620: How to Navigate Conflict Without Losing the People You Love with Kelsey Blahnik

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Jan 14, 2026

Kelsey Blahnik, a clinical social worker and therapist, created The And Way framework to help navigate emotional conflict while preserving relationships. She discusses how modern technology contributes to feeling divided and discontent. Kelsey shares insights on breaking free from fight-or-flight thinking, fostering empathy, and balancing accountability with compassion. Practical skills like I-statements and identifying personal triggers are explored. Her vision: to reduce dehumanizing language and encourage meaningful connections in an increasingly polarized world.

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INSIGHT

Conflict Isn't Just Cut Or Keep

Kelsey Blahnik argues conflict rarely requires only cut-off or full forgiveness; nuance exists between extremes.
She invites holding boundaries without total no-contact to preserve relationships when possible.

ANECDOTE

Food Story Sparked The Method

Kelsey shares her personal journey with food to illustrate 'and' thinking between nutrition and pleasure.
Her shift from labeling foods as good/bad inspired the And Way methodology.

ADVICE

Name Your Default Conflict Response

Identify your habitual conflict responses and ask where they come from to defuse reactive behavior.
Use grounding techniques to return to a centered self before engaging in difficult conversations.

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If you've been feeling emotionally drained from relationship conflict or disagreeing with people that you love, this episode is for you. Despite how technology and social media have made it incredibly easy to stay connected with family, friends, and our communities, many people feel more divided and disconnected than ever.

That's why I'm thrilled to introduce you to Kelsey Blahnik, a clinical social worker and therapist who works on the front lines of emotional and relational tension. From families and friendships to workplaces, in our increasingly divided political culture, Kelsey helps people navigate conflict without losing themselves or the people they care about.

Kelsey is the creator and author of The And Way: Assertive Peacemaking in a Divided World, a powerful therapeutic framework that challenges conventional behavior. She explains that most of us believe we have only two options in conflict—fight or flight—when, in reality, there's nuance to consider when choosing the best path forward. We explore how to set boundaries without burning bridges, speak your truth without escalating tension, and how to hold both accountability and compassion at the same time.

If polarized relationships, "either/or" thinking, and day-to-day conversations are adding stress to your life, this episode will give you a practical way to navigate conflict with clarity, self-respect, and inner peace.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Inspiration for The AND Way
Kelsey's Daily Routines For Optimal Health
Why Kelsey Wrote The AND Way
Managing Conflict Styles: Shut Down vs Winning
How The Internet & Social Media Fuels Division
The Balancing Act: Compassion vs Judgment
Kelsey's Hope For Change With Her Book
How to Connect with Kelsey and Get Her Book

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