Rosenfeld Review Podcast We Need to Talk with Joshua Graves
Apr 21, 2025
Guest Joshua Graves, an author and artist known for his spooky aesthetic, shares insights from his book, 'We Need to Talk: A Survival Guide for Tough Conversations.' He explores how to navigate tough discussions with clear tools from neuroscience and psychology. Key topics include addressing workplace power dynamics and emotional triggers, emphasizing the power of slowing down and asking the right questions. Joshua encourages listeners to embrace self-awareness and authenticity, asserting that conflict can be managed with flexibility and personal agency.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Joshua's Conflict Journey
- Joshua Graves shares his journey to understanding conflict starting from his lack of conflict framework growing up.
- He researched neuroscience and psychology to make sense of his anxious reactions and improve his approach.
Brain Constraints in Conflict
- Our brains evolved slowly and react strongly to perceived threats even in low-threat modern situations.
- Recognizing this biological constraint helps us navigate and mitigate our reactions in conversations.
Pause and Question Thoughtfully
- When caught off-guard by tough conversations, pause and take a deep breath to regain composure.
- Ask questions starting with what or how instead of why to reduce defensiveness and gain clarity.
