Michael Bungay Stanier, author of the best-selling "The Coaching Habit" and founder of Box of Crayons, dives into the art of building better relationships. He introduces the concept of keystone conversations that can radically transform connections at work and in life. Michael emphasizes the three core elements of relationships: safety, vitality, and repairability. He shares strategies for initiating tough conversations and highlights the importance of curiosity and mindfulness in deepening interpersonal ties.
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insights INSIGHT
Best Possible Relationships
Nearly any relationship can be improved, even difficult ones.
Focus on making relationships "better" instead of "perfect."
question_answer ANECDOTE
Family Keystone Conversation
Michael Bungay Stanier facilitated a keystone conversation with his dying father and mother.
This improved their strained relationship and created a lighter atmosphere during a difficult time.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Initiate Keystone Conversations
Initiate keystone conversations to discuss how to work together before discussing what to work on.
This proactive approach helps build stronger, more resilient relationships.
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How to Work with (Almost) Anyone
Michael Bungay-Stanier
In this episode, Michael Bungay Stanier explains keystone conversations and why this is vitally important in building the best possible relationships, both at work and in your personal life. Discover how these seemingly small conversations can lead to stronger, more collaborative, and more fulfilling connections. You’ll also learn:
How any working or personal relationship can be made better
Why it takes courage to initiate the invitation to work on a relationship that is important to you
The 3 core elements of a relationship: safety, vitality, repairability
Defining keystone conversations and why they’re so important in improving relationships
How there is an important tension between safety and vitality
How to look at problems in growth made instead of problem mode
Why it’s important to make it safe to ask questions
The importance of actively engaging in relationships so it doesn’t stagnate
The One You Feed 
