Do I Have To? The Art & Science of Hard Conversations: TLP005

Join us for Episode 5 of The Leadership Pause as we explore the pivotal role of difficult conversations in leadership, featuring insights from our esteemed guest, Dr. Robin Dean. Listen in as we navigate the necessity and impact of these challenging dialogues both professionally and personally. We start with our show hosts sharing their Pause of the Month. Neil Jacobs highlights a transformative team exercise where leaders took time to explore their best selves and unlock their potential. Meanwhile, Dr. Taylere Markewich shares a story of a client who strategically paused to consider long-term career goals over immediate reactions, underscoring the value of introspection in effective leadership.

As we continue, we examine the importance of engaging in tough conversations. Having these conversations is a choice for leaders and these decisions influence organizational culture, working relationships, and performance. Dr. Dean emphasizes the shift from safe spaces to brave spaces and the implications of this, encouraging individuals to take risks and learn. The discussion highlights the significance of self-awareness during conflict and the importance of leaders knowing their conflict-handling styles from avoiding and accommodating to competing, compromising, and collaborating.

Our conversation takes a deeper look at emotional barriers like fear and anxiety that hinder open communication and the influence of human evolution and neuroscience. Dr. Dean, an expert in DEI and multiculturalism, shares valuable insights into overcoming the fear associated with having tough conversations in the workplace and asks leaders to think about their goal during conflict, drawing on a model from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). We explore how embracing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusive environments can enhance creativity and growth. By focusing on intentionality and understanding in tough dialogues, leaders can transform these conversations. 

About Dr. Robin Dean

Dr. Dean is the Founder and Director of Perspective Insight Consulting, which specializes in providing training and consultation In DEI and multiculturalism for psychology professionals and leaders. She is also a licensed psychologist with a clinical practice at SUNY Upstate Medical University in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic. Additionally, Dr Dean is a published author and presenter, and she also serves on psychological association boards at the state and national level. Dr. Dean is known for her mastery in facilitating groups in a way that both challenges participants, but also ensures people feel empowered to have complex and challenging conversations with others. Go to: https://perspectiveinsightconsulting.com/ to learn more about Dr. Dean’s work, and her trainings and clinical consultation services.