Conflict as a Creative Force: Embracing Tension for Transformation — Jennifer Jones-Patulli

In this episode, Brad Hook interviews Jennifer Jones-Patulli, an expert in conflict management and human systems dynamics. Jennifer shares her insights on transforming conflict from a destructive force into a creative and productive one. With over two decades of experience, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge on how leaders can harness the energy of conflict to foster innovation, growth, and strong relational dynamics within organizations.

Key Topics Discussed:

• How Jennifer developed her unique approach to conflict management
• Defining and framing conflict within systems- Practical strategies for leaders to manage conflict constructively
• The role of self-awareness and empathy in conflict resolution
• The future of conflict management in organizational leadership

Key Takeaways:

• Conflict is tension in systems and can be directed positively or negatively.
• Frame conflict as a creative opportunity rather than a threat.
• Self-awareness and empathy are crucial in managing conflict effectively.
• Transform assumptions into questions to facilitate productive dialogue.
• Embrace uncertainty by conducting small, responsible experiments.

Notable Quotes:

• "Conflict can be an amazing creative force in your life if you engage with it in a certain way."
• "Conflict is tension in a system… it can be whatever you make it based on how you handle it."
• "Dealing with uncertainty is about knowing that we can take small, responsible risks, that we can do small controlled experiments that build on each other."
• "Can you position yourself as shoulder to shoulder with that individual rather than adversarial position face to face?"
• "The creative potential of conflict… thinking about our long-term relationships and all the things you've been through that have made not only you stronger but us stronger."

Resources and Links:

• Connect with Jennifer Jones-Patulli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-jones-patulli-ma-hsdp-a3a2027a/
• Visit Jennifer’s website: https://productiveconflict.us/
• Follow Jennifer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/productive_conflict/

Books by Jennifer Jones-Patulli:

• "Reconciling the Carrot and the Stick"
• "The Essential Mary Parker Follett: Ideas We Need Today" (edited volume): https://amzn.to/4foUG4j