Most of us hate conflict. It feels uncomfortable, anxiety-inducing, and often easier to avoid. In this episode, I talk with conflict expert Amy Gallo about why avoiding conflict fuels more anxiety in the long run, and how to reframe difficult conversations as opportunities for connection and progress. Amy shares her four-step framework for handling conflict, what to do when shame or fear hijack your emotions, and why practicing in small, everyday interactions can build confidence for higher stakes moments. Tune in to learn tools and mindset shifts you need to navigate disagreements with more calm, clarity, and confidence.

In this Episode, You Will Learn

00:00 Why most of us avoid conflict.

06:00 Tips to manage conflict in a healthy way.

09:45 How avoiding conflict builds “conflict debt” that comes back stronger.

12:30 Ways to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships after conflict.

17:30 The gender angle of negotiating and conflict at work.

22:45 Amy’s 4-step framework for handling conflict effectively.

30:15 Why “agree to disagree” isn’t always a real solution.

32:00 How do you recover from conflict when shame or rumination takes over?

Resources + Links

Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever

Watch the podcast on YouTube

Find more resources on our website morraam.com

Follow

Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam

Follow Amy: on LinkedIn @amyegallo + Instagram @amyegallo

Episode 212: Surviving Storms with Mark Nepo