The Dental CEO Podcast Dental CEO Podcast #23 - Handling Conflict Without Losing Control
Aug 4, 2025
Gabe Karp, a conflict resolution expert and former trial lawyer, shares his wisdom on managing conflict in dental practices. He emphasizes that ignoring issues can lead to burnout and offers strategies to transform tough conversations into growth opportunities. Listeners learn the value of constructive feedback and open communication, along with the idea that aligning expectations can reduce conflicts. By fostering a supportive culture, dental teams can navigate challenges together, enhancing both performance and team dynamics.
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Address Conflict with Perception
- Approach conflicts by addressing perceptions rather than labeling behavior directly.
- Start conversations with "I think you're being perceived this way," to reduce defensiveness and promote growth.
Close Expectation-Reality Gap
- Conflict often arises from unrealistic expectations of others.
- Accepting people's limitations, like not expecting a penguin to fly, prevents unnecessary suffering.
Honor Mistakes to Build Trust
- Create a culture where people feel safe to admit mistakes immediately without fear.
- Encourage accountability and learning from errors to foster autonomy and reduce leadership bottlenecks.
