Managing Difficult Conversations When Stuck in the Middle of Other People's Conflicts

Managing Difficult Conversations When Stuck in the Middle of Other People's Conflicts

Author: Simon Goode January 21, 2026 Duration: 48:58
In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, host Simon Goode is joined by Helen Jarvis to discuss "accidental mediator" scenarios, where people find themselves stuck in the middle of others' conflicts. They explore three case studies—from a heated argument at a children's soccer match, to neighborhood disputes, to tensions among school canteen volunteers—offering practical strategies for deciding when and how to engage. Throughout the conversation, both emphasize the importance of curiosi...

Simon Goode has spent years in the quiet, often tense rooms where professional mediation happens. He brings that experience directly into each episode of Conflict Skills, moving beyond theory to the tangible techniques that actually defuse tensions. This isn't about abstract concepts; it's a practical guide for the everyday disagreements that arise in boardrooms, between business partners, or even within your own team. You'll hear Simon break down real scenarios, analyzing where conversations fracture and how to steer them toward resolution. The podcast serves as a kind of audio toolkit, offering actionable steps you can apply immediately, whether you're an entrepreneur facing a partnership dispute, a manager navigating team dynamics, or simply someone looking to handle personal conflicts with more grace. Expect a focus on clear communication, de-escalation tactics, and the structural approaches used by professional mediators. By listening, you gain access to the kind of insights usually reserved for closed-door sessions, all framed within Simon's straightforward, experience-driven perspective. Tune in to transform conflict from a source of stress into an opportunity for constructive dialogue and stronger outcomes.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Conflict Skills
Podcast Episodes
Repairing Friendships: How To Apologise To A Friend [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:55
In this episode of the Conflict Skills Podcast, we discuss the art of apologising to a friend - to repair a relationship and hopefully introduce a turning point for a more positive direction in your friendship. You will…
Dealing With Those Annoying People Who Try To Dominate Meetings [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:30
This episode is about how to deal with people who are dominating a meeting you are in. Simon explains the 5 different options for dealing with this kind of behaviour and how to figure out which approach will work best in…