

"Relationships in the workplace are key. When there’s miscommunication, resentment can grow and productivity can slow down."

"Emotions give you a clue as to where a person is coming from. And that’s valuable information in navigating conflict."

"People are your greatest asset and your greatest liability. How you invest in them makes all the difference."

Connect with Chrystal:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrystalellis/

About the Guest:

Chrystal Ellis Sweazey serves as the Director of Human Resources at the nationally recognized American Conservatory Theater and is the board president of the California School-Age Consortium. With over ten years of experience in leadership and organizational development, she is passionate about supporting nonprofit organizations and fostering inclusive, communicative workplaces.

Fun-facts:

• Chrystal enjoys writing poetry and owns a small online e-commerce business called Poetic Strong.
• She loves exploring wine country, always seeking new adventures and wineries to discover.

• Poetic Strong
• American Conservatory Theater (ACT)

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

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