In this engaging discussion, Dana Caspersen, a conflict engagement specialist and TEDx speaker, shares her unique insights into navigating conflicts. She emphasizes that conflict is not a distraction from productivity but an integral part of it. Dana explores the four elements of conflict—emotion, needs, interests, and strategies—encouraging listeners to replace complaints with thoughtful requests. She highlights the significance of active listening and journaling as tools for clarity. Her "20 Decisions" framework offers practical strategies for turning conflicts into opportunities for growth.
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insights INSIGHT
Conflict Is Part of Productivity
Conflict and productivity are intertwined, not separate.
Avoiding conflict causes more time and productivity problems later.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Avoid Assumptions, Stay Curious
Avoid assumptions about others without evidence.
Stay curious to understand others’ perspectives before reacting.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Different Yelling Norms in Marriage
Mike Vardy shares how differing childhood yelling norms affect his marital conflict.
He learned his toned-down yelling still felt aggressive to his wife due to her background.
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In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I dive into a topic that’s often overlooked when discussing productivity: conflict. But not just any conversation about conflict — this one’s with Dana Caspersen, conflict engagement specialist, TEDx speaker, and author of Conflict Is an Opportunity: 20 Fundamental Decisions for Navigating Difficult Times.
Dana brings a rare combination of deep analytical insight and artistic fluency to the conversation, shaped by decades of work as both a mediator and an award-winning performing artist. We explore how the way we approach conflict — in work, relationships, and even with ourselves — is a direct reflection of how we manage time, attention, and energy.
Six Discussion Points
Why conflict isn’t a distraction from productivity — it’s a part of it.
The four fundamental elements of conflict: emotion, needs, interests, and strategies.
How assumptions derail conversations and curiosity keeps them alive.
Replacing complaints and demands with thoughtful requests.
The role of journaling in conflict clarity and attention calibration.
Dana’s “20 Decisions” framework and how to work with — not against — your conflict habits.
This episode reminded me that conflict isn’t something we need to fear or avoid — it’s something we can navigate with purpose. Dana’s thoughtful framework is more than theory; it’s a guide you can return to anytime you feel stuck, misunderstood, or simply out of sync. If you want to turn tension into transformation, this conversation is a must-listen.
Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential
If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.
A Productive Conversation